Dronfield Eye Issue 213 September 2023

dronfield
Issue 213 September 2023
Tel: 01246 416027
EYE
INSIDE:
Ten-page business guide
Unstone development update
Wonderful wildlife pictures
Summer food review
Giant hogweed threat
Tribute to busman Dennis
Dronfield Eye is delivered free of charge to all homes and businesses in Dronfield, Coal Aston,
Holmesfield, Dronfield Woodhouse, Hill Top, Hundall, Gosforth Valley, Apperknowle,
Holmesdale, Unstone, Hallowes, Barlow, Cowley, Millthorpe, Troway, Unthank and beyond

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There’s never a good time of year to start to have trouble with your boiler –
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That was when Sarah Scholey found the Meadowhead property she shares
with her partner had no hot water, thanks to its failing 13-year-old boiler.
Sarah had some cover for the appliance but found her problem was not on
the priority list for repairs during the busiest period of the year. Frustrated, she
cancelled and decided to give 1st Call Gas a try after flicking through the
pages of Dronfield Eye’s sister publication, Active8, and reading testimonials
from highly satisfied customers in the area.
An engineer from 1st Call Gas began by fitting a diverter valve in an attempt
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decided a new Ideal boiler was the only solution.
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“1st Call Gas were very good and I’d
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servicing.”
1st Call Gas provides a swift and
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The company also handles commercial
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Pictured in the new 1st Call Gas
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dronfield EYE
dronfield
EYE
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4

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mayor ’ s EYE
Coun Susan Burkitt, Town Mayor of
Dronfield, presents her monthly
update for Dronfield Eye readers
T
HE blessing of Dronfield Woodhouse’s well dressing at
Carr Lane was the first engagement for my husband and
consort Keith and I since I last caught up with readers.
Unfortunately, it was a very wet event when wellies and brollies
were the order of the day. Despite the challenges of recent
weather, Janet and her team had done an amazing job with an
Alice In Wonderland theme this year and the collection in aid of
the Fairplay charity, based in Chesterfield. (See page 24).
The next day we attended the Studio Dance & Theatre
Academy’s A New Generation Performance, at the Civic Hall,
featuring children of all ages.
Natasha and her team put on an absolutely fantastic show and
the children were brilliant.
Next was the 50th anniversary celebration for the 7th Dronfield
Gosforth Valley Scout Group, which was well attended and
featured various displays. It was a pleasure to meet different
generations who had been involved with the Scouts.
Earlier in August, Keith and I were back in Dronfield
Woodhouse, this time visiting the Community Support Hub, on
Moray Place, for an event to mark their first anniversary. Once
again, it was a pleasure to meet and chat to people who attend
and I would like to thank Farida and her team for all their hard
THE annual Dronfield Civic Service, which is open to
everyone, will be held in the Civic Hall, on Sunday,
17th September, at 11am.
This year’s event will have a focus on the
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ROTARY CLUB OF DRONFIELD ­
LATEST COMMUNITY
LOTTERY WINNING NUMBERS
27th June
4th July
11th July
18th July
25th July
1st August
8th August
mayor’s
EYE
Dronfield Town Mayor, Coun Sue Burkitt, pictured at the
Rockin’ Roots music festival with her consort, husband Keith
Burkitt (right), Dronfield First Responders David Hormigo and
Neil Hayter, and event organiser John Firminger. See P64-65
work and dedication. I wish them all the best for the future. (See
page 10).
Last, but not least, I officially opened the Rockin’ Roots Charity
Music Festival at Hill Top Club, the proceeds of which were in aid
of the Dronfield First Responders, who do an amazing job. Our
community are very lucky to have them.
Everybody appeared to be having a wonderful time and I would
like to say thank you to John and everyone else involved for
making the evening a success.
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remaining 50p is returned to players as prize­money.
6

A barnstorming
design
W
hen a Killamarsh couple headed into Sheffield intending
to speak to companies which they believed could
transform the unique contours of their bathroom, they didn’t get
any further than the H2O Bathroom Solutions showroom at
Woodseats.
Chatting to the friendly team of professionals there, and
admiring the many striking displays in the large premises
opposite Woodseats School, they immediately knew they had
found the perfect company to turn their dreams into reality.
They decided they didn’t need to talk to anyone else and instead
of moving on to visit other companies as planned, they headed for
a coffee shop where they sat and excitedly chatted over the finer
details of the job in hand.
Living in a beautifully-converted Derbyshire stone barn, the pair
knew that colours and textures would be important, together with
contemporary fittings which would look smart and also be easy to
keep clean.
The existing bathtub, basin, toilet, mosaic tiles and corner
shower with its sliding door had to go and they’d had enough of
trying to keep old grouting looking good!
The new room is full of highlights and special features but the
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Opposite is a huge bespoke
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dronfield EYE
We’re remembering Redgates
A
N original architects’ pencil
drawing of the frontage of
famous toy shop Redgates as it was
in the 1920s has been bought by
Dronfield’s Maggie Cotton.
The business was founded in
Sheffield in 1857, originally selling
items like furs, sewing machines and
prams, before moving into toys by the Another sketch of the proposed Redgates shop front acquired by Maggie and Bill
end of the century.
Zodiac Toys in 1986. It closed in 1988 and the building was
In 1925 The Redgate Company Ltd bought an old building on
demolished in 2018 to make way for a new retail development.
Moorhead – a former brewery – which they converted.
Maggie, formerly Nunn, is part of the family who founded
The new shop was five times the size of the previous premises
Redgates and has been keen to see the name of the shop kept
and it allowed the business to prosper, despite opening on the alive.
first day of the General Strike in 1926!
When she spotted the pencil drawing up for auction, together
Sadly, the shop was to be severely damaged during the Blitz with a coloured sketch from the same period, she was keen to
of 1940 when fire spread from a nearby store.
buy them. She and husband Bill went on to make a successful
This prompted a further relocation of the business, this time to bid.
Ecclesall Road.
Maggie led a campaign to have a plaque dedicated to the
Redgates went back to Moorhead in 1954, and then moved to business where the final shop stood on Furnival Gate.
Furnival Gate, in 1962. The Nunn family, who had run the
• Did your family shop at Redgate’s? Why not share your
business since the early 20th century, sold Redgates to UK chain memories with Dronfield Eye?
8
Bill and Maggie Cotton with the pencil-drawn plan of how the new Redgate & Co shop would look almost a century ago
Village coffee morning to support Macmillan
F
UNDRAISER Vivien Hobson is inviting people to attend her Macmillan Coffee Morning.
To be held at Coal Aston Village Hall between 10am and noon on Saturday, 30th September, you
can expect to find teas, coffees, delicious home-made jams and home-baked goods, including glutenfree
and vegan options.
There will also be a tombola and a sale of second-hand books.
All proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Support. Last year’s effort raised £880 and Vivian says: “Thank
you to everyone who supported us last year. I hope to see you there again this time!”

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9

dronfield EYE
I
T has been a year since the official launch of the Dronfield Woodhouse Community Support
Hub at Moray Place and an open day was held to mark the occasion.
Farida McGann set up the hub to help people connect after the pandemic and to provide a safe
meeting place for people to improve their mental health and well-being.
A single group has grown into several, with mental health support on Thursdays.
The latest news from the hub is that funding has been obtained from the Yorkshire Foundation and
National Lottery to provide trips to similar groups in other areas and to visit London.
Farida said: “Although it has been hard work, we have had support from a lot of people. We wanted to
have a celebration and to say thanks for that support.”
Calling in to congratulate the organisation on its successful first year, and to chat to local residents
who use the facility was Dronfield Town Mayor, Coun Susan Burkitt, and her consort, husband Keith
Burkitt.
The next step in the hub’s story is that it is set to become a Tenants’ and Residents’ Association.
Meanwhile, fund-raising efforts include the sale of paper flowers at Eckington Market.
10
Dronfield Town Mayor, Coun Susan Burkitt, and her consort, husband Keith Burkitt, call
in on the celebrations at the Community Support Hub at Moray Place, off Pentland Road
Hub’s first birthday
Fund-raising bouquets
of paper flowers
Mona reaches 100
L
OCAL resident Mona Furness recently celebrated her 100th birthday.
Mona was raised at The Gables on Northern Common, Dronfield
Woodhouse, and worked in Sheffield’s steelworks during World War II, proudly
earning a Woman of Steel Award in 2016.
After marrying husband Len in 1949, Mona moved to Cheshire, running a
restaurant in Manchester which boasted well-known customers such as footballer
George Best.
Following retirement, the couple returned to Dronfield Woodhouse.
Mona and Len loved dancing and were regulars at tea dances at Sheffield City
Hall. In her later years, after Len sadly died in 2006, Mona socialised at The
Welcome Club, St Andrew’s Coffee and Cake sessions and the Luncheon Club, at
Cliffe Park.
She is still often seen having lunch at Ferndale Garden Centre, at Coal Aston,
where she is regularly congratulated on her elegant outfits and beautiful hats!
Mona celebrated her birthday at a lunch with friends and a tea party with singing
and dancing at the residential home in Woodseats where she now lives. One of
the highlights was receiving a card from the King
Mona is pictured proudly displaying her 100th birthday
greeting from King Charles III and Queen Camilla

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dronfield EYE
Family run business established 1982
Installing Maintaining Repairing
My postbag makes
concerns clear
NE Derbyshire’s
Member of
Parliament, Lee
Rowley, presents
his regular
update for
Dronfield Eye
readers
Roofing repairs and general buildings maintenance
109/111 Chesterfield Road, Dronfield S18 2XE
01246 411088
dobsonroofing@aol.com
www.dobsonroofingservices.co.uk
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FB Easy Living Landscaping
I
KNOW, from my postbag, that the cost of living
continues to be a huge issue for many people in and
across the Dronfield area at the current time.
Inflation, food price rises, interest rates, fuel and spikes in
energy costs have all made life challenging for some of our
neighbours – and I know that people are keen to see a respite
as soon as possible.
We are, I’m afraid, in a period of significant global tumult,
coming out of a decade of unnaturally low interest rates and
inflation – which could never go on forever (not least because it
creates other challenges over the long-term for us all in different
ways) but, nonetheless, which are hard.
The additional issues of the overhang from coronavirus (which
will be with us for some years), Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and
global economic instability are also biting.
That said, I hope we are starting to see some early signs of
progress on a number of fronts.
For drivers, fuel costs have clearly, and happily, come down
in the last few months as the price of oil has come off the
highs caused in the immediate aftermath of the Ukraine
invasion.
Inflation does seem to be topping out and may even start to be
dropping – although there is a long, long way to go.
Increases in interest rates haven’t been as high as other
countries but are still a challenge and may go up further yet, in
order to get inflation – which eats away at pensions and fixed or
low incomes – out of the system.
And, after the capping of energy prices over the winter by
the Government, the overall energy price cap is starting to fall
once again with the recent announcement about how it will
reduce.
All of these are very early steps but, hopefully, are indications
of progress for the coming months ahead.
Notwithstanding the political difficulties of the last few years, I
know most people across Dronfield know that Government can’t
prevent global issues from impacting us in some way.
At the same time, they want Government to try to help and
improve things where they can – which is exactly what we
continue to do. It’s very difficult, and there are going to be further
challenges in the months ahead, but I hope we can make
progress together.
As ever, I am here to help. If there is anything you think I may
be able to assist with, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on
01246 439222 or lee.rowley.mp@parliament.uk.
12

Ice, Ice, Bay-by
Bay windows are a common theme in homes. Varying greatly in size
and shape, they add character, creating space and light inside a room;
but with reports often suggesting up to 50% of heat energy escapes
through windows, and rising energy costs a regular headline, energy
efficiency is a top priority for everyone.
“”Thermal comfort” is a key phrase now. Bay windows are a large
expanse of cold, possibly draughty, glazing. As we approach winter,
thoughts turn to keeping a home warm and comfortable, and keeping
the heat you are paying for where you want it. Better fitting curtains
help a lot.” says Maxine Hayter, co-owner of Bespoke Blinds & Poles.
In the winter, during the day when it is sunny, open your curtains to
benefit from the free solar energy from the sun and close them in the
evening to provide extra insulation and reduce heat loss to save
energy and money. On super- hot days in the summer, do the reverse.
The key to a well-fitted pair of curtains in a bay window is the track or
pole they are hanging on. If the curtains are hanging on poorly bent
rails or if the support brackets are pulling away from wall the curtains
will not fit well.
If budget is key, curtain rails are a simpler affair, and sit closer to a wall/
ceiling, for cutting out more light - ideal for bedrooms and TV rooms,
and draughty spots.
Continues Maxine: “Bay windows are a lovely feature on a home. You
can walk down one road, and see three or four different shapes and I
think that puts doubt in people’s mind on how to tackle them; ill-fitting
curtains will not keep the heat where you want it - inside throughout
winter, outside in summer. Talk to us - we can help”.
Now in their 16th year of trading, Bespoke Blinds & Poles are also in
their third year of offering an appointment service at the showroom.
Available Wednesday to Saturday, with evening appointments available
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For the busy customer it is an ideal way of maximising your time when
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Booking an appointment is free and easy to do - simply call or email
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Which? Trusted Traders, and Derbyshire County Council Trusted
Traders.
REMEMBER: Bespoke Blind & Poles specialise in apex windows, bay
window poles and tracks, external awnings and blinds, insect screens,
motorisation, shutters, as well as all the ‘normal stuff’.
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Tel 0114 2363100
www.sheffieldblinds.co.uk
Email: info@sheffieldblinds.co.uk
Follow us on Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
The showroom is open on an appointment only basis. Call us to reserve your slot.

dronfield EYE
Unstone development update
Plans have again moved
forward for the longpromised
major tourist
resort at Unstone
P
EAK is described as a yearround
leisure, education,
wellness, and entertainment
destination set on 300 acres
of reclaimed opencast land.
The masterplan for the
development describes PEAK as
similar to a ski village, and
developed around a carless
transport and mobility system
connected to the Peak Park.
Phase 1 of development
includes what has been named
The Gateway at PEAK – the UK’s
first fully serviced national park
gateway and destination in its own right, costing £150m and
creating 1,000 jobs.
Specialist destination developer Milligan has formed a joint
venture with landowners Birchall Properties to develop the
scheme, working together with Chesterfield Borough Council,
the Peak District National Park Authority, and the University of
Derby.
Stirling Prize-winning architects Stanton Williams have been
appointed as its designers. Peak Gateway Properties has briefed
the team to design the build and operations around the
principles of a ‘regenerative
enterprise’, promoting the restoration
and regeneration of natural resources
and social systems. The ambition is for
The Gateway to generate its own
energy and process its own waste.
John Milligan, CEO of Peak Gateway
Properties and chairman of Milligan,
said: “It used to be that an iconic
building was one that stood out from
its surroundings. The Gateway will be
iconic, but we’re setting a new
standard for what that means. Here
buildings will integrate with their
surroundings and work to enhance
biodiversity beyond what will be
mandated.
“We want to attract a discerning visitor,
who cares about the protection of the UK’s original National Park
and wants to enjoy the wellbeing benefits that nature and being
in the outdoors, for either leisure or sport, can provide. A wide
range of experiential retail brands with a unique proposition
centred on nature and the outdoors will help create the
destination.
“The travel hub is central to the Gateway’s proposition, allowing
visitors to transition into electric or hydrogen vehicles for onward
exploration of the Park, its stunning landscapes and thousands of
activities and attractions. This is a way to expand access to the
park and support more destinations in a low impact way.
Currently 85% of visitors travel into the park by car which is not
sustainable.
“Last year, we ran the first trial for the travel hub alongside
Toyota and other local partners. The technology operated on a
40% regenerative energy basis which is fantastic. The trial
stakeholders and users endorsed the urgent requirement for this
14
Bird’s-eye view of the latest plans for the PEAK resort
How Dronfield Eye reported early
plans for the site 17 years ago
sort of service – when it’s up and running we hope it will be an
exemplar for other hubs around the Park and for other National
Parks in the UK to follow.”
The Gateway also includes a 165-room resort hotel, food and
drink outlets and retail spaces.
Previously published information relating to Phase 1 outlines
other elements to include The Wellness at PEAK - a £100m
health and well-being park, consisting of an international
standard clinic, world-class spa hotel, specialist lodging and
therapeutic gardens.
It was back in 1989 that planners
granted permission for 2,000 hotel
rooms and 250 holiday cottages on the
property with all year leisure, business,
entertainment and education facilities.
Further detailed applications have
resulted in reserved matters permission
being granted in 2008, with revisions
in 2016, 2019 and 2020.
Day visitor permission was added in
2005 and the A61 roundabout access
was granted in 2009.
Following receipt of Sheffield City
Region funding for public
infrastructure, the resort A61
roundabout and rights of way for
cyclists and walkers were completed in
2018.
The founders of Birchall Properties have invested over 35 years
in nature recovery and passive rewilding at the site.
Rupert Carr, a founder shareholder in Birchall Properties
and a director of PEAK Gateway Properties, said: “The planning
consents for PEAK Gateway Resort were implemented and
safeguarded in 2016.
“We are very pleased to be moving forward again after
surviving the challenges of Brexit and COVID.
“The realisation of Gateway fulfils our long-held ambition
to showcase regenerative enterprise through land reclamation,
a low carbon build and significant local employment
creation.
“It is particularly pleasing to be a first mover in respect of
offering tourists a zero carbon, carless mobility service to the
attractions and landscapes of the UK’s first national park and to
the medieval market town of Chesterfield.”
The Gateway is due to open in winter 2026.

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dronfield EYE
Stride out on
refurbished
Rotary Walk
O
NE of the town’s
green assets - the
Dronfield Barn Rotary Walk
– is undergoing a major
refurbishment.
Dronfield Rotary Walk was
launched in July 2000 by the
Rotary Club of Dronfield to
celebrate the Millennium.
The idea was to create a
circular route, allowing people
to enjoy countryside walking
and views around Dronfield,
but never going more than
three miles beyond the
town’s centre.
A network of 26 footpaths lead from estates and residential
areas to the walk, which covers 14.5 miles.
In 2016, after parts of the walk had become overgrown and
fallen in to disrepair, responsibility for maintenance and financial
support was transferred to Dronfield Hall Barn, as part of its
Lottery grant, including health and well-being.
The refurbishment work includes restoring stiles and gates,
installing new waymarks or refurbishing existing ones – totalling
The five ways
to wellbeing
D
ISCOVER more about support available to help you
stay healthy and mentally well at an event being held
at Dronfield Civic Hall.
The Let's Talk About Your Wellbeing event brings together
various wellbeing and mental health organisations, both
professional and non-professional. All have a focus on
developing mental health and wellbeing through the arts, crafts,
music, or a therapeutic route.
Organiser Tricia Black said: “We aim to encourage everyone to
talk about mental health and mental health issues, empower
people to make their own mental health choices and embed the
different aspects of Five Ways to Wellbeing in the local area.
Those five steps are connect, be active, take notice, keep
learning and give.
The event takes place from 11am-2pm, on 21st September.
500, and 400 reprints of the
walk guide, which are
available from The Barn and
E&D Steel at Dronfield
Bottom, priced £5.
The route is divided into
seven sections with plenty
of points of interest along
each one, and details of
birds and flowers to look out
for.
To ensure the route is
maintained, the walk has a
work party and ten wardens,
all volunteers.
A warden is being sought to
look after the section of the walk from Eckington Road at Troway,
through Summerley, to the B6057, on the edge of Unstone, close
to the large layby
The warden would need to walk the section regularly, maintain
waymarks and clear vegetation. The work party takes on bigger
jobs.
Anyone interested should email David Lumb at
david@kinderclan.co.uk for more details.
Aladdin seeks
young performers
C
HESTERFIELD Theatres are seeking junior dancers
for the ensemble for this year's pantomime Aladdin
at the Winding Wheel Theatre.
Auditions will be held on Sunday, 24th September, from
1.30pm, with registration from 1pm.
Children must be aged between nine and 12 and certain
criteria must be met.
For full details visit chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/dance
-auditions
Aladdin runs from 1st December to 2nd January and stars
ITV's The Chase star Anne Hegerty, CBeebies’ Nigel Clarke,
Jo Osmond, Britain's Got Talent's Tony Rudd and Darren
Clewlow-Smith, and the show also features the voice of Brian
Blessed, as the Genie.
16

These days most homeowners
suffer from a lack of
storage space. So many
precious items that need to
be kept – but where to store
it all? That’s where Yorkshire
Loft Ladders come in.
The company, based locally,
offers homeowners the opportunity
to maximise their
storage space with a loft
ladder, 50 sq ft of boarding
and a light all fully fitted in
less than a day from just
£277 + VAT. But it’s not just
the affordability of the package
the company offers that
makes Yorkshire Loft Ladders
stand out as manager
explains:
Quality in the materials that
we use for all our installations
and the fact that all our
loft packages are fitted by
time served tradesmen so our
customers are assured of the
best job. Integrity in that we
will turn up at the time we
say and make sure the house
is spotless when we leave,
and Value in that we offer
our services at a price people
can afford. Our business
relies on referrals and we got
a huge amount of our calls
from people who have been
referred to us by our existing
customers - that simply
wouldn’t happen if we didn’t
adhere to our overriding
principles.
lead to more happy customers
is true and we work hard
to make that happen for
every installation we carry
out!’
So, if you want to make use
of your loft space, however
big or small, call on
0800 612 8359 and he’ll be
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you a no obligation quote so
you too can make use of your
loft!
‘Our watchwords are Quality,
Integrity and Value.
At the end of the day the old
adage that happy customers

dronfield EYE
Craig Longmuir with Troway Hall’s Gloria Havenhand. Right: His interpretation in oils of the sunny Moss Valley
A valley for artists
A
RTIST Craig Longmuir lives in Ridgeway and delights in capturing
Peak District scenes. He also enjoys painting the beautiful Moss
Valley fields and woodlands which are right on his doorstep.
Normally he paints scenes looking across the valley from north to south, but
that has now been completely turned around since he began offering art
workshops based at The Beestro, Troway Hall.
The view from here is spectacular, particularly at this time of year, and many of
Craig’s workshops are already fully booked.
His love is plein air painting - the act of painting outdoors in order to capture
the ever changing light across the landscape.
He said: “I paint subjects around me using oil paint on canvas. I paint from
direct observation as I believe that the experience gives my pictures a more
accurate emotional response.
“Although I want to create realistic paintings, I am happy for pictures to evolve
into a more expressive result. In fact it is successful for me when the picture
evolves in an unexpected, but satisfying direction.”
Troway Hall owner Gloria Havenhand has been delighted to host Craig and his
students and has been amazed at the quality and interpretations of some of the
pictures which have been produced.
You can call Troway Hall on 01246 413809 for details of future art workshops
with Craig. The next one is planned for 8th September.
Some of Craig’s students begin to paint
18

dronfield EYE
19

dronfield EYE
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21

EYE on the past
Chesterfield Road property
Hyde Park in the ‘40s
L
AST month’s Dronfield Eye reported that The Hyde Park at
Hilltop used to be a rural outpost... and here’s the evidence.
Current mine hosts Tom and Vee have shared this special
photograph with us, showing how remote the inn was back in the
1940s.
Surrounded by fields and trees, also visible in the photograph are a
red postbox, a direction signpost and football pitch markings on Hilltop
Common.
Do you have an old photograph or two to share with Dronfield Eye
readers? Email mike@heronpublications.co.uk
T
HIS month’s dip into the archives features a
Dronfield Heritage Trust slide labelled
Fallswood House.
The house is situated alongside Chesterfield Road
leading up to The Three Tuns roundabout and is still
there today, although now converted into three flats.
The Fallswood Colliery stood on the opposite side of
the road and is thought to have had some connection
with this property.
The parking area and commercial brick building also
shown in the picture have been demolished and
replaced with new houses.
Although the image is not dated, it looks to be from the
1980s or early 90s. Perhaps readers have some further
details?
• You can enjoy more photographs of old Dronfield at
dht.mediafiler.net

Pictured outside the home of John and Lynn are Dalton Roofing
founder Phil Dalton, MIoR, with colleagues Levente and Luke
New roof attracts
admiring glances
CHESTERFIELD couple John and Lynn have lived in their
detached bungalow for almost 30 years but they have never
felt quite as snug as they do right now.
The reason? They have just experienced a rather special roof
transformation carried out by local family-run business Dalton
Roofing.
Their existing tiled roof had offered good service since the
property was built way back in the 1960s, but it was looking
very tired and mortar was dropping off. Although it wasn’t
leaking, it was draughty and cold and not keeping the house
as warm as it should have been doing. It also had a chimney
stack which hadn’t been used for years.
John had read about Dalton Roofing in Dronfield Eye’s sister
publication, Twist magazine, and also noticed their premises
at Sheepbridge, so it was to them that he turned to for help.
Initially, the discussion was simply about repairing the roof
ridge and a tiled ‘valley’ where the mortar had crumbled
particularly badly. But after speaking to the company’s MIoR
and founder, Phil Dalton, the couple decided to invest in a
complete new roof. This would not only give them peace of
mind for the future, it would also transform the appearance of
their bungalow and make it really stand out.
The old tiles were removed, the redundant chimney stack
was taken down and attractive anthracite grey tiles took their
place. The Dalton Roofing team also installed new roof
insulation with breathable felt.
Now not only are John and Lynn delighted with their new
roof, there have also been positive comments from people in
A view of the roof transformation from
the rear of the Chesterfield property
the street, saying how smart it looks.
Said John: “We would definitely recommend them. The lads
working on our roof were brilliant, so hard working and
professional and very pleasant to have around.
“They worked on it Monday to Friday and came back the
following Monday and Tuesday and it was all done.”
Said Phil: “Our workers are always uniformed and looking
smart to reflect our company’s professional image. People
seem to appreciate that.”
And realising the Dalton Roofing experience is down to
team work, John and Lynn sent a ‘thank you’ card and box of
chocolates to other staff members working in the company’s
Sheepbridge offices.
Whatever your roofing concerns - including guttering,
fascias, drainpipes, soffits, solar panels and chimneys - Phil
and his friendly Dalton Roofing colleagues are happy to talk
to you and explain how you can utilise their vast experience.
DALTON ROOFING
647 Sheffield Road, Chesterfield, S41 9ED
0114 2799 799
info@dalton-roofing.co.uk
www.dalton-roofing.com

dronfield EYE
My Kind of Town
Sheffield nostalgia magazine
Inside the new Issue 49
Designer David Mellor, Meersbrook
Tram Crash, Singer Phyllis Robins,
SUT Brochures, Buddy Holly
Celebrations, Editor’s Family Tree,
Reginald Dixon, Hero Nurse,
Houdini’s Sheffield Links,
1961 Sheffield UFO Mystery,
Bird’s Eye Views From The 70s,
Tomb With a Loo, Denys Edwards
Players, Home-Made Fun,
TV Puppet Stars... And Much More!
Where to buy your copy
Heron Publications, 179 Chesterfield Road,
Dronfield; Ashgate @ The Forge; Wards
Garden Centre; Corner Shop in the Civic
Centre; Ferndale Garden Centre; New Leaf
Garden Centre; All Occasions at Greenhill;
Woodseats Post Office; Greenwoods at
Abbey Lane; Days to Remember at
Woodseats; Branches of Waterstones,
Atkinsons at The Moor, Sheffield.
Also on 01246 416027 or via
www.heronpublications.co.uk
Well dressing
wonderland
D
RONFIELD Woodhouse Well Dressing Group’s annual display
has been delighting visitors for 31 years.
This year’s theme was
Alice In Wonderland with
all donations going to
Fairplay, a non-profit
making organisation set up
in 1992 by a group of
parents who wanted
accessible facilities for
their disabled children.
In 2005 it became a
registered charity and in
2009 received funding to
build its first centre in
Chesterfield. Fairplay offers
a wide range of services to
meet the needs of families
and offers support to
children and young people
with disabilities and additional
needs.
Fairplay is currently
supporting over 400 families
across NE Derbyshire and is
fund-raising for a minibus.
The group is keen to hear
from anyone who wants to
help them preserve the
ancient folk craft of well
dressing. Ring Alison on 0114
2890810.
In nearby Holmesfield, the
village’s Community Well
Dressing and Scarecrow
Festival celebrated the
centenary of Disney.
Proceeds were shared
between Glow Youth Club
and 3rd Holmesfield Scouts.
24

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dronfield EYE
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26
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LAND
for local
youth
A
METEK Land, the world’s leading
manufacturer of non-contact temperature
measurement solutions, is proud to
announce the beginning of a new partnership with
Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School, demonstrating
a shared commitment to fostering quality
education and empowering young minds.
This collaboration marks the start of an exciting
journey where AMETEK Land will actively engage
with the school, providing students and parents
valuable insights into the company including field
trips to the Dronfield headquarters, educational
workshops, work experience and proactively inviting
applications for apprenticeship placements.
AMETEK Land has offered £600 in sponsorship
funds to Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School as part of
this collaboration. This sum will be dedicated to
establishing the electronics element of the school's
A-level course, enabling the acquisition of
microcontrollers, and facilitating hands-on learning
opportunities for students to delve into the
fascinating world of electronics and engineering.
The sponsorship is set to significantly impact
students' educational journey, promoting an
engaging and practical learning experience.
By providing access to cutting-edge electronic
components, Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School aims
to inspire young minds to pursue careers in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
Pioneering Dronfield
company AMETEK Land
has partnered with
Dronfield Henry
Fanshawe School to
support its education and
engineering department
fields, thus nurturing the next generation of skilled
professionals.
“Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School works closely
with local partners, businesses and organisations to
ensure that the children of the town and surrounding
area get high quality educational provision," said
Martyn Cooper, headteacher at Dronfield Henry
Fanshawe School.
“We are therefore delighted that AMETEK Land is
working closely with our Technology Faculty and
supporting us financially to invest in high-quality
components to enhance our delivery of courses
within the school.”
AMETEK Land's logo will be proudly displayed in
various prominent areas within the school premises,
ensuring the partnership is visible to students,
parents, and visitors alike. In addition, the school
intends to promote the sponsorship on their official
Twitter page, expanding the reach of this impactful
collaboration.
“We are excited about this partnership with Dronfield
Henry Fanshawe School,” said Nancy Bradbury,
Director of Human Resources at AMETEK Land.
“Supporting education and empowering students in
pursuing their passion for engineering and electronics
is at the core of AMETEK Land's values. We look
forward to witnessing this sponsorship's positive
impact on the students’ academic journeys and future
careers."
AMETEK Land, Stubley Lane, Dronfield. S18 1DJ. Tel: 01246 417691. Web: www.ametek-land.com

dronfield EYE
Transport tribute to Dennis
A
CONVOY of buses formed a procession
from Chesterfield Town Hall to
Dronfield Cemetery for the funeral of
Dennis Vickers.
Dennis, a former employee of many local bus
companies and a driver on many routes around
S18, was also the keenest of transport enthusiasts.
Born at Heeley, he began his bus career in
Sheffield and then worked for Hulleys, Silver
Service, Syd's Coaches, Ladyline, Thompson
Travel, Aston Express - then back to Hulleys. He
was a member of many transport groups
including Transpire and Sheffield Omnibus
Enthusiasts Society.
Although he occupied a number of managerial
roles and was a qualified traffic manager, his
biggest thrill was always driving buses around
north Derbyshire and Sheffield.
Away from buses, Dennis’s passions included
music and he was a member of Intake Gilbert and
Sullivan Society for many years before they
disbanded. He also enjoyed listening to Queen
and Meatloaf.
Dennis, aged 76, was the son of Sheffield
historian and author J. Edward Vickers MBE.
Brothers Paul and Bob attended the funeral
service and daughter Annamarie read her poem
When The Sun Goes Down.
• See tributes to Dennis at facebook.com/
DronfieldEye
Dennis Vickers
Some of the buses which took to the
road for the funeral of Dennis Vickers
including, left, the restored
Chesterfield Transport bus number
225, of which he was joint custodian
28

Dronfield & District
Getting the most out of life is about people.
Retiring can mean losing contact with others and
perhaps feeling isolated - however it doesn’t have to be
like that.
Dronfield & District u3a is part of a UK-wide collection of
more than 1,000 autonomous groups that provide the
opportunity for those who are no longer working to come
together and learn for fun.
With the motto ‘Learn, Laugh, Live’, the aim is to help
people stay active mentally, physically, or both.
Dronfield & District u3a has offers covering a wide range
of interests, including Arts, Crafts, Languages, History,
Science, Photography, Current Affairs, Walking, Cycling
and more.
Monthly meetings feature entertaining guest speakers,
and there is free coffee and biscuits.
June Christopher, a retired community nurse carer,
joined the walking group ten years ago with the aim of
meeting friendly people.
June said: “Since then, I have retired from work and
joined a further five groups as well as becoming a
trustee.
“As I am on my own, the u3a is very important to me and
has kept me active, both socially and physically.
“I’ve got a get up and go attitude, and I think that
matches perfectly with the u3a. I encourage anyone
who’s interested to join.”
Retired human resources director, Mike Baker, agreed:
“My wife and I weren't looking for something to do in our
‘twilight’ years; in fact, quite the opposite. We'd recently
moved into the
area and
wanted to make
new friends.”
Mike was soon
starting a drystone
walling
group which
quickly took
over his life!
“Ten years later we are still working in the National Park,
benefitting from free fresh air, free exercise and most
importantly great camaraderie doing something we all
love,” he said.
Kate Ollerenshaw, a retired
doctors’ receptionist, joined
the organisation after its
inaugural meeting and she
too hasn’t looked back.
She commented: “I was
surprised how many other
like-minded people were
interested in discovering
what was available for
people no longer in full time
employment. This was nothing at all to do with ‘studying’,
it was about meeting people who had the same shared
interests.
“I have enjoyed the wide range of memorable speakers
at the monthly meetings and the trips and visits that
have been arranged,” she added.
Ramsey Hertzog, a former
police officer and his wife
Jean, a retired teacher, have
been members of u3a for
more than eight years and
are currently part of its
History, Geography and Art
Appreciations groups.
Ramsey said: “All offer such
a variety of interesting topics with talks by many
members of each group. Recently we presented talks to
each of these groups about our trip to South Africa,
concentrating on the different interest area each time.
“Garden visits is another of my groups, visiting different
gardens within 50-miles of Dronfield. u3a has given us
valuable experiences and continues to enrich our lives,”
Ramsey added.
You cannot put a price on friendship or laughter.
But when you experience it, the feeling is magical.
To join or find out more,
call 01246 900201 or visit
www.dronfieldu3a.org.uk
Annual membership costs £15.

dronfield EYE
Why giant hogweed
is causing a stir
Our wildlife correspondent, Prof Ian Rotherham, explains why
we should all be on our guard against an invading giant!
I
HAVE grown giant hogweed in my garden a couple of times, in part to
become more familiar with its form and behaviour.
I did pay the penalty when I accidentally brushed against the hairy stem, and it
triggered a skin-rash!
This is a remarkable plant used for spectacular effects by Victorian ‘wild
gardeners’, championed by the foremost garden writer of the later 19th century,
William Robinson. He advocated naturalising plants such as this, Japanese
knotweed, giant knotweed, Himalayan balsam and the wild rhododendron, ‘in the
more remote parts of one’s estate’.
I guess this is nice if one has ‘an estate’ but even so, all the way from the
Caucasus courtesy of England’s gardeners, and a century-and-a-half later they
have rather a lot to answer for.
Interestingly, most of our ‘problem’ invasive, non-native wild plants came via this
route and were deliberately introduced to gardens and the countryside where they
thrive.
In this case, the rather stunning plants are close to my home in Graves Park,
Sheffield, and when recently spotted by an eagle-eyed river surveyor they have
caused quite a stir.
Giant hogweed is especially dramatic
as it can grow maybe 15ft or more in
height and boasts a massively
impressive ‘umbel’ of white flowers that
will ultimately produce thousands of
fertile seeds.
A problem with hogweed is that it can
easily cause a most unpleasant photosensitive
skin rash if you brush against
Ian’s hogweed-scarred wrist
its stout, prickly hairs. However, less
well-known is that the much smaller
common hogweed does something similar but is far less vicious.
The Graves Park (nee Norton Park) site is fairly typical of locations across the
country where grand houses and their gardens or parks were stocked with exotic
(and highly prized) plants from around the world. Nearby Oakes Park had giant
hogweed and Japanese knotweed in the walled garden and around the serpentine
lake, and Totley Hall in the upper Sheaf Valley, the same.
This Graves Park population was one I found in 1978, whilst watching a rare bird,
a night heron, on what was then the boating lake. Soon afterwards, we managed
to get all the plants eliminated from the shoreline where they endangered people
and restricted them to just the island. It was agreed that the plants remaining there
would be routinely dead-headed each year before the seeds set in order to
prevent unwanted spread.
This was even documented in a short ITN Calendar programme around 20 years
ago. However, the hogweed has bolted already for freedom, and it occurs down
the River Sheaf where attempts at control have had limited success.
You can expect to find giant hogweed along riverbanks, railway lines, and
roadsides or derelict land across the region, and I have seen large stands on the
Rother, south of Chesterfield, for example.
I am always interested in your records but beware of ‘big’ common hogweed
causing confusion. Generally, if you are unsure then it is common because if it
really is giant hogweed, you will know because it really is massive!
If unsure then treat with utmost caution, don’t grow it at home (and it is illegal to
cause it to grow in the ‘wild’), and never, never use the hollow stems as a blowpipe
which I have seen kids doing in urban Hull!
Have you spotted giant hogweed growing in the Dronfield Eye area?
Prof Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer, broadcaster on wildlife and
environmental issues is contactable on ianonthewildside@ukeconet.org ; follow his
website and blog: www.ukeconet.org & ianswalkonthewildside.wordpress.com/ &
Twitter @IanThewildside
30
Giant hogweed pictured by William Robinson
in the late 19th century
Common hogweed
Giant hogweed

dronfield EYE
How you can become
a moorlands volunteer
M
OORS for the Future Partnership has opened up
applications for people to join their team of
volunteers for the first time since the Covid pandemic.
Local people are invited to get hands on to protect the Peak
District’s precious peatland landscape and directly help to
tackle climate change by getting involved in blanket bog
restoration work.
Volunteer applications were closed back in March 2020 when
the UK went into the first pandemic lockdown and all
volunteering activities were suspended.
Volunteer work has begun again on the moors in recent years
thanks to a dedicated team of long-serving volunteers who
have been working with science and monitoring teams.
With multiple new sites across the Peak District on the
horizon, Moors for the Future Partnership are now looking to
expand the group again and welcome new volunteers.
Opportunities range from taking part in vegetation surveys to
recording plant species on site, monitoring water levels, and
planting our sphagnum moss, which will have a direct impact
on the health of the uplands for years to come.
As well as creating peatland habitats that are home for a rich
array of wildlife such as curlew and mountain hare, sphagnum
moss is a highly effective carbon store. It is also able to absorb
up to 20 times its own weight in water, holding peak water flow
on the hills, rather than allowing it to overwhelm river systems.
Training is given so anyone can go along and join the team of
volunteers.
Visit www.moorsforthefuture.org.uk/get-involved
Ian pictured holding aloft a dead giant hogweed in winter
31

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Could you help festive appeal?
Local people are invited to help a
project which sends Christmas gifts
to children with a parent in prison
M
EMBERS of Dronfield Baptist Church
and their families and friends have
been involved with the worldwide Angel Tree
programme, run by the Prison Fellowship
charity, since 2010. Around 1,300 presents
have been donated to date with the help of
local supporters.
Angel Tree was founded by the late Mary Kay
Beard, at one time a criminal on the FBI’s Ten
Most Wanted list but who, on release from prison,
set up the programme aimed at helping prisoners
maintain contact with their families and showing
children they are not forgotten.
One father in prison wrote to thank local
supporters directly, telling them that his children
had been “extra happy” to know their dad hadn’t
forgotten them.
“It means the world to us inmates. Thank you
with all my heart,” he wrote.
A carer at home, from another family, wrote:
Volunteers wrap Angel Tree gifts for children
“My little girl loved the gift that she was sent.
Thank you so much for helping to keep the
connection between her and her Dad.”
A spin-off of the scheme is that maintaining
contact with families helps to reduce reoffending.
Church member Linda Brennan, who coordinates
Angel Tree in this area, explained that
Dronfield Baptist Church first got involved by
teaming up with a group near Huddersfield,
sending about a dozen gifts.
Linda said: “We helped that group for another
year and then for Christmas 2012 we started our
own group. That year we sent out 48 gifts. The
number has risen year on year, and for Christmas
2022 240 gifts were sent out for children ranging
from just a few weeks old up to 17 years.
“Officially, Angel Tree
sends gifts for children up
to 16 but if there is a
slightly older child still
living at home we include
them.
“Of these 240 gifts, 84
were purchased by
members and friends of
Dronfield Baptist Church for
specific children. The rest
were purchased using funds
raised throughout the year.
“On top of purchasing the
gifts, around £15 each, other
expenses are wrapping and
packaging materials and
also postage – last year that
came to just over £500.”
How does Angel Tree
work, exactly?
Around the beginning of
September, application
forms are sent out to the
Some of the gifts destined to children of prisoners
dronfield EYE
three prisons Dronfield Baptist Church has
contact with.
The men - in the local church’s case - fill in
the applications that are then checked to
ensure they are allowed contact with their
children.
Linda said: “The forms give us the name, ages
and interests of the children so an appropriate
gift can be sent.
“At the bottom of the forms are gift tags for the
guys to write a personal message to their
children.
“We also like to send an age-appropriate
Christian book separate from the actual gift.
Parents can indicate if they don’t wish for this to
happen.
“A grand wrapping and
packing day is usually held
on the first Saturday in
December, giving time to get
the gifts out to the children’s
addresses in plenty of time
for Christmas.
“Each prisoner is sent a
hand-written Christmas
card with a note informing
them of the gift sent to their
child.”
• The next main Angel
Tree fund-raising event
is a Craft Fair on
Saturday, 30th
September, at Dronfield
Baptist Church.
For more information
or to help, contact Linda
at Linda@lindabrennan
.co.uk
33

EYE on wildlife
Flying machines in focus
Dragons, bats, moths
and birds have been
centre of attention for
Dronfield area
photographers this
summer as this
spectacular batch of
images shows.
Above: A Kestrel sets its
sights on prey down below.
Picture by Shaun O’Rourke
Left: Vernon Barker has made
his garden more wildlife
friendly by planting Buddleia,
Honeysuckle, Allium and
mixed wildflower seeds.
Said Vernon: “This resulted
in an increase in bees, wasps
and butterflies, but the
biggest pay-off so far
has been regular visits
from this Hummingbird
Hawk Moth.”
34

Coal Aston’s Bob Davies
photographed this
shimmering dragonfly at
Whirlow Park in Sheffield
EYE on wildlife
Why not share your favourite
photographs taken in
or around the local area with
Dronfield Eye? Email them,
with a short description, to
mike@heronpublications.co.uk
As dusk begins to fall, this
Pipistrelle bat soars past the
camera of Shaun O’Rourke
Another Bob Davies photograph,
this time showing a Great-Crested
Grebe on the water at Clumber Park
A tiny Wren and colourful Goldfinch both photographed locally by Shaun O’Rourke
35

EYE on wildlife
Eagle shows its spikes
36
Local photographer Claire Davison visited Barlow with the intention of taking photographs of the village’s sunflower
displays. Then her attention - and her trusty camera - turned to this magnificent eagle which she spotted nearby.
Said Claire: “I timed it just right to hit the shutter button as his feathers just stood up and became spikey.”

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37

dronfield EYE
Are you about to embark on an
apprenticeship, College, or
University course?
Thomas Taylor Charity
applications sought
T
HOMAS Taylor was a Dronfield blacksmith who died in
1681. His blacksmith’s shop was in the centre of old
Dronfield, near to the corner of Church Street and High
Street.
In his will, Thomas Taylor directed that all his property in
Dronfield should go to the son and daughter of a kinsman of his
in London and then to his brother, James.
The £4 rent for the property was to be paid yearly to James at
the Market Cross in Dronfield.
After the deaths of named heirs, Thomas Taylor asked that
their inheritance should go to the overseers of the poor in
Dronfield and their successors.
The profits from it were to be used to fit out poor children of
the town as apprentices to “any lawful trade or trades in any
place or places within the Kingdom of England”.
The Thomas Taylor Charity is still administered today for the
benefit of young people in Dronfield.
Grants of up to £100 are available for young Dronfield
residents (between the ages of 16-21) starting trades or setting
out on further studies.
If you are embarking on the first steps in your chosen career,
or embarking on a university or college course, a grant could
be available for you!
Applications should be submitted no later than 31st October,
2023, and forms are available to collect from the Dronfield
Town Council office in the Civic Centre.
For further information of the Thomas Taylor Charity, email
michael.keys@dronfield.gov.uk
DRONFIELD HENRY FANSHAWE SCHOOL
Success with Care
Open Evenings
For Year 7 entry in September 2024
Thursday 21 st September 2023
at 5.00pm-7.00pm
For Sixth Form entry in September 2024
Wednesday 15 th November 2023
at 5.00pm-8.00pm
Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School strives to provide a high quality educational experience for all students, through an
enriching curriculum that enables them to acquire a deep knowledge of the world in which they live, so that they can
develop a love for learning and can thrive personally, economically and academically, in life.
For a school prospectus or further details please contact the school or visit our website on
www.dhfs.uk
Headteacher: Mr M J Cooper
GREEN LANE, DRONFIELD, S18 2FZ 01246 412372
admin@dhfs.uk www.dhfs.uk @DHFSUpdate
38

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dronfield EYE
Your local flooring specialist
Serving Dronfield and surrounding areas
Celebrating over 10 years of business in Dronfield,
Dronfield Carpets prides itself on quality service
from start to finish. Offering a wide range of quality
products, Dronfield Carpets specialises in the
supply and installation of Carpets, Karndean, Vinyl,
Parquet & Wood Flooring and Artificial Grass.
Offering seasonal sales and promotions, they
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Tel 01246 292391
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41

dronfield EYE
DRONFIELD RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB
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School Years: Y2 to Y11 (ages 6-16)
Training Days: Sunday mornings (additional training sessions throughout the week)
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Sudden death of rocker Roy
A familiar figure from Sheffield’s music scene
has passed away with the sudden death of
Roy Ledger. John Firminger pays his tribute
O
RIGINALLY from the Base Green area, Roy Ledger lived
in Dronfield for many years. As a guitarist he made a
number of important contributions to the city’s musical
legacy, beginning back in 1961 with teenage band Bobby
Dawn & The Twilights.
Showing further potential, Roy became lead guitarist with Pete
Fender & The Strollers who enjoyed great popularity on the local
scene. A lasting reminder of this band are the two demo tracks
recorded in Regent Sound studio, London, with ‘Whole Lotta
Shakin’’ coupled with ‘I Guess I Was Wrong’.
Roy’s next musical appointment came when he joined another
Young footballers
enjoy more backing
D
RONFIELD financial planners, Belmayne, are continuing
to back a top-of-the-league youth football team.
The independent Derbyshire firm is looking forward to a third
term as sponsors of Dronfield Town U16s, after the team’s run
of form saw them lose just three games last season.
They won the Sheffield and District Junior League in the final
game of the season, with a convincing 4-1 result. Home
matches are played at Gosforth Fields, where they remained
unbeaten all season.
Belmayne partner, Martin Birch, said: “We want to
congratulate the Dronfield Town boys on a fantastic league win
and we applaud the dedication they have shown throughout
the season. Grassroots football is an integral part of any local
community and plays a significant role in shaping the outlook
of the youngsters who participate. We are happy to continue
our association with such a stellar team for another season.”
dronfield EYE
popular outfit, Rotherham
rockers Johnny Silver &
The Thunderbirds, before
moving onto The
Chevrons, a Sheffieldbased
combo.
Roy’s first taste of
national recognition came
when he became a
member of The Sheffields
who had a succession of
singles released on Pye
Records. It was on the
mod-jazz opus ‘Bags
Groove (Scat Walking)’
that Roy was featured on
Roy Ledger
guitar and vocals.
After the band ceased as The Sheffields,
they briefly became The Monsters, the
backing band for horror-rocker Frankenstein
(Ray Stuart).
Roy was then called upon to fill the big
shoes of Frank White in Dave Berry’s
Cruisers in 1966 which he did admirably.
With the band, Roy performed in the UK and
Europe and can be seen playing with Dave
in Paris in a clip on Youtube. He also took
part in Dave’s one-off charity football match
in 1967.
Following a lengthy lay-off as a musician,
throughout the 1980s and 90s, Roy reappeared
a few years ago when he joined
Sheffield’s long-surviving rock ‘n’ rollers The
Hillbilly Cats, playing regularly at the Railway
Hotel, Hillsborough.
It was in Southport where Roy died
suddenly whilst attending a wedding. He is
survived by his partner Jackie, sister Mavis,
niece Elaine, nephew Kevin and cousin
Heather, and will be missed by all his music
friends.
Flashback to the 1960s and
The Chevrons, with Roy knelt
at the centre of the line up
Station display recalls
holiday favourites
T
RAIN passengers are being taken
back to summers of the past with a
display of full-size vintage seaside posters
mounted in both shelters at Dronfield
Railway Station.
The exhibition, provided by the Friends of
Dronfield Station (FoDS), consists of six
faithful copies of advertising posters originally
supplied by British Rail and some of the
earlier private railway companies, and mostly
predate the growth of foreign travel in the
1960s.
This year’s exhibition includes nostalgic images of holiday
coastal destinations such as Filey, Whitstable and Guernsey. The
posters will remain at the station until the autumn when it they be
replaced by a display of artwork from local schools.
43

dronfield EYE
Paul Ferriter examining
the feet of Dronfield
Eye’s Vicki Hallam
Paul steps
out in a new
direction
A
S people age, a lack of flexibility or sharp sight sometimes
makes it harder for them to take care of their feet.
As well as making feet more uncomfortable or unsightly, problems
can lead to unsteadiness when walking and might even make
someone prone to falls.
Step forward Paul Ferriter, a fully-qualified foot health
practitioner, who set up his own mobile service in the Dronfield
area six months ago.
Paul has more than 20 years’ experience as a registered nurse
and conducting home visits, and he worked closely with
podiatry teams before deciding he wanted to train to become a
foot health practitioner.
He feels the need in the community is great as NHS footcare
services are now only available for those with serious problems or
diabetes, while there is a shortage of podiatrists.
Paul has a growing client base with those he sees appreciating
having professional and friendly visits in the comfort of their own
homes.
In some cases, clients have put off treatment for foot problems for
many years, so the relief from pain and discomfort Paul can provide can
be dramatic.
“The reaction from clients after
a treatment is usually that they
feel great or are now walking on
air,” he said. “They’re very
happy to
have their
problems
treated,
especially if they’ve been living with issues for a long time.”
Common problems include corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, hard skin, verucas, cracked
heels, and fungal nails. Importantly, Paul is able to check for nerve health and any other serious
issues, such as circulation or infection, and follow-up with a GP if necessary. Paul also provides
diabetic foot care.
Others likely to benefit from a foot care practitioner are those who practice a lot of sport.
Paul visited Heron Publications’ receptionist Vicki Hallam, a keen runner, to check over her
feet, tidy her nails, remove hard skin, and give advice on preventing dry skin.
Vicki said: “I hadn’t had any foot treatment before, so I didn’t know what to expect but Paul
put me at ease and the whole experience was quite relaxing.
“I admit I don’t do a lot to look after my feet, given how much work they do in my day-to-day
life and pounding the pavements on runs.
“The difference the treatment has made to how my feet feel is amazing – my skin feels so
smooth. My feet have never felt as good.”
Paul, who recommends treatment every six weeks, is enjoying the new direction of his work.
He said: “I like the client contact I have; it’s second nature after so long as a nurse, and it’s
nice to do a good job and see people feeling better.”
Paul currently works part-time but his aim is to work full-time on his business as soon as he
can as word is spreading about the services he offers. Appointments are available on
Wednesdays and Thursdays with some evening appointments possible by arrangement.
PF Mobile Footcare.
Tel: 07815 690795 Email:
PFMobileFootcare@gmail.com
44

dronfield EYE
Mobile Foot Care - Home Visits
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45

dronfield EYE
W
INNERS of the sixth annual
essay competition sponsored by
the Friends of Dronfield Station and
run by Dronfield Henry Fanshawe
School have been announced.
First prize of £125 and a certificate was
awarded to 15-year-old James Szabo-
Critchley, who wrote a compelling story
about a young boy being evacuated from
home during wartime.
Second prize of £85 went to Ruby Smith
with Aaron Chaudry receiving the third
prize of £50. There were 200 entries.
Headteacher, Martyn Cooper, said: “It is
great to see our students engaged in a
co-operative exercise with an important
community group such as the Friends of
Dronfield Station, which continues to
Sparkling
£317,000
is raised
A
SHGATE Hospice’s biggest ever
Sparkle Night Walk raised a
record-breaking £317, 671 for end of
life care in North Derbyshire.
More than 3,100 people sported pink
and flashing bunny ears to take on the
10km walk from Chesterfield FC on 1st
July. The total figure collected was the
most the walk has ever raised by more
than £50,000.
Head of Fundraising at Ashgate, Jack
Wood, said: “For more than 3,100 people
to take on this year’s event is just
amazing and we are so grateful to all
walkers who turned out in droves.”
“We are simply overwhelmed that our
supporters have helped us raise such an
incredible amount towards our care.
“Not only did they help light up
Chesterfield’s night, but their efforts will
go a long way towards funding end of life
care and support for patients and their
families across North Derbyshire.”
The generosity of sponsors and
corporate supporters meant the hospice
saved £29,000 in running costs on the
night – meaning more funds will go
towards funding vital care.
The route took the walkers from the
stadium down the A61 bypass, which was
closed to traffic, past the Crooked Spire
and through the streets of Chesterfield
before returning to the football ground.
Jack added: “The wheels are already in
motion for Sparkle Night Walk 2024 –
you can register at our early bird pride
for just £8!
“Will you come along to make next year’s
event even bigger?”
For more information and registration
details visit www.ashgatehospice.org
.uk/sparkle-night-walk
46
James, 15, is
essay winner
maintain a great relationship with Henry
Fanshawe and all the other schools in the
Dronfield area.
“The essay competition provides them
with an unusual and challenging way of
following the curriculum and continues to
produce high quality results every year.”
Essay judge, Jan Alexander, said “This is
the sixth year I have had the pleasure of
judging the essay competition and it
never disappoints. This year the quality
James receives his prize from
headteacher Martyn Cooper
was very high and it proved to be a
difficult job to separate the three prize
winners from the other entrants.”
CRY charity funds 200
more Dronfield screenings
A
The local CRY campaigners
and Sheffield United’s
Oliver Arblaster show
their support for Joe
Williamson at Bramall Lane
LMOST 200 young people were screened for undiagnosed heart conditions at
two screening days in Dronfield, paid for by the Neil Ward Memorial Fund.
The sessions were held at Gosforth Playing Fields with 12 of those screened requiring
follow-ups or further tests.
The young people were the latest cohort of some 2,500 14-to-35-year-olds who have
now been screened by charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) with money from the fund,
set up by Elaine and Ian Ward in memory of their son Neil.
Neil, aged 17, died suddenly and unexpectedly of a cardiac arrest at a Scout meeting at
Wreakes Lane in 1992.
Lee Rowley, MP for NE Derbyshire, visited one of the screening days.
Meanwhile, the Wards have supported Joe Williamson, of Sheffield United Community
Foundation, in raising money for a heart screening for youngsters involved with the
Foundation.
Joe lost his cousin who was in his early 30s to an undiagnosed heart condition. He is
walking and cycling to all clubs in the football leagues and walked from Rotherham
United’s New York stadium to Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough ground, finishing at
Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane.
Joe was accompanied on his route by members of Sheffield United Community
Foundation, as well as family and friends.
Sheffield United player Oli Arblaster joined them on the last leg from Hillsborough.
The following week, Ian was at the Crosspool Crawl which was a 7km run starting and
finishing at the Three Merry Lads pub, on Redmires Road, Sheffield.
Some of the money raised will be going to the Neil Ward Memorial Fund to help fund
future screenings by CRY.
Elaine and Ian thanked everyone who has made the screenings days possible. Recently,
the costs of carrying out the tests have significantly risen.
Said Elaine: “Without the help and support of the local community they would not take
place.”
Elaine continues to give talks to Rotary clubs, WIs, church groups, Probus and other
organisations to help raise awareness.
For further details, contact Elaine at elaineward49@btinternet.com or on 01246 415455.

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dronfield EYE
Thirty years of outdoor living experience
A
N outdoor living space will change your way of life. Whether
you use it to relax, dine, study, work or play, a summer
house will excite you and offer all manner of possibilities.
Local specialists Derbyshire Garden Rooms by Spolding & Sons Ltd,
based at Barrow Hill, will be happy to help you step into their world of
extraordinary garden living spaces. They’ve been doing this for local
people for the past 30 years.
Said managing director Mathew Spolding: “People have always been
excited to have a new shed, summer house or garden building, but the
recent challenges have shown just how much of a profound impact our
products have had on peoples' lives.
“Beyond the exemplary standards that we set for ourself, as a local,
family-run business, we provide our community with spaces to grow,
spaces to rest and spaces to be."
Investing in a garden room is a smart choice for homeowners looking
to expand their living space and add value to their property. Timber
and composite garden rooms are made by fully-qualified craftsmen
from sustainable materials, making them an eco-friendly option, and
many models come with a 25-year warranty, ensuring long-term
durability.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect summer house to extend your
outdoor living space, or you want a purpose built workshop, garage or
just somewhere to keep your lawnmower, Spolding & Sons will work
with you to build your dream garden buildings.
You can choose from a wide variety of in-house designs and the best
way to start is by browsing the inspiring 2023 Spolding & Sons
brochure. You can find this online or request a copy directly from the
company.
Derbyshire Garden Rooms by Spolding & Sons Ltd, Campbell Drive,
Barrow Hill, Chesterfield, S43 2PR. Tel: 01246 912432.
Web: spoldingandsons.co.uk
Derbyshire Garden Rooms by Spolding & Sons
Ltd can turn your dreams into reality
Luxury Garden Rooms ­ Summerhouses ­ Garden offices and studios
by Spolding & Sons Ltd
T: 01246 912 432
M: 07906 776 083
www.derbyshiregardenrooms.co.uk
www.spoldingandsons.co.uk
Independent, family­run business. Established 1993.
48

dronfield EYE
chris fields design ltd
kitchens ~ bedrooms ~ studies
kitchens and bedrooms ~ bespoke lighting features ~ offices and studies ~ living spaces
A family business designing for family living
If you are considering interior refurbishments our family-run busines s offers a bespoke service whatever your style....
Contact Chris & Jen on 01246 292155 to book your free home survey
Email chris@chrisfieldsdesign.co.uk
Website www.chrisfieldsdesign.co.uk
The above images are from installations by Chris Fields Designs Ltd
With energy prices remaining high, why not pay us a visit to see how we can help you keep
those bills under control? However, don’t wait until temperatures plummet be one step
ahead before winter sets in.
Here at the Fireplace Factory & Stove Centre we have been warming local homes for over 30
years, so come along to our showroom and have a chat with one of our experts about what we
can do to save you money. Perhaps one of the latest design eco wood burning stoves or a state of
the art, high efficiency gas or electric fire would be the perfect solution for your home.
• Expert advice
• Master craftsmen
• Home visits
• No pushy selling
No smoke with our fires... Our wood­burning
strove range meets the latest Eco design 22 compliant
requirements for lower emissions, offering a fantastic
economical and environmental way to heat any home.
COME AND SEE OUR ‘LIVE’ WOOD­BURNING
STOVE DEMONSTRATIONS EVERY SATURDAY
CHECK OUR 5* REVIEWS ON GOOGLE
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK ­ FIREPLACE FACTORY & STOVE CENTRE
STOVE CENTRE SHEFFIELD
5 Aizlewood Road, (off Abbeydale Road), Sheffield, S8 0YX
Est 30 years
Tel: 0114 255 5794
info@fireplacefactoryoutlet.co.uk
www.fireplacefactoryoutlet.co.uk
49

dronfield EYE
Camera Club
work is focus
of exhibition
D
RONFIELD Camera Club is hosting its annual
public exhibition in the Peel Centre, High
Street, on Saturday, 9th September.
The exhibition will be open between 10am and 4pm
and provides an opportunity for the public to enjoy
photographs showcasing the work of club members
and to meet the people behind the shots.
The club welcomes new members to its friendly
and informal weekly meetings, whether just starting
out with new equipment or an experienced
photographer.
Members can help and encourage like-minded
individuals to have fun and enjoy their hobby by
offering advice, hints and tips on using equipment and
software editing.
The new club programme features informative and
inspirational talks from professional photographers,
studio and outdoor practical sessions, club
competitions and much more.
From people using vintage film cameras to the latest
digital cameras and smartphones, the club welcomes
all ages and abilities.
Visit the club’s website www.dronfieldcamera.org and
social media postings for more information, or call in at
the exhibition.
These pictures by club members
50

UK Window
Repairs
WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIR SPECIALIST
• Double glazing replacement panes
• Handles • Hinges • Locking systems
• Letterbox replacement
Call Andy on 07855 473499
or email: andy@ukwindowinstallations.co.uk
Call us on 0114 235 2727
to book now!
dronfield EYE
Evening &
Saturday
appointments
available
10% off
bookings
made before
30/09/2023
Muscle relaxing, anti-wrinkle injections, dermal and lip fillers.
Registered nurse and prescriber.
Mobile in the Chesterfield area.
Follow me on facebook.com/aspireaestheticsbysarah
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Call Sarah on 07950 453536
Say Goodbye to aches & pains and make an
appointment with our team of friendly
Physiotherapists at our Totley Clinic
Back & Neck Pain
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Acupuncture
Home Visits & much more...
E: admin@activphysiotherapy.co.uk
W: www.activphysiotherapy.co.uk
A: 88. Baslow Rd, Totley, Sheffield.
S17 4DQ
Alfred
&
Dunham
Son Ltd
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
56 Snape Hill Lane
Dronfield S18 2LG
Telephone day or night
on 01246 413205 or 01246 290205
Private, caring, local family business who have lived in
and supported the surrounding districts for four generations.
• Independent, family business, Est. 1919.
• All types of funerals are catered for, including
unattended funerals, simple funeral services,
woodland burials, religious, non-religious.
• 24 hour service with private chapel of rest.
• Pre-payment funeral plans.
• Mercedes fleet, or alternative if requested.
• Home visits available.
• Members of the National Association of
Funeral Directors.
A personal and dignified family business that cares
51

EYE on business
dronfield
EYE
To see
Your Company
appear in this regular
Dronfield Eye celebration of
local business and commerce,
call our office on
01246 416027
or email
info@heronpublications.co.uk
Village Hall means business
MOST people living locally will have Seminar room
stepped through the doors of Coal
Aston Village Hall at one time or
another, to enjoy music, attend a
craft or art fair, play short-mat bowls,
laugh at a pantomime, celebrate with
a family party or perhaps for the annual Village Gala.
Now this friendly venue is keen to show its credentials to the
business community. With free parking, a variety of different
sized rooms to hire, disabled access, internet connection and
smart kitchen facilities, it really is ideal for anyone looking for
premises to work from, to host an interview or to stage a
business meeting or exhibition.
The Village Hall has never been a profit-making venture, so the
recent announcement of the curtailment of a long-standing Social
Services contract initially caused concerns, but it has now
provided scope to attract other users. Some new business has
already arrived, including the Just Good Friends Club which uses
the facilities three days each and every week.
The large main hall continues to be in use on most evenings
but is generally available for hire during the daytime. With a
big screen and flexible seating, it is ideal for AGMs and
presentations. Also, there are three smaller rooms available for
people wanting to work from an office space away from home.
Said Peter Gray, chair of the Management Committee: “We want
businesses to consider us in whatever way they might. People
can come in, plug in their laptop and they have an instant office.”
52
Sales, servicing, diagnostics and repairs
Owner Phil Roberts is pictured
here outside the Volks-Tek premises
with apprentice Ethan Henry and
Bill the Lurcher
Coal Aston Village Hall, Eckington
Rd, Coal Aston. Tel: 01246 912464.
Web: coalastonvillagehall.org.uk
Email: Booking-Admin@meetingscavh.org.uk
VOLKS-Tek Ltd’s friendly team offer all aspects of servicing and repairs to Volkswagen,
Audi, Seat and Skoda vehicles.
Jobs range from fitting a tiny bulb to complete engine replacements - and everything in
between
Volks-Tek can be found at Hunter Park - around half way down Callywhite Lane.
Owner Phil Roberts is joined by Garry Johnstone as lead technician and apprentice Ethan
Henry.
The business was started over 15 years ago by the previous owner, Tim, who had worked
at VW since leaving school. Phil met Tim while working as his apprentice at a dealership.
Today the majority of Volks-Tek’s customers are in the Dronfield area although some
travel from Sheffield, Chesterfield, Worksop and even further afield.
Phil said: “Our business is constantly evolving as new technology enters the motor trade
and we have to make sure that we are up to date with all of the latest diagnostic
equipment, etc.
“We like to think that we differ from other garages in many ways, we are always as helpful
as possible and will do whatever we can to ensure our customers are satisfied.
“We also use only genuine VW group parts for all of our services which means that even if
it is a vehicle’s very first service, the warranty will not be affected by bringing it to us
instead of the main dealer.
“We are continuing to progress from the hard work that was put in by Tim all those years
ago. We’ve got a fantastic set of customers that is steadily growing and we have great staff
who really do understand what it takes to continue to keep these relationships growing.”
Phil said his biggest challenges have been going from an employee to an employer,
where the buck stops.
“My tip to anyone starting out would be to make sure you’ve got support from your friends
and family because you’ll need as much help as possible at the start especially, and to
always know your worth.”
He concluded: “We are grateful to all our customers for choosing to use us and aim to
keep pleasing them for a long time.”
Volks-Tek Ltd, Unit 16 Hunter Park, 17 Callywhite Lane,
Dronfield. Tel: 01246 292756. Web: www.volks-tek.com

EYE on business
Caring approach of eye and hearing specialists
SPECSAVERS Norton is locally run, yet supported by the major
eyecare network, to provide high quality and affordable
services.
The store opened over five years ago at St James Retail Park,
Meadowhead, led by partners Jennifer McGrath, Dispensing
Optician Director, and Anne Hides, Optometrist Director. Within
months of opening, Specsavers Norton achieved Platinum
Employer status.
And the business has now grown from offering seven sight test
clinics per week to at least 20, with three contact lens clinics and
two hearing clinics per week provided by a team of more than 20
colleagues.
Specsavers Norton offers a full range of eye health and hearing
services, such as eye tests, contact lens fittings and aftercare, as
well as hearing tests.
It has a wide choice of quality and fashionable eyecare products,
including glasses and contact lenses, plus hearing aids, with the
buying power of the Specsavers brand keeping prices competitive.
As well as the standard eye test to check vision and eye health
using a variety of different testing techniques, Specsavers Norton
offers an advanced examination involving an OCT scan.
OCT, which is recommended for 25-year-olds and above, stands
for Optical Coherence Tomography. It is hospital-grade
technology which uses light waves to take over 1,000 images of
the back of the eye, right back to the optic nerve.
The created 3D image can help opticians detect early signs of
treatable conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and
macular degeneration before people experience any symptoms.
In fact, the scan can help to spot glaucoma up to four years earlier
than traditional imaging methods.
The test only takes a minute-or-so and costs £10. Having the
advanced scan every two years, or as recommended, can help
opticians track any changes over time.
Jennifer said: “Early detection of any eye problem is so important
Directors
Jennifer
McGrath (left)
and Anne Hides
own the store,
so your care is
their business!
so it can be managed before it gets worse.”
She added that the practitioner-patient relationship is at the
heart of Specsavers Norton’s professional and caring approach.
She commented: “After five years, we’re seeing lots of returning
customers, which is lovely.”
Specsavers Norton, Unit 9A,
St James Retail Park, Bochum
Parkway, Sheffield.
Tel: 0114 2839731.
Web: www.specsavers.co.uk
Left: Cathy
Middleton,
Norton
Specsavers
manager
Right: Delyth
Teagan,
opthalmic
assistant
53

EYE on business
New independent boutique
SEAMSTRESS Christie McKenna
(pictured) is the owner of the Little
Corner Boutique which opened in
Dronfield Civic Centre at the
beginning of this year.
Christie, who has a degree in
fashion design, worked at the
previous shop in the unit and was
made redundant when it closed
down. She decided to start her very own boutique selling
affordable womenswear, with an alterations service.
The shop’s range includes women’s clothing, bags, accessories,
jewellery, plus sustainable styles under Christie’s own brand
CHRISTIANA, designed and hand-made entirely in the shop.
Christie said the business has enjoyed a successful start,
commenting: “I live locally and knew the previous shop would be
missed by our loyal customers.
“I wanted to create an affordable clothing shop, whilst also
trying out my own business ideas, including sustainable clothing,
and introducing the alterations service, which has increased, and
I’m so grateful for the customers support and reviews.
“I offer one-of-a-kind styles, comfortable and casual, but not
identical to the usual high street clothing, so customers can find
exactly what they’re looking for. Also with the alterations service
I can alter the clothes to ensure they fit as you’d like. I offer
these alterations FREE for stock items!”
The business has a website and Facebook and Instagram
pages.
Little Corner Boutique,
7 Civic Centre, Dronfield.
Tel: 07932 584139.
Web: littlecornerboutique.co.uk
Family glazing business
C CLEAR Glass & Glazing Services is a family business which
has served Dronfield and the surrounding area for more than
14 years.
The skilled and experienced team comprises owner Chris
Wallace and his eldest son Conner and they say delivering a
high standard of service is always their priority.
This commitment has earned the business a loyal client base in
Dronfield and the surrounding areas, with a lot of work coming in
via personal recommendations.
Chris said: “With a small family business you can be assured
that you will get that personal connection and commitment when
it comes to the job in hand.
“We take great pride in our communication and professionalism
in dealing with customers.”
C Clear specialises in replacing single, double and triple-glazed
units, UPVC A rated window frame replacements, UPVC and GRP
Composite door replacements and conservatories.
The team also pride themselves on offering a variety of smaller
services, such as window and door lock replacements, window
and door adjustments and repairs, and many other services. In
fact no job is too small!
C Clear was originally established in Eckington but outgrew its
premises and now has a much bigger unit at Halfway.
“This benefits our customers by enabling us to stock more
items,” added Chris.
The business is proud of its reputation for being clean and tidy,
and completing every project on time.
C Clear Glass & Glazing Services, 2, Halfway Centre, Halfway,
Sheffield. Tel: 01246 433 433 Web: cclearglazing.co.uk
FIREPLACE Factory & Stove Centre Sheffield has been
established for over 40 years on Aizlewood Road, off
Abbeydale Road.
What was initially a full manufacturing business has gradually
moved into retailing as well, and the owners, David Payne and
Karl Ibbotson, thrive on finding solutions for their customers.
The premium brands they stock have been carefully selected as
offering the best products at each price point and in every
situation.
Fireplace Factory specialises in fireplaces of all types, gas
stoves, wood-burning stoves, gas fires, electric fires, chimney
installations, and chimney flue installations.
As well as expanding the product range and displays over the
years, Fireplace Factory has also developed its expert installation
service and staff are fully competent in all types of gas, electrical
and woodburning installations. This means the needs of any
fireplace enquiry coming in can be met.
David said most of the company’s customers come from the
local area and within the South Yorkshire and north Derbyshire
region.
He explained: “We provide attentive service and expert
knowledge acquired over the last 40-or-so years, together with
our friendly, non-pushy showroom approach.
“I think it’s our customer service and the fact that we deal with
the some of the best products in the UK which has kept us in
business all of these years.
“The pandemic was a huge challenge that we’d never
54
One-stop location for stylish fireplaces
encountered before but we were able to work within the
restrictions and still managed to offer great service to all of our
customers.
“In more recent times, the energy crisis has added extra
enquiries as customers come to us for advice on how we can
help them to manage the heating costs more effectively.”
Looking to the future, David and Karl intend to keep the same
successful approach to their business.
“We’ll keep on doing what we have always done, adding
innovative new products to our showroom, and offering the very
best level of service… far beyond what any of our competitors can
provide,” added David.
Fireplace Factory & Stove Centre, 5 Aizlewood Road,
off Abbeydale Road, Sheffield. Tel: 0114 2555794.
Web: www.fireplacefactoryoutlet.co.uk

EYE on business
City charity set for big retail expansion
EXCITING news from one of the area’s favourite good causes
is the development of a new retail outlet and craft centre in
S8.
WORK Ltd & The Hidden Gem Café is an independent
charity, providing tailor-made unique programmes of creative,
hands-on, projects and activities for adults with learning
disabilities.
These activities include stained glass, woodwork, textiles,
cooking and dancing and, until now, have all been based in
S11.
Celebrating 28 years of providing essential services to
learners, the charity - which has a number of supporters here
in Dronfield - is now expanding into completely refurbished
premises at 4 Hutcliffe Wood Road, Beauchief.
Due to the organisation’s popularity and an increasing intake
of students from the local authority, it requires more space for
the growing craft workshop activities. Expanding its art, craft
and life skills provision will see WORK Ltd provide something
different and offer a wider scope of its learner experience.
The new venture, called KREATE, will be a home and giftware
store with a difference. A range of high-end retail products
have been carefully selected from brands including Coach
House, Ella Life and Chic Antique, to complement studentcreated
bespoke crafts.
KREATE will also provide retail training for some, giving them
opportunities and skills that we all take for granted.
Everyone at WORK Ltd is looking forward to becoming part of
the local S8 community, and welcomes people to join its
instagram page to learn more about KREATE and the planned
launch date. Visit workltd.org.uk to support this new step in
the charity’s story.
WORK Ltd’s Glynis Philliskirk outside the
new KREATE premises at Beauchief
WORK Ltd, off Folkwood Grove,
Ringinglow Road, Sheffield.
KREATE, 4 Hutcliffe Wood Road,
Beauchief, Sheffield.
Tel: 0114 262 0094.
Web: workltd.org.uk
So many changes at Dronfield’s Chantry!
ONE of Dronfield’s best-known
venues, The Chantry, is beginning an
exciting new chapter following a sad
period of change.
The Georgian hotel was run for
decades by entertainers Roland Roy
and Jackie Toaduff, welcoming
international performers from far and
wide.
After Roland died in 2017, Jackie
continued as much-loved host of the
restaurant although opening times were
limited.
Earlier this year Jackie too passed
away, leaving new owner Micheal Elrick
to promise to run The Chantry exactly
as Jackie would have wished.
Michael and general manager Claire
Martin have extended opening hours
and expanded the team, recruiting the
right people who love the hotel as
much as they do.
Six hotel rooms, which have not been
used by paying guests since 2016, are undergoing a
refurbishment programme and all are available to book.
The restaurant is open Tuesday to Friday, from 8.30am-5pm,
Saturday, from 9am-4pm, and now also for Sunday lunch.
Diners can choose a traditional roast lunch of sirloin of beef
with Yorkshire pudding, or from other options. Meals are
served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm with a choice of two or three
courses for £18.50 or £27.
Sunday lunch was extremely popular
at The Chantry when it was last
served 25 years ago and its return has
been a huge hit with customers,
who are welcomed with canapes on
arrival. Because of this, booking is
essential!
Michael said: “Our eventual goal is to
have our restaurant open in the
evenings.
“People should keep an eye on our
website for further announcements as
and when they happen.
“I couldn’t have done this without a
great team around me, including my
right-hand woman Claire who has been
at The Chantry for almost five years and
Ciara Chappell who is now assistant
manager.
“Even though we have had so much
upheaval and change this year, we still
wanted to make sure that our customers
come first by providing them with wonderful food and great
service.”
Prices have been held at last year's rates to continue to give
great value for money.
The Chantry Hotel & Holiday Lets, Church Street,
Dronfield. Tel: 01246 413014.
Web: chantryhoteldronfield.co.uk
55

EYE on business
Stunning tiles for every room of the house
YEARS of experience and knowledge are behind The Tile Place
- Dronfield’s local one stop shop for all tiling needs.
Proprietor, Julian Askham, has been in the tiling trade since he
left school, establishing his own business in Dronfield 15 years
ago.
The enterprise initially came about to serve tradespeople in the
town, but The Tile Place also caters for DIYers and provides a full
fitting service.
A move to the current premises in Callywhite Lane six years ago
allowed The Tile Place to expand its showroom space and the
number and variety of products on offer.
Today there are three showrooms featuring more than 2,000
different quality tiles for walls and floors - interior and exterior.
The range covers budget to bespoke and includes tiles made
from ceramic, porcelain, slate, stone, limestone and even glass.
Browse the displays for products for a traditional or modern
look, including large format tiles – perfect for open-plan homes -
along with classic marble effect tiles and bold, eye-catching,
patterns.
The Tile Place sells products from countries across Europe,
such as Italy, Spain and Portugal, and beyond.
There’s absolutely no reason for customers to be short of
inspiration with Julian and his team offering plenty of friendly
aesthetic and practical advice.
Customers who want to engage the services of a fitter need
look no further than The Tile Place as the business has its own
in-house tilers, together with a free measuring service and zero
deposit payment plan. For added peace of mind, clients are only
asked for payment when they are completely satisfied with the
finished result. In addition, The Tile Place offers free delivery.
Meanwhile, a good selection of adhesives and grouts are
always in stock.
Visit the showroom Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, Saturday,
9am to 4pm, and Sunday, 10am to 2pm.
TheTilePlace
The Tile Place, 10 Callywhite Business Park,
Callywhite Lane, Dronfield. Tel: 01246 768696.
Web: www.thetileplace.net
56

EYE on business
Creative solutions at competitive prices
SUPAFIT Bedrooms is a family business based in
Dronfield and Sheffield which has been providing
local customers with high-quality, bespoke
furniture for over 30 years.
Supafit was started by Martin Backhouse and his
wife Jayne. Martin, first and foremost, is a furniture
maker who has a great eye for detail and a skill set
which led him to where he is today.
Supafit continue to produce quality products
despite the difficult economic situation. This is
because they work hard to ensure that they listen
and understand all customers’ needs and exactly
the look they want to achieve.
Martin said: “What our customers want is a
creative, beautiful room that they can afford, and
our history shows that we are consistently able to
provide creative solutions at competitive prices.
“At Supafit, we always do our best to bring a
vision to life”
By taking on board lessons learned during their
long history, Supafit will design your bedroom,
office or media unit free of charge, which you can
then view on a 3D visual screen and make any
tweaks required.
Unlike other businesses, Supafit have their own
state-of-the-art factory where they make and build
elements before taking it on-site to fit.
With each year that goes by, the company gets
bigger and expands its reach further afield to areas
around Sheffield and Derbyshire.
The business now concentrates solely on
bedrooms, offices and media units.
Martin and Jayne’s daughters, Jenna and Lydia,
are now taking a front seat. Jenna is head designer
and Lydia is dedicated to sales. Martin and Jayne
work fewer days than in the past but are still
involved and always available if needed.
Lydia said: “Many people would say it is hard
working so closely everyday with family but we all
help each other so much. We laugh and get on
very well, so really it’s just like working with your
best friends.”
Call in to Supafit’s Dronfield or Sheffield
showroom Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm, or ring to
organise a free quotation.
This is the final month of Supafit’s summer sale.
Call the business today to discover how you can
transform your home - and save money!
The Supafit team, from left: Jenna, Martin, Jayne and Lydia
Supafit,
Archer Road Retail
Park, Millhouses,
Sheffield.
Tel: 0114 2356892.
Beech Works,
Wreakes Lane,
Dronfield.
Tel: 01246 412100.
Web: supafituk.com
Final month
of our big
SUMMER
SALE
57

EYE on business
Radiant Health - more than reflexology
CELEBRATING seven years in her current premises
this year, Emma Carlin owner, lead therapist and
trauma specialist at Radiant Health reflects on the
successes and challenges she has faced since
opening her Highfields Road clinic.
First and foremost she is proud to have helped so
many people achieve physical and emotional wellbeing.
Emma explains: “My work is so rewarding and
there is no better feeling than knowing that you have
played a part in relieving someone’s pain or
emotional discomfort.”
Given the challenges that our communities currently
face, Emma is finding that the clinic is dealing with
clients with more complex issues, as well as those
coping with the symptoms of stress. She has also
seen the number of male clients visting the clinic double.
Says Emma: “I understand that many people are struggling with
the cost of living at the moment. As a clinic we have tried to
absorb price increases and offer a payment plan system for
those who require our services but may be struggling to pay
upfront right now.”
Each year Emma selects a different sector of workers who can
enjoy a 10% discount at the clinic. Previous years have seen
teachers, NHS workers and carers benefit from the discount
scheme. This year it is those who possess a Blue Light card for
working in the Police Service that can take advantage.
Never happy to rest on her laurels, Emma is keen to advance
her knowledge and treatment portfolio with contstant training.
She explains: “I have studied Reflexology in many forms:
maternity and fertility, cranio sacral, palliative care as well as
clinical. I am a massage therapist in hot stones, salt stones,
Emma Carlin
All-year-round garden colour
IT’S never too late to pack your garden full of colour and, as usual, New Leaf is
stocked with everything you need for the final few weeks of summer and the months
beyond.
This plant centre, at Dyche Lane, Coal Aston has been around for 41 years, employing
many people from the local area, but it refuses to rest on its laurels and always offers
something new and exciting.
Improvements have recently been made to the main entrance, making it more open
and clear to see with new signage and the New Shoots coffee shop and restaurant has
now been open for three years, with large seating areas both indoors and out.
This winter will see a larger-than-ever range of exciting Christmas decorations and a
wide selection of high quality real Christmas trees.
For now, it is time to refresh your bedding displays and baskets with a superb range of
seasonal bedding including Pansy, Viola, Cyclamen, Bellis, Wallfowers, etc.
Why not underplant with spring bulbs? It’s bulb-planting time and all your favourites
are here. Daffs, Tulips, Snowdrops, Iris, Hyacinths and many more for Spring colour.
Seasonal Shrubs and trees as always in stock at New Leaf, together with ready-made
planters, pots and baskets, with a huge selection available.
You will also discover all manner of gardening tools, outdoor lighting now the darker
evenings are approaching, plus products to delight your garden birds.
New Leaf’s motto is ‘Better Plants for Better Gardens’.
September special offers:
Tulip Lizzy 20 pack BOGOF, £6.99.
Daffodil Carlton 12 pack BOGOF, £6.99.
Levington Multi-Compost 40ltr, was £5.99 per bag, now four bags for £10 (while
stocks last).
aromatherapy and deep tissue. I have continued my
professional development and have qualified in
Indian Head, holistic facials, Japanese Tsuboki
facials, Reiki and meditation.
“More recently I studied Neuro Linguistic
Programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Technique
(EFT) and I was one of the first eight people
worldwide to train as a Belief Coding Trainer. This
combines NLP, EFT, Kinesiology, Matrix re-imprinting
and hypnotherapy.
“With all my years of expertise and wisdom
combined, with my team I have created one of the
most beautiful clinics in Dronfield. We are thought of
as the town's leading therapists when it comes to
getting people out of pain, whether that be
physically, emotionally or mentally. We know how to hold space
for people who have, or are going through trauma. Some of the
conditions which we can help with are infertility, IBS, arthritic
conditions, menopause and migraine.
“Once you walk inside our haven, it's like coming home to
yourself with a knowing that everything is going to be all right. I
promise you, you will feel comfortable, safe and cared for when
you are with us here at Radiant Health.
“Booking is essential. Start your healing journey with us today!”
Radiant Health, 55 Highfields Road, Dronfield.
Tel: 01246 413831. Web: radianthealth.clinic
Pople Garden Centres Ltd, New Leaf Plant Centre,
Dyche Lane, Coal Aston, Sheffield.
Tel: 01246 413311. Web: newleafplantcentre.co.uk
58

EYE on business
Medieval venue with modern day appeal
The Barn recently
hosted a meeting of
the Destination
Chesterfield
business
organisation, with
delegates being
served with sweet
and savoury
afternoon teas
IT’S now seven years since Dronfield Hall Barn was
opened to the public, with 2023 marking the start of an
exciting new chapter.
Charity Dronfield Heritage Trust runs the Grade II* listed Barn
which has 600 years of history behind it. This year, its
management team has welcomed two new members; Olivia
Taylor, weddings manager, and Andrea Kilner, coffee shop and
catering manager.
Creative manager, Sam Reavey, said: “Olivia and Andrea have
really hit the ground running with improving and updating what
we offer at The Barn, building on the hard work of their
predecessors.
“They have brought new ideas and a new ethos to take us
into the future.”
Dozens of couples have already enjoyed perfect wedding
days at The Barn, attracted by the heritage building with
modern amenities. Add to this its beautiful gardens, all tended
by volunteers, which are ideal for photographs.
Under Olivia’s management, The Barn is offering brides and
grooms fresh stylings and now working with The Cricket Inn, at
Totley, to provide catering, with new options and menus.
The ever-popular coffee shop, with Andrea at the helm, has
also introduced new menus with an emphasis on local
producers and suppliers, utilising fresh herbs and other
ingredients grown in the gardens.
2023 has been a hugely successful year for events at The
Barn, with an increasingly varied programme.
From historical walking tours, to craft and cookery workshops,
there has been something for everyone.
The Barn’s Artisan and Producers’ Markets and Christmas
Market have also been expanded with community-led
exhibitions staged throughout the year on art and history.
The Arts Festival in July was another success - watch this
space for confirmation of the dates for next year’s.
In the mean time there is a Medieval Christmas weekend to
look forward to on December 9th and 10th.
Over the last few years The Barn has formed a
partnership with Eckington School and this continues. Each
year a group of business students work on helping the
Barn to develop its corporate links with local business.
As a charity, commercial bookings as well as the support
of the local community are vital to keeping The Barn at the
centre of Dronfield life.
For more information on what’s happening at Dronfield Hall
Barn visit the website dronfieldhallbarn.org
• See Page 74.
Dronfield Hall Barn, High Street, Dronfield.
Tel: Coffee Shop 01246 418122; weddings and
corporate hire 07931 830597; events 07814 140034.
Web: dronfieldhallbarn.org
59

EYE on business
Exciting new displays and ideas
BESPOKE Blinds & Poles has recently updated all their Luxaflex
display blinds, and added some exciting new displays to their
other ranges.
As well as been the main dealers for Luxaflex Blinds in
Yorkshire, they have also installed apex and lantern rooflight
display blinds, plus updated their motorisation offer to meet
growing demand
“We have always invested in our showroom, as we offer our
customers innovative products which they can’t see elsewhere,”
says Maxine. “And with the popularity of our appointment system,
people can book a visit, have the showroom to themselves, ask all
their questions and have their discussion without being
interrupted by other people”.
The appointment system has been running for over three years
now, and is mostly booked three to four days in advance.
“We have people coming with their architect plans, or their
visions for a bay window, or they have a single window and no
idea how to treat it. All these conversations take time, and our aim
is for people to feel they are receiving the best advice in a
welcoming environment”
Whether you are striving to add some colour, shade, privacy,
insulation, security or all these to your windows, Bespoke Blinds &
Poles are the people to talk to. They offer one of the largest
displays of window coverings in the South Yorkshire and North
Derbyshire region and a wealth of experience which they are
happy to share with you free of charge!
Neil and Maxine launched their company 16 years ago and, with
CHESTERFIELD and District
Shopmobility helps people live their
lives more independently every day.
The charity provides mobility scooters
and wheelchairs for short and long-term
hire and for different locations or
activities.
So the team not only helps hundreds of
people to shop freely, but to explore
country parks, see a football match, go on
holiday or attend a wedding!
Shopmobility was launched more than
30 years ago with just three scooters for
hire.
It now has a fleet of more than 90
pieces of equipment to suit all needs
including scooters, power chairs and
manual wheelchairs.
Some items have been kindly donated
by members of the public after a loved
one has died.
Trustee and secretary, Christine Mitchell,
said: “Our scooters built for tracks and
trails are very popular and so are our
community ones, which allow people to
get out and about in their local area.
“There is also huge demand for scooters
that fit in the boot of your car for family
events or trips away. It’s really all about
having more freedom and we get great
60
Proprietors Maxine and Neil Hayter with
fitting colleague Dazz Chapman
so many people opting to invest in improving their homes right
now, they report they have never been busier. The company
provides a full survey, installation and fitting service for blinds,
awnings, plantation shutters, curtain tracks and poles. Many of
their growing band of delighted customers come from the
Dronfield Eye area.
Showroom appointments may be arranged on Wednesdays,
Thursdays and Fridays, from 9am-8pm, and Saturdays, from 9am-
4pm.
Bespoke Blinds & Poles, 6 Hutcliffe Wood Road, Beauchief,
Sheffield, S8 0EX.
Tel: 0114 2363100. Web: sheffieldblinds.co.uk
Keeping our local community mobile
Powerchairs and manual wheelchairs
are available to hire
Shopmobility scooter user in
Dronfield’s Lea Brook Valley
feedback from people who are grateful
for what we offer.”
Based at New Beetwell Street in
Chesterfield town centre,
Shopmobility's attention to service and
detail has made the charity a leader in
its field. Its service is recognised by
Derbyshire County Council’s
Trusted Trader scheme and is
recommended by Chesterfield Royal
Hospital.
Qualified staff and volunteers are on
hand to provide friendly expert
guidance and safety instructions and
there is also a breakdown service.
In addition, the team are excited to
announce some new National Lottery
funding which will enable more pop-up
stands at local markets, including
Dronfield, where people can find out
more about products and try them out.
For full details of what the charity
offers, visit the website or give the
friendly team a call.
Chesterfield
Shopmobility, New
Beetwell Street,
Chesterfield. Tel
01246 559331. Web:
chesterfieldshopmobility.org.uk

WHEN Alfred Dunham returned to Dronfield in
1919 following active World War I service with
the Royal Flying Corps, he couldn’t have
imagined that the business he was about to
embark upon would go on to serve the town well
for more than a century.
Aged 34, a keen chrysanthemum grower and a
joiner by trade, Alfred took over the town’s
existing firm of funeral directors from Joe Smelt.
Joiners generally made coffins as part of their
regular work, so it was a sensible progression for
Alfred to go on to provide two services to the
Dronfield public.
The building side of the business was developed
by his son, John (Jack) Dunham, who joined the
firm on leaving school in 1926. The company was
responsible for the erection of many fine stonebuilt
houses in Dronfield and the surrounding
villages.
Jack’s son, David, became part of the family firm
in 1957 when he left school and as the company
expanded he was joined by David’s son, John, in
1984.
Always based in the same district of Dronfield,
the company is these days housed in smart
premises between Snape Hill Lane and Egerton
Road which it has occupied since 1963.
THE funeral business offers all types of services
including religious, non-religious and woodland
burials. Nowadays there is a trend towards more
simple funeral services, including unattended
funerals.
Noticing more changes in their profession over
the past ten years than in the previous nine
decades, caring staff can advise on a variety of
caskets, flowers, vehicles, venue hire, music and
much more. They offer a fleet of Mercedes
vehicles if required and many local families take up
an option of pre-paid funeral plans.
Firstly, its funeral business has been able to
comfort and offer advice to families who have lost
loved ones to the pandemic. Strict regulations
have had to be adhered to and although this has
meant additional heartache for many people, some
changes have actually been welcomed by families.
THE builders’ merchant arm of the business is
the largest such stockist in the area, supplying
materials and tools to trade and private
customers.
Particularly during the pandemic, it was
responsible for keeping the local economy ticking
over, continuing to supply materials to hundreds of
local traders, ensuring they were able to carry on working as the
construction industry remained buoyant.
Materials such as wood, plaster and cement were in short
supply nationally, but Dunhams managed to keep their regular
customers informed all along the way. Indeed, the business had
its doors closed for only two days throughout the whole
pandemic and operated a busy click and collect service which
EYE on business
Proudly serving the Dronfield
community for more than a century
Alfred Dunham
Son Ltd
The Alfred Dunham & Son Ltd funeral directors premises at Egerton Road
was appreciated by all in
the trade.
And their services and
products were not only in
demand from professionals
as thousands of local
people used their
lockdown days to embark
on DIY projects in their
homes and gardens. The
showroom phone was
constantly ringing and the
demand for old railway
sleepers in particular was
so high at one stage that it
seemed as though
everyone in Dronfield was
embarking on major
building projects in their
own back gardens!
Although supplying some
items was an issue for
several weeks, the
Dunham team said
Dronfield people
understood the issues and
difficulties and were very
patient indeed in waiting
for their orders.
Now stock is more easily
accessible and the business is back to offering next day delivery.
There are even signs that in some areas - timber especially -
prices have begun to fall once again.
In addition to working for the people of Dronfield over the past
century, Alfred Dunham & Son has also been one of the town’s
most important employees, with many staff members chalking up
decades of service.
Jonathan Townsend and John Dunham outside
the company’s builders’ merchant premises
Alfred Dunham & Son Ltd, 56 Snape Hill Lane, Dronfield, S18 2LG.
Tel: 01246 413205 or 01246 290205.
Web: alfreddunham.com
61

dronfield EYE
Happy and grateful customers
R
ETAINING independence as you get older is the
ultimate hope for most people. But enhancing life
as we live it is equally important.
Quality, made-to-measure lifestyle products, such as
rise and recline chairs and adjustable beds, can help
people maintain their health and wellbeing.
This could be a better night’s sleep, improvements to
circulation and posture, and relief of aches and pains to
help increase mobility.
Trusted Dronfield-based business Young at Heart has
over 20 years’ experience assessing people's needs
and providing solutions.
Michael Johnson and partner Paula Bagley have built
their business by putting the enhancement of people’s
lives at the heart of everything they do.
Michael has travelled all over the country advising residents
in independent living developments on how tailored products
can really help well-being.
He and Paula are now able to bring this knowledge and
expertise to local people – all in the comfort of their own
homes.
Paula said: “So many people go out and buy chairs, for
example, that don’t fit them.
“We believe that there should be an expert assessment of a
client’s individual needs.
“We listen carefully to our customers to make sure that we
provide what is the right solution for them.”
The same approach extends to mobility aids, such as
powerchairs or scooters. There is the opportunity to have a test
drive so customers can see what works best.
Young at Heart’s website is full of testimonials from happy and
grateful customers who appreciate the professionalism and care
taken by the Young at Heart team.
Young at Heart can offer part-exchanges on old furniture and
where possible will donate them to the British Heart Foundation,
who they have supported for many years. They will also remove
your old furniture for free taking the stress out of any purchase.
To arrange a free no obligation home assessment and
demonstration call 0114 3270793.
For further information on products and services, visit the
company’s website.
Young at Heart Healthcare Ltd,
Tel: 0114 3270793.
Web: youngathearthealthcare.co.uk
RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS
& ADJUSTABLE BEDS
Made to measure to ensure maximum comfort, improving circulation and
posture, relieving aches and pains, and ensuring a better nights’ sleep.
PEACE OF MIND
• Over 20 years’ experience
• 1st Class aftercare Service
• White glove delivery and installation
• Lifetime guarantee
• Fabulous range of fabrics to suit all tastes
NO PRESSURE SELLING
100 % Guarantee
“Your advice, service, delivery of
my bed and chair was excellent.
I have no worries and am very
comfortable. Thank You. P.S. I would
recommend you to others!“
62
Call today to arrange your free, no obligation home
assessment and demonstration on 0114 3270 793
Email: info@youngathearthealthcare.co.uk
Visit: www.youngatheartheathcare.co.uk
£200 MINIMUM
TRADE IN ON YOUR
OLD FURNITURE

dronfield EYE
LAWRENCE JENKINSON OPTICIANS
Trusted in Dronfield since 1994
Downstairs testing
Traditional eyecare you can trust
1
/2
PRICE
POLARIZING SUNSPECS
to your prescription including bifocals and varifocals
Great anti-glare and uv protection
Now at: Stubley Medical Centre, 5 Stubley Drive,
Dronfield Woodhouse, S18 8QY Tel: 01246 291999
Also at: 784 Chesterfield Rd, Woodseats, Sheffield Tel: 0114 2554490
Website: lawrencejenkinsonopticians.co.uk
Email: lawrencejenkinsonopticians@btconnect.com
PRODUCTS TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME
•• DOORS •
••
•••
REPLACEMENT
WINDOWS
£150
ENTRANCE
DOORS
£695
VISIT
OUR
SHOWROOM
BI-FOLD
DOORS
£750
FRENCH
DOORS
£1000
VIEW OUR
WEBSITE
Join us at our Clay Cross Showroom for free advice on styles and choices
0800 090 3849 • www.urbanwdc.co.uk • sales@urbanwdc.co.uk
63

dronfield EYE
Your family funeral director of choice
G&M Lunt Funeral Directors are genuinely there for their clients -
from the first phone call, in the days leading up to the funeral, and
the weeks and months afterwards.
The company has tirelessly served generations of families, with vast
knowledge of the local area and experience in the profession.
Martyn and his team aim to take all the worry away from making funeral
arrangements at what is a difficult and emotional time. They believe small
details matter and work hard to ensure all wishes are carried out.
Funeral arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home or,
if you prefer, you can visit the office. G&M Lunt offers a comprehensive
range of services to a high standard.
G&M Lunt also offer bespoke funeral plans. This allows people to make
all the arrangements for their funeral now, saving money in the long run,
and saving loved ones from having to make difficult decisions in the future.
64
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650921
Rockin’ night’s
A
PACKED Hilltop Sports & Social Club enjoyed a great mix
of styles and musicianship at this year’s Rockin’ Roots
showcase.
Town Mayor, Coun Susan Burkitt, opened the event and welcomed
everyone to the venue before Mexborough duo Reytasrain
performed acoustic versions of some classic pop numbers. Along
with guitarist Adam’s vocal harmonies, singer Harry’s vocal range
raised a few eyebrows as he went for some very high notes to give
the songs a new dimension.
In the tradition of the great female blues shouters, the powerful
vocals of Jody White - daughter of Sheffield legend Frank White -
fronted The Bear Cats who delivered a lively set of rockin’ rhythm &
blues, complimented by some great playing by her tight-sounding
three-piece band.
Husband and wife duo Alan & Vanessa were one of the highlights
of the evening. Supplemented by drums and bass, their spot
featured a delightful mix of songs including Buddy Holly’s True Love
Ways and the Sinatra’s Somethin’ Stupid. Midway through their set,
their talented daughter Tilly performed a stirring rendition of House
Of The Rising Sun. Mom and dad continued with Bruce
Springsteen’s Hungry Heart and Elton John’s I Guess That’s Why
They Call It The Blues, resulting in the duo coming back for an
encore of The Mavericks’ Dance The Night Away, which had some
members of the audience doing just that.
Another local musical
hero, singer/songwriter
Julian Jones, led his
band through an
engrossing selection of
mainly his own songs.
Kicking off with his
twangy country-rocker
Rackin’ Up The Whiskys
Again, other delights
were the folksy I Did
Say and the honky
tonker I’d Be Your
World. For a rousing
version of the Johnny
Cash/June Carter classic
Jackson, Julian was
joined by another great
Dronfield talent, singer Hannah Lily from Revolver.
Show organiser John Firminger hands
over a £1,100 donation to Neil Hayter
of Dronfield First Responders
Performing a great selection of their own songs The Fargo Railroad
Company are of a similar musical style as American combos Marshall
Tucker Band and Lynard Skynnard. Hugely popular in these parts,
this was reflected by way of plenty of audience participation, singing
along with the band as on their signature song Bar-Room Band and
Punch Drunk.
Providing a great selection of contemporary country music were
the six-piece Leather Chaps, fronted by another great singer, Gill
Coupe. Including songs by Tammy Wynette, Shania Twain and the
Dixie Chicks, delivered in a party atmosphere, they soon had the
line-dancers and the two-steppers out on the floor struttin’ their stuff.
Finishing off the night were a four-piece line-up of veteran
ensemble Past Masters. Fronted by guitarist Dave Robinson, they
too featured another vocalist, Stephanie King. Performing a set of
classics from the 1960s and 70s, they kept the dance floor filled until
around midnight, rounding off an excellent day of live music.
Organiser John Firminger and Hilltop Club secretary Dick Armitage
are pleased to announce that the event raised £1,100 for Dronfield
First Responders.
John and Dick also wish to say a big ‘thank you’ to all the
musicians who took part and all those who attended. Hopefully
Rockin’ Roots will continue to be an annual live music event for
Dronfield people to look forward to.

dronfield EYE
£1,100 for Responders
Alan & Vanessa with event organiser John Firminger on drums
Left: Tilly Stapleton
Above: The Bear Cats
Right: Reytasrain
Julian Jones
and his band
65

dronfield EYE
Splendour on our doorstep
Sometimes we overlook the historic houses
close to where we live and work. Hardwick Hall,
just over the hills from Dronfield near Junction
29 of the M1, is one such place; an Elizabethan
manor with the story behind it of a remarkable
woman who rose to wealth and power, second
only to Queen Elizabeth I. Deborah Wain
pays it a visit for the first time
A
FTER a drive up
country lanes to
Hardwick Hall, the first
glimpse of the property
takes your breath away.
Get closer still to the
house, and against the sky
can be seen the letters
‘ES’ and a coronet carved
into its six turrets.
This is a stately home
that makes a statement
on behalf of the
ambitious woman who
built it and whose initials
it bears; today best
known as Bess of
Hardwick.
Bess was born Elizabeth
Hardwick to Derbyshire landowners in Ault
Hucknall about 1527. By today’s standards, Bess had
already been married and widowed while still in childhood, and
was then cast into noble circles in London as a lady in waiting.
She married William Cavendish, Treasurer of the King’s Chamber,
in 1547, going on to have six
children who survived into
adulthood. The couple set up
their family home at Chatsworth,
the first of a number of homes
that Bess commissioned.
A decade on, Bess was
widowed again and later
married Sir William St Loe,
inheriting further wealth from
him when he too died, in 1565.
Bess’ last marriage, two years
later, was to George Talbot, 6th
Earl of Shrewsbury, making her
the Countess of Shrewsbury,
Bess of Hardwick’s jewellery
chest, complete with
elaborate locking system
from which the imposing letters on the towers of the house derive.
There was much acrimony in this relationship, prompting Bess to
return to her childhood home and build what is now Hardwick Old
Hall and then Hardwick Hall itself, starting in 1590, after her
husband died.
Significantly, Robert Smythson, known as the first English
architect, designed the building, which took seven years to
complete. It is unique in its symmetrical design and its extensive
use of glass. The adage ‘Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall’ is
borne out by the more than 138,000 panes in the building –
hugely expensive to install at the time.
As well as grand interior features such as the 162ft long gallery -
the largest surviving from the Elizabethan era - Bess’s home was
adorned with lavish furnishings and portraits.
Many of its treasures passed on through the Cavendishs, the
family name of the Dukes of Devonshire, who lived at the hall right
through to the mid-20th century when the house was given to the
government in lieu of death duties. Visitors can see them today on
a tour of the house, now a National Trust property.
The house is particularly known for its textiles including the
collection of 76 tapestries, most of which are from the Tudor or
66

dronfield EYE
Left: My guide
to Hardwick
Hall, Dave
Manton
Right:
A comfortable
corner of the
stately home
Right:
Gleaming
copperware in
the kitchens
Stuart periods. The National Trust has recently finished the
painstaking restoration of Hardwick’s set of 13 tapestries depicting
the biblical story of Gideon.
Bess’ life was closely linked with that of her friend, Elizabeth I,
having served as the monarch’s first Lady of the Bedchamber
between her second and third marriages.
Bess eventually became the second richest woman after the
Queen, although she reportedly once loaned the asset-rich
monarch some cash.
While the womens’ long relationship doesn’t always seem to
have been quite plain sailing, Bess paid homage to Elizabeth I in
elements of the house. Unfortunately, the Queen never visited
and died in 1603.
The presence of another famous female figure from Tudor
history is felt within Hardwick’s walls, although she too never
stayed there. The Earl of Shrewsbury was custodian of Mary
Queen of Scots during 15 years of his marriage and Mary has a
room in her name that contains some of her belongings.
The house and surrounding buildings was also home to a large
number of Bess’ employees, of varying ranks, and had a
schoolroom for children and a small chapel. Roles included a
watercarrier, apothecary, music master and the necessary woman,
who was charged with emptying chamber pots!
You can explore the hall’s kitchens with their scrubbed counters
and gleaming copper pancheons. The legacy of those who built
the house is also in evidence in the marks of the 133 master stone
masons etched into its walls.
Bess was known to have been very generous to her workers,
assisting a stonebreaker after a mugging and a scullery maid who
was taken ill.
Bess, who died in
1608, and is buried in
a tomb in Derby
Cathedral, has been
the subject of much
discussion by
historians. No end of
adjectives have been
used to describe her,
including ‘scheming’,
‘cunning’,
Grand tapestries adorn the walls
‘entrepreneurial’ and ‘intelligent’.
Dave Manton, who is a volunteer
room guide at the hall, said the
thousands of visitors who come from
all over the world to see Hardwick
tend to fall into two camps in their
perception of her.
There are those who see her as an
astute businesswoman and those who
think she was a gold digger who
married for money.
People usually have a uniform
reaction to the house – a sense of
awe of it and its contents. Bess built
the property to impress and it
continues to do so.
Some have seen the exterior of the
hall featured as Malfoy Manor in the
film Harry Potter and the Deathly
Hallows.
The Muniment Room
where documents
relating to the Hardwick
estates were kept
Local volunteers are involved at Hardwick in a number of ways,
from working in the garden to sharing stories with visitors.
Dave joined the team of volunteers five years ago after five
years in a similar role at Eyam Hall, and can be found at Hardwick
on two days a week.
Dave said: “It gives me an interest outside of my normal sphere
of activities, and you get to meet some tremendous people. Not
just other guides, but the public who come to the hall are nearly
always lovely people who want to chat, and as anybody that
knows me will affirm, I can talk for Britain!”
The park and gardens are open all year round, seven days a
week; the Hall is
open five days a
week and for ten
months of the year.
English Heritage is
set to open the
stately ruins of the
Old Hall to visitors
after restoring its
plaster friezes.
The Old Hall
67

dronfield EYE
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Licensing Act 2003
APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE
Jane Taylor of Dronfield Wine World has applied to North
East Derbyshire District Council for a Premises Licence
for: Unit 12, The Forge, Church Street, Dronfield S18 1QX
to sell or supply of alcohol between the following hours:
Monday 10.00-22.00
Tuesday 10.00-22.00
Wednesday 10.00-22.00
Thursday 10.00-22.00
Friday 10.00-23.00
Saturday 10.00-23.00
Sunday 11.00-18.00
Any person intending to make a relevant representations
on this application should submit them in writing by not
later than 6th September to the Licensing Officer,
Licensing Section, North East Derbyshire District Council,
District Council Offices, Mill Lane, Wingerworth,
Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42 6NG or by e-mailing
licensing@ne-derbyshire.gov.uk.
The full application may be viewed at the above offices
between 10.00am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday. You will
need to contact the Licensing Section beforehand on
01246 217884 / 217885 to arrange an appointment.
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Let’s Share Summer!
Help people feel connected in your neighbourhood.
to fund something fun, small & easy to organise.
This grant makes it easy to bring people together where you live.
You don’t need to be an established organisation. We provide
advice and training. Apply soon as funds are limited.
Contact us for a chat about your ideas.
Feeling Connected
supports initiatives that
reduce loneliness &
isolation in Chesterfield
& NE Derbyshire.
See our website for
inspiration, or text
Gina: 07511 588 542 &
she’ll call you back.
CONNECTED
www.feelingconnected.org.uk
68

dronfield EYE
SUPPORT
BOLSOVER’S
LOCAL TRADERS
AND
COMMUNITY...
SATURDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER FROM
10.00AM 00AM TO 3.00PM
The Bolsover Artisan Food & Craft Market stands as a
prominent event on the town's annual schedule, captivating
visitors right at the core of the bustling town centre.
So why not come along and rediscover
the magic of the markets!
Fancy a stall? We are always keen for new and exciting traders
to showcase their fantastic skills at our market.
For more information, contact: events@oldbolsovertowncouncil.gov.uk
2 ND SEPTEMBER 7 TH OCTOBER
2 ND
SEPT
69

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71

dronfield EYE
No plan yet for ramp replacement
T
HE wooden walkway attached to Lea Road
railway bridge is slowly deteriorating but
plans for a replacement have yet to be
determined.
That is the latest news from the Friends of Dronfield
Station, who are regularly asked by residents about
the likely future of the structure, closed to pedestrians
five years ago.
Built in the 1870s, the 45-metre ramp is visible on old
photographs of the town, serving as a shortcut
between Dronfield Bottom and the Parish Church and
High Street.
While the Lea Road bridge is a listed structure, the
wooden walkway isn’t, although its design is unusual
with only one other polygonal arch bridge remaining
in the UK. Since 2018, the ramp has been closed due
to the poor condition of its timbers.
Owners Derbyshire County Council had deemed it
unfeasible to repair the ramp and a scheme for a
modern steel replacement had been shelved.
Earlier this summer, a meeting was held at the site to
discuss the situation. It was attended by Adam Shaftoe,
chief engineer with Derbyshire County Council, Lee Rowley MP,
and Coun Charlotte Cupit, County and District Councillor,
together with representatives from FoDS and Dronfield Civic
Society.
FoDS’ Philip Brightmore told Dronfield Eye: “Adam informed the
group that DCC were still waiting contact from Network Rail as to
when electrification of the Midland Main Line will reach Dronfield.
This information had been due in April.
“When electrification does come it will affect the Lea Road
bridge, which may have to be raised and this will have
ramifications for the building of a replacement ramp.
“The whole ramp is in a very poor condition and laser
recordings of its movement have to be regularly taken. The
brackets holding the structure together are failing and the
ramp is very slowly leaning more each year towards the railway
line.
“The wooden ramp itself will remain in place for probably
the next two years, assuming there is no large-scale
72
Closure sign at the foot of the wooden walkway
deterioration.”
“However, the metal grills at the top and bottom of the ramp
preventing access will be replaced this summer with new stone
walls topped with wooden fencing to give a more aesthetically
pleasing look.”
Safety concerns have been voiced since the walkway was shut,
firstly about limited pavement access at the junction of
Chesterfield Road and Lea Road for people who use wheelchairs
and secondly about schoolchildren using the station as a cutthrough.
Network Rail is electrifying the Midland Mainline in sections over
the next few years to allow electric trains to run along the full
length of the line from London.
The next phases of the work will cover the stretch from
Kettering to Sheffield and Nottingham.
Philip added that Derbyshire County Council intends to request
Network Rail for assistance with the cost of a replacement ramp
as they own the land on which it is built.
Midwives raining champions
of Yorkshire’s Three Peaks
A WOMAN from Dronfield was among a team of midwives who
completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge to raise money
for the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.
Danielle Thomas joined Lucy Howson, Beth White, Sophie Walker,
and Nicola Blakemore – all colleagues in Rotherham – to take on
the 24.5 mile walk encompassing peaks in the Yorkshire Dales: Pen-
Y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.
The group were inspired by Lucy’s daughter, Heidi, who was
diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in August last year,
just a few weeks before her sixth birthday.
Danielle said: “Heidi is around half way through her treatment now
and the family have been cared for so wonderfully by the Sheffield
Children’s Hospital.
“We knew we wanted to take on something super challenging and
inspired by the strength and courage of brave little Heidi we decided
to set our sights on the heights of the Yorkshire Three Peaks.”
The midwives prepared by tackling hills in the Peak District and
completed the challenge in pouring rain in just under 12 hours,
raising over £5,000 so far.
You can donate to Team Heidi’s efforts via events.tchc.org.uk/
fundraisers/TeamHeidi

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EYE on food & drink
Summer platter is Med for two!
The new menu at Dronfield Hall Barn
Coffee Shop is full of surprises, as
Mike Firth recently discovered
W
ARM, pleasant afternoons have been at a
premium this summer, so on one of those rare
occasions when the sun did put in an appearance,
wife Helen and I took full advantage by opting for an
al-fresco lunch in the heart of Dronfield.
The yard at The Barn, between the medieval building
and its fabulous gardens, can be a real sun trap and, with
so many coffee shop regulars also choosing to venture
outdoors, we were fortunate to find a table.
The menu here has undergone a number of changes
since Andrea Kilner took over the reins as catering
manager earlier this year.
Many of the favourite dishes and regular ‘specials’
remain, but there is now a more extensive offering of
lunchtime and afternoon treats. And something for all
appetites too.
Helen and I liked the sound of The Barn’s Sharing
Platters. Under normal circumstances we would probably
have opted for the Best of British selection (cheese,
chutney, pickled onions, cured ham, pork pie, boiled egg,
coleslaw, crusty bread and butter) but by now we were
lapping up the sunshine so simply had to have the
Mediterranean Platter.
Presented on a large board, it featured delicious olives,
feta, sundried tomato, peppery rocket, cucumber, tomato,
grilled pitta bread, peppers, salami slices and houmous. It
looked a picture and attracted admiring glances from
people at other tables.
Our lunchtime treat tasted every bit as good as it looked
and our friendly waitress was soon returning an empty
platter to the kitchen.
A long-time favourite of mine at The Barn has been
Lemon Meringue and I couldn’t resist ordering a light
and fluffy wedge of this spectacular treat to follow our
main course. Once again, it turned heads from other
tables.
Lunch is served from noon at The Barn and, in addition
to the sharing platters, stand-out items on the new menus
include home-made soups and quiches, picnic boxes (ideal
Our head-turning
Lemon Meringue
to share in the Barn’s gardens),
salad bowls, sandwiches and
paninis, sweet or savoury
afternoon teas, cream teas and
special creations cooked each
day.
Before all that, The Barn also
serves a variety of breakfasts -
again to suit all appetites. Takeaway
breakfast sandwiches,
pastries and drinks can also
now be ordered from 9am
Monday-Friday.
Recommended
Coffee Shop at The Barn, High
Street, Dronfield. Open from
10am until 4pm with occasional
weekend closures due to
wedding bookings.
Tel: 01246418122.
Web: dronfieldhallbarn.org
74

dronfield EYE
Detailing, valeting and ceramic coating
for cars, vans and motorbikes
Various packages and services available including
our ever popular original deep clean, the kind of
clean that leaves your vehicle like new again!
See our website for all packages and services.
Ceramic coating guards your vehicle against
environmental factors, UV rays and chemical
contaminants and repels dirt and grime,
simplifying regular cleaning.
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07472 760740
Dronfield Hall Barn
Our new Autumn/Winter Menus
are coming soon. From 1st
October we will have a new
Autumn/Winter menu for you
to come and enjoy in our cosy
Coffee Shop, with plenty of
homemade specials.
Our Afternoon Teas are now
available as a savoury option as
well as our traditional sweet
option. All afternoon teas need to
be booked with 24 hours notice.
Look our for our Autumn/Winter
Afternoon Teas launching soon.
Our Take Away Cream Tea
boxes are great gifts for
family/friends, to show them
how much you are thinking of
them. Call the Coffee Shop to
place your order, we require
24 hours notice.
We are now open from 9am
for takeaway breakfasts,
drinks, and cakes. Perfect
opportunity to pick something
up on your way to work!
Our Afternoon Tea vouchers and denominations vouchers can be purchased from the Coffee Shop, which make wonderful gifts.
Open 7 days a week for
home-cooked food and cakes
10am-4pm
Kitchen closes at 3.30pm
We are now open from 9am Monday to Friday
Every penny spent at the coffee shop goes back in to the barn.
Friends of The Barn receive 10% discount
High Street, Dronfield
01246 418122
www.dronfieldhallbarn.org
75

EYE on what ’ s on
Dance, music, art and drama
W
HEN it comes to belly
dancing, did you know
that Dronfield is home to the
biggest agency in the UK?
Many of the group’s 42
members will feature in a
spectacular show at Dronfield
Civic Hall on Saturday,
September 9th.
Taste of Cairo Presents is the
only production of its kind in the
UK right now and it will
showcase the diverse and
vibrant range of dance that the
Middle East and beyond has to
offer.
The first half of the show,
Treasures of the Nile, will feature
traditional folk dances, beautiful
Taste of Cairo Presents
regional costumes and live percussion.
The Jewels of the Orient part of the proceedings is a dynamic
performance portraying a dazzling display of Middle Eastern and
Mediterranean dances, featuring swords, wings and more.
The show starts at 7pm and tickets are available, £12.50 and £10
concessions, from shimmyschool.com/product/tocpresents
CHESTERFIELD Philharmonic Choir is inviting people to join
its ranks this autumn.
As rehearsals get under way for the 80-plus strong choir’s latest
concert, potential new members are invited to pop along and see if they
might like to get involved. In particular, the group would like to hear
from male singers.
The choir’s Liz Holloway said: “Everyone agrees that singing is good
for us, so our message is why not come along to Chesterfield
Philharmonic Choir this autumn and see if its for you.
“We perform four public concerts each year in various venues,
including the Crooked Spire where we are concert choir in residence.
“We begin rehearsals on Thursday 31st August in the Central
Methodist Church, Chesterfield, from 7.15-9.30pm, in preparation for our
performance on 11th November, at 3pm, in St Thomas’s Church,
Brampton, of, among others, John Rutter’s Requiem.”
For more information email Liz at eholloway3@yahoo.com or visit
www.chestphilchoir.org.uk
HELD in Sheffield's stunning Botanical Gardens each
September, Art in the Gardens is one of the largest outdoor
art markets in the North, with artists, craft makers and
visitors coming from across the UK.
With thousands of pieces of art and craft on show, the event
offers an opportunity to meet artists and buy from them direct, all
while enjoying the beautiful grounds of the surrounding gardens.
The event features premier artists in the pavilions and
marquees, sculptures on the lawns, the Open Art Competition, a
dedicated home and gardens area and a host of professional
artists and craft makers.
The event will be held on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd
September. Tickets should be bought in advance via Eventbrite
BUILT as a cinema in 1923, the Grade II-listed Chesterfield
venue now known as the Winding Wheel Theatre has
presented 100 years of entertainment within its halftimbered
mock Tudor walls.
On Sunday, 10th September, at 7pm, audiences are invited to
celebrate the centenary at Centenary Gala Concert.
The event includes performances, including excerpts from
musicals and plays, from Academy of Dance, Chesterfield
Symphony Orchestra, Chesterfield Operatic Society, Chesterfield
Studios, Diane Bradbury Theatre Dance School, Directions
Theatre Arts, Gekkota Arts, Rumpus Theatre Company and Wise
76
Owl Theatre Company.
The evening’s compere is Tony
Rudd, from Britain's Got Talent
and this year’s Aladdin
Pantomime with a special guest
appearance by Bernie Clifton.
From Monday, 11th September
to Friday 15th September, every
day from 10am-7pm, the Winding
Wheel Theatre Function Room is
open for an exhibition detailing
the theatre’s journey from
cinema to as it is today.
Meanwhile there are building
tours and the screening of a
classic film from each of the last
ten decades as chosen by
audiences.
For full information and tickets
visit www.chesterfieldtheatres.
co.uk or ring the box office on 01246 345 222.
JOIN Chris Griffiths for a talk on Bess of Hardwick - Material
Girl Tudor Style at Dronfield Hall Barn, on Thursday, August
31st, from 1.30-3pm
You can hear Bess’s incredible life story and marvel at her
determination to succeed in life. Tickets from the Barn website.
• See pages 66-67.
DON’T miss the opportunity to relive the golden era of 80s
pop with Thereza Bazar, the voice of Dollar, as she returns
to the stage for a one-of-a-kind concert experience.
Hear hits like Mirror Mirror and Give Me Back My Heart with
singing partner, Stephen Fox, and a live band. Bazar's ethereal
vocals and dynamic stage presence are sure to have you singing
along.
Thereza performs live after many years away from the stage in
Thereza Bazar’s Dollar Oh L’Tour, on Friday 29th September, at
7.30pm, at the Winding Wheel Theatre, Chesterfield. Tickets from
Chesterfield Theatres.
SHEFFIELD Theatres is staging The Hypochondriac, Roger
McGough’s celebrated adaptation of Molière’s witty satire.
Self-obsessed and fixated on his health, wealthy Argan spends
his time and money on frequent visits to the family physician.
With medical bills piling up, he believes he has found the perfect
solution to his problem. But with an exasperated household
growing tired of his antics, Argan’s time may be better spent
addressing what is real, rather than worrying about what is
imagined.
A witty satire punctuated with music and dance, this adaptation
of Molière’s masterpiece proves that laughter really is the best
form of medicine. The Hypochondriac comes to Crucible Theatre,
from Saturday, 30th September, to Saturday, 21st October.
Tickets from Sheffield Theatres.
COAL Aston Live welcomes back Los Pacaminos, featuring
Paul Young, for their third show at the Village Hall on
Saturday, 25th November. The event is already a sell-out.
Los Pacaminos is a Tex-Mex band that was formed by pop star
Paul in 1992 during a break in his music career. The band
originally consisted of six members, including guitarist Jamie
Moses, accordion and keyboard player Matt Irving, songwriter
Drew Barfield, bassist Steve Greetham, and drummer Mark
Pinder. The band’s influences include the Texas Tornados, The
Sir Douglas Quintet, Flaco Jimenez, as well as Ry Cooder,
Calexico, Roy Orbison, The Band and Chuck Berry.

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upgrades available
BARGAIN BUSTER
9 sqm flooring, ladder, hinged
hatch and light only £495
Mobile: 07517 437302 Freephone: 0800 0855 322
www.loveyourloft.co.uk
We paint:
Kitchens
Furniture
Conservatories
AFTER
Upvc windows and doors
Soffits and facias
Cladding
Gutters
Over 30 years combined spray painting experience.
All painting is completed on site. The
RAL colour chart system used offers
hundreds of colours to choose from.
BEFORE
Results will last for a minimum of 10
years from fading and flaking.
For free, no obligation quotations
call 07415057211 or 07946056497.
We can give quotations from pictures.
TIRED OF CUTTING
YOUR LAWN?
Your new lawn is in safe hands with us! Our fantastic range of
artificial grass and years of experience make Artifical Grass
Solution the perfect choice for your new artificial lawn.
Call for a fast quote on 0114 2474283 or 07787 192136
or email info@artificialgrasssolution.co.uk
www.artificialgrasssolution.co.uk

Professional and discreet service for
domestic and commercial customers
www.greenfieldpestcontrol.co.uk
Mobile: 07834 859875
john@greenfieldpestcontrol.co.uk
New kitchen installations
Tiling
Electrics
Plastering
Worktops
Replacement doors
All appliance fitting
Sink and tap swaps
Call Ben for your free quote on 07860 865559
halloweskitchenfitting@gmail.com
Facebook: halloweskitchenfitting
ELECTRIC VEHICLE
CHARGE POINT
APPROVED INSTALLERS
Charge point installations for
homes, workplaces & public spaces
Design, supply and maintenance
SAVE UP TO £350 on charge
point installations with the OLEV
Homecharge Scheme*.
Call us on 01246 291 404
or 07795 215853
*Subject to certain criteria.
Email enquiries@rapidev.co.uk Website www.rapidev.co.uk
Dronfield Landscapes
Private & Commercial Contracts
Trees, Hedges, Fencing, Turfing, Lawns
Mowed, Garden Maintenance,
Seasoned Log Sales
Fully Insured, All work to BS3998
Waste carrier licence
Chris: 07976072785
Richard: 07789497104
richard.jbc@hotmail.co.uk
Hazelbarrow Farm, Norton, Sheffield S8 8BA
Quotations are free, quick and easy
Up to 2 weeks free storage
with our multi award-winning, family-run business
Call us today on 0800 689 0412
www.oconnorsremovalcompany.co.uk
Callywhite Lane Industrial Estate, Dronfield, S18 2XR

Pro Plumb
Boiler Service from £60
smarter electrics
Electrics
EV Chargers
CCTV & Security
Networking & WI-FI
Rewires / Electrical Inspecon
Working Locally in Dronfield &
Surrounding Area. Please call/
email for FREE Friendly Advice
tel : 07917 624977
www.smarterelectrics.co.uk
dan@smarterelectrics.co.uk
CITY GARAGE DOORS
Over 15 years experience
Free phone
0800 2461191
Land line
01246 912102
Electric operators
fitted to existing
doors from £345
www.citygaragedoorservices.co.uk
E: sales@citygaragedoorservices.co.uk
All major manufacturers available:
INSTALLATION AND REPAIRS
INSURANCE QUOTES
EMERGENCY CALL OUTS
AUTOMATION
FREE
no obligation
on site survey
& quote
A local company that cares about you!
Dronfield’s longest established body repair centre
Unit 1, Callywhite Lane, Dronfield, Sheffield, S18 2XP
T: 01246 292 261 www.europacrashcentre.com
Tel: 01246 290772 - Mob: 077333 22564
email: mat.schofield@yahoo.co.uk
* All fencing handmade, supplied and fitted
* Hedges trimmed, reduced & removed
* Concrete & wooden fencing
FULLY INSURED.
ALL RUBBISH REMOVED.
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
Accounts & Tax Returns for sole traders,
partnerships & limited companies
Self Assessment Tax Returns
New business start ups
General tax planning & advice
35 SALISBURY ROAD, DRONFIELD
DERBYSHIRE S18 1UG TEL/FAX: 01246 290261
E-mail: info@johndanson.co.uk
GEM
CLEANING SERVICES
- Windows
- Conservatory Roofs
- PVC Guttering
- Cladding
- Fascias and Soffits
Cleaned
No job
too small
Tel
07717
053993
jim.cosgrove28@gmail.com

Chimney Sweeping CCTV Inspection Bird Nest Removal
Bird Cowls Stove Repairs
Dronfield Based Fully Insured/Certificates Issued
Friendly, Clean and Reliable
Call Joe on 07715 655591
allseasonschimneyservices@hotmail.com
WASP NESTS DESTROYED QUICKLY & EFFECTIVELY
RAPID RESPONSE - USUALLY SAME DAY SERVICE
HIGHLY COMPETITIVE RATES - NO HIDDEN EXTRAS
COVERING
SHEFFIELD,
ROTHERHAM,
CHESTERFIELD,
SOUTH YORKSHIRE
& NORTH EAST
DERBYSHIRE
ALL OTHER
PEST
CONTROL
SOLUTIONS
AVAILABLE
PLEASE
ENQUIRE
CALL OR TEXT 07885 825904
www.waspkill.co.uk
Dronfield and area
Professional Carpet Cleaning
Part of The Cleaning Centre
Superior cleaning of carpets and upholstery
Deep cleaning with no soaking - Over 30 years experience
Fully insured and highly trained - A good honest family firm
Call 01246 418250 and ask for Shaun Ashmore
Kitchen/Bathroom/Wetroom/Ensuite/Utility
Installations
All aspects of Plumbing, Tiling & Electrics
Call for a free no obligation quote
Darren Burkhill Tel: 07496250713
Email: djbpropertyservices1@outlook.com
Facebook: DJB Property Services
NIGEL’S HEDGE & CONIFER SERVICES
• HEDGES TRIMMED
• CONIFERS TRIMMED
• CONIFERS TOPPED • WEEDING
• SUPPLY & FIT FENCING
• REGULAR GRASS & GARDEN
MAINTENANCE
• OVER 22 YEARS EXPERIENCE
• NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL
I highly recommend - very reasonable and very obliging!
John & Di Whitehead, Dronfield Woodhouse
Call Nigel or Gav on 07718 983155 for your free quote
DRONFIELD FELT ROOFING
Built up felt roofing, garages, porches,
extensions etc.
All work guaranteed. FREE estimates.
Gutters cleaned, repaired, replaced.
Storm damage, insurance work, ridge tiles
replaced, slates and tiles replaced. NO VAT
Tel: 0114 2472476
Mobile: 07932612472
OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE
ALL BATHROOM & KITCHEN WORK
CENTRAL HEATING WORK
SMALL JOBS UNDERTAKEN
FOR A PROFESSIONAL SIONAL JOB
WHERE QUALITY COUNTS
FREE ESTIMATES
FULLY INSURED
CLEAN & RELIABLE
CUSTOMER RECOMMENDATIONS AVAILABLE
01246 410837 or 07816 867959
ECKINGTON ROAD, COAL ASTON, DRONFIELD, DERBYSHIRE S18 3AW
Services:
Full/part rewires
Extensions
Extra sockets/lights
Fault finding
Testing
TOP DOGUE ELECTRICS
Domestic & Commercial
Electrical Services
01246 628151
07799975910
www.topdogue.com
L.Barnett
Plastering &
Building
No job too big no wall too small
Call Luke today for a free quote
07747691525

LUMLEC
Electrical
All aspects of electrical and
security system works undertaken
Sam Lumley sam@lumlec.co.uk
01246 518206 71 Coniston Road
07530 903259
Dronfield
STEVE GEE
Professional Painter
and Decorator
07879 634299
stevygee@hotmail.co.uk
LTD
VW - AUDI - SEAT - SKODA
SPECIALISTS
SERVICE - REPAIR - TYRES
16 HUNTER PARK CALLYWHITE LANE, DRONFIELD, S18 2XR
01246 292 756
AM Painting & Decorating
of Dronfield
Are you looking to change or update
your home or business decoration?
Friendly, reliable, quality service
Internal & external work
Multi-room discounts
Free quotations available
Contact Alex on
07827 966365/01246 917631
BROOKSIDE BUILDERS
Tel 0114 2471599
Mob 07790 581084
email brooksidebuildersltd@gmail.com
brooksidebuildersltd.co.uk
buildersinsheffield.co.uk
• Property Extensions
• Garage Conversions
• Property Modernisation
• Replacement Roofs
• UPVC Windows and Doors
• UPVC Fascias and Gutters
• All types of general building work
Call for a FREE no obligation quotation
The Cleaning
Centre
Greendale Laundrette
and Dry Cleaners
Self service or service wash
Friendly, highly trained staff
Free car parking
ECO-FRIENDLY
DRY CLEANING
Specialist Cleaners of
Quilts, Leather, Ugg Boots,
Down Jackets, Sleeping Bags,
Hairdresser’s Towels, Football Kits
01246 418172
Greendale Shopping Centre, Green Lane, Dronfield

Alfa Gas Services Ltd
Heating and Plumbing Engineer
Highly experienced ex British Gas engineer, specialising
in boiler fault finding, diagnostics and system design.
Boiler servicing and repairs
Central heating
Power flushing
Plumbing
Dave Arnill - 07751399675
info@alfagasservices.co.uk
www.alfagasservices.co.uk
Gas safety checks
Landlord certificates
Cooker and fire servicing
Gas leak detection
Professional, friendly and affordable
Repairs, fixing doors, curtain rails
All UPVC windows, doors, dry verge, fascias, soffitts
Fencing, driveways, walls, drainage, hedges/trees
Roof repairs, ridge tiles, felt roofs
Complete bathroom, plumbing, tiling, floors
Free estimates - All work guaranteed
Daytime
07966 577104
Vehicle Welding
Centre
Dronfield
Mobile Welding Services
Private and commercial welding undertaken.
40 years experience.
Bespoke engineering services available on site.
Please feel free to visit our workshop.
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm. Fast, friendly service.
23 Egerton Road, Dronfield, S18 2LG
07585 604768 01246 292344
Looking for a DJ? Then call...
Over 15 years experience
Weddings, Birthdays,
Special Occasions,
Children’s Parties + more
(a.k.a “Joe 90”) Karaoke available
Well-liked personal DJ
Reasonably priced
Tel 07383 567960
DG TV & AERIAL SERVICES
TV, DAB AND FM AERIAL INSTALLATIONS
DIGITAL INSTALLATIONS AND REPAIRS
SATELLITE REPAIRS
FREESAT INSTALLATIONS
EXTRA TV POINTS
Qualified Engineer
10% OAP DISCOUNT - FREE CALL OUT
All Work Guaranteed, No VAT
CHANNELS MISSING? PICTURE BREAKING UP?
TEL: DARREN ON 01246 590756
MOB: 07785 568368
www.dgtvandaerials.co.uk
BLOCKED
CHECKED
CLEARED
Why is regular gutter clearing so important?
Prevent water damage.
Protect your roof.
Keep pests from causing trouble.
Reduce the risk of a cracked foundation.
Save you money.... CALL NOW
Call
07399 200 048
Email
info@sasgc.co.uk
Dale Montague
Electrical LTD
DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
PAT TESTING • INSPECTION & TESTING • MAINTENANCE
Certified for Electrical Vehicle Charging Points
Part of the Government Grant Scheme
Solar Panels and battery storage
T 01246 453094
M 07891 217981
E Dalemontagueelectrical@outlook.com
www.DME-LTD.co.uk
Home Services
Central Heating Service & Repair
Boiler Replacement
Powerflushing & System Cleansing
Plumbing
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Full Property Renovations
15+ years British Gas Experience
Call Alastair or Josh 07713 476500

We are...
A full service
you
Residential Property
Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning
Divorce and Separation
Personal Injury Claims
Care Proceedings
Employment Law
Dispute Resolution
Business Legal Services
Commercial Property
Here for you
in business
and in life
Your
Business
You and
Your Family
Your
Property
To speak to one of our specialists, please call 01246 511 298
www.bannerjones.co.uk