The Star: A History of Sheffield's Local Newspaper
For over a century, The Star has served as a primary source of news and information for residents across South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire, and North Nottinghamshire. From its origins in the late 19th century to its current role as a regional staple, the publication has evolved through numerous mergers and name changes to become the voice of the community.
Today, the newspaper reaches its audience through a main edition and a specific district edition for Doncaster. While it once maintained a broader reach, the Rotherham and Barnsley district editions were closed in 2008. Currently, the publication maintains a total average issue readership of 105,498.
The Evolution of a Publication
The journey of The Star began on June 7, 1887, when it was first published under the name the Sheffield Evening Telegraph. The early years of the publication were marked by rapid expansion and the acquisition of local competitors to solidify its position in the market.
Early Mergers and Name Changes
Shortly after its launch, the paper absorbed its only local rival, the Sheffield Evening Star. This led to a series of identity shifts as the publication grew:
- June 1888 – December 1897: Known as the Evening Telegraph and Star and Sheffield Daily Times.
- 1898 – October 1937: Known as the Yorkshire Telegraph and Star.
Consolidating the Market
In 1931, the publication took over the Sheffield Mail, which had been its primary competitor since 1920. Following this acquisition, the paper underwent two final name changes. It was known as the Telegraph & Star from 1937 until November 1938, before officially adopting the name The Star on November 14, 1938.
Key Facts
- Founded: June 7, 1887, as the Sheffield Evening Telegraph.
- Current Reach: South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire, and North Nottinghamshire.
- Readership: Average issue readership of 105,498.
- District Editions: Currently maintains a Doncaster edition; Rotherham and Barnsley editions closed in 2008.
- Final Name Adoption: Officially became The Star on November 14, 1938.
Reporting and Controversy
The history of the publication is not without controversy. In April 1989, the newspaper published reports regarding the Hillsborough disaster, an event where 97 Liverpool F.C. fans were fatally injured during an FA Cup semi-final. The Star claimed that the drunkenness of the fans was a key factor in the tragedy.
These reports caused significant outrage, particularly as evidence later established that the primary causes were a loss of crowd control by police and the presence of perimeter fencing between the stands and the pitch. While The Sun is noted for causing the most offense in its reporting of the event, the claims made by The Star remained a point of severe criticism.
Publication Summary
| Period | Publication Name | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1887 | Sheffield Evening Telegraph | First edition published June 7 |
| 1888–1897 | Evening Telegraph and Star and Sheffield Daily Times | Took over Sheffield Evening Star |
| 1898–1937 | Yorkshire Telegraph and Star | Consolidation period |
| 1931 | (Yorkshire Telegraph and Star) | Acquired rival Sheffield Mail |
| 1937–1938 | Telegraph & Star | Brief transitional name |
| 1938–Present | The Star | Final name adopted Nov 14 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Star first published?
The newspaper first appeared on June 7, 1887, under the original name of the Sheffield Evening Telegraph.
Which regions does The Star currently serve?
The publication is marketed in South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire, and North Nottinghamshire.
What happened to the Rotherham and Barnsley editions?
The district editions for Rotherham and Barnsley were closed in 2008.
How many people read The Star on average?
The total average issue readership for the publication is 105,498.
What was the paper's relationship with the Sheffield Mail?
The Sheffield Mail was the main rival of the publication from 1920 until it was taken over by the paper in 1931.