LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Left behind in the push for progress

Why can’t the powers that be see that for many this is a town focussed in black and white, left behind in the push for progress? Rotherham hasn’t the retail therapy, has limited entertainment and the majority of visitors are football fans, every other week chanting what an expletive dump.

Recently while in Rotherham Central, I had time to view the publicity posters and not one was promoting this town. Next to the lift entrance on platform 2 there was a poster promoting Sherwood, Southwell and Newark. On my many visits to both Newark stations I have never seen a poster promoting Rotherham! It’s about time the Rotherham publicity department started to promote our rich heritage by spreading it around.

ROTHERHAM FROM BLACK & WHITE TO COLOUR

Welcome to the borough of Rotherham

Colour of contrast that paints a picture

Historic environment

Of the past, the present and the future.

Belch dark shades from chimneys high

Below red heat forging their part

Past bygone memories

Magna and museums promote the art.

Titans of industry Millers of growth

Health and wellbeing on fields green

No deathly darkness here

Only the passing of players is seen.

From Paradise at Wentworth village

To heavenly bliss at The House

Showcasing the spectacular

Extinguish doubters we shall douse.

Red for danger shout rural voices

Creeping urbanisation getting greater

The countryside is free

But the bull will charge later.

Palettes creating colours of change

Paint Rotherham a town of progress

Brush out the flaws

From its recent black and white mess.

Stephen Gay, Darnall