Women of Steel

Mention the city of ‘Sheffield’, and it immediately conjures images of strength, hard work and (of course) steel. Talk to anyone who lives and works here, they’ll also talk about the softer side of the city: the honesty and openness of Sheffield-folk, it’s arts and cultural scene, and what the ‘Outdoor’ city has to offer.

There is a wonderful statue that stands in Barker’s Pool, just to the side of the City Hall. Rather typically for Sheffield, the bulk of the cost was met through generous donations of local people and businesses.

Titled ‘Women of Steel’ this bronze statue, created by sculptor Martin Jennings, depicts two women who helped the war effort by taking jobs in the Sheffield’s steel factories whilst the male workers were away fighting.

Many of the women who took on these roles were young mums, and the work they did was tough and dangerous. When the war ended, the men returned to their roles in the factories and, for a while, the story of these bold and spirited was forgotten.

The incredible sculpture is a masterclass in emotive art, embodying the determination and grit of the women of Sheffield. As a Sheffield company we’re proud of, and align ourselves with, our city’s attributes. That’s why we commissioned our go-to photographer, Mark Howe, to take some photos of this incredible statue to use on our new website.

Here are a few of Scala’s favourite facts about Sheffield:

• Sheffield is the only UK city with a national park within its boundary. In fact, around a third of the city is inside the Peak District National Park.
• 7.2% of Sheffield’s working population are employed in creative industries, well above the national average of 4%.
• Sheffield is home to the largest theatre complex outside London.
• The worlds’ longest lasting rainbow was only visible from Sheffield (we do get a LOT of rainbows). It lasted for 6 hours on 14^th March 1994.

If you would like to talk to us about your marketing and PR needs, call us on 0114 4070159. We promise you’ll receive the honest and hardworking service that’s synonymous with Sheffield!