The Icons of Don Grid

Arthur Wharton pioneered modern sport and became the world’s first Black professional footballer. He also became the first officially recognised “fastest man in the world,” running 100 yards in 10 seconds. A record that was unbeaten for 30 years! Beyond football and sprinting, Arthur also thrived as a cycling champion, professional cricketer, and rugby player. Born in Ghana, he moved to the UK at 19. He retired from football at 37 and later worked at Edlington pit. Arthur died penniless at Springwell Sanatorium in Balby and lay in an unmarked grave until May 1997, when a campaign by Football Unites Racism Divides secured a headstone to honour his achievements.

Catweazle was one of the most unusual and memorable wrestlers from British wrestling in the 1970s. His real name was Gary Cooper, but in the ring, he became Catweazle — a character based on a strange, scruffy old wizard from a TV show at the time. He looked like no other wrestler: long messy hair, a big beard, worn-out clothes, and no shoes. He even carried a stick and pretended to talk to animals, like an invisible frog he called “Eric.” At first glance, people thought he was just a comedy act. But there was much more to him. Catweazle became a fan favourite. He proved that wrestling wasn’t just about being strong — it was also about having fun and standing out. He made people smile, and that’s why he’s still remembered today.

Doncaster was once powered by a busy underground world; digging for what was known as black gold - coal. In the early 1900s, mines opened everywhere and whole villages sprang up to house the workers. Life below ground was tough, but above it, mining communities were cheerful, close-knit and full of football, welfare clubs and brass bands. The 1980s brought mine closures and the famous miners’ strike, which hit Doncaster hard. By the mid-90s, most pits were gone, leaving behind proud memories and a big legacy. Coal mining shaped Doncaster — and that’s why it’s still such an iconic part of its story.

One of the most iconic music journalists of our time, James McMahon was born and raised in Doncaster. He loved music early on—and turned that passion into a brilliant career. Writing as James Jam, he brought humour, honesty, and sharp insight to everything he did. He wrote for NME, where he became Features Editor. He also spent time at GamesMaster, before going on to edit Kerrang!  Along the way, he made fanzines, recorded podcasts, and wrote about just about everything. Curious, witty, and never boring. James had a gift for making people laugh while making them think. He never lost that Doncaster edge—grounded, sharp, and real. In November 2024, he died aged 44, after being diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma. His voice, and his humour, still echo loudly.

Did you know, in the 1600s a woman from Doncaster was tried as a witch not once, but TWICE?  Joan Jurdie lived in Rossington, and in 1605 was accused of cursing other local residents. She was known as someone who could help with medical emergencies, but failed to show up to help a local woman in childbirth.  Records show she must have survived the experience though, as unbelievably she was tried again in 1608! What's even stranger, though, is that her death isn't recorded until 1625. So Joan must have survived two witch trials within just a few years!

if you grew up in Stainforth in the 1970s or 1980s you will definitely know the name, Raggy arm.

Legend had it that he was some kind of ghoulish old man who resided at the back of the green hill on East Lane, (the pit tip as it was locally known) directly adjacent to the coal mine. No child would venture to play on the top or the sides of the pit tip after dark for fear of being chased by this zombie like character.

It's not clear where the legend started, but it would make sense that this story was put around by the National Coal Board, who were always trying to keep kids away from the dangerous heavy machinery and railway system at the rear of the coal mine. If anyone knows better, please let us know.

Tucked away beneath an archway, just a stone’s throw from the busy nightclubs of Hall Gate, sits The Hidden Church (Doncaster Unitarian & Free Christian Church). It’s calm, quiet, and a little bit unexpected. This historic church has been welcoming people since 1692—yes, really. Long before it was trendy, it stood for openness, acceptance, and doing things differently. Inside, it’s all about community. No pressure. No judgement. Just space to think, share, and be yourself. It was also the first place in Doncaster to host a same-sex wedding. A small building with a big heart.

Tickhill Castle is a remarkable historic fortress. Built in the late 11th century after the Norman Conquest. The castle played a key role in medieval England, serving as a royal stronghold and a centre of local power. Over the centuries, it saw battles, sieges, and changes in ownership. Today, only the ruins remain, but Tickhill Castle is still an important symbol of the region’s history and medieval heritage, attracting visitors who want to explore its past.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is one of the UK’s leading wildlife centres, dedicated to conservation, education, and outstanding animal welfare. Since opening in 2009, it has grown into a major home for rescued animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and primates. The park features one of Europe’s largest purpose-built polar bear habitats, designed to encourage natural behaviours and give animals plenty of space to thrive. Through rescue work, conservation programmes, research partnerships, and educational activities, Yorkshire Wildlife Park helps raise awareness of endangered species and the importance of protecting global biodiversity.