Is it too late for this challenge?

On the one hand they are being asked to allow two music venues to be allowed to stay open later and, controversially, to allow under-age drinkers to stay on the premises for longer. And in yet another application, they face a request from a supermarket to be allowed to sell alcohol from dawn to near midnight in an area where anti social behaviour is already a major concern for residents.

These cases show how far apart is the reality and the aspiration of Sheffield's desire to be a night life-oriented city.

The industry is eager to expand its appeal to a younger audience while the authorities have a duty to protect them. Meanwhile, the concept of inner city living finds itself in conflict with the other, sometimes seedier, activities which go on once darkness falls.

This is not something which ought to be decided piecemeal but needs an plan. Sadly, it seems the time long passed when this could have been created.

City kids get ready to take on world

HOWZAT! Cricket star Craig White is on his way to help launch a multi-thousand pound cricket arena in a Sheffield park to encourage more people to take up one of our national sports.

Sadly, over the years, our national teams have not performed too well on the international stage but this could be changed if local youngsters take up the challenge to improve their skills.

It is an ambitious project but we are confident our sports stars of the future will take the opportunity to sharpen up their game ready to take on the world.

Protection money

HATED by the public, loved by the police, speed cameras have been attacked with heavy machinery, set on fire and even blown up by motorists. Now, though, somebody has come up with a camera that defies assault and should continue to work whatever the conditions. It costs 50,000 - and it's a pity that sort of money isn't spent protecting people rather than a machine!