Stories for 13 December 2004

Accrington News

Pilot scheme for green living

HOMES on an estate being built in Huncoat will rely on the wind and sun for energy in a brand new pilot scheme to make houses more environmentally friendly.   more...

Free tree offer for garden projects

LOCAL community groups can get their hands on free trees for gardening projects.   more...

New area opened for Scouts

BOWLEY Scout Camp in Great Harwood has officially opened a new £10,000 camping area.   more...

Asian Image Business

Under paid and under used

A study published by Skills for Business reveals employers pay ethnic minority workers less money than their white counterparts.   more...

Firms warned of new wage rules

Employers in Lancashire are being warned to prepare carefully for tighter rules governing payment of the increased national minimum wage which come into force in October.   more...

Insurance fears are major worry

Increases in insurance premiums continue to be a major cause of concern for small and medium-sized businesses, with many firms still finding it difficult to find cover at all and others struggling to survive.   more...

Spar-ring partners scoop retail award

Ajay Chapanery of Lower Penwortham SPAR was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the Asian Trader Awards 2004.   more...

Finance firm is top of the pile

A Bolton-based firm specialising in financial advice for Muslims won two awards for outstanding achievement from the North West Society of Chartered Accountants.   more...

Voluntary workers: conditions of entry into the UK

The Home Office operates various "concession policies" outside the Immigration Rules. The most notable ones being carers and persons seeking to come to the UK to support charitable work.   more...

Asian Image Leisure

Lighting the Fusion Fire

The long awaited ticket release for the fashion and music event of 2005 is over.   more...

What a load of rubbish!

It affects all communties everywhere, so much so that many Councils have declared war on rubbish and fly-tipping. SARVAT JABEEN KHAN reports on one Council's battle to get the message home and how we as a community can help.   more...

Will the last person out please turn off the lights

When I was a very small boy, I asked my mother what will I be? Will I be a doctor, will I become a bus driver, or will I be one of those dole dossers?   more...

You're so vain, you probably think this article is about you

Nearly 15 years ago, when I was deep into my studies, there were not many young `ethnics' around, believe it or not.   more...

A marriage made in hell

Married at 15 and then raped, beaten and forced to have child after child. That's what happened to one Lancashire woman, who's now fighting to help others in similar positions. (BY JENNY SCOTT)   more...

So you want to marry a...Gora

Getting married out of your caste is one thing. But what about marrying out of your race and culture? SARVAT JABEEN KHAN speaks to two women considering just that.   more...

The best things in life are free

The long-awaited second film from the directer of Lagaan is finally here.   more...

Love against all the odds

This year's festive blockbuster, Veer Zaara, re-unites Preity Zinta and Shah Rukh Khan in a romantic saga spanning the borders.   more...

A long time ago in Kolkata

Set against the backdrop of a rainy day in Kolkata, Manoj (Devgan) sets out on a journey which eventually leads him to his old flame - Niru (Ria).   more...

An officer and gentlemen

The army, a couple of brave guys and love in the most unusual places is the best way to describe this latest film starring Big B.   more...

Asian Image News

Son-in-law sentenced to life

Police have vowed to continue their search for the body of an Accrington woman who was murdered and dismembered by her son-in-law.   more...

Gang warfare - seven jailed

Seven men from rival gangs were jailed following an eight month campaign of armed violence on the streets of Bolton.   more...

Government policy of 'horror and fear'

The Government was accused of "creating a climate of fear" to justify its policies.   more...

'Mad' Maya Corrie scene is criticised

ITV have apologised to members of the Hindu community after religious leaders criticised a recent scene in a soap.   more...

Plea to help stamp out 'feud' violence

Gang violence will not be tolerated in Lancashire says a police chief - and he appealed to members of the community to help put a stop to it.   more...

Community mourns tragic crash victims

A community was still in shock after the death of three people in a horrific car crash.   more...

300 Patels just can't be wrong!

And if you thought you had trouble filling in your match card spare a thought for Mahendra Patel who had one rule for volunteers for his charity challenge - they must be called Patel.   more...

Preston businesses in the fast lane

Two Preston firms have scooped national awards for being in the 100 fastest growing businesses in the UK.   more...

Real people put in the frame

Two new websites specially created to be at the heart of the East Lancashire communities of Pendle and Hyndburn are championing local people by putting them in the frame as part of a major advertising campaign.   more...

Who's the jewel in your community?

Do you know of an Asian who has enhanced the social and economic fabric of Britain? If so, the Lloyds TSB Asian Jewel Awards want to hear from you.   more...

Historic meeting

An historic meeting between the city's Muslim and Christian communities took place at Manchester Town Hall in a bid to build closer relations between these two faith groups.   more...

I want to come back

One of the six Asian councillors who walked out of the Labour Party after this year's elections today revealed he wants to rejoin.   more...

Women better educated but still held back

Ethnic minority women are well educated but not doing as well financially as their white colleagues says new research.   more...

Restaurant owner slams bogus e-mail

The owner of a restaurant at the centre of a malicious e-mail campaign has slammed the perpretrators.   more...

Mosque bid is rejected again

Plans for a mosque in Clitheroe were scuppered again - the fifth time in six years.   more...

Hijab exhibition

Sisters, a new exhibition by Manchester photographer Clement Cooper, opened at Gallery Oldham on Saturday 4 December.   more...

Inquriy into 'Machine gun' remarks

An inquiry has been launched after claims that a senior Greater Manchester Police officer said machine guns should be erected to stop Muslims entering the city.   more...

Let's give a little back for a change

There is an old saying that translates as `Everyone is ready to drink/take blood but no-one is ready to give it'.   more...

What we have done

Regarding your front page article (Novmeber 2004 edition), I would like to reiterate my earlier words that I fully empathise with the predicament of the Muslim families in Clitheroe.   more...

Not to play!

I read the article 'To play or not to Play that is the Question' with much interest.   more...

Name tarnished

Regarding the article by Sarvat J Khan entitled 'Tanked up Lassi'.   more...

Ashamed at spoilt behaviour

When we celebrated Eid in this country years ago we respected the laws of the country we lived in.   more...

A step too far

I write to express my disapproval of the Last Bit column in last months issue.   more...

More than just a culture shock

When you are accustomed to a life of luxury, spending a year in student digs is a big shock for some. ANGELA SINGH reports.   more...

Have you got what it takes?

Olympic boxing silver medalist Amir Khan was at Ewood Park, Blackburn to support a new project for black and Asian groups.   more...

A second language is a big bonus

People who speak a second language can earn an extra £3,000 a year and are even seen as sexier than the less linguistically talented.   more...

Who's on your wall right now?

Students are ripping down posters of Che Guevara and pinning up modern icons like David Brent on campus, according to a new poll.   more...

Docs warning

Doctors are warning college students they are at risk of a mumps outbreak.   more...

Why the fuss?

I don't see why there is such a big fuss made about cars and traffic during Eid.   more...

Admission has left me confused

DEAR MASSI, I was hoping to get married next year to this guy but I have found out a terrible secret about him.   more...

My wedding plans are such a mess

DEAR MASSI, I am getting married soon but I have recently met a new person who I wish I had met a long time ago.   more...

Parents are getting paranoid about refusal

DEAR MASSI, I know you must get many letters like this. I sent a letter before but it wasn't printed.   more...

My lies have cost me a good friend

DEAR MASSI, I have got myself into a very embarrassing situation with a friend and I don't know how to get out of it.   more...

The past is coming back to haunt me

DEAR MASSI, This is first time I have written to anyone like yourself and I hope you can help me.   more...

Making up excuses for her is getting difficult

DEAR MASSI, My closest friend is married and has been for a couple of years. However, she goes out sometimes and uses me as an excuse   more...

Oil me up I need a work out

I used to go to the gym but I don't any more. There's too many of my cousins there!   more...

7.59am: Receive Text message wishing me Eid Mubarak

8.15am: Wake up, have a shower for once and get ready for Eid prayers   more...

The day I got caught

"Nagain bande waknain." He came and saw and ruined my movie. Before you go on it is worth remembering this is a family website and we won't be discussing these things in public.   more...

Asian Image Sport

A little action can make all the difference

Again activities off the pitch have taken precedence over what has been happening on it.   more...

Where all the real classics take place

There are some things that should never change.   more...

Asian Soccer Idol winners

Premiership footballer David Dunn was on hand to present trophies to winners of the first Asian Soccer Idol.   more...

Club kicks into action

A kickboxing club is gunning for new members after securing new premises.   more...

Simply awesome

After all the events he's been to over the past few months, Amir Khan finally got back to what he is good at - boxing.   more...

Bolton boys clinch two titles

Young members of a Bolton Thai Boxing Club claimed two out of three possible Championship titles.   more...

Blackburn News

Pupils sing praises of music queen Kathleen

KATHLEEN Ferrier, one of Britain's best loved singers, will be honoured by a memorial garden at her former school.   more...

Eye patients see reason for praise

PATIENTS undergoing eye surgery in East Lancashire are being offered round-the-clock support after surgery.   more...

Radio writer tuned into the 1970s

WHILE many children of the Seventies have confined their obsession with Doctor Who and Fawlty Towers to distant memory, one Blackburn man still uses it as inspiration.   more...

Rail line bosses pledge 'new era'

THE new operators of East Lancashire's train services today heralded their arrival as the 'dawn of a new era' for rail passengers.   more...

Tragic Eva lose fight for life

A BRAVE disabled girl who captured hearts across East Lancashire has died at home, in her father's arms.   more...

Muslim leader honoured

THE chairman of the Lancashire Council of Mosques, Ibrahim Master, has been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for Lancashire.   more...

Pitbull dog mauls owner on way home

A MAN has undergone plastic surgery after being mauled by his family pet.   more...

Banned fan's new trouble

A BLACKBURN Rovers fan appeared in court after breaching an international football banning order.   more...

Man told police he would have 'slashed' prostitutes

AN 18-year-old Blackburn man told police he was going to use a large kitchen knife to "slash" prostitutes and pimps.   more...

Val picks up top hotels award

A BLACKBURN woman has won a major accolade from motoring organisation RAC in a nationwide search to find the brightest stars of the UK and Ireland hospitality industry.   more...

Car crook caught on camera

A MAN appeared in court following a police "sting" operation designed to catch car thieves.   more...

Group's aim to help beat youth crime

A GROUP of teenagers have teamed up to crack down on underage drinking and antisocial behaviour through a new exhibition and website.   more...

Bolton Business

Firms call for interest cuts

THE Bank of England must stand ready to cut interest rates next year if the economy begins to slow, according to manufacturersí organisation the Engineering Employers Federation.   more...

Companies slam bills law

LEGISLATION to combat late payment in commercial transactions is failing to reduce delays for British businesses, according to the latest findings of the UK Payment Index published by Intrum Justitia.   more...

Businesses make a Big Splash

IF every employee saved one litre of water a day in the workplace, North-west businesses would save up to 778 million litres a year.   more...

Offices need star treatment

COMPANIES are not being as environmentally friendly as they claim to be when buying office equipment, a survey by Ricoh UK reveals.   more...

Jingle bills fears for traders

BUSINESSES in the North-west are being warned to chase their debtors now or face cash flow problems in the New Year.   more...

Family tradition ends at Warburtons

ONE of Warburtons longest-serving employees hung up his white coat for the last time on Friday.   more...

Lloyds TSB set earnings target

LLOYDS TSB has said it was on track to make further earnings progress in 2005 despite becoming the latest bank to report a slowdown in consumer borrowing.   more...

Bolton Bygone

From our Files

10 YEARS AGO   more...

From our files

10 YEARS AGO   more...

On this Day

1769: Venetian blinds were patented by Edward Beran of London.   more...

How did father get his scars?

A picture last month, showing a 1963 "at home" for civilians organised by the 5th Battalion, the Loyal Regiment in Westmorland, had poignancy for Jane Harrop of Belmont Road, Bolton.   more...

On this day

1577: Francis Drake left Plymouth on his voyage around the world.   more...

Bolton Education

Smart card for libraries and leisure centres

A NEW card which will enable people to access Bolton's libraries and leisure centres has been launched.   more...

Pupil has a grand design for Christmas

SCHOOLGIRL Kimberley Hilton's Christmas card design has won her a very special prize.   more...

Bolton Leisure

Farmer's Market

Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston - A selection of fresh and traditionally produced foods including cheese, meat, cakes and fresh vegetables available to sample and purchase. Sunday, 10am-3pm, admission free.  more...

You jivin' me, man?

A PROJECT designed to give young people in one area of Bolton something to do, could lead one of them to pop chart stardom.   more...

Band Aid's number one tip

BAND Aid 20 kept a tight grip on its bid to be this years Christmas number one after a second week at the top of the charts.   more...

Spiritual memoir of charismatic Ali

The Soul of Butterfly by Muhammad Ali with Hana Ali, (Bantam, £12.99)   more...

The Life of Graham Greene Volume 3: 1955-1991

TO mark the centenary of renowned author Graham Greene's birth, Jonathan Cape have published the third and final volume of Norman Sherry's definitive biography of Greene.   more...

Strike Zone

ONE of the "Dale Brown's Dreamland" series it is impossible to read this book without comparison to Tom Clancy.   more...

Museum chief writes for wildlife

BOLTON museums boss Steve Garland has contributed a chapter to a wildlife book - about millipedes, centipedes and woodlice.   more...

It'd all change on the trains

PASSENGERS in Bolton have been promised better services by the company that has taken over running trains in the North-west.   more...

Lantern parade to light up the town

A MAGICAL lantern procession will light up Bolton next week.   more...

Kids in the kitchen

Children's cookery books don't always live up to their expectations -- recipes too fiddly, tastes too adventurous... These 60 recipes, however, are just right. There are some real "children's treats" -- strawberry sherbet, stripy cheese on toast, apple snow -- but most of the dishes on offer are simply excellent and would tempt the whole family. The ingredients are all kept to a minimum -- which is always a good sign -- and there are two pages devoted to each short recipe, which allows for plenty of photographs to inspire the budding chefs.   more...

Writers game for children's library event

CHILDREN'S authors Steve Barlow and Steve Skidmore will be hosting an interactive game show for five to 12-year-olds on Monday.   more...

Books for kids - Boy Overboard

JAMAL and Bibi have a dream. To lead Australia to football glory in the next World Cup. But first they must face landmines, pirates, storms and assassins. Can Jamal and his family survive their incredible journey and get to Australia? Sometimes, to save the people you love, you have to go overboard.   more...

Kids books - what better than Roald Dahl

THE Roald Dahl Treasury (£12.99, Penguin Books) is a perfect gift for all lovers of the renowned bestselling author. The man himself said: "Those who don't believe in magic will never find it" but there are touches of magic on every page of this book.   more...

Pudge's Play

PUDGE the puppy decides to put on a play for his family and he enlists the help of his friends -- Kid the rabbit, Gus the piglet and Peebs and Kitty the kittens -- in the colourful Pudge's Play by Hiawyn Oram and Tim Warnes (£4.99, Puffin Books).   more...

In You're Too Big

It's elephant's first day at playschool and he is feeling very new. The other animals tried to include him in their games but everytime he joined in it was a disaster!   more...

Saddleworth splendour

IT is hard to believe that Liverpool's mighty River Mersey rises in the old West Riding of Yorkshire. Well, at least one of its tributaries does, the River Tame.   more...

A country walk through west Lancashire

THIS walk links two historic Lancashire villages and also two of the county's most popular attractions.   more...

In the footsteps of screen stars

AT the end of the 1960s, Bolton was seen in glorious technicolour in picture houses throughout the country.   more...

Bewitching Pendle

AS it's Halloween next week, what could be more appropriate than a ramble in Lancashire Witch Country.   more...

Woodlands and wetlands around Silverdale

SLUMBERING above the shifting sands of Morecambe Bay is the delightful hill country of Silverdale.   more...

A walk to Windgather Rocks

THE COUNTIES of Cheshire and Derbyshire meet in the wild rolling hill country between Macclesfield and Buxton.   more...

A short climb to orrest head

Wordsworth may have complained but he could do little to stop the railway extending into his beloved Lake District.   more...

Packhorse routes to a moorland monument

JUST over the Yorkshire border, Stoodley Pike is a prominent landmark overlooking the textile towns of Calderdale.   more...

Enjoy a view from a hill

THE eastern side of the Manchester metropolis ends quite abruptly at Werneth Low.   more...

A classic ascent from Belmont

GET 2004 off to an energetic start with this exhilarating climb up to the summit masts of Winter Hill from Belmont village.   more...

Planning a long-distance walk for 2004?

Then why not try a challenging new national trail through the hills and vales of Mid-Wales.   more...

Walna Scar Road under repair

A major restoration scheme on one of the Lake District's most historic and well-used routes has been undertaken.   more...

New woodland path

More path news from the Lake District. A new 500m section of bridleway has opened alongside the A593 running between Coniston and Ambleside.   more...

Top of the brass

IT has been called "one of the aristocrats" of English bands. And after 130 years, Wingates Band continues to show the class which made its name.   more...

Why we must keep music live

ONE of the most emotive slogans currently in use is "Keep Music Live", originally circulated by the Musicians Union, but now widely used by people in and out of the profession who fear for its future.   more...

A Round and about him

INTERNATIONAL opera star Thomas Round has released his autobiography, A Wandering Minstrel, I. The book gives a peep behind the curtains into the life of one of the best known and respected operatic tenors.   more...

Band is top brass

WINGATES Band is justified in blowing its own trumpet!   more...

Lowton Operatic and Dramatic Society

(L.O.A.D.S.) is an amateur society affiliated with N.O.D.A. founded in1963. We are a group of enthusiastic performers who enjoy acting, singing and dancing.   more...

Historic Manchester Town Hall

THIS incredible neo-Gothic building was completed in 1887 and reaches 286 feet above Albert Square.   more...

Thrills on the activity trail

ASK someone where it is possible to spend the morning mountain biking on some of the world's best trails followed by an afternoon on a ski slope with breathtaking views, and they may suggest the USA or perhaps New Zealand.   more...

In Hockney heaven at the Salt Mills

BEING a huge David Hockney fan, it doesn't take much persuading to get me to Salts Mill. This former textiles mill now houses one of the most comprehensive collection of Hockney art galleries.   more...

World-famous illuminations celebrate 125 years

WHEN Blackpool Promenade bursts into life with its world-famous illuminations on September 3, it will be an extra-special occasion - the lights' 125th anniversary.   more...

Beatrix Potter's world

THIS year the World Of Beatrix Potter attraction will hold a range of events and activities and many will take place in the magical Peter Rabbit Tea Gardens.   more...

Five floors of fun

FIVE floors of shops, artefacts, collectors' pieces and a pirate ship especially for the kids -- Botany Bay is surely the perfect place to go when the weather is grim.   more...

Search for an elusive outlaw

THE glazed pie, still warm from the oven, packed with all the food of the forest - venison, partridge, pheasant and hare.   more...

Crafts and culture

With the weather not at its best during the first months of the year we've made a point of selecting a few indoor, as well as outdoor, attractions for all the family.   more...

Blue Planet Aquarium

IF you fancy a day out with a difference why not dive into the deep sea... at Ellesmere Port where the Blue Planet Aquarium is guaranteed to blow many similar attractions out of the water.   more...

Tower of London

FOUNDED almost a millennium ago, the Tower of London has protected, imprisoned, and housed both royalty and the common man.   more...

Let the lakes wash away your stress

THE Lake District is the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of modern day life.   more...

Those were the days...

THE Museum of Transport in Manchester has the biggest collection of beautifully restored vintage buses and coaches in the UK.   more...

What to see in Worsley

Worsley Delph, Built in 1759, Worsley Delph is an underground canal system, that stretches over 50 miles, as far as Farnworth. The labyrinth of passages is the reason why Worsley has applied for World Heritage Status.   more...

Living it up in the lakes

PREVIOUS guests have included Mr Goh Chok Tong (Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore) and Mr Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (President of the Maldives).   more...

Have a read on the wildside

WILDLIFE is not just about travelling to exotic areas around the world.   more...

Improve or move show

IF you feel your home is no longer big enough or are caught between extending your home or moving, then you could be just what BBC TV producers are looking for. A new series aims to pose the question: "Should you move or should you improve?"   more...

Walk of the Rings

THE LUSH countryside around Hurst Green is quintessentially English.   more...

Get a bigger view of Bolton

THE view from the top of Rivington Pike often reveals a panorama from Anglesey, Snowdonia and the Clwydian Hills of North Wales, around to Blackpool Tower, Bowland and the Lake District.   more...

Ramble across the rural Irwell

THIS local ramble uncovers the patchwork of riverside pastures hidden in the folds of the steep-sided Irwell Valley between Kearsley, Little Lever and Radcliffe.   more...

Easy trail across the Pennine Way

THE Pennine Way isn't all about bog-trotting across desolate northern moors.   more...

Along the Manchester, Bolton and Bury canal

ON a clear day from Kearsley you can see for miles. The whole of the West Pennine Moors in fact, from Winter Hill across to the Rossendale moors.   more...

A country stroll to Lead Mines Clough

THE dense network of paths and tracks around Rivington Barns means that you can quickly leave the car park crowds behind and find yourself a quiet spot.   more...

Cruising through Cheshire

THIS GENTLE walk links two canals winding through the foothills of the grand estate of Lyme Park.   more...

A moorland classic above Holcombe

HOLCOMBE Moor, with its panoramic views and lonely monuments, is ideal for an autumn ramble.   more...

Riverting Rivington

THIS local walk follows mainly gentle gradients around the numerous Victorian reservoirs that form the watery ribbon running north-south between the West Pennine Moors and the M61.   more...

A scenic day in the Dales

IF you are looking for a perfect summer stroll, here's a walk that's both short and gentle yet takes in some of the most spectacular limestone scenery in the Yorkshire Dales.   more...

Presenter's emotional journey to find his roots

Blue-Eyed Son The Story of an Adoption by Nicky Campbell (Macmillan, £17.99)   more...

A celebration of strange cars

Weird Cars A Century of the World's Strangest Cars by Stephen Vokins (Haynes, £14.99)   more...

Mini mania

You and Your New Mini, by Tim Mundy (Haynes, £17.99)   more...

Lucky dip of short tales

12 Days eduted by Shelley Silas, (Virago Press, £10)   more...

Pool venues

CLUB MISTRY, Derby Street, Bolton. Open daily, five full size snooker tables and one pool table. 11am to 11pm daily. Phone Bolton 524695.   more...

Golden Mile shines again

LAST time I visited Blackpool I was in the very early stages of pregnancy and thought the place had spiralled into a seedy den of iniquity.   more...

Art appreciation - The TATE Liverpool

OFTEN a day out with the children revolves around the thrills and spills of a theme park or the ahhh-factor of animals.   more...

In a Lego wonderland

PERCHED on a hill, overlooking the town of Windsor and its castle, Legoland is a magical place for children and adults.   more...

Sights and fun on a Royal visit

THE Queen goes to Windsor Castle most weekends. It's become her favourite home and you can understand why.   more...

In the pink at this relaxed theme park

Dave Hall uses his grandkids as an excuse to visit Flamingoland - and the family has a great day out...   more...

Portmeirion, history never looked so good

IT may be a bit of a drive but a visit to beautiful Portmeirion is well worth the effort for the beautiful architecture on display.   more...

Forget boredom - it's Pontins!

HOLIDAY parks have come a long way since the era depicted in the TV comedy Hi-de-Hi! American burger bars, go-karts and family friendly restaurants are now all part of the mix. Jackie Longbottom and her family enjoyed a week's stay at Pontins in Brean Sands, Somerset.   more...

Back to nature - Smithills Open Farm

SOMETIMES the best entertainment can be found right on your doorstep. And that's the case with Smithills Open Farm, next to Smithills Hall in Bolton.   more...

A cultural oasisat the Lowry

MY previous visit to The Lowry was in total darkness. Well, it was at night and I was there to see the great Peter Kay perform one of his Christmas shows so I hadn't really been able to appreciate the magnificence of The Lowry as a "must see" tourist attraction.   more...

Take a walk on the wild side

WHEN a leaflet for South Lakes Animal Park came through our door, there was no holding the children back.   more...

Bolton News

Fathers' in Manchester wheel protest

PROTESTERS scaled Manchester's showpiece big wheel on Monday morning.   more...

Shoppers spending less this christmas

NEW figures on Christmas spending say we are parting with less money than five years ago. Surveys show that those of us in the North are spending more than families in the South, but less than those in Scotland, the most generous, or the Midlands.   more...

Power to the people to clean up their area

A PIONEERING project which aims to give power back to the people to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour has been launched in Halliwell.   more...

Model scene is a real corker

KEEN Bolton model maker Kevan Kay has crafted a scaled-down festive nativity masterpiece - and the scene is a real corker.   more...

Crackdown on off-road bikers menace

YOUTHS riding motorised scooters who are making life a misery for residents are to be targetted by police.   more...

Smart card for libraries and ;leisure centres

A NEW card which will enable people to access Bolton's libraries and leisure centres has been launched.   more...

Purpose-built campus bid for town centre

EDUCATION leaders say a plan to merge two of Bolton's main colleges will "dramatically increase" further education in the town.   more...

Taxpayers foot bill for fat cat raises

I write, as I am sure many will, in regard to the disgusting report as to the pay increase of our council executives.   more...

Nice sculpture, poor location

RE Driven Loco. Letter from Mrs M Hargreaves (December 1).   more...

Petrol prics are slashed at supermarkets

SUPERMARKETS have given motorists an early Christmas present after they slashed the cost of petrol to below 80p per litre.   more...

Historic Bolton fair visit may be scrapped

A HISTORIC festive fair which has been coming to Bolton for more than 750 years could be scrapped following a row between fairground bosses and council chiefs.   more...

Lottery winner provides rich tea for club

A MYSTERY Good Samaritan made sure an over 60s luncheon club enjoyed a slap-up meal.   more...

Two-hour delays for rail passengers

RAIL users in Bolton are facing delays of up to two hours for the next six months.   more...

Young people want Peter to rule the world

PETER Kay would make an ideal world leader, according to youngsters surveyed in a poll.   more...

Swan hotel is set to take flight again

THE finishing touches are being put on an historic town centre pub due to reopen today after a massive refurbishment.   more...

Crime falls as police focus on car thieves

CRIME rates have plummeted by 57 per cent after an operation which saw 41 people stopped and searched.   more...

Man's assault on partner

AN evening at the dogs track ended with a Radcliffe man's partner being pushed out of her home and walking partially clothed to her mum's, a court was told.   more...

Supermarket bans church carol singers from foyer

CAROL singers were left out in the cold after a supermarket banned them from singing.   more...

It'd all change on the trains

PASSENGERS in Bolton have been promised better services by the company that has taken over running trains in the North-west.   more...

First aid course for bus drivers

BUS drivers across Greater Manchester are using some of their off-duty time to study for a nationally recognised First Aid qualification.   more...

Residents flock to interactive TV channel

A TV service which gives viewers more information on what is going on in Bolton has been a huge hit since it went on air two months ago.   more...

Student pleads for return of birthday scooter

A TEENAGER is pleading for the return of his scooter after it was stolen while he was asleep.   more...

Fundraisers take the plunge for hospice

TWO fundraisers will take to the water next week to raise money for charity.   more...

It's cool to be 90

ICE cream will be on the menu when a 90-year-old woman celebrates a landmark birthday.   more...

House burns man 'seriously ill'

A 42-year-old man was still "seriously ill" in hospital on Monday after a fire at his home.   more...

Residents reveal fears over gas fault

RESIDENTS living in a housing complex feared for their safety after a fault was found with gas pipework.   more...

Drink drive nurse banned for 16 months

A NURSE wept as a Manchester court banned her off the road for 16 months for drunken driving.   more...

Deadline for Christmas post

ROYAL Mail is reminding customers that Saturday, December 18, is the latest posting date for posting mail second class to arrive in time for Christmas.   more...

Band Aid's number one tip

BAND Aid 20 kept a tight grip on its bid to be this years Christmas number one after a second week at the top of the charts.   more...

Sports award for best in borough

NOMINATIONS are being sought for the Bolton Sports Awards 2004.   more...

Arson attack on two cars

TWO cars were set alight at the weekend.   more...

Chip pan home blaze drama

A CHIP pan left on a cooker has been blamed for a fire at a house in Deane.   more...

Pupils probe minig disaster

PUPILS at Westhoughton High School plan to use a Heritage Lottery Fund Grant for a history research project.   more...

Post office raid drama

TWO men threatened to shoot a female post office worker during an armed robbery in Bury.   more...

Big sing at carol services

THE streets of Bolton and surrounding areas will be alive to the sound of music when local singers take part in the North-west's biggest carol service.   more...

Arcade raises mugs and money for charity

CUSTOMERS at a Bolton amusement arcade helped raise £1,250 for Macmillan Cancer Relief by taking part in the World's Biggest Coffee Morning.   more...

MP appeals for festive blood donors

BOLTON MP Dr Brian Iddon is calling on the people of Bolton to give blood over the festive period.   more...

Bolton traffic chaos set to end?

COMMUTERS in Bolton are hoping the road closures which have caused traffic chaos throughout Monday end by teatime.   more...

Quad biker dies in moors crash

A TEENAGER has died after he was crushed by a quad bike he was riding on remote moorland.   more...

Crisis act opens way for dictator

WITH regard to Ian Upton's comments about the English and British legislation that constitutes our constitution.   more...

Front-line services: no room for cuts

I read that despite more cash coming from the government, Barbara Ronson is starting to spread doom and gloom with regard to council tax rises and talking of service cuts.   more...

No sign of brain drain

Having been employed in a senior position within the Town Hall for the past 20 years, I was interested to read Barbara Ronson's justification for what can only be described as an obscene pay award to chief officers.   more...

Europe boats shown up again

I SEE Chris Davies MEP (LibDem) has been boasting again (Letters, December 4).   more...

Confused over rail closure plan

I AM a weekday commuter from Bromley Cross to Manchester and am concerned about the proposed closure of the Blackburn to Manchester line.   more...

Dibnah centre

I HAVE just been looking through your coverage of Fred Dibnah's funeral last month.   more...

Support your local dentist

THERE is a common misconception that most dentists have gone private.This not the case. Most dentists in Bolton work predominantly within the NHS.   more...

Busy road in need of repairs

COULD any of your readers tell me what constitutes a main road? I live on Worsley Road in Farnworth.   more...

Listen to the common voice

I WISH to support the aspiration for a fitting tribute to Fred Dibnah. He was a man whom the North-west is lucky to have had as an ambassador for real values.   more...

Bolton Sport

Late penalty miss rubs salt into Shakers' wounds

SHAKERS 0 SOUTHEND 1: A STOPPAGE time penalty miss rounded off a miserable week for Bury who went down to their third home defeat of the season.   more...

RMI hit for six by Stanley

Leigh RMI 0 Accrington 6 by David Magilton: IF Geoff Lutley had any doubts over the size of the task he faces in trying to rebuild Leigh RMI, then he doesn't any more.   more...

Latics maintain winning streak

WIGAN 2, GILLINGHAM 0: Wigan boss Paul Jewell praised strikers Nathan Ellington and Jason Roberts after his side's 2-0 win against Gillingham.   more...

Lights go out on Boro

BLYTH SPARTANS 2, RADCLIFFE BORO 0: A GOAL in each half gave Blyth victory in a Unibond Premier Division match which kicked off an hour late due to a floodlight failure.   more...

Late penalty miss a blow for LR

PAUL Crompton missed an injury-time penalty as LR lost a see-saw NW Counties First Division clash.   more...

Ashton break Daisy hearts

DAISY HILL 2, ASHTON TOWN 3: TWO goals in the last seven minutes of extra-time saw Ashton come from 2-1 down to reach the third round of the NW Counties Division Two Cup.   more...

Colls slump to old rivals

ATHERTON COLLS 0, ALSAGER 2: Alsager's third win at Alder House this season saw Collieries slip to third-from-bottom of the First Division.   more...

Bolton Wanderers

Wanderers losing the plot

NORWICH CITY 3, WANDERERS 2: THE nail-biting is starting and the worry beads are out again. It's hard to believe it is just six short weeks since Wanderers fans were checking their diaries and planning next season's European adventure.   more...

Spanish fall guys set for the chop

FERNANDO Hierro and Ivan Campo could be the big name casualties as Sam Allardyce desperately tries to stop the rot.   more...

Sam hoping for the boredome factor

SAM Allardyce is hoping to bore Wanderers into getting their defensive act back together.   more...

You're welcome at the Reebok, Barry

SAM Allardyce has told Barry Knight he will be welcome at the Reebok any time.   more...

Ex-Wanderers are still Making Headlines

Ex-Wanderers players are helping to make headlines - by promoting a book charting the highs and the lows of the club's history.   more...

Norwich's Worthy happy to climb table

NIGEL Worthington was doing his best to keep a sense of perspective at Carrow Road after seeing Norwich haul themselves out of the relegation zone with a 3-2 victory over Wanderers.   more...

Bolton Youth

It's the world that's 'funny' - not us

TEENAGERS are often portrayed in a negative way, often linked with reports of anti-social behaviour and crime. But what is it really like to be a young person growing up in Bolton in 2003? Emma Deighan, aged 16, from Westhoughton, speaks on behalf of teenagers across the area.   more...

Make the most of your student life

SO you've made the break away from home, you're ready to brave the world for the first time on your own and you have chosen the bonny town of Bolton as your student heartland.   more...

Simpsons fans, get your skates on

The Simpsons Skateboarding (EA) For Sony PlayStation2. Price: £39.99. Out now - IT seems every time a great arcade game comes along, a Simpsons remake soon follows.   more...

Chicago

"All that jazz" -Chicago opened with a blaze of publicity, but deserved attention.   more...

Two Weeks Notice

Two weeks notice, starring Hugh Grant and Sandra Bullock, sounds like a stereotypical chick flick.   more...

What to do if you do badly in your exams

So, you've made it through the rainy days, in the words of the Sugababes. Or to put it another way, the stresses of the A-level exams are over.   more...

Youth club could be just for you

ARE you sick of hanging around the street and feeling bored?   more...

Burnley News

11 arrested on train over 'racist abuse'

POLICE arrested 11 men on a Burnley-bound train over claims two Asian passengers were racially abused.   more...

The birdwoman of Burnley

AS Linda Williams makes her way across the East Lancashire moorland, you could be forgiven for thinking you were witnessing a scene from the classic Hitchcock horror The Birds.   more...

Bury News

Post office raid drama

TWO men threatened to shoot a female post office worker during an armed robbery in Bury.   more...

Bury Sport

Lights go out on Boro

BLYTH SPARTANS 2, RADCLIFFE BORO 0: A GOAL in each half gave Blyth victory in a Unibond Premier Division match which kicked off an hour late due to a floodlight failure.   more...

Late penalty miss rubs salt into Shakers' wounds

SHAKERS 0 SOUTHEND 1: A STOPPAGE time penalty miss rounded off a miserable week for Bury who went down to their third home defeat of the season.   more...

Clarets Sport

Blake proves that he is priceless

WHAT price Robbie Blake now?   more...

Cotterill praise for Robbie

STEVE Cotterill has thanked Robbie Blake for not allowing speculation over his Burnley future affect his performances.   more...

'Stay Robbie' plea

FRANK Sinclair has led the dressing room calls for Robbie Blake to stay with Burnley.   more...

Davies blasts referee and Blake

PRESTON boss Billy Davies lashed out at referee Tony Leake after branding Robbie Blake a 'con man'.   more...

Clitheroe News

Tribute paid to huntsman and soldier

THE family of a Ribble Valley huntsman and soldier have paid tribute to a "gregarious character" who will be missed by the outdoor community.   more...

Melrose's dedication for helping others is honoured

A MAN who dedicated his time to helping a gang of youths he found trying to break into his car has been honoured for his work.   more...

Stephen's a shining example

THE winner of a top national farming award has returned home to Lancashire - riding his shiny red prize.   more...

Colne News

Council to act over workshop

A COLNE car repair workshop is to be prosecuted by Pendle Council for operating without a permit.   more...

Darwen News

Cash threat scam

TRADING standards officers have urged people to ignore a circular letter asking for money after a Darwen man was urged to hand over £20 or face injury.   more...

Lancashire Business

Cake firm buys up Polish bakers in £1m deal

BLACKBURN cake company Inter Link Foods has expanded into Europe after acquiring a Polish cookie-maker in a deal worth more than £1million.   more...

Lancashire Education

Modern trail leads away from Bethlehem

SCHOOLS across East Lancashire are moving away from traditional nativity plays in favour of more modern twists on the Christmas story.   more...

Lancashire News

Panto's my theatre of dreams: Oh yes it is!

I'VE BEEN laid up in bed this week. Not with the usual winter flu bug, but a nightmarish ear problem. And while my mother keeps urging me to stay in bed and take it easy, for my husband, a speedy recovery can't come fast enough.   more...

Heavy lorries to be banned after campaign

LORRIES are to be banned from the notorious Grane Road - after years of campaigning for safety improvements at the accident blackspot.   more...

Tragic Eva lose fight for life

A BRAVE disabled girl who captured hearts across East Lancashire has died at home, in her father's arms.   more...

We can make a difference

THE latest Band Aid single, Do They Know It's Christmas, has gone straight to number one in the singles chart.   more...

Thanks for super fundraisers

I WOULD like to thank everyone who supported the De Tabley Ladies Luncheon Club in Ribchester during 2004.   more...

Councillors work hard for us

I WOULD like to take this opportunity to thank my local councillor for the Sudell area, Roy Davies, as you will know he is a regular in your letters.   more...

Why change for change's sake?

HAVING seen the proposals for the regeneration of Blackburn town centre, I am quite impressed with the scale of the project, and am sure it would give the Ainsworth Street area a positive boost.   more...

Don't sell out to rival town

ARE our politicians and administrators getting more incapable and devious?   more...

Lorry ban should cut death toll

THE Grane Road has a terrible record of death and injury going back many years.   more...

Lancashire Sport

'Stay Robbie' plea

FRANK Sinclair has led the dressing room calls for Robbie Blake to stay with Burnley.   more...

Hughes set for £2m Sav raid

BLACKBURN Rovers manager Mark Hughes will launch a bid to sign Birmingham City midfielder Robbie Savage when the transfer window opens next month.   more...

Ellison seals Magpies' first away day joy

CHORLEY built on last week's stunning success to record their first away win of the season with some comfort.   more...

Boss Byron looks for strength

AFTER witnessing a disappointing performance from his team, new Clitheroe manager Paul Byron admitted he is looking to strengthen his squad over the coming weeks.   more...

Simpson keeps Vase dream alive

COLNE kept alive their Vase hopes as they got out of jail in a game where they hardly deserved anything.   more...

Double for Saunders

MICHAEL Saunders steered Ramsbottom to an important win at Congleton to move into the top four.   more...

Changed Dale come unstuck

ROSSENDALE went into the game with a vastly changed line up from last Saturday due to injuries and suspensions.   more...

Billy pulls out stops

SUPER stopper Billy Carrington dented Padiham's hopes of a derby victory over rivals Nelson.   more...

Mountain too high

TWO gift goals from the normally resolute Bacup defence gave them a mountain they failed to climb against the title favourites.   more...

Late blows for Mullen

DARWEN conceded two late goals to title hopefuls Cammel Laird as they went down 3-1 at the Anchor Ground.   more...

GT HARWOOD T 0

NEWCASTLE T 3   more...

Leigh Sport

RMI hit for six by Stanley

Leigh RMI 0 Accrington 6 by David Magilton: IF Geoff Lutley had any doubts over the size of the task he faces in trying to rebuild Leigh RMI, then he doesn't any more.   more...

Late penalty miss a blow for LR

PAUL Crompton missed an injury-time penalty as LR lost a see-saw NW Counties First Division clash.   more...

Colls slump to old rivals

ATHERTON COLLS 0, ALSAGER 2: Alsager's third win at Alder House this season saw Collieries slip to third-from-bottom of the First Division.   more...

Northend Sport

Davies blasts referee and Blake

PRESTON boss Billy Davies lashed out at referee Tony Leake after branding Robbie Blake a 'con man'.   more...

Preston Sport

Davies blasts referee and Blake

PRESTON boss Billy Davies lashed out at referee Tony Leake after branding Robbie Blake a 'con man'.   more...

Prestwich,Bury Leisure

Christmas service at chapel

WORSHIPPERS and guests are invited to join Stand Unitarian Chapel for a programme of Christmas services.   more...

Prestwich,Bury News

Christmas service at chapel

WORSHIPPERS and guests are invited to join Stand Unitarian Chapel for a programme of Christmas services.   more...

Prestwich,Bury Sport

Tigers earn more breathing space

SEDGLEY PARK 38, PERTEMPS BEES 19: Sedgley clinched another vital National League One victory with this win over the visitors from Birmingham.   more...

Rawtenstall News

Heavy lorries to be banned after campaign

LORRIES are to be banned from the notorious Grane Road - after years of campaigning for safety improvements at the accident blackspot.   more...

Car giant told: Make this van safe

CAR company Renault has been criticised over safety following the accident which killed young father Ben Upton.   more...

Council blasted over 'farcical' planning rule

A LEADING Lancashire businessman today accused councillors in Rossendale of hounding companies out of the area after he won a public inquiry to overturn a "farcical" planning decision.   more...

Garden glory - with a bit of help from BBC

A MOTHER'S wish of having a dream garden is set to be revealed in front of millions of people tonight.   more...

Youth dies in quad bike tragedy

A TEENAGER has died after he was involved in an accident on a quad bike.   more...

MP's election warning

ROSSENDALE'S MP Janet Anderson has warned Labour Party members not to be complacent about the outcome of the general election.   more...

Rovers Sport

Rovers needing a real goal-getter

MARK Hughes was kidding no-one when he emerged to face the Press in a broom cupboard deep within the bowels of Selhurst Park on Saturday evening.   more...

Ref got it wrong says Hughes

BLACKBURN Rovers manager Mark Hughes felt Alan Wiley got it wrong when he red-carded David Thompson during the closing stages of Saturday's 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park.   more...

Hughes set for £2m Sav raid

BLACKBURN Rovers manager Mark Hughes will launch a bid to sign Birmingham City midfielder Robbie Savage when the transfer window opens next month.   more...

Specials Insideout

EVENTS in East Lancashire on Tuesday December 14

BURNLEY   more...

Stanley Sport

RMI hit for six as Reds stroll

JIMMY Greaves wasn't wrong when he described football as "a funny old game".   more...

Stanley hit Leigh for six

Accrington Stanley bounced back to winning ways in style with a 6-0 drubbing of Leigh RMI at Hilton Park   more...

  
Restrict search to 13 December 2004