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Theatrical turn to anti-fracking campaign

Anti-fracking campaigners organised a theatrical demonstration outside Sheffield Hall, to highlight dangers of fracking through costume and story-telling. Fracking to extract shale gas through hydraulic fracturing of rocks deep underground has faced strong opposition with some councils already pledged to be frack free and campaigners pressing the government to slow down the issue of fracking licences until the risks are fully understood. Sheffield Live! reporter Azz Mohammed spoke to Cameron Hall of Friends of the Earth.

Thieves struck at Sheffield Manor Lodge

Lead thieves have struck at Sheffield’s Manor Lodge, stealing sheets from the roof of the 16th century Grade II listed turret house. The raiders also caused some damage to the domed tower as well as the roof where Mary Queen of Scots use to stand and watch the hunt whilst in captivity at the lodge. Baillor Jalloh reports for Sheffield Live!

Thousands march in anti-racism rally

Dozens of people travelled from Sheffield to London to take part in a national demonstration on Saturday to mark the United Nations international day against racism. Millions around the world are expected to take part in rallies and events in solidarity with victims of racism in a week of activities organised around the anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre, 21 March 1960. The national demonstration comes just a week after anti terror police confirmed they are investigating a number of “Punish a Muslim Day” letters sent to different addresses. Baillor Jalloh reports for Sheffield Live!

Fire service opens doors to the homeless

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service on Eyre street have announced their doors are opened to rough sleepers and those at risk of being on the street as cold winter weather returns this weekend. The city centre headquarters has been converted into a place to sleep since Friday and will remain so for the rest of the weekend. British Red Cross volunteers will be on hand to welcome people and provide hot drinks and snacks, with Framework’s Street Outreach Team and Sheffield City Council’s Housing Solutions service also present to help people access accommodation and support. Baillor Jalloh reports for Sheffield Live!

Spring clean campaign launched for Sheffield city centre

Sheffield Business and Improvement District has launched the BID Spring Clean, its annual campaign to tackle graffiti and litter in the city centre. Led by the Sheffield BID rangers, volunteers including members of the council met up in the rain to launch the six week campaign. Sheffield Live! reporter Azz Mohammed spoke to Diane Jarvis, Sheffield Bid manager.

Council reveals half of Sheffield trees could be felled

Sheffield Council has revealed up to 17,500 trees could be felled by private contractor Amey, after publication of the street maintenance contract details at the demand of the Information Commissioner. The disclosure follows repeated freedom of information requests by campaigners. Sheffield Council claim the quantity is not a target and that current estimates are for 10,000 trees to be replaced over the 25 year contract period. Baillor Jalloh spoke to tree campaigner Paul Selby whose complaint to the Information Commissioner led to the revelation.

Sheffield students occupy Arts Tower in support of striking lecturers

A group of students have occupied the Arts Tower at the University of Sheffield in support of lecturers on strike over pensions. The University and College Union (UCU) is in dispute with Universities UK, the employer organisation for universities nationwide, over changes to staff pensions arrangements. The students say university management are complicit in “attacks” on pensions as “part of a wider agenda of marketisation” of the education system. A University of Sheffield spokesperson told Sheffield Live: “The University is aware of the situation and will be providing information as appropriate to staff and students”. Baillor Jalloh reports.

Netherlands Circus comes to Sheffield

The Netherlands National Circus has arrived in Sheffield as part of a UK tour with a show featuring acrobats, clowns, illusion and pyrotechnics. The tour coincides with the 250th anniversary year for circus in the UK. Azz Mohammed reports for Sheffield Live!