Day 22: What a year for local news!

On today’s final episode of The Star’s ‘Lockdown Conversations’ podcast, host Nik Farah takes a look back on your highs and lows of this series. Her final round-up compilation includes some of the things you’ve found most difficult, the pockets of positivity that have kept you going, and that parts of 2020 you’ll never forget – all in your own words.

Nik Farah is joined by husband Adam for a chat about all things lockdown – from virus fears and working from home for nine soild months, to Christmas plans, and 2021 hopes.

What began as a one-off treat for the neighbours quickly gathered pace, and soon, around 20 bakers from across Meersbrook were contributing items to the weekly ‘socially distanced’ sale. “It started the first weekend of lockdown, which was my birthday,” says Cathy, a retired nurse. "The next week rolled around and I decided to get baking again, and see if maybe I could raise some money this time, so I put out a bowl for donations.

 Jenni Sayer who, along with friend Laura Appleby, launched Sheffield Park Project – and wants to help others discover fantastic green spaces in the city.

Sheffield College lecturer Sam Cooper chats about teaching a classroom full of students from a laptop in his kitchen.

Sheffield Star editor, and mum-of-three, Nancy Fielder chats about her 2020. From filling papers and keeping local journalism alive in the midst of a global pandemic, to diverting a company’s worth of calls to her mobile phone in lockdown, and making the most of quality time with family.

Sheffield Steelers’ head coach and general manager, Aaron Fox, talks about keeping fit in lockdown to keep his mind healthy, and enjoying lots of family time.

Sheffield Steelers’ David Simms talks about keeping in touch with fans, missing the game, and preparing to bring back the ‘best show on earth’ in August 2021.

As the PM made announcements today about the easing of lockdown take two, we’re remembering your stories and marking our ‘Lockdown Conversations’ podcast with a round-up of some of your experiences in your words.

Jan Thornton, of Stannington, chats to us about keeping busy with artwork in 2020, Zoom quizzes with the family, and how she’s spreading festive cheer throughout lockdown two with her ‘Doorstep Carolling’ campaign.