ATHERTON COLLS look like they are going enjoy 2000. Alan Lord's side scored two derby victories over neighbours LR and on Saturday won 2-0 at Fleetwood Freeport. They really come to life in the second half. Striker Luke Hardman had failed to find the
A MOTHER has been killed in a road accident close to her home in Rishton. Aileen Wood, 55, of Haworth Street, Rishton, died in Blackburn Royal Infirmary after she was in collision with a car in Blackburn Road at 5.35pm yesterday. Police said Mrs Wood
HOTSHOT Neil Clayton is rushing away in the race to be top goalscorer in the Leigh & District Football League. The Higher Fold LC marksman has now hit 23 - five better than his closest rivals from both divisions. And his club ride high at the top
LEIGH RMI drew a blank on Saturday. But manager Steve Waywell was more scathing about the Hilton Park pitch than his players' blunders in front of goal after the 0-0 draw with Hyde. Heavy rain had prevented the groundsman from rolling the pitch, leaving
A GATEWAY symbolising the move from one millennium to the next has been built of ancient materials and filled with relics of the past. The Millennium Gate, designed by Pleasington-born architect Duncan Isherwood, replaces the parish noticeboard next to
TYLDESLEY RU lost an epic encounter with Oldham, a late penalty giving the visitors a 19-14 victory. Despite plenty of home enthusiasm, Oldham forged an early 10-point lead. Some incisive running by skipper Rob Harrop and Lee Berrisford led to Andy Dickinson
A PURR-FECT start to a new Meow-llennium That's Scoffer Miles Bowman who will go down in Bury's history books as the first cat of the Millennium to be given a new home in the borough. And Scoffer's new start is thanks to the Bury Times' own good samaritan
A MAJOR strategy to improve access to the Pendle countryside for leisure and recreation over the next five years has been produced by Pendle Council. It follows a report by consultants who found Pendle could attract up to £4million extra revenue from
AN urgent appeal has been issued for replacement lollipop men and women to take the place of the several school crossers in East Lancashire who have been laid up with flu. Education chiefs were already facing major problems maintaining cover at the 403
A NEW service for parents on all aspects of child care has been launched in the borough. Residents are invited to take advantage of a wealth of advice at the Children's Information Service which is based at Bury central library. The new service has been
JOHN Mullin has been moving towards a more central midfield role with the Clarets this season and could start in a pivotal position at Chesterfield tomorrow. With Micky Mellon suspended, the former Sunderland man may be selected alongside Paul Cook. But
HOSPICE fundraisers will be sending their appeal sky-high this month, with the launch of 5,000 balloons. The spectacular event will mark the first anniversary of the launch of their £1.3million campaign to build an extension for better day care facilities
A MAJOR report into deaths in police custody claims a series of safety initiatives are starting to take effect. Police in Lancashire were forced to review their policies and procedures after it was revealed the force has one of the worst records in the
Division One: Huddersfield Town v Blackburn Rovers - Andy Neild's preview FORMER Rovers favourite Scott Sellars believes Tony Parkes is cut out for full time management. Huddersfield's 34-year-old midfield star knows all about the Ewood chief's coaching
SEARCH teams have been drafted in to help locate a missing Prestwich man. Mr Philip McGinlay was last seen at his home address in Polefield Road on Saturday (Jan 8). Police were becoming increasingly concerned for the welfare of the 51-year-old who can
HOPPERS promotion hopes took a knock with this 23-10 defeat to Wharfedale in rugby union's Jewson National League One. Hoppers had first use of a stiff breeze and a useful half-time lead looked to be essential. An early setback was the seventh minute
JOHN Mullin is a doubtful starter for Burnley's trip to Chesterfield tomorrow after being laid low by an illness scare. With Steve Davis and Micky Mellon suspended, the Clarets will hope that Mullin can shake off the bug that is threatening to end the
HOBBLING giant Andrew Flintoff could end up playing fewer county games this season, if he is picked for a new country contract. Injured Flintoff, from Preston, is one of the players being considered for a central contract from the England Cricket Board
RE your article in the Citizen January 6th, headline 'Dogs wait to die'. I felt I had to write to thank you personally for telling it as it really is and highlighting the problem of these abandoned animals. Television programmes publicising the happy
Accrington and Blackburn CHA Club meet Cherry Tree (pelican crossing), Blackburn, 1.30pm. "C" grade ramble. Blue Peter Coffee Morning and Bring and Buy Sale, Woodnook Baptist Church, Royds Street, Accrington, 10am-12 noon. Dance Night Out, King George's
THE great grand-daughter of a Bury Fusilier, who was gunned down in Flanders 85 years ago, still treasures an original photograph of Private Harry Wilkinson. The picture was used in the December 5 edition of the Bury Times only two weeks after he was
GLASS is still in its infancy and will go on to eternity because it was in God's creation. It was during the 20th century that the little town of St Helens was given the task of revolutionising the whole glass world with a new idea knwn as float glass
A LOCAL author with coal-dust in his veins is about to launch a book about a Haydock pit disaster that occurred 70 years ago. Ian Winstanley, whose forebears worked down mines which were once clustered around his native Haydock, tells of the explosion
THE controversial £46 million Agecroft prison will receive its first inmates at the end of next week. HMP Forest Bank, on the Prestwich and Salford border, can accommodate up to 1,040 inmates, from murderers to shoplifters, and those awaiting trial, conviction
IT was difficult to provide a good, square Sunday lunch during days of strict wartime food rationing. But Marjorie Robinson, a 12-year-old tomboy who delighted in helping out with the animals on a small Laffak farm, once managed to dig out a king-sized
THE face of the Millennium belongs to a Bury youngster - and that's official. Jamie Kettleborough (6), a Sunny Bank County Primary School pupil, came through a tough audition for selection to appear in Millennium Dome advertisements featuring in all the
CHRISTMAS shopping with the children can be hectic. I have a son of seven years, a daughter of five years and a baby girl of 13 weeks old. A few days before Christmas, my parents came to St Helens to help me with the children so that I could do some shopping
ONCE more our anti-dog council has taken the soft option - either incapable or unwilling to tackle the real problems of sewage and effluent on our beaches - the council yet again targets dogs. Eleven years ago concerned residents formed the Dog Protection
THE Ribble Valley is fast becoming a popular place to live, but new housing developments and extensions to properties are leaving the borough council snowed under with planning applications, according to a leading councillor. Planning committee chairman
A SENIOR Lancashire probation officer is to retire after 31 years' service to the county's crown courts. Geoff McNicol spent eight years as senior crown court liaison officer and his responsibilities included acting assistant Chief Probation Officer overseeing
ON the bus station in Bury there are six toilet cubicles for women and for many months it has been possible to lock only one of them. The doors are fitted with the type of small bolt one would find in a domestic bathroom or toilet. Unlocked, the doors
I WOULD like to thank the organising committee of the torchlight procession up Holcombe Hill on New Year's Eve. I was soaked to the skin, I didn't see a firework and unfortunately I only just managed to see the beacon being lit because of the rain and
ON behalf of all the staff at the Preston Calor Centre, I would like to take this opportunity to offer our sincere thanks to readers for their kind contributions to our Christmas Toy Appeal. The people of Preston showed some true Christmas spirit and
I AM pleased that 'handyman' Ronald Entwistle of Broughton has won his case for stress (Citizen, December 30). But there are some disturbing aspects to his case, with some far-reaching implications for a number of people and organisations. Preston College
I WOULD like to take this opportunity of thanking the Citizen newspaper for its invaluable support in publicising and assisting Preston Parish Church to raise the necessary funding from businesses and the general public for floodlighting. The Parish Church
PRESTON cricket star Andrew Flintoff has spoken of his disappointment at having to sit out the remainder of England's winter tour after being injured. The Lancashire star, whose talent was first spotted on the cricket pitches in Preston, was forced to
I NEED to set the record straight with regard to the story about the "dangerous" state of Hollymount Lane during icy weather (Bury Times, Christmas Issue). Far from the requests of the head teacher "falling on deaf ears" a great deal of background work
A PRESTON entrepreneur fears he could be put out of business if plans to develop the Queens Retail Park get the go-ahead. John Gillibrand, of Gillibrand Fireplaces, in Blue Bell Place - which skirts the site - has been running his fireplace construction
DOES Labour councillor Frank Adam (Postbag, Jan 7) know anything at all about school clubs in his own town? I'll readily admit that I may be accused of teaching grandma - or some councillors - how to suck eggs occasionally, but at least I do try to back-up
A COLLEGE soccer trip to America helped Preston lad Matthew Ogden achieve his goal of becoming a professional football player. While playing for a Preston College team at a tournament in Pheonix in 1995, Matthew was spotted by a scout from the University
A MUM-OF-TWO has decided to publicise her struggle with her weight in a bid to help others shed post-festive pounds. Elaine Edwards, from Longridge, near Preston, has found the key to success after a dieting struggle stretching over two decades. She now
COUNCILLOR Ken Cole is hoping to prove his integrity to voters by opening his bank book to public scrutiny. He is even admitted to notching up 500 Tesco Clubcard points when he transferred his gas supply to Norweb Energi - and a £25.49 refund. The Labour
MILLENNIUM eve brought about a record number of 999 calls for Lancashire Ambulance Service. Some 525 people called for emergency medical assistance between midnight and 6am, the majority of which were alcohol related. The figures mark a rise of 25 per
PIZZA manufacturer Schwan's has expanded its Leyland base, ready for the new millennium. The company has opened new offices and warehousing space to accommodate the 400-strong workforce. Schwan's new president and chief executive Lenny Pippin flew in
REMEMBER the days when the whole family could enjoy a good night out on the town and still have enough spare change left over for a bag of cod and chips? Retired police officer David Hindle has crystal clear memories of the good old days and, now, the
CHORLEY boss Ken Wright has major injury problems ahead of tomorrow's clash against Accrington Stanley at Victory Park. Colin Potts and Stuart Parkinson look certain non-starters after picking up injuries during Tuesday night's Marsden Trophy defeat against
VOTERS in two Preston wards go to the polls next week in a double-round of by-elections brought about by the death of two respected councillors. And with the elections come a mind-boggling number of parties hoping for a little bit of control inside Preston
THE prosecution in the trial of GP Harold Shipman do not have to prove a motive for murder, the judge told the jury this week. Summing up on the 42nd day of the trial at Preston Crown Court, Mr Justice Forbes said that neither motive nor pre-meditation
APPEALS have been made for all teenagers in the Preston area to be vaccinated against the deadly brain bug meningitis after two youngsters were rushed to hospital. Three people have been admitted to the Royal Preston Hospital after showing symptoms of
THE flu bug making life a misery for millions has also delivered Labour its greatest headache since taking office - as crisis rips through the NHS while the government strives to show that all is well. But while the pressures of the epidemic mount countrywide
"NOW comes the winter of ..." With wonderful forethought, a heated alcove has been provided at the top of the ramp leading to Platform 2 at Blackburn railway station where the younger customers can stand well sheltered and warm out of the cruel winter
DARWEN are hoping to welcome back influential defender Neil Durkin for their crunch top-of-the-table clash with Curzon Ashton tomorrow. Durkin has been out for a month with an ankle injury but he saw Preston North End physio Mick Rathbone during the week
EAST Lancs star Ronnie Baxter might struggle picking up any dropped flights, but he has had no trouble picking off big doubles at the Lakeside this week. None was bigger than the match-winning double two which finally beat Bobby George in their gripping
ACCRINGTON Stanley striker Gary Williams believes his side can't afford any more slip-ups if they are to bounce back from relegation at the first attempt. Stanley face arch rivals Chorley at Victory Park tomorrow in what is sure to be a hard fought scrap
STEVE McMahon was pleased to see his side win its first game under him - one nil over Mansfield away - but he was by no means happy with the performance in the Auto Windscreens Shield second round, writes Chris Dixon. The victory over the Stags on a damp
THE County Council is ignoring a petition from 33 residents of Whalley Road, Clayton-le-Moors, objecting to the north-bound cycle lane in Whalley Road between Sparth Road and Clayton Hall Drive. Residents objected to the cycle lane being next to the pavement
STAFF and students at King Edward VII and Queen Mary School in Lytham have been paying tribute to a librarian who is retiring after 18 years. Gina Ashworth - who attended the school herself as a girl - has worked with three different headmasters including
DESPITE a string of injuries, new Seasiders boss Steve McMahon was overjoyed with the display from his side which ended in a 1-1 draw at Reading, writes Chris Dixon. John Hills and Ian Hughes both picked up hamstring injuries, John Murphy hobbled off
IN response to Mrs Sheila Brennan's remarks concerning fox hunting (Letters, January 7), take it from a fellow animal lover, apart from the two reasons she mentions, there is a much more sinister aspect than the profit and pleasure angle. The overwhelming
PUPILS at St. Mary's High School held a series of events over Christmas, based on the theme of giving. One of the highlights was a bring and buy sale to help raise funds for TV's Blue Peter Appeal. A group of Year 8 pupils organised everything themselves
COUNCILLOR Adrian Shurmer's agenda does not appear to go beyond attempting to discredit council officers. He called for an inquiry into Hyndburn Council's director of regeneration Nigel Rix, claiming that a letter Mr Rix had sent was "threatening, intimidating
TWO packs of corned beef were still being offered for sale at a Burnley store three weeks after their use-by date, magistrates at Reedley were told. A routine visit by a Lancashire Trading Standards inspector to the Super Value Mini Market in Branch Street
Crosfields A 10 Vine 14 VINE maintained their push for promotion with this hard-fought victory. Their tries came from full-back Dave Swift (2) and scrum-half Mike Haslem, who kicked a conversion. The CEF man of the match was Danny Whittle. Converted for
AN ADVERTISING campaign called Choose the Right Remedy, set up by the NHS, will guide people through the range of healthcare options available. It will suggest when you can look after yourself, or if a visit to the pharmacy is appropriate, when you should
ST HELENS Hockey Club resumed their programme with a hard-earned 5-5 draw against Lytham St Annes. The visitors fielded a strong team that included a number of first team players, who normally compete five divisions higher. Skipper Phil Travis grabbed
THE re-scheduled St Helens Glass Lancashire Cup is set kick-off at Knowsley Road at 7.30 next Wednesday (January 19). Cup veterans Thatto Heath meet local rivals Haydock who are making their first appearance in a Lancashire County Cup final. The original
BOOTHS supermarket has defended plans for 230 parking spaces for its proposed new store in Ansdell - after informing local residents that there would be nearer 150. The rise of almost 50 per cent has sparked fears among traders and residents of chaos
Vulcan 14 Calder Vale nil AFTER a four-week lay-off Vulcan started off the new millennium in devastating form. The front row of Slevin, Melia and veteran Brown put the visitors under immense pressure, but unforced errors and penalties put the home side
DEAD animals littered a Hapton farm when an animal health inspector called, magistrates were told. Trading standards officer George Douglas found a total of 46 rotting sheep and five cattle carcases when he visited New Barn Farm, Accrington Road, Hapton
HE'S the man that nose you know! City manager Tony Hesketh was in hospital this week for a minor operation on his nose. Here's the rest of this week's City news: Jamie Udall missed his first match of the season against Runcorn through an ankle injury
Parr Hare & Hounds 4 Eccles A 40 DESPITE the scoreline, this was a fine effort by a plucky Hounds outfit against a strong Eccles line-up. With the visitors' National Conference first team having no game, they took the opportunity to give a number
DEFENDERS held the key to the top of the table clash between Sidac and Haydock in the Warrington and District League. The result was a scoreless draw. Owens Corning maintained their challenge with a 3-0 win against St Michaels. In Division One Vulcan
A BUSINESSMAN was accused of hatching a "devilish" plot to force old people from a nursing home so he could snap up the property at a knock-down price. Angry Burnley councillors last night condemned developer Paul Dew after claiming he was behind a planning
ENTRY forms are now available for the Malcolm Wilson rally which takes place on March 3 and 4 and is the second round of the National BTRDA Rally Series which incorporates the Peugeot Sport Gold Star and CLEAR Systems Solutions Silver SATR Championship
A NEW retail development which is set to transform Fleetwood town centre was launched this week. The Mayor of Wyre, Coun Harry Taylor (pictured with L-R Mark Dransfield, Mayoress Francis Taylor and Coun Pat Callow), officially kicked off the first phase
A FOUR-YEAR OLD girl from Lancaster has been taken into the RLI suffering from meningococcal septicaemia. A one-year old girl from Kendal, who was also suffering from the disease, died at the RLI this week. Three other patients are being closely monitored
Morecambe 3 Stevenage 3MORECAMBE were due to take on joint league leaders Rushton & Diamonds on Saturday but instead will play at Blakenall in the FA Trophy. It won't be easy but if Morecambe start scoring away as freely as they have been at home
HOW pleased I was to read the letter from P J Wain with which I totally agree. We are in the 20th century which surely ends when the year 2000 has been completed. I am convinced that we have been subject to a huge commercial hype and when we are coming
A promising Blackpool hockey player has been helping to cut youth crime as part of a radically different policing scheme. Claire Graham of Norbreck (pictured), who has trained with the England Under 18s hockey squad and currently represents British Colleges
I WOULD be obliged if any Citizen readers could enlighten me as to the rules of the road regarding bicycles ridden by postal workers. Within the last month I have seen riders in the early morning darkness without any kind of lighting on their bicycles
Pilkington Recs 28 Langworthy 8 RECS' powerful second-half display was decisive as they inflicted defeat on fellow promotion hopefuls Langworthy. It was clear from the start that the visitors meant business as they began in an aggressive, robust manner
A fascinating booklet has been published describing Victorian Blackpool and revealing for the first time the identity of its mysterious author. The colourful account of the history of the resort in the 19th century was originally penned by a retired Blackpool
POLICE in the area hailed their 'Operation Herring' dawn drug raids as a huge success this week after three major Lancaster drug dealers received lengthy jail sentences. Last August's raids netted many small time drug users but the three jailed at Preston
TWO young football squads opened the New Year with a feast of goals. Rainford Rangers and Sidac under 15s shared 11 goals in the Rainhill Junior League. RESULTS Saturday Under 10s mini soccer Premier: Whiston Celtic 2 Eccleston United 1, Ravenhead 2 Whiston
BLACKPOOL Victoria Hospital is being stretched to breaking point by the current flu crisis. The hospital is facing massive pressure for bed space and was down to just one spare bed at one stage earlier this week. Although the situation has eased since
THIEVES stole a seven feet £1,800 grandfather clock from a Lancaster house it was reported this week. The clock was made by Bambers of Preston and was taken from Chipping House last month. Other antiques were also stolen. The total value of the property
ZANGRY boss David Moyes has blasted critics who claimed he set out to lose Monday's Auto Windscreen shield game against Hartlepool at Deepdale. Just short of 4,000 fans sat gobsmacked as PNE leaked two goals in two minutes to send them crashing out -
DID you know that 34 million unwanted day-old chicks are killed by the egg industry (battery and free range) every year in the UK and that it remains legal to kill these tiny creatures by putting them into mincing machines while still alive? If you want
A CANCER charity is looking for volunteers to abseil off Lancaster's Ashton Memorial. On March 12 Marie Curie Cancer Care will be holding a sponsored abseil with nothing but fresh air between volunteers and the ground. All the money raised will be used
AN urgent investigation has been launched into the state of Blackpool's bathing waters after they failed to comply with EC safety standards, according to a report by the Environment Agency. The resort's three main sites - especially the central area -
DARN those pesky rabbits - they've held up Steve Basham's return to fitness! North End physio Mick Rathbone has revealed that Basham's latest injury setback, believed to have been caused when he went over on his ankle, was actually caused by rabbits.
JOHN Mullin is a doubtful starter for Burnley's trip to Chesterfield tomorrow after being laid low by an illness scare. With Steve Davis and Micky Mellon suspended, the Clarets will hope that Mullin can shake off the bug that is threatening to end the
Lancaster City 3 Runcorn 2CITY fans will be hoping their team show the same spirit in the FA Trophy away at Worksop this Saturday as they did in this thriller. The result meant City maintained their third place in the league although they have played
VOLUNTEERS are being sought to join the Community Service Volunteers. If you are aged 16-35 and are able to volunteer full-time away from your home for four months or more - CVS would like to hear from you. No specific skills or qualifications are necessary
A FORMER world ballroom dancing champion has died aged 62. Fred Moulding, of Woodside Road, Huncoat, was world champion in 1958. He enjoyed many careers, including teaching ballroom dancing at studios in Nelson, Padiham and Accrington. Mr Moulding also
NORTHERN FORD PREMIERSHIP By MIKE HULME at HILTON PARK Leigh Centurions...20 Swinton Lions...22 MIKE GREGORY kept his feet firmly on the ground despite his Swinton side becoming only the third team to win at Hilton Park in twelve months. "It's something
GARSWOOD United suffered a New Year hangover when they were beaten 5-1 at home to Rylands. The usually dependable Paul Thompson missed a penalty, while Steve Nugent scored Garswood's consolation in a poor overall team performance. The reserves, meanwhile
A NEW centre for the mentally ill and their carers will be officially opened tomorrow (Friday January 14) by the Deputy Mayor of Blackpool, Coun Granville Heap. Originally a hostel called Palmer House, The Beeches is the first centre of its kind on the
THE Home Office confirmed Lancaster's part time engine will be scrapped this week. But the retained firemen and Lancaster MP Hilton once again refused to accept defeat. Mr Dawson said: "Lancashire Combined Fire Authority still have the chance to reverse
A LORRY driver said to have been violent when police were called to his home, has been cleared of affray. Gordon Mitchell, 37, who was alleged to have got an officer in a headlock, was found not guilty after a three-day trial at Burnley Crown Court. Mitchell
- as Wrexham boss Brian Flynn is about to find out tomorrow writes PHIL THORP The former Welsh international and Shakers midfielder is the longest serving manager in Division Two, taking over the Racecourse hotseat in November 1989. However sixteen league
Reporter MIKE RIBBECK continues his resolution to give up smoking HAVING just discovered the joys of the e-mail I am still thrilled whenever an electronic message lands in my computer. The electronic mailing system has been running for several years at
RELUCTANT voters could be left with no excuse if Blackpool takes part in a radical new experiment to increase the turnout at local elections. Council chiefs hope to get Government approval to run a scheme which would allow residents to vote up to two
THE council has sold one of its properties in Dalton Square to a company which plans to convert it into yet another city centre pub, The Citizen can reveal With Wetherspoon's eyeing up a site on North Road for a superpub, some councillors have suggested
GLAZEBURY traffic was brought to a rush hour standstill on Thursday morning. Anxious locals, concerned about pedestrian safety, stopped the traffic in busy Warrington Road to highlight road dangers. Monitored by police, they made their point by halting
THE flu bug has had a devastating effect on local lollipop men and women. Across the county there are 26 vacancies and the flu virus has left the service struggling for cover. Every effort is being made to fill the vacancies but an appeal has gone out
THE glitz and glamour of the Sky TV cameras beckon for PNE tonight (Friday) as North End travel to Stoke City in a game which could take them top of the league. Thanks to a timely slip-up by Wigan against Oldham last weekend, North End find themselves
Drive and Stroll, with Ron Freethy - the River Ribble OVER the next four weeks I shall be describing a journey from the source of the River Ribble to its meeting with the sea between Southport and Lytham. Ribblesdale is one of the least-publicised of
A SPOT of karaoke has led Ian Cumming to the stage. The likely lad, egged on by friends Mark and Donna Wood, sang a solo at the St Joseph's Players 60s Night in October. He was spotted by director Doreen Johnson, who was then preparing her pantomime cast
KIND-HEARTED Citizen readers came to the rescue of man's best friend last week. A staggering 300 people contacted Animal Care after reading about the sad plight of 23 strays who faced being put down. But in two hectic days, the sanctuary staff rehoused
REFUGEE Besnik Shala lives and breathes for football. Now, thanks to help from new friends in Atherton, he is hoping to forge a blooming soccer career here in the North West. On Saturday Besnik (pictured) was a guest at Atherton LR. Helped by pal Paul
THE Introduction to Sources for Local History course will be running again from the beginning of February in the Local History and Archives department at St Helens Central Library. The 12-week course introduces people to the range of documentary evidence
SPECIAL brews will make the coming Bent and Bongs Beer Bash one to remember. The 21st century Bash will serve-up 80 different beers plus ciders and numerous continental lagers. The event begins on Thursday, January 27 from 6-11 (admission £3.50) and continues
THE parents of a St Helens man who was awarded a CBE in the New Year's Honours List have contacted the Star to express their delight. Former West Park Grammar pupil Matthew Martin Corcoran (58), who now lives in Cheshire, is the head of VAT operations
TOP Leigh opera singer and teacher, Eileen Darwell, died suddenly on holiday - on the second day of the new Millennium. Mrs Darwell, 76, who was a pupil of the Leigh Caruso, Tom Burke, was at her son John's home in Aberystwyth for the festive season,
A PRESTIGIOUS £1 million tennis academy planned for Salt Ayre looks likely to be scrapped. The Lawn Tennis Association had asked the city council to pay £450,000 towards the costs of the tennis "centre of excellence." The authority had enthusiastically
GENEROUS members of West Lancashire Freemasons (St Helens and Prescot Group) have donated £1,000 towards an appeal to build the St Ann's Millennium Centre in Rainhill. The project involves the restoration of a Grade 2 listed building and car park, sited
BOLTON and Bury Chamber is breathing a sigh of relief that the "Millennium Bug" disaster scenario has failed to bite local businesses. Richard Tomlinson, information technology (IT) adviser for the Chamber's Business Link, said: 'We are very relieved
LEIGH will be playing for local pride when they meet amateurs Siddal in the third round of the Silk Cut Challenge Cup on January 30. Having seen Siddal knock out neighbours Leigh MR in the last round, Hilton Park coach Ian Millward is eager to put the
"TON up" - that's the Bury depot of United Carriers. The company, one of the UK's leading business parcel and freight distribution firms, is celebrating 100 years of service by four staff. Roy Launders, Jimmy Taylor, Stephen Patterson and Keith Hargest
STAND-OFF star Tommy Martyn could be set to leave Saints! That was the shock news from Knowsley Road this week after talented Tommy was told by coach Ellery Hanley that he, Vila Matautia and Paul Davidson had to go for Saints to comply with the salary
ST HELENS Council is once again awarding a limited number of sites free of charge at the St Helens Show to local registered charities. Charities wishing to fund-raise must put forward innovative ideas for fund-raising by games or raffles. Collection boxes
A SUCCESSFUL businessman whose life was wrecked by alcohol has set up his own clinic to help other addicts. Mr Ted Horton, of Market Street, Edenfield, has invested more than £10,000 of his own money to set up Sharing, a new charity dedicated to the treatment
REST assured, there are no signs of panic in the Hilton Park camp. Coach Ian Millward was desperately disappointed with Sunday's nailbiting 22-20 home defeat against Swinton. But he is far from dismayed. "We've lost a battle, not the war," declared a
NEIGHBOURS from hell could soon find themselves under the watchful eye of the camera. For St Helens Council is planning to spend about £7,000 on video equipment and flim so they can gather evidence against nuisance families. It's part of a £94,000 community
MERSEYSIDE Police's Operation Nemesis, the drink drive campaign which ran from December 18 to January 2, has again been hailed a success. But traffic officers say that there are still too many people who drink and drive. The total number of breath tests
A MULTI-MILLION pound plan to improve more than 600 council houses has been revealed. Homes built in the 1930s on the old Eccleston, Grange Park and Portico estates will be at the centre of the investment. St Helens Council is writing to families affected
THE future of Blackpool Football Club is in the hands of the fans - that's the message from Karl Oyston following the announcement of the Break the Gate Initiative. Any money generated from ticket sales, over and above the hardcore figure of 3,500 a match
IT WAS turn-around time for Classic World of Fitness. Team Squash 1st avenged an early-season defeat at Bury with a 4-1 win. Mike Howard was not tested and strolled in 3-0; Bob Morgan lost the first set to a lady opponent, then he rattled up the next
ANOTHER talented performer who took her first steps to a career in showbusiness thanks to the Star, will soon be appearing on national television. Singer Sam Spencer is aiming to hit the high notes when she features on Granada TV's 'Stars In Their Eyes
HUNDREDS of youngsters turned up to have their bikes stamped with a security code at a special session at Darwen police station. Similar events are taking place across East Lancashire as police step up the campaign to cut down on bicycle thefts. Many
LEIGH EAST leaked FIVE tries in the final FIFTEEN minutes - a less-than-Ideal finish! From a grandstand 10-10 it all came apart as Ideal Isberg romped home 38-10, rubbing out a cracking contribution to the game by a sterling East outfit. East had given
SOCIAL services users are to be asked what they think about new eligibility rules. Blackburn and Darwen Council is planning a public consultation on a new draft document. Service users and other interested organisations will be asked for comments. Public
A SENIOR Pendle clergyman has been made an Honorary Canon of Blackburn Cathedral. The Rev John Priestley, vicar of Christ Church, Colne, will be formally granted the honour during a ceremony at the cathedral on February 6. Mr Priestley was made a Queen's
A NEW strategy has been drawn up for recording police sick leave levels, following growing concerns about the growing cost of the problem. Last year Lancashire police lost more than £6 million through officers and civilians taking time off work. Concern
Bolton Wanderers Reserves 0 Blackburn Rovers Reserves 2 TWO second half goals from Wayne Gill and Ben Burgess secured Rovers' first victory under new reserve team boss Ian Miller. And that was the least the visitors deserved after bossing this FA Premier
IT may be good to talk - but your next conversation could be with a copper. That is the warning from Bury police's traffic unit which is taking part in a force-wide crackdown of motorists who use mobile phones while on the move. The latest campaign will
EVERY cloud has a silver lining - even when the dark, grey nimbus hanging over Bamber Bridge is a product of their shock 4-1 defeat at home to Stalybridge Celtic last weekend. But as Brig prepare to hit the road again this week, this time travelling to
Division Two: Chesterfield v Burnley - Pete Oliver's preview CHESTERFIELD have smartened up their act in more ways than one as they fight to avoid relegation. The Spireites, perennial play-off challengers in recent seasons, have come unstuck this time
SADISTIC thugs tortured a pair of swans, slashing them and snapping their wings, after breaking into a popular nature reserve. Shocked bird lovers burst into tears when they discovered the birds on the lake at Longton Brickcroft with their damaged wings
PUBLIC health chiefs today admitted many East Lancashire surgeries had run out of flu jabs despite the fact that four manufacturers still had vaccine in stock. East Lancashire Health Authority said it had written to all general practitioners in the area
JEFF Kenna has been ruled out of action for three weeks following the results of a scan on his Achilles tendon problem. The Republic of Ireland international picked up the injury during the opening nine minutes of Monday night's epic FA Cup win over Liverpool
AN eight-year-old girl who contracted meningitis is being hailed as a "miracle child". Chelsea Marie Parr-Phillips, of Alexandra Avenue, Whitefield, is recovering in Booth Hall Children's Hospital after contracting the potentially fatal brain disease
AT least one German fighter plane was 'grounded' at Earlestown during the second world war, according to keen local history enthusiast Eric Burke. Eric, from Alder Street, Newton-le-Willows writes to ask: "Could any reader provide general or technical
HE thought his troubles were all over - they are now! Bury furniture removals salesman Mr Wilf Dickinson (52), is celebrating after scooping the £100,000 first prize in a commemorative Spot the Ball competition from Littlewoods. And he raked in the big
I AM trying to contact former pupils of West Park Grammar School (1972-1977) who may remember me. I intend to compile a list of their present circumstances and will happily send out copies to anyone who requests one. The idea will coincide with our 40th
THE iron-bridge riddle, posed recently, has brought interesting response from an avid reader of this old page. Regular customers may recall that I asked (December 22) whether there were any bridges still in existence bearing the impressed name of Robert
I READ with dismay and anger of the proposal to ban dogs from Morecambe's beaches. As an animal behaviour consultant, I work closely with dog-owners who's pets have behaviour problems. A good proportion of these problems are either caused - or exacerbated
FURTHER to your article in The Citizen, Jan 6 entitled 'Life's a Beach for Dogs' about the council proposals to ban dogs from Morecambe beach. I would like to discuss the remarks of Cllr June Ashworth who spoke in favour of the idea first. Responsible
I WOULD like to thank everyone who has contributed in any way to the KIND Christmas Appeal this year. Thanks to the support of many individuals, groups and companies throughout our community we have been able to help up to 5,000 disadvantage children
ANTICIPATING the furore that would ensue following the proposal to ban dogs from the beach myself and Cllr David Kerr went to Morecambe town hall to call for the matter be reconsidered. After an hour's heated debate we managed to convince Clle Mark Turner
THE latest Metrolink fares hike which came into force this week has been criticised by a local councillor. Lib Dem Wilf Clegg has called for a freeze on fares until Metrolink improves its service. He cited a catalogue of complaints, including broken ticket
ATTENDING the Saints shareholders meeting on December 22, many points for debate were raised and the majority of people present were favourable to ground relocation, myself included. However, there is an important area which needs further investigation
IT is just about six years ago that Crinkley Bottom in Happy Mount Park was inflicted on the local tax payers by 59 elected councillors and many senior council officers. Many of these councillors and officers are still a force within the council as is
MY name is Luke Fell, I am nine years old and attend Emmanuel Holcombe Primary School. I am very unhappy about fox hunting which is going on in Holcombe village. I think it should be banned because it is cruel. Foxes should be protected. Here are the
MAY I congratulate you on your recent enjoyable and revealing letters columns. I wonder what Ian Barker will think up to accuse me of next. I feel sure his ingenuity will know no bounds. But never mind. I think that it is now safe to conclude that my
YET again one of my volunteer advisers at Prestwich Citizens Advice Bureau was late for work, arriving at 10am. The reason, as always, was the appalling service offered by Metrolink. This morning she waited 30 minutes for a ticket in a queue of 80 people
DONNING pinstripe suits, umbrellas and bowler hats, a handful of GMB union demonstrators gathered outside Preston's Marks and Spencer store, in Fishergate, to highlight the firm's 'fat cat profits'. Their placards read: 'Half a billion £ profits is not
A 64 years-old caretaker died after collapsing near his home. Peter Lee, a single man of Cecil Street, Leigh, was dead on arrival at the Royal Bolton Hospital after a late night dog-walker discovered him on waste ground near the junction of Cecil Street
I AM writing in response to Mr G. Best's comments (Your Letters, Jan 7) concerning the field adjacent to Ramsbottom swimming baths. I feel he has not properly thought through how best to use this potentially exciting piece of land. I am growing tired
CAMPAIGN group the Friends of Winckley Square have come up with an idea to spread the word about the town centre beauty spot. Using the latest in computer technology the promotion group have gone on-line to give people a chance to see the picturesque
A GAS leak led to families being evacuated and rush-hour traffic chaos. Twenty people were evacuated from six homes in the Parr Bridge area and the road was closed creating traffic flow problems for morning rush hour travellers in the Tyldesley, Boothstown
I WOULD like to put my point of view in reply to "Traveller" (Your Letters, Jan 7) regarding the proposed development of 170 houses at Spen Moor, off Bury and Bolton Road, Radcliffe. I live on the Seddons Farm estate and am very strongly opposed to this
PRESTON Police have welcomed the reduction in burglaries in 1999 - despite a slight rise on New Year's Eve. Since April, the number of burglaries in the area had fallen by 262 on the previous year. Detective Sergeant Andy Dixon said: "Being the victim
GAME fowl master George Meekin has plenty to crow about. He ruled the roost at The Holcombe Old English Game Fowl Club's annual New Year's Day show - reputedly the world's oldest event of its kind. The Astley man yet again beat off challengers from as
WRITING abut the proposed development at Spen Moor , "Traveller" (Your Letters, Jan 7) wonders if residents objected "when their own homes were being built on this green and pleasant area". In 1973 when these houses were built I was still at school, as
RUMMAGING through cupboards or boxes in the attic, people often uncover some unusual items. Whether it be expensive antiques or heirlooms with sentimental value, many people possess precious objects from yesteryear. But Citizen reader Richard Jones (pictured
A LEYLAND vicar's church appeal has received the royal seal of approval - with a donation from the Queen Mum. HRH The Queen Mother, now in her centenary year, has pulled out all the stops to help St Andrew's Parish Church raise cash for their Visionbuilders
AN Atherton woman whose life was saved by breast cancer screening has urged women to answer routine calls for testing. Pat Bridge, who was diagnosed with the disease in 1996, dismisses a recent survey which states screening is a waste of time as ridiculous
I FELT I had to write to you, and I hope many more people do, as it is hard to believe that the RSPCA can turn away a sick cat (Citizen, December 23). Thank god for people like Christine and the Lancashire Cat Rescue, who people can rely on. They, in
I WRITE regarding "Metrolink chaos spoiled our panto trip" (Your Letters, Jan 7). What a disgrace. My daughter and I queued for 30 minutes at Prestwich Station on Dec 23 to buy tickets to Bury and back. Only one machine was working and the queue stretched
PRESTON Mayor's preference for a well-done steak almost sparked off an international incident when he visited a foreign town. But, as in the past, it was the English who triumphed as the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Geoff Swarbrick, got his own way -
CHURCHES Together in Leyland is holding a week of prayer for Christian Unity 2000, from January 18-25. The services will take place as follows: St Ambrose at 7.30pm on Tuesday, January 18; St James' at noon on Wednesday, January 19; St Andrew's at noon
FORGET granny spy Molita Norwood, a more sinister mole is lurking in Preston. If Ministry of Defence officials are right, thousands of children could be unintentionally sheltering potential undercover agents in their bedrooms. MoD bosses have discovered
A £4.5 million programme of improvements on Lancashire's motorways kicked off this week. The work, which is expected to bring traffic jams for five months, includes: repainting bridges at M6/M55 junction; replacing sign gantries damaged by accident; resurfacing
A CANADIAN traveller plans to start a fresh life in Preston, because he thinks local youths are better behaved here! Pernell Reichert decided to move up from Bristol after suffering at the hands of West Country yobs. He plans to give life in the UK one
LANCASHIRE'S Drug Action Team has welcomed a double cash boost. More than £200,000 has been jointly awarded by Lancashire Constabulary, the county's probation service, county council, district councils and Lancashire health authorities. And funding of
VITAL grants for Groundwork Trusts in Blackburn, Rossendale and East Lancashire escaped a £70 million slash in Lancashire County Council spending. The Blackburn Trust was likely to get £16,200, the Rossendale Trust £13,273, and the new East Lancashire
STEEPLEJACK Fred Dibnah proved the old saying "What goes up must come down" when he came to East Lancashire. The Bolton-based TV personality was given the job of bringing down a chimney at Langho Nursing Home. After a tense wait the 200-strong crowd watched
LEYLAND residents will not suffer as a result of losing their part-time fire crew, a leading councillor has assured. Coun Graham Davies, a borough councillor and a member of the combined fire authority - which has decided to axe the part-time crew - claims
MILLENNIUM eve brought about a record number of 999 calls for Lancashire Ambulance Service. Some 525 people called for emergency medical assistance between midnight and 6am, the majority of which were alcohol related. The figures mark a rise of 25 per
BOLTON midfielder Gareth Farrelly is ready to step back into Bolton's promotion-chasing side as Sam Allardyce prepares his troops for their First Division trip to QPR. Farrelly has made a full recovery from a slight hamstring strain and could reclaim
BURY entertain struggling Wrexham but will have to do without flu victims Darren Bullock, Chris Swailes, Chris Billy and Lutel James. Happily Andy Woodward has recovered from the virus but he has lost over a stone in weight and cannot be considered match
LEE Cartwright could be in line for a shock return to first team action as Preston take on Stoke at the Britannia Stadium tonight. North End boss David Moyes is a big admirer of the winger and should Cartwright show anything like match fitness today he
FALLING on a Friday in any other year, New Year's Eve would have been a normal working day, at least until 5pm. This town's taxi firms obviously believe it to have been a Bank Holiday since they were charging double fares. My friend, an elderly disabled
BUS drivers on two routes in Clinkham Wood are so fearful of gang attacks by local tearaways that they are refusing to drive through the estate in the evenings. A local resident, who didn't wish to be named, says local youngsters, some as young as seven
IN 1900, England was at its zenith, ruling over an empire which covered one quarter of the globe. Its manufactured goods flooded world markets. Its language, culture, legal system, political system and social stability were envied across the world. Both
TEAM spirit assured success for insurance workers at Burnley Co-op. The Co-operative Insurance Society team at the town centre Calder House are celebrating after becoming the top CIS office in the North West for 1999. It produced more new business than
NEW Seasiders boss Steve McMahon has asked for total commitment - from players and fans to save Pool from relegation. Speaking at a press conference after his appointment as manager last Friday (January 7) McMahon said: "I want success and first of all
KEN Parr, who died on January 9 after a lengthy illness, was one of the Fylde Coast's football icons. As well as his family he will be mourned by countless sportsmen at every level of football. Among those privileged to call him a friend were Sir Stanley
FOURTEEN more front line police officers are to be introduced in the fight against crime in Burnley and Padiham. The news has been welcomed by campaigners for more bobbies on the beat especially in Padiham where residents have taken to the streets in
NON-EMERGENCY surgery has been postponed at the RLI because of pressure on beds caused by the flu epidemic. Twenty extra beds have been found for seriously ill patients and there are plans to accommodate others at Westmorland General hospital in Kendal
BODIES are being ferried into an emergency mortuary in Preston as hospitals around the North West buckle under the strain of the current 'flu epidemic. The bodies of people who have died across the region are being shipped to Whittingham Hospital, which
Ruskin Park 3 Burtonwood 22 STUBBORN defence was the key to the Wooders' derby victory. They restricted Ruskin to a penalty. But by the break Burtonwood had scored tries through hooker Stanley and centre Rigby. Corliss added a conversion. After the break
HOUSING minister Nick Raynesford is to visit Burnley to see first hand the problem homes headaches facing the town. The move was revealed by Burnley MP Peter Pike in the Commons when he said Mr Raynesford had written to him expressing his willingness
THE area's highly successful seven-a-side football league for youngsters is set to expand once again. Organisers of the Lancaster and District Junior League - which already has about 300 youngsters on the books - are planning to accommodate under 12 teams
Wigan St Cuthberts 12 Haresfinch 19 FINCH produced a good team effort to secure this hard-earned win, with their pack in top form led by loose-forward John Woods, well suported by second-rows Ian Derbyshire and Ste Richards. The home side opened the scoring
IT might be winter outside but inside Blackpool Grand Theatre the reception was definitely warm for Moscow City Ballet as the talented troupe returned by popular demand this week. And artistic director Victor Smirnov-Golovanov wisely chose that most classic
A GRIEVING Lancaster widow claims she was left "shocked and upset" after council workmen piled earth on top of her husband's grave. Eileen Brook was stunned when she visited Skerton Cemetery to put flowers on her husband's plot only to discover a large
HOSPITAL chiefs have admitted they are struggling to cope as the 'flu 'epidemic' tightens its grip. Jeff Moore, chief executive of the Preston Acute Hospitals and the Chorley and South Ribble NHS Trusts, described the situation as 'very difficult'. But
A leading doctor has warned that riders of towering, breakneck speed roller-coasters, much like "The Big One" at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, are risking brain damage or even death after a woman underwent surgery to remove blood clots on her brain. Dr Toshio
A MAN who attacked a partygoer with a six inch bread knife has been jailed for eighteen months. Jonathon Hunt claimed he did not remember what had happened that night as his drink had been spiked with valium tablets. The 21-year-old of Winster Park, Lancaster
Widnes Simms Cross 12 Thatto Heath Crusaders 47 THATTO Heath stay top of the North West Counties Premier division after this emphatic victory. Ten-try Heath were far too strong for the Widnes side. Two tries in the first 15 minutes for centre Jamie Hill
THE cream of the town's young footballing talent turned on the style at the weekend. The St Helens McDonald's JOL under 16s side overwhelmed their Skelmersdale counterparts 11-0. Star of the show was Simon Rylands who hammered home five goals, while David
Halifax Blue Sox 26 Saints 29 SAINTS' coach Ellery Hanley was far from happy with his side's performance after this cliff-hanging pre-season friendly at the ice-cold Shay on Sunday. "The scoreline may say we won," he stormed, "but as far as I am concerned
A LANCASTER City Council solicitor has been awarded £10,000 from her former employers after taking sex discrimination and victimisation allegations to an industrial tribunal. Jane Sandham, a senior solicitor with South Lakeland District Council who is
HAYDOCK Park has achieved a healthy increase in runners in the first half of the National Hunt season. The racecourse's 'charter' for connections, including complimentary refreshments, transport to and from local railway stations and airports, and a VIP
THE future of Blackpool Football Club is in the hands of the fans - that's the message from Karl Oyston following the announcement of the Break the Gate Initiative. Any money generated from ticket sales, over and above the hardcore figure of 3,500 a match
West Park 27 Wigton 15 ALL out attack in the first half and a tremendous defensive effort in the final quarter gained West Park a place in the last 16 of the NPI Cup. And they couldn't have had a better start. A fine touch finder by Neil Ryan set up a
RECENTLY it has been declared by the local council that dog nuisance in the vicinity of St Annes' schools will be dealt with and stopped in the interest of children's health - and quite right too. But what about the rest of the area where folk have this
Haydock 48 Orrell St James 10 HAYDOCK won this match comfortably as they ran in nine tries. They started brightly and a good run by Lowe saw him link with Tickle who was just tackled short of the line. But Orrell hit back and were on Haydock's line for
A BID to have machines that shock the heart back into action to be placed at strategic points in Blackpool has got off the ground. Yates's Wine Lodges in the resort are showing that they are all heart as they join with Lancashire Ambulance Trust in the
A LANCASTER pensioner has complained to the local health trust after claiming she was discharged from hospital with no proper clothes, house keys or money. The family of Rosemary Robson say they are furious with Royal Lancaster Infirmary for sending their
IT is appalling to think the people of Blackpool including myself are paying part of their council tax for the alleged cruelty taking place at Blackpool Zoo. I draw attention to the plight of the two elephants from Germany as reported in The Citizen.
THE Chairman of the North West Tourist Board has called for a Government rethink to save Leighton Hall. Anthony Goldstone has joined a growing list of tourism heavyweights who are urging the Department of the Environment to reconsider its recent decision
Abbey Hey 2 St Helens Town 1 TOWN reached Christmas having lost only two league games and were lying second in the table. But since then, two defeats in three outings have de-stabilised things. They need to get back on track quickly and Saturday's visit
A CLEVELEYS school which is reputed to have the most overcrowded class in the country has hit back at county education chiefs for refusing to grant extra classroom space. Northfold County Primary School was identified as the most overcrowded in Britain
A LANCASTER man has decided to pick a "dog fight" with the local council over their plan to ban dogs from Morecambe beach. Raymond Hill of Bath Mill has vowed to do everything he can to stop the ban including encouraging animal lovers to boycott the resort
PNE 1 HARTLEPOOL UNITED 2 THIS route to Wembley glory was shattered for North End in a mind blowing finish in the pouring rain of Deepdale as Hartlepool hit Preston with a two goal salvo in the space of two minutes. North End took the lead on 65 minutes
GOALS from Simon Dodd and Dave Kenny gave Pilkington A a 2-0 win over Rainford North End Reserves at Ruskin Drive. It means they will meet Clock Face Miners Welfare Reserves in the final of the St Helens Combination's Rainford Potteries Cup. In a delayed
'LOOKING back the car should definitely have been scrapped,' laughed Hest Bank lad Samuel Lowman. But there was more than a little bit of pride in his voice as he says it. And quite right too. Samuel took what was a battered shell of a 1970 Morris as
POLICE launched an appeal to public spirited men in the area to help them prosecute criminals. And you could also make yourself £10 into the bargain! The police need males over the age of 25 to 45 to stand in identity parades. Just fill in this form to
POLICE officers and community leaders last night paid tribute to a police station lay visitor who died last month. Hyndburn councillor John Wells died from pneumonia while visiting his family in Kent. Coun Wells, from Accrington, was vice-chairman of
THE prospect of Alex Mathie returning to Deepdale appear very slim after he held face to face talks with Dundee United manager Paul Sturrock. Mathie, who returned North of the border before Christmas with a pledge from David Moyes that he will continue
A TEENAGER and his seven-year-old accomplice stole £300 from a beauty salon in Abbey Street, Accrington.. The thieves claimed they were waiting for their mother in the shop and when they were left alone, stole the money from a customer's handbag. The
By STEVE BOTT SWINTON Lions are on a hiding to nothing on Sunday when they entertain bottom of the table Lancashire Lynx at Gigg Lane writes STEVE BOTT. Mike Gregory's men bounced back from defeat against Oldham with a morale-boosting win at highly-fancied
A THIRD round of grant cash is now available to voluntary and community groups. A further £34,000 is to be distributed for projects being undertaken in the area. The funding is administered by the council's voluntary sector liaison unit, and this tranche
COUNCIL chiefs in Blackpool have been told to accommodate ten asylum seekers in the town - despite the council's growing housing crisis. And the refugees look set to be given hotel accommodation as 3,823 people are already waiting to be housed by the
PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 0 PNE 3 NORTH End finally got what has been coming to them - a fabulous fifth round tie against Premiership side Everton in the FA Cup. It's about time North End got a good draw, and it is the least they deserve after making the long haul
FIFTY lonely people had a very Merry Christmas - thanks to Leigh's Home Alone Scheme. They answered an invitation from the group to join in the Christmas party fun at the group's fourth festive knees up. The lunch at St Gabriel's Centre, Higher Folds,
JEFF Kenna has been ruled out of action for three weeks following the results of a scan on his Achilles tendon problem. The Republic of Ireland international picked up the injury during the opening nine minutes of Monday night's epic FA Cup win over Liverpool
EVERTON winger Nicky Barmby has warned his Premiership team mates to beware of Preston North End when the two club's clash later this month in the FA Cup. North End were finally gifted a top draw tie in the fifth round of English football's most prestigious
THE flu epidemic sweeping across Britain has claimed the lives of people of all ages and fitness levels. But this week it is reported to be having little effect in the Leigh area. Government estimated show 300 people in every 100,000 had contracted the
A COMPUTER firm which went into administration three weeks ago has been given the go-ahead to continue trading. Creditors overwhelmingly agreed to an arrangement where Bridge Computers - sponsors of Accrington Stanley - will continue to trade and pay
Radcliffe Borough...1 Chorley...1 By TONY MOONEY REVENGE is a dish best served cold and Radcliffe Boro looked set to present a freezing repast on Chorley as Friday night football came to Stainton Park. Boro were on course to make amends for their heart-breaking
Wright On! Shelley Wright takes a wry look at life ON Wednesday morning the nation arose from their assorted beds to hear, among other things, news of the latest, sickening twist in the General Pinochet saga and a particularly colourful array of similarly
SEASONAL handywork by a group of Blackpool cub scouts has got the Macmillan Windmill Appeal off to a flying new year start. The boys of the 18th Blackpool (St Cuthbert's) troop have raised £146 for the appeal by making their own Christmas cards. They
LEIGH Councillor Mark Hale is the Co-operative Party choice as Labour's man at the next General Election (writes Brian GOMM). Last Thursday at Lowton Labour Club the Co-operative Party's Wigan and Leigh branch voted for Cllr Hale - Labour's first name
AN ANTHEM for Blackpool and its future development is being sought in a brand new competition hosted by Blackpool Borough Council. Schoolchildren from the town are being invited to write a theme tune for change as part of a radical project designed to
COMPUTER buffs Ian Conroy and Patrick Mitchell have used the spur of redundancy to launch their new venture. Ian, 35, from Burnley and Patrick, 31, from Colne, worked in the IT department at the John Wilman wallpaper factory in Nelson before being offered
PEOPLE'S prejudice against refugees and asylum seekers is being challenged in a new exhibition at Lancaster's Storey Institute. "Fortress Europe" gives a glimpse of how refugees escape persecution, cross borders, take an aeroplane, apply for asylum and
THE go-ahead ladies of Golborne and District Townswomen's Guild are continuing their fight to legalise cannabis. Two years ago they backed a national vote to allow the drug to be used for medical purposes - and are keeping up the campaign. Secretary,
A LYTHAM impresario plans to add another string to his bow with a colourful production at Lowther Pavilion Theatre this month. John Peacock has organised an evening of entertainment featuring a bevy of budding stars, all performing in aid of the Lancashire
A TAILORING business has romped home in a business competition. Pretty Ponies, of Whalley, which specialises in manufacturing designer clothing for horse riders, has won the Parcelforce Worldwide Small Business of the Year North West finals. The firm
ST HELENS Council is supporting the call for an inquiry into the removal of babies' organs at Alder Hey Children's Hospital. The council has also asked St Helens and Knowsley Health Authority to ensure that counselling is available to local families affected
FORMER Lancaster City chairman, millionaire lottery winner Ian Sharp gave his reasons for resigning this week. "Nothing dramatic," he murmured in the course of Saturday's victory against Runcorn. He later cited the need to spend more time on his business
COMEBACK king Gary Parkinson celebrated his 32nd birthday in style - by returning in the first team squad sheet for the first time in nearly a year. And the rightback had one birthday wish - to prove himself worthy of a new contract when his current one
A MAN found collapsed in Church Street, St Helens earlier this month has been identified as Frank Fogarty, aged 62, of no fixed abode. He was found by a police patrol at about 6.30am on Tuesday, January 4 suffering from hypothermia and was taken by ambulance
THE VIEWS of local people are to form the cornerstone of a plan to improve council services for the 21st Century. Draft copies of the council's draft best value performance plan have circulated to local decision making bodies, business representatives
YOUNG engineers from Lancaster Royal Grammar School have entered a new challenge just weeks after scooping a major prize. The team of 10 students, currently studying A Level technology, have taken on the task of designing and building a car to be entered
