Giant Easter cross set to light up Sheffield again as 'symbol of hope'

The illuminated cross as Green Moor, near Stocksbridge, which can be seen from miles away at night, has become a familiar sight at this time of year.

The cross, which at around 20 feet tall is the height of nearly one and a half double-decker buses and has been shining across the valley for five decades, was described as a ‘symbol of hope’ during the early days of the pandemic last year.

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In a sign of just how deeply it is held in many people’s affections, a fundraising appeal for urgent improvements reached its £1,000 target in just 48 hours, with 75 people answering the call for donations.

The cross is managed by Churches Together in Stocksbridge and Deepcar and the money will pay for replacement lights and a firmer base to secure it against the strong winds to which it is subjected at its lofty setting.

Maureen Atkins, who launched the appeal, said the response showed just how valued the cross is by Sheffielders.

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She said the cross would be lit as usual on Holy Thursday evening, which falls on Thursday, April 1 this year, and would be illuminated each evening until the end of April.

As well as all those who have donated, she also thanked Greg Godley and his family for allowing the use of their land, John and Wayne Hirst for their electrical work and Liberty Steel for providing the electricity.

Many of those leaving donations said just how much the cross meant to them.

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One woman wrote: “It wouldn't be Easter without the cross shining over the valley.”

Another described it as a ‘wonderful hopeful sign for this year’.

And a third person commented: “The Easter cross has been around since I was little. I enjoy seeing it now with my own son. Happy to support a wonderful tradition in our valley.”

There is usually a service at the foot of the cross when it is switched on but Covid restrictions mean that will sadly not take place again this year.

You can still donate at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/eastercross.