Mexborough and Swinton Times, August 30, 1929

Newhill’s G.O.M.

Harvesting at 83

Mr William Rockett, Newhill’s oldest inhabitant has been enjoying himself during the last few weeks by rendering a little assistance in the harvest field.

Almost a fortnight ago he entered a field of oats owned by Mr Richard Payne, near the old pit yard at Newhill and providing himself with a scythe proceeded to mow in a considerable amount of the crop. This week he forked a load onto a dray, later he mounted the dray and loaded it in excellent style and rode in triumph on the top to the stack yard.

There was a considerable drop from the top of the loan to the stack which was being made, but Mr Rockett refused the use of a ladder and jumped from the latter in such a manner as would have done credit to a much younger man.

Mr Rockett thoroughly enjoyed his adventure and his delightfully highly delighted to in having had an opportunity of assisting just a little in the year’s harvest.

Mr. Rockett, despite his 83 years, is still very active, and whenever the weather allows he makes good use of the open air. He can be frequently seen giving the children of his niece, with whom he live in the of Chapel Yard, Newhill, an airing around Newhill. He worked for the greater part of his life at Wath Main Colliery but ceased to follow his occupation at this colliery about eight years ago when his wife died. He has no family of his own, but takes a great interest in the children of the district, particularly those of his niece with whom he resides.

In the evening he is frequently joined by two other youngsters, Mr George Straw, 82 years of age, another old Newhall resident, and Mr. George Athey, who comes up from Wath. Together they enjoy a pleasant chat and often indulge in a game of dominoes.