Steelworkers gear up for reunion bash

The old Templeborough works will host a free event for all its former steelmen more than two decades after the fires cooled.

The event will feature music from Maltby Brass Band, a pie and peas lunch and access to the science attraction — as well as beer sold at 1993 prices.

General manager John Silker said: “By inviting former steelworkers back to Magna we are marking the living history of this remarkable building.

“We hope they will enjoy meeting old colleagues and reminiscing about their days in what must have been an amazing place to work.”

The Templeborough works opened in 1916 and employed 10,000 people at its height.

The facility was a mile long — said to be Europe’s largest. There were 14 furnaces with 14 chimneys, churning out up to 18 million tonnes of steel each year.

The works shut in 1993 and was mothballed until 2001, when it was reopened as a science adventure centre.

Magna has been partially closed since last month, when storm winds damaged its roof. Roofers are at work making the attractions safe in preparation for their reopening next month.

“We know that this building is a massive part of the history of the area,” said John.

“Although it is now a visitor attraction, education resource and corporate events venue, it is very much rooted in the steel industry and is a valued asset to South Yorkshire.”

The reunion takes place between midday and 4pm on Saturday (8).

More than 120 people have registered to attend the event so far. Tickets are available via e-mail; [email protected] or telephone 01709 723102.