News - Sherwood Forest visitor centre to get £13m 'Robin Hood' revamp (Edwinstowe)

A VISION for a world-class Robin Hood experience in the heart of Sherwood Forest has been revealed.


The £13 million Discover Robin Hood attraction will feature interactive exhibits, an open-air theatre and an adventure playground.

Construction will begin in autumn next year with the project expected to be completed by spring 2015.

The company behind the scheme – Discovery Attractions – said it wanted to give Robin Hood the home he deserves.

Chief executive John Lowther said: “Robin Hood is such a strong pull for tourists and we want to develop an attraction that will be fitting to the legend.

“Our vision is to build a flagship attraction for the county which will give a huge boost to the local economy.”

The plans come after years of uncertainty about the Sherwood Forest centre, with a number of plans shelved in the past due to lack of available funding.

John Cottee, chairman of the culture committee at Notts County Council, said the private investment was necessary to make the attraction a “jewel in the crown” of Notts.

He added: “We want to raise the profile of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest and we have found a vision for the centre that we agree will be fantastic. We are hoping this new centre will attract visitors from all over the country and the world.”

According to the developers, the plans will create around 100 jobs and benefit the local economy by more than £2 million a year.

From: http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/Sherwood-Forest-visitor-centre-13m-Robin-Hood/story-17198421-detail/story.html

Event - New Work in Nottinghamshire (Nottingham)

Wednesday 14 November 1pm - Djanogly Art Gallery, Lakeside Arts Centre, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD

Emily Gillott, Andy Gaunt and David Budge - Nottinghamshire County Council Community Archaelogy Team

The team discuss some of their latest projects with community volunteers including their current audit of archaeological sites along the River Trent between Newark and Gainsborough, and their hunt for the Great Fire of Mansfield Woodhouse in 1304.

Come and hear about how these discoveries are providing us with new information about the county. You can also handle objects from the excavations and find out about volunteering for future projects.

All talks take place in the Lecture Theatre next to the Museum at 1pm.

Admission FREE. Places are limited so please book in advance with the Box Office on 0115 846 7777

From: http://www.lakesidearts.org.uk/Exhibitions/ViewEvent.html?e=2070&c=5&d=2305

Event - Dungworth Local History Project

Local History Project Inaugural meeting Wednesday, 14 November 2012 2pm at Dungworth Village Hall

If you are interested in local history and would like to help commemorate the centenary of the First World War, or find out more about the lives of local people during this or any time, please come along to the meeting or telephone 2341243 for further information.

We can obtain a grant to help us.

We can do any or all of the following:-

Set up a ‘heritage group’ to begin research into local and or ‘family’ history, identify previous occupants of houses, take trips to the Sheffield Archives to look at records such as school log books, or collect photographs or other memorabilia. We could add information to the previous Dungworth ‘Walk into History’ book and get this re-published or updated. We could focus on the lives of people in this area during the war to find out how they contributed to the war effort through the ‘home front’ and their protected occupations, rather than fighting overseas, involving and passing on memories to children to help them

learn about life in the village up until and during WWI.

Via SCHF

Events - Friends of Wincobank Hill (Sheffield)

The Five Arthurs - a talk by David Anson (£2 includes refreshments)

The Arthur Legend is enduring and has many aspects. David will deal with five of them but is always glad to hear of any more. Come and find out more about the king who never was, but who has entered the British psyche and has had more influence than many real monarchs.

6.30 - 8.30pm Thursday 1st November 2012 at Upper Wincobank Chapel, Wincobank Avenue, Sheffield S5 6BB



AND- save the date for -

The Wincobank Hill Lantern Procession

Wednesday 14th November 2012 5pm from Uppoer Wincobank Chapel

Come and help us light up the hill. The this new and exciting event is being organised by the Friends of Wincobank Hill and Sheffield City Council Woodland and Ranger teams. Local schoolchildren have been making lanterns which they will carry during a walk in the woodlands around and up the hill and some enchanting visual interest is being planned. Park Rangers will be on hand to lead the way and share information about the area.

If you fancy a magical walk through our Ancient Woodland come and join us. Bring a torch and wrap up warm. Strong footwear advised. We regret the event is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs due to the rough ground and steep hill. There will be hot drinks served at the Chapel afterwards. The event should finish by 7pm. For further information please phone 07980 143 776

There is a reserve date of the following Wednesday,November 21, in case of very bad weather.

http://www.wincobankhill.btck.co.uk

Via SCHF

Event - Ecclesall Woods Heritage day (Sheffield)

A celebration of Sheffield’s Woodland Heritage through Wood and Metal Sunday 28th October 11am - 3pm


FREE!
● Traditional Woodland Crafts ●

● Making Iron from Ore and Charcoal ●

● Folk Music Around the Fire ●

● Learn what it was like to live in the woods ●

● also Tea and Cake●

Ecclesall Woods

Woodland Discovery Centre
Abbey Lane, S7 2QZ, 01142356348

Via SCHF

News - Council urged to act now and save historic Sheffield lodge

CAMPAIGNERS are urging Sheffield Council to save the last remaining historic building at a former school site.


Grange House, built in Victorian times, was one of two mansions that became part of the original Abbeydale Grange Grammar School, off Abbeydale Road.

The neighbouring Holt House, dating back to Georgian times, suffered neglect and an arson attack and was demolished a decade ago.

John Clarke, who is part of the group which has saved Portland Works little mesters’ workshops, near Bramall Lane, said: “The lodge is boarded up and the roof is in poor condition.

“The council needs to take action to preserve it, or sell it so it can be saved.

“Grange House, with Holt House, were the two mansions that formed part of the original school.

“It appears to have been built for John Rodgers, of the Joseph Rodgers cutlery firm.”

Both properties later passed into the ownership of manufacturer John Firth, before being taken over by Sheffield Education Committee in 1918, to house a school.

Howard Greaves, of Hallamshire Historic Building Society, said: “It would be sacrilege to allow it to deteriorate to the point it has to be knocked down.”

Grange House was due to be sold to the developers of sheltered housing on the site of the former school, which closed in 2010, but was withdrawn from the sale.

A council spokesman said: “The building was going to be demolished as part of the site development, but a case was made to keep it as it was considered a ‘character building’.

“Unfortunately, there has been some vandalism, but we have not refused to sell it and are testing the market to get the best deal.”

From: http://www.thestar.co.uk/community/council-urged-to-act-now-and-save-historic-sheffield-lodge-1-5058700

News - Yorkshire King "should be buried in Worksop"

Remains that could belong to King Richard the third should be laid to rest in Worksop, an MP claimed today.


Tests are being carried out to see if a male skeleton, that was discovered in a Leicester car park last month, belongs to the "Yorkshire King" who lived in Middleham Castle in North Yorkshire

The infamous monarch, who murdered his nephews to take the throne, was killed at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. He was taken to Leicester where he was buried at the church of the Franciscan Friary, known as the Greyfriars. But his actual whereabouts became lost over time.

There have been calls to bury the monarch at York Minster. But today in the Commons, Bassetlaw MP John Mann said Worksop should become the King's final resting place.

“The great priory of Worksop, halfway between [Leicester and York], the end of the road of the forest and the centre of the kingdom of Richard III can provide the most appropriate final resting place for the king.
– John Mann MP (Labour, Bassetlaw)

From: http://www.itv.com/news/calendar/update/2012-10-25/yorkshire-kings-remains-should-be-buried-in-worksop/

Seriously??? I think Mr Mann should realise Worksop was a Lancastrian stronghold. I like the idea though -Dave C|

Event - Rotherham folk can trace family history

Staff at Rotherham’s Archives and Local Studies Service are inviting local folk to trace their family history.


A special 'Archives Workshop' for beginners will be held on Friday, November 9, from 10am to 12 noon. Visitors will be able to discover and learn to use resources to help trace their family history, which includes census information, electoral registers, school records, parish registers and workhouse records.

Cabinet Member for Culture and Tourism, Councillor Amy Rushforth, said: "Rotherham's Archives and Local Studies Services is a fantastic resource and the staff are first class when it comes to helping members of the public dig into the past."

The cost for the session is £3 per person. Advance Booking is essential - call 01709 336633 to reserve your place or visit Rotherham Archives and Local Studies, now located in Clifton Park Museum.

From: http://postcodegazette.com/news/9002624671/rotherham-folk-can-trace-family-history-AT-rotherham-clifton-park-museum/

Event - Virtual Tour Round Hardwick Hall (Oldcotes)

You can see the treasures of Hardwick Hall without the trouble of driving there on November 19th at Oldcotes Village Hall. 

Historian Maureen Taylor will give a virtual tour for those who are unable to get to Hardwick, or for those who are thinking of going and want to be well prepared for what to look for.

The power-point presentation visits the Hall room by room in the same sequence that an actual visitor would see them in. Descriptions of each room and the history of the artefacts are given in great detail.

The lives of Bess of Hardwick, her husbands and her granddaughter Arabella are interwoven into the presentation. Without them, the rich tapestry of the Hall could not be told.

The talk starts at 19.30 and tickets are £2 for members and £3 for visitors, no booking is required and free tea/coffe and biscuits are given.

Radio - Hidden Histories on Radio Sheffield

Ron Clayton will be appearing on Radio Sheffield weekly on Saturday mornings at 7.17am with a new programme looking at Sheffield's hidden histories. If you can't get up that early on a Saturday morning then you can catch up with these by visiting the Listen Again website here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radiosheffield/programmes/schedules

Via SCHF

Event - Town heritage meeting (Mexborough)

A TALK on medieval armour and weaponry will be given at a heritage meeting in Mexborough later this month. 



The Mexborough and District Heritage Society meeting will take place at The George and Dragon pub in Church Street on Tuesday, October 30, at 7.15pm.

From: http://www.doncasterfreepress.co.uk/community/town-heritage-meeting-1-5036560

Event - Record-breaking tractor show (Newark)

With more entries still expected, the 2012 Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show has already broken last year’s record of exhibitors.


SOME of the tractors on display at last year’s Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show.Organisers of the event which will be held at Newark Showground on November 10 and 11, have so far received 1,030 entries as an added celebration in its tenth anniversary year.

Among the hundreds of tractors on display will be 106 Perkins Derivatives — a feature for the 2012 show — with a further 12 commercial vehicles in this section, 48 nominated entries, 70 entries under the banner of Friends of Ferguson Heritage, 66 Ford and Fordson and 96 entries from Blue Force members.

Blue Force was launched in April last year to encompass Fordson, Ford and New Holland tractors, skid units converted by the likes of County, Doe, Muir-Hill and Roadless plus commercial vehicles such as the Ford Thames Trader.

Heritage vehicles number more than 130, covering classic caravans, cars, commercials, Land Rovers, military, motor-cycles and bicycles.

There are more than 200 static displays, including 94 horticultural pieces of equipment — nearly a third of them the featured Landmaster range of machinery — and 44 static engines.

A total of 19 clubs and societies will have stands, where members will impart knowledge, passion and a host of anecdotes from the past.

Main ring attractions include the popular Dancing Does plus heavy horses and costume-bedecked carriage drivers with their British native ponies.

A first for the show is the Get Ahead For Christmas marquee with chefs Teresa Bovey and Linda Hewett giving tips and advice on celebratory fare.

There will be a host of craft stands bursting with festive gift ideas.

The vintage auction run by Brown and Co on the Saturday and the Sunday Sort-Out will revert to the Newark Ring.

Lots for the auction should be directed to Judy Strawson on 01652 654833.

Alternatively interested parties can email her at judy. strawson@brown-co.com or www.brown-co.com to download an entry pack.

Anyone wishing to have a pitch at the Sort-Out should contact Mary Hopkins on 01636 705796 or email mary@newark showground.com

There are more than 40 trophies up for grabs and these will be presented following the annual Remembrance Day Service in the George Stephenson Exhibition Hall on the Sunday.

Britain’s rural heritage is rich with native breeds of horses, ponies, livestock and poultry, used for working the land and to provide food and clothing. and this will be showcased in the Living History of the British Isles exhibition.

Among the many animals on display will be Welsh, Fell, Shetland, Exmoor and Highland ponies, three of the largest mules in the UK —Ruby, Muriel and Major — a white donkey by the name of John Barley Corn who is frequently seen at garden parties, in Nativity plays and now attends ploughing matches put to a Ransomes Smallholders Plough, and Shire, Clydesdale and Percheron heavy horses.

Two cheeky faces that are regulars at the exhibition are alpacas Boo and William.

Some of the oldest breeds of sheep will be represented by Norfolk Horns, Herdwick and Lincoln Long Wools as well as the North Ronaldsay.

Pigs and cattle are represented well with British Lops, Large Blacks, Oxford and Sandy Blacks among the pig breeds on display with Highland, Lincoln Red, Jersey, Shetland and Belted Galloways as fine examples of some of Britain’s best in beef and dairy cattle.

Sunday sees two calf shows taking place within the exhibition — the Midlands and East Anglia Hereford Breeders Association Regional Calf Show, which returns for a second year, and the inaugural Mixed Breeds Calf Show. Both feature young handler classes.

The exhibition includes a host of displays charting ancient crafts from stick-making to spinning animal hair.

Visitors are encouraged to bring some of their pets’ hair and see it turned into yarn.

For the first time at the event there will be masonry carving.

Outside displays feature a selection of horse-drawn wagons and agricultural implements, a shepherd’s hut and assorted farming bygones.

Visitors will also be able to try their hand at archery.

Further entertainment is in the form of sheep racing, where spectators will have a chance to place bets on the outcome.

There is also One Man and His Pig — dog agility but with a pig.

Advance tickets for the event which runs from 9am to 5pm on the Saturday and 9am to 3.30pm on the Sunday, are available online.

For more information visit www.newarkshowground.com or call 01636 705796.   From: http://www.newarkadvertiser.co.uk/articles/news/Record-breaking-tractor-show

News - Impact of war on village life (Flintham)

A Heritage Lottery grant of £16,710 has been awarded to Flintham Society for a project looking at the impact of the first world war on life in the village.


Mrs Sue Clayton, secretary of Flintham Society, which is undertaking a project about the first world war.Keeping the Home Fires Burning? will look at agriculture, social life, education, employment, religion, the village economy, housing and health, population and migration, and gender issues.

It will focus mainly on those left behind while the men went to fight in France, looking at women, children and older residents and how their lives, and the village, changed.

The head of Heritage Lottery Fund East Midlands, Emma Sayer, said: “As we approach the centenary of the outbreak of the first world war many people will want to learn more about the individual stories that will make this world-shattering event relevant on a personal level.

“The emphasis on the families left behind will quite literally bring the conflict home to people.”

The project will look at how agricultural, social and cultural rhythms of life were disrupted; how women took over traditional male roles; how education was affected and whether employment patterns changed.

It will investigate how people’s eating and shopping habits changed.

It will build on material already held at Flintham Museum.

School log books, church documents, newspapers and resources kept by the University of Nottingham Manuscript Department, as well as external resources such as the 1911 census, the 1910 Land Tax Survey and the National Archives at Kew will be used.

The findings will be put on the museum website and a dedicated blog. The project will end with an exhibition at the village hall.

The grant will allow basic conservation of archives housed in outbuildings at Flintham Hall, which are at risk of deterioration.

Young people taking their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award will receive database training so the museum card catalogue can be computerised.

Mrs Sue Clayton, secretary of Flintham Society, said many people were skilled in researching their own family history but tended to work in isolation.

She said: “Our project aims to utilise those skills and apply them to the more communal activity of researching the village history. This will inspire us to use the material in different ways and also bring people together.”

From: http://www.newarkadvertiser.co.uk/articles/news/Impact-of-war-on-village-life

News - Decision due on Robin Hood visitor attraction

THE long-awaited transformation of Sherwood Forest will move a step closer on Wednesday (17th) with confirmation of the successful bidder for the project.


Nottinghamshire County Council has been considering two proposals for a new visitor attraction at the world-famous Robin Hood site and will seek approval from the policy committee on its preferred choice.

Both bidders are anonymous at this stage and no plans will be made public until the 10--day formal procurement process has been completed.

The new operator will design, fund, build and manage a new visitor centre attraction, which hopes to boost tourism by up to 150,000 visitors a year.

As previously reported in Chad, plans for a tree-themed design fell through after the project failed to win support from the Big Lottery Fund.

Last year, the county council decided to shelve the development until 2014 due to funding cuts.

The brief for the project is to create ‘a new visitor attraction which promotes and enhances the reputation of Sherwood Forest, the legend of Robin Hood and the broader history and heritage of Nottinghamshire’.

It will also create new jobs , boost local businesses and the wider local economy.

Coun John Cottee, chairman of the county council’s culture committee said: “Many months have already been spent on these proposals to reach this point which we hope will not only help us open a new attraction to captivate and enthuse visitors, but also to help preserve the natural ecology of Sherwood Forest and be a major boost for tourism and job creation locally.”

Members of the policy committee will be asked to approve the council’s recommendation at County Hall tomorrow.

Confirmation of the successful bidder means the council will then enter into legal agreements for them to manage the new development.

Coun Cottee added: “I know that there are a lot of people who are waiting to find out what will be happening at Sherwood and I’d like to reassure people that as soon as we have some information to share - we will.

“It’s worth adding that whatever the successful bidder designs, it will be subject to the usual consultation and planning processes.”

Celia Brooks, chairman of Edwinstowe Parish Council, thinks moving the centre closer to the village will benefit local businesses.

She said: “We need the right sort of attraction. We don’t want Disneyland.

“We are not worried about it being closer to the village as it may improve business.

“Improvements on the access road will need to be made.”

From: http://www.chad.co.uk/news/local/decision-due-on-robin-hood-visitor-attraction-1-5032764

Event - Sheffield celebrates 100 years of ‘Heritage Makers’

Sheffield is celebrating 100 years of the Hunter Archaeological Society, fondly dubbed the ‘Heritage Makers’, with a new exhibition charting the history of Sheffield and the surrounding area.


The exhibition, open to the public at the University of Sheffield’s Western Bank Library, is a celebration of Sheffield’s past and the people who have given it a voice. It is also part of the Society’s year-long centenary celebrations in 2012.

In May 1912 the Hunter Archaeological Society held its first meeting in Sheffield, with around 300 members and the Duke of Norfolk as its first president. Involving Sheffield people from all walks of life, the Hunter has served the community with its remit to study, communicate and campaign for our unique heritage.

Important historical artefacts, photographs and documents will be brought together on show for the first time to explore how the Hunter Society has brought the city’s important past to life. Sheffield Castle and Manor Lodge feature prominently and the public will have the opportunity to see finds excavated at both important historical monuments.

The exhibition also delves into some of the fascinating life stories of Society members, including many influential in Sheffield society over the last 100 years.

Ruth Morgan, Secretary of the Hunter Archaeological Society, said: “It’s been an amazing few years building up to the centenary, not only in working together as a team to plan events and in researching the life stories, but in discovering how little the Society’s role and interests have changed over all those years. People have come and gone, and contributed their time and skills, but we still campaign to save Sheffield Castle and raise the profile of archaeological sites on the Moors. This exhibition tries to capture some of that. We have enjoyed it all and learnt lots of new skills, and we hope our activities this year will have inspired many people to take an interest in their heritage and get involved.”

Andrew Moore, Exhibitions Curator at the University of Sheffield’s Western Bank Library, said: “Heritage Makers has given us the opportunity to showcase some amazing local history objects in the new exhibition gallery at the University of Sheffield's Western Bank Library. It has been great fun working with the Hunter Society, Museums Sheffield and Sheffield City Archives to help bring items together to tell some of the fascinating stories of the Hunter Archaeological Society. A great free booklet, available in the exhibition space, also looks in more detail at a number of important and influential Society members over the last 100 years.”

The exhibition is free to visit during library opening hours from now (October 2012) until the 21 December 2012, opening hours 9am – 7pm from Monday to Thursday, 10am – 7pm on Fridays and 12pm – 6pm on Saturdays.

The exhibition is a partnership between the Hunter Archaeological Society, University of Library, Museums Sheffield, Sheffield Archives and Libraries, and inHeritage. It is funded by the University and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

From: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/nr/sheffield-celebrates-100-years-heritage-makers-1.216318

Group - Sprotbrough Local History Group

Symeon from the Doncaster History website is looking into setting up a local history group in Sprotborough.


If you would be interested in either helping to get a group off the ground or would like to be part of a Sprotbrough group then please get in touch with him via the website http://doncasterhistory.co.uk/

News - Cash boost for Brodsworth war research

A COUNTRY house in Doncaster has secured a grant worth nearly £100,000 which will help research for a wartime project.


The English Heritage has announced that following the £99,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, it will go towards a three year project examining the role that Brodsworth Hall played in the two World Wars.

Research is now underway and examining the social history of how Brodsworth Hall, and the people living in and around its estate, were affected by the wars.

The research will provide the basis for public displays within the Hall, its owners and staff during these years of conflict.

The project will also enable stories from the period to be explored and shared within the community, through a digital display developed with the involvement of local groups and children.

The first stage of the project, which will launch at Easter 2013, will be a trail throughout the Hall and events focussing on life during World War II.

An exhibition about World War I and the community’s support for those serving in both wars will launch at the same time, with events surrounding this to follow in 2014 to coincide with the centenary of the outbreak of World War I in 1914.

English Heritage intends to hold a series of reminiscence sessions over the autumn to gather such stories and record peoples’ memories, and David Alcock of Heritage Learning will be arranging these.

Anyone with stories relating to Brodsworth during either World War should contact David on brodsworthwar@english-heritage.org.uk or 01482 318961.

Alternatively contact Caroline and staff at Brodsworth Hall at Brodsworth Hall, Donaster, DN5 7XJ, or ring 01302 722598.

The Brodsworth Hall ‘In Time of War’ project is part of a series of independent exhibitions taking place at country houses throughout the region in 2013-14, co-ordinated by the Yorkshire Country House Partnership.

From: http://www.doncasterfreepress.co.uk/community/cash-boost-for-brodsworth-war-research-1-5017939

News - Pits reveal signs of Roman past (Bingham)

Archaeologists believe they may have found the remains of a Roman settlement in the centre of Bingham.


Mr Rowan Bird, 59, of Abbey Road, Bingham, looks for artefacts in Cherry Street as part of the Roots of Bingham project.Part of a timber frame was found by volunteers helping the Bingham Heritage Trails Association’s Roots of Bingham project between Cherry Lane and Fosters Lane.

About 25 volunteers have helped to dig more than 40 test pits in gardens since April. The digging will finish next year. The volunteers hope to dig 60 pits in total.

The project has unearthed pottery and artefacts dating from Roman and Medieval periods, as well as more recent finds.

Mr Peter Allen, of the association, said the timber frame was significant as Bingham was previously believed to have Anglo Saxon origins.

“We are getting a nice story about the origins of Bingham. There’s a Roman origin to the town we hadn’t anticipated,” Mr Allen said.

Mr Geoff Ashton, also a member of the association, said most of the Roman artefacts dated from the 1st Century. He said there was evidence of a bottle-making industry and ironwork in the town centre.

The association expects to find about 15,000 artefacts by the time the project ends. About four to five thousand have already been found.

Association members can usually identify if artefacts are Roman, Medieval or later but large, significant finds will be analysed by experts to get a more precise date and to gather as much information as possible before results are published.

Full results are due in 2015.
  From: http://www.newarkadvertiser.co.uk/articles/news/Pits-reveal-signs-of-Roman-past

Event - Trading Histories: 700 years at Sheffield Castle Market

Come and find out about a new HLF-funded project which will be investigating the life and history of Sheffield Castle Market and its trading community. They will provide details of the project and let you know how to get involved in activities throughout the year. Bring your ideas for research themes which they can incorporate into our project. All welcome!

The project team includes:
Ian Beesley, photographer
Ian McMillan, celebrated poet
Kid Acne & Anne Mawdsley, Sheffield artists
Sheffield Archives & Local Studies Library
Sheffield City Council
University of Sheffield, English Department

Sat 3rd November 2012, 10am-12noon
Discovery Centre, Sheffield Manor Lodge, S2 1UL

To book a place please contact:
Grace Tebbutt, Community History Project Officer,
Green Estate, Manor Oaks Farm, 389 Manor Lane, Sheffield, S2 1UL
e: G.Tebbutt@greenestate.org t: 07713308122

Via SCHF

Event - Celebration day as institute turns 175 (Epworth)

ARTEFACTS dating back almost 200 years are to go on display at a major event showcasing Epworth’s heritage.


An open day is being held to mark the 175th anniversary of Epworth Mechanics’ Institute Library which will include a timeline depicting the area’s history.

The timeline will feature details of events and activities at the institute since it was opened by businessman William Read in 1873. It is now one of the last remaining institutes in the country.

There will also be a display of old pictures of the Isle of Axholme and copies of the Epworth Bells dating back more than 100 years will be available for people to look at.

Volunteer Chris Pledger, 56, of Sandtoft Road, Belton, said: “This is a major event in the calendar for Epworth and we want as many people as possible to come along and join in the fun.

“It is a great chance to find out about the history of the institute and Epworth in general. People can also see the great work we do here and see what activities are on offer.

“We also have details of Mr William Read who was an eminent local businessman, draper, publisher and grocer.

“The timeline looks fantastic and it has taken a fair few months to pull together through research. You never know, there might be details of some of your friends or family members.”

The celebrations will take place between 10am and 3pm on Saturday, October 20.

A raffle has been organised with the chance to win a number of prizes donated by businesses. Top prize is a 30 minute flight for two from the Real Aeroplane Club near Howden.

A number of community groups and organisations will also have stalls selling everything from books to cakes.

In addition staff will be asking for donations to a fund which will pay for the restoration of old copies of the Bells.

The mechanics’ institute was historically used as a place to provide education to adults, with a specific focus on technical subjects. It was housed in many places before finding its current home in the Manor Court House in Market Square in 1949.

From: http://www.doncasterfreepress.co.uk/news/doncaster-news/celebration-day-as-institute-turns-175-1-5009466

News - Restoration go-ahead (Worksop)

THE FUTURE of one of Worksop’s most historic and prestigious buildings has been secured after the council agreed £265,000 funds.


The former Worksop Library, on Memorial Avenue, has already been taken over by the Aurora Wellbeing cancer charity, with the aim of developing a specialist treatment centre.

But much more money needs to be raised to realise the project’s full potential of bringing the art deco building back to life.

Now, Bassetlaw Council has finalised its commitment to the Aurora project, pledging £235,000 to upgrade the building and £30,000 for vital electrical repair works.

Aurora will now forge ahead with an internal refit and meet the running costs once they are ready to move in.

The transformation into the ‘Aurora Wellbeing Centre’ will see a tea room, clothes emporium, gentle gym and therapy suite created.

“Everyone involved with Aurora is so grateful for the generosity of the council and we hope to continue working with the Bassetlaw community,” said trustee Jackie Simpkin.

“We are also honoured to have been given guardianship of such a lovely building which the people of Bassetlaw hold dear to their hearts. Now we can forge ahead.”

• People who want to volunteer can call 01909 502767.

From: http://www.worksopguardian.co.uk/news/local-news/restoration-go-ahead-1-5007181

Event - Packed programme of attractions with archivist, writer and artists (Hucknall)

HUCKNALL Library has a packed programme of events for the season ahead.


A free drop in archivist session takes place on Friday October 19 from 10am-12 noon.

An archivist from Nottinghamshire Archives will be available to talk about the documents libraries look after, answer questions about family or local history or explain how we can help with your research and finding out more.

On the same day from 11-2pm, author Bernard Jefford will be signing copies of his book entitled, Once A Busman.

And don’t miss the chance during half-term to take part in The Big Draw.

From Saturday October 20 to 27 from 10-4pm at The Gallery, there will be a chance to get creative in lots of free activities for the young and young at heart.

From: http://www.hucknalldispatch.co.uk/community/packed-programme-of-attractions-with-archivist-writer-and-artists-1-5002421

Event - History set to come alive in Rotherham

Rotherham’s newly restored Boston Castle is set to come to life.


Local historian, Pat McLaughlin, will be at the castle on Friday, talking on the topic of 'South Yorkshire 's Castles'.

Cabinet Member for Culture and Tourism, Cllr Amy Rushforth, said: "Now that Boston Castle has been restored to its formed glory what better place to hold an intriguing and informative talk on the subject of our local castles.

"Boston Castle is steeped in history, its architecture and story are second to none. Pat is sure to bring the past to life and weave a fascinating journey around an absolutely fascinating topic."

Pat will be talking between 1pm and 2.30pm, and tickets can be purchased for £2 by calling Clifton Park Museum by calling 01709 336633.

From: http://postcodegazette.com/news/9002570354/history-set-to-come-alive-in-rotherham-AT-rotherham-boston-castle/

News - £2m boost for Sheffield heritage projects

STAFF at two historical attractions in Sheffield are celebrating after scooping £2 million in lottery cash to spend on improvements.


Sheffield Cathedral and Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, which are each Grade I listed, have both been successful in applying for grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Both can now do major work to transform them into top attractions for the city.

Fiona Spiers, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “This investment is fantastic news for Sheffield - two of the city’s much-loved heritage sites awarded funding to improve their visitor experience and bring them alive for the next generation.

“A stunning cathedral, dating back to 1430, and an 18th-century steelworks, a rare time capsule from a bygone industrial age, will now offer exciting opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in the heritage on their doorstep.”

Sheffield Cathedral has been awarded £1.3 million on a new entrance, learning and exhibition space, learning activities for children and adults, training for staff and volunteers, lighting, signs and historical interpretation boards.

Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, a former 18th-century steel works near Dore, will spend its £895,700 restoring the delicate waterwheels and machinery and creating a new heritage and learning centre as well as training programmes for volunteers.

The aim is to encourage the community to learn and pass on traditional millwright skills for future generations.

John Hamshere, Chief Executive of Sheffield Industrial Museums Trust which is responsible for the Hamlet, said: “This is great news and we are delighted the bid has been successful.”

From: http://www.thestar.co.uk/lifestyle/2m-boost-for-sheffield-heritage-projects-1-4989065

Event - Celebrate The Star’s birthday at museum (Sheffield)

The Star’s 125th anniversary exhibition is now open for everyone to turn back pages of Sheffield history at Weston Park Museum.


We have put together a unique display highlighting some of the biggest stories over the decades. It is open all this month and entry is free.

The exhibition includes not only tales of destruction and drama which happened right here in Sheffield, but also our coverage of major national and international events.

There is everything from the abdication to the first moon landing, and lots more in between.

You can also see for yourself lots of memorabilia from the ever popular Gloops children’s club. There is the original stamp used to bring delight on birthdays as well as a set of the all-important Gloops rules.

Our photographers have put on show for the first time one of their original glass negative cameras as well as one of the original images captured when Winston Churchill was granted Freedom of the City.

If you like a challenge we have also included more than 20 old images which we would love your help on. We want to know if any of your relatives are among the young faces preserved for posterity. Do get in touch if you recognise anyone or have more information about the photos on display. Email nancy.fielder@thestar.co.uk or write to Nancy Fielder, Retro, The Star, York Street, Sheffield, S1 1PU.

Copies of Retro Rewound II: 125 Years of Sheffield through The Star Lens are available in The Star shop on York Street.

From: http://www.thestar.co.uk/community/nostalgia/celebrate-the-star-s-birthday-at-museum-1-4986189

Book - Re-live the history of Sheffield City Hall with the 80th birthday book

Carole Proctor, from Darnall has been part of the history of Sheffield City Hall for the last 50 years. It seemed only fitting that she was the first person to purchase a 80th Birthday Book.


The birthday book takes you through the history of the venue and its patrons with all its highs and lows, exclusively produced for the 80th Birthday in September 2012. Many of us have fond memories of the City Hall and it seems only right to put together a book of the stories, dramas and events since opening in 1932. Find out how the City Hall was built, how it survived the war, where the famous Lions from the Oval Hall stage went, how Sir John Barbirolli influenced classical music in Sheffield, where the Beatles had their after party, stories from the popular dances in the Ballroom, how Rock ‘n’ Roll took over the venue as well as the rise of comedy…..

As one of the country’s finest civic buildings, the City Hall has played a unique part in the day to day existence of the city and the country since the day it opened. Written by local author Neil Anderson, the birthday book celebrates this with extracts from local people, stories from the archives and interviews from previous customers and employees.

Carole Proctor has been on both sides of the walls, “I started to come to City Hall for Saturday night dances in the 60s and I fell in love with the place then. I came to work here 27 years ago, so now I’m part of the furniture and have been named the City Hall Oracle!”

“I enjoyed reading the customers and stewards’ memories. They didn’t think Bob Dylan would sell out as they hadn’t heard of him, I’m sure they do now. There has been such a change in ticket prices over the years; I’ve been busy converting shillings and pence into the coinage it would be today. ”

Sheffield City Hall will be remembered by many for staging some of the most iconic gigs. A few artists featured in the book include The Beatles, Bob Dylan and Led Zepplin who created the biggest queue for tickets. But the venue also helped shape the burgeoning careers of some of the city’s own legends: Joe Cocker (first performing as Vance Arnold & The Avengers), Dave Berry and Karen Young were amongst the local stars that started to appear. The book takes you through the stories with pictures, memorabilia and personal accounts of the events.

The Ballroom Dances are pivotal to many Sheffielders, one of which is the author whose parents were amongst the thousands that found romance on the busy ballroom dance floor in the 1950s. Read how many met their wives and husbands and how they used to go for a tipple beforehand at the nearby Albert Public House.

Discover how the celebrated conductor Sir John Barbirolli finally got his wish when the hall’s controversial lions were unceremoniously thrown into storage in 1962 how the building’s resident ghost still, we understand, resides where else but with the gods in the roof.

The City Hall promoted concerts for peace as the world teetered on the brink of Armageddon during the War and has never been without controversy as in 1934 15,000 protested against its staging of a convention by Nazi sympathiser, Sir Oswald Mosley and his black shirted-fascists. Read about the miners strike, how clubs took over the Ballroom unsettling the dances, how the City Hall moved its ticketing function in house, and how it required a much needed refurbishment by Sheffield International Venues who still manage the venue to this day.

The birthday book can be purchased from the City Hall Box Office in person, over the phone on 0114 223 3740 or online at Sheffield city Hall Birthday Book
From: http://www.thornegazette.co.uk/lifestyle/re-live-the-history-of-sheffield-city-hall-with-the-80th-birthday-book-1-4984811

News - Museums Sheffield gets £1.2m from arts council after cuts

Museums Sheffield has been awarded more than £1.2m of funding from Arts Council England nine months after it missed out on a £4.2m grant.


The money will fund the charitable trust, which runs many of the city's museums and galleries, until 2015.

It will be used to organise new exhibitions, improve its archaeology collections, galleries, cafes, shops and conference spaces.

Chief executive Kim Streets said it was an "important step" for the charity.

She said: "We want people to keep coming through our doors, keep visiting us and having a good time in our museums and galleries."

'Significant reduction'
Earlier this year, the charity had to reduce its staff by 38 after losing out on £1.4m of annual Arts Council funding.

Its £800,000 a year funding from the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council also ended.

"We've been through quite a tumultuous year," said Ms Streets.

"The past few months have seen a significant reduction in our operations and while this new funding won't reverse those changes, it is an important part of our plan to deliver an excellent museum and gallery service which is financially sustainable."

The funding comes from Arts Council England's renaissance programme, which is also giving Barnsley Arts and Museums Service £52,500.

Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery is to receive £120,000 to make it more energy efficient, improve its shop and cafe area and display "high quality artworks".

From: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-19811119

Event - Pocket History of Sheffield Theatre (Sheffield)

City Centre Theatre Walk: Saturday 6th October 2.30pm.A Pocket History of Sheffield Theatre. A walk and talk with Roy Rogers and Chris Reece.The history of theatre in Sheffield from the Assembly Rooms to the Crucible. Meet on Tudor Square. £5 (pay on day) Duration 1 hour 20. Tour repeated on Thursday 15th November.


A History of Theatre in Sheffield 1750-2012. Saturday 24th November 11.00am-3.30pm.

At the Quaker meeting House 10 St James Street S1 2EW (near Sheffield Cathedral) Tickets £16/£15(concessions).Bookings via Quay Tickets: 0843 208-0500 www.quaytickets.com A workshop presentation with slides and overhead projections tracing the extraordinary history of Theatre in Sheffield. Followed by a walk round the city centre theatre sites.

Further details from royrogsheffield@aol.com

Via SCHF

News - Help needed re Dearne War Memorial

WORK on a Dearne Towns War Memorial is underway. If anyone has information on the following names, please contact Peter Shields on 01709 890761 or email petershields184@hotmail.com: 1914-1918 - R Bagshaw, JW Bailey, R Cave, R Childs, W Dolan, J Elliott, J Eton, Clara Garbutt, C Haines, J Hall, J Hopwood, Ella Howitt, E Lidgett, M McLoughlin, WE Mitchell, D Owen, E Reynolds, S Shaw, H Smith, PH Smith, L Stott, C Watson. 1939-1945 - D Clarke, W Cooper, G Day, A Dunn, J Fisher, C Foster, E Glasswell, J Gratton, S Grundry, D Hamilton, A Handley, J Hayes, L Jackson, A Jones, A Kerry, G Longden, G Margesson, E Pendlebury, J Sharman, E Sharman, B Shaw, W Shepherd, A Tarmey, H Warner, H Webster.


From: http://www.doncasterfreepress.co.uk/community/help-needed-re-dearne-war-memorial-1-4982799

News - Diggers move on to site (Southwell)

Further archaeological investigation is taking place at a site in Southwell that is believed to contain Roman remains of national significance.


Work taking place on the Church Street site.There had been no activity on the former Minster School site on Church Street since a planning application for 29 homes was rejected.

But concerns were raised when heavy machinery, including JCBs, were spotted carrying out work.

The site is believed to contain the remains of a Roman villa and archaeologists hope it could provide the link between the Roman occupation of Southwell and the building of the minster.

Town councillor Mrs Sue Rodgers, a former member of Nottinghamshire County Council’s archaeology team, said the county council’s archaeologist Ursilla Spence was aware of the investigations taking place.

Mrs Rodgers said: “There are no worries about the archaeology on site. The work is further archaeological work being carried out, not building work.”

Mrs Rodgers said she had been liaising with the landowner, Caunton Properties Limited, and heritage groups to try to reach a compromise over the future of the site.

She said: “No one has come forward to say they are interested in a compromise so for the time being it is all on hold.”

Mr Peter Kent, a member of the Roman Heritage Park campaign group, which wants to see the site turned into a heritage park, said the group had concerns about the work taking place.

He said: “I have been approached by several people enquiring about what is happening.

“Ursilla Spence has assured me that it is all under control and the work is being carried out by Preconstruct Archaeology, which is a reputable firm.

“There have been a lot of rumours going around about the site.”

Mr Kent, also a member of Southwell Archaeology, said the group would like there to be more information available about work taking place.

He said: “Some of the treatment looks pretty brutal but it looks as if it is quite an extensive archaeological investigation.

“There is so much speculation there and that would be much better if the groups were involved.”
  From: http://www.newarkadvertiser.co.uk/articles/news/Diggers-move-on-to-site

News - Ancient remains found during A453 survey in Nottinghamshire

Human remains that could date back to the 1st Century have been found during an archaeological survey along the A453 in Nottinghamshire.


The Highways Agency said the bones were found in two locations.

Archaeologists working on the preparation work for a £164m dual carriageway project found the remains.

The bones are "believed to date back to the 1st Century (late Iron Age) and have been taken away for specialist investigation", the spokeswoman said.

"We can confirm that during our pre-construction archaeological surveys we have found human remains at two sites."

The bones will be either stored in a museum or reburied according to their faith - which will be determined, if possible, by the specialists.

The work to widen the 11-mile (17.7km) road between the M1 in Leicestershire and Nottingham is due to start by 2015.

The exact location of the remains was not revealed.

From: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-19769421