Archive

  • From the Guide files of Friday, April 20,1979

    FOLLOWING a visit to Whitefield's Hillock Estate, the Minister for Sport Mr Denis Howell, stated that developers of new housing estates should also provide sports and recreation facilities. He said that otherwise, they were "building houses with social

  • Three bed detached - for £52,000!

    From the Guide files of Friday, April 6, 1979: EVEN in 1979 Ringley Road was described as "possibly the most sought after area in North Manchester". With properties nowadays going for around the high six figure mark (or even seven), a three-bedroom detached

  • Bollywood dreamers losing track of reality

    IUSED to think reality TV shows were a waste of time and money. Who would be interested in watching a bunch of people doing nothing for hours on end? I have not changed my mind, but now the TV people have gone too far. Hell's Kitchen, Big Brother and

  • John put Boddies into Blackpool trek

    From the Guide files. June 8, 1979: A COUPLE of pints of Boddingtons bitter kept cellarman John Brickles going on his sponsored walk from Blackpool to Manchester. John (38), of Scholes Walk, Prestwich, took just over 15 hours to complete the 50-mile walk

  • OPEN HOUSE: A bit rich coming from Jack

    IN a speech in London yesterday, Jack Straw accused Tory leader Michael Howard of having been exposed as an opportunist. One Parliamentary colleague remarked: "That's a bit rich coming from Jack. "In view of the way he is cosying up to Chancellor Gordon

  • Cricket: Brox show their ugly side

    BROOKSBOTTOM slipped back back to their Jekyll and Hyde ways against Euxton at the weekend. Brox produced one of their most disappointing performances of the season after a run of three impressive victories in recent weeks. Euxton may well have had the

  • Cycling: Get on your bike for charity

    BURY CTC and Bury Clarion cycle clubs are inviting riders to join them on their annual Charlie Westlake Memorial Ride this Sunday (June 6). There are a choice of two routes this year and both are hilly but completely on-road. There is the usual 54km (

  • Cricket: Villagers stay on course in cup

    GREENMOUNT may have surrendered first place in the Bolton League table at the weekend but there was still plenty to celebrate. The village side got the better of Horwich in a drawn game on Saturday then served notice that they are in no mood to give up

  • Boxing: Defeated but Amir stays confident

    BURY Boxing Club sensation Amir Khan believes he can still strike Olympic gold despite losing his latest fight to a world champion. The 17-year-old top prospect could not have had a tougher test than having to face double Olympic and world champion Mario

  • Angling: Supercup showdown

    TOMORROW (Saturday) the Northern semi-final of the Angling Times Van Den Eynde Supercup will be held on Woodland Lakes at Thirsk fished on Skylark, Partridge, Kestral, Curlew and Wagtail Lakes. Twenty teams of six will be competing for seven places in

  • Two hundred rise to Prestwich Challenge

    TWO hundred men and women tested their strength and stamina in the fifth annual Prestwich Challenge. The eight-mile off-road obstacle race has grown bigger and better over the years, but certainly no easier! Individual runners and team entrants set off

  • Plan is just empire building

    SHORT of using a particular descriptive vocabulary, I find it difficult to express my anger at the proposals revealed on your front page for Hyndburn and Blackburn merging (LET, May 25), and in fact, I feel like reaching for a very large box of sage and

  • Rugby League: Swinton's are tamed by the Knights

    YORK KNIGHTS...44 SWINTON LIONS...24 A MUCH improved performance from the Lions couldn't prevent the Knights from extending their fine run of form. The game started brightly with both sides trying out each others defences and Darren Callaghan bombed a

  • Improvements to blame for traffic problems

    MAY I concur with the views of Mr Wilcock (LET, May 27) in his assertion that, contrary to the dictionary definition, the 'improvements' to Blackburn's traffic system have made things worse, not better. Where once there was an unhindered road between

  • Following the singing

    COLIN OLIVE, from Tottington, had returned from a stay in Iceland, when he was transferred to the 53 Welsh Division, 531 Coy, RASC. We landed in Normandy in 3ft of water. I was with a Lance Corporal Driver with a load of tank ammo. Sad to say he was killed

  • Cheque is good news

    THERE'S good news for a Bury organisation which produces talking newspapers for the blind. Bury Pipeline has received a £425 gift from ladies attached to the town's parish church. The ladies decided to support Pipeline following a talk on the organisation's

  • What's on in Bury to mark the day

    RADCLIFFE British Legion will stage a parade on Sunday in honour of those who took part in the D-Day Landings . Veterans and youth organisations, including the local Army Cadet Force, will leave the Legion headquarters in Water Street at 9.50am and march

  • Ballot forms all out

    ALL Bury voters should now have received their ballot forms for the June 10 local and European elections. Council officers say that they delivered all ballot packs to the Royal Mail by Tuesday's (June 1) deadline: and they have not been told of any major

  • Nurses win awards from health trust

    TWO nurses at Fairfield General Hospital were rewarded for their dedication to patient care on the birthday of Florence Nightingale. They were Joanne Weetman and Rachel Turner who were among those honoured at the annual Pennine Acute Trust Nursing Awards

  • 'Lions changed my life for the better'

    THE President of Bury Lions has spoken of how the club changed his life since he suffered horrific injuries in a road accident. Mr Ezzy Marcus made his moving speech at the 37th annual charter dinner of Bury Lions at the Bolholt Country Park Hotel in

  • 553 caught in purge on phone-drivers

    MOTORISTS are finding that talk isn't cheap. In the last two weeks of May, police in the Greater Manchester area issued 553 fixed-penalty fines of £30 in a new crackdown on drivers who use their mobile phones while driving. The figure represents an increase

  • Part of the invasion fleet

    JACK MATHER, formerly of Bury but now living in Heywood I was a member of a Landing Ship Infantry HMS St Helier when we set sail from Cowes, on the Isle of Wight, on June 5, 1944, loaded with troops from the 3rd Canadian Infantry Brigade. At the time

  • Service celebrates a decade of help

    VISITORS gathered for a slice of the celebrations as a service to help youngsters fighting drug and alcohol problems marked its first decade. Around 80 visitors joined the tenth birthday party of Early Break, held at Bury Town Hall. They enjoyed a buffet

  • Taking 27,000 troops to the beaches

    ALLAN WOODHEAD was a Sergeant pharmacist of No 3 Coy, Royal Army Medical Corp, the sea-going company, which provided medical staff for hospital and troop ships. On June 2, 1944, Mr Woodhead, from Quarlton Drive, Hawkshaw, joined HMT Neuralia in King George

  • First crime liar is hit by £80 penalty

    A MAN has become the first in the borough to be given an £80 fine after making a false robbery claim. One week after local police vowed to use new powers to punish bogus crime victims, police chiefs have confirmed a 24-year-old man from Radcliffe has

  • New role for dental expert

    THE President of the British Dental Association is getting his teeth into a new role. Dr Anthony Kravitz has joined Bury Primary Care Trust's professional executive committee. As a co-opted member of the body, Dr Kravitz, who lives in Prestwich, will

  • Good neighbour Maurice wins 'good friend' award

    A GOOD neighbour dubbed "Mr Reliable" has been rewarded for his dedication and devotion to those living around him. Mr Maurice Jackson has been presented with a surprise vocational services award by the Rotary Club of Bury. The accolade is a fitting tribute

  • Rovers face fight to sign Norway star

    BLACKBURN are heading for deadlock in their attempts to sign Norwegian starlet Morten Gamst Pedersen. Rovers have yet to make a written bid for the 22-year-old winger because his club, Tromso, have not indicated if they will release him before their season

  • GARNER: Dickov has the style of Speedie

    PAUL Dickov - another great bargain for Blackburn Rovers. I can't see him necessarily being a regular but what he will do is help the young lads and make a nuisance of himself for opposing defenders. He reminds me of another Scot I played alongside when

  • £3 vase is Roman

    A 1700-year-old glass vase bought at a car boot sale for £3 has been put up for exhibition at a museum. David Van Boyd, a keen metal detector and amateur archeologist, knew it was Roman as soon as he saw it. "I have been interested in archeology for years

  • Youngsters take to the law

    AS families in Prestwich and Whitefield celebrated the Jewish festival of Shavuot last week, children at local schools were taught about the importance of the occasion. Yungsters at King David Infant School were told the story of when Moses was given

  • Mark set to rock park

    A STAR of one of the most successful boy bands to date and winner of television's Celebrity Big Brother has been signed to play at Preston's Rock in the Park. Former Take That singer, Mark Owen, is expected to play a 30-minute live set showcasing new

  • Family is a rock to orphans

    A PRESTON mother who has dedicated the last seven years of her life to needy Chinese children is packing her bags to set up a centre for orphans with special needs. Jacqui Shurr, of Chorley Road, Walton-le-Dale, and husband Jeff adopted baby Abigail when

  • Two hundred rise to Prestwich Challenge

    TWO hundred men and women tested their strength and stamina in the fifth annual Prestwich Challenge. The eight-mile off-road obstacle race has grown bigger and better over the years, but certainly no easier! Individual runners and team entrants set off

  • Top of the class for adults

    EIGHT learners proved they were the "creme de la creme" when it comes to continuing their education. They all attend day or evening classes in the borough, and were presented with Learner of the Year awards during national Adult Learners Week. The presentations

  • Centre of the world for a day

    A ONCE-in-a-lifetime event has put Preston on the global map for astronomy boffs. More than 100 scientists from all over the world will gather in the small village of Much Hoole, south of the city, to witness the Transit of Venus which starts at 6.20am

  • Part-time cabbie banned

    A PART-TIME taxi driver caught out over the limit was abusive to police and claimed they were torturing him. Burnley magistrates heard how father of three Arshad Ali, 37, had been shouting and swearing after he was stopped and his behaviour was "even

  • Tenants hit it off with first fun day

    A FUN day organised by Victoria Tenants and Residents Association proved to be a huge success. The group took over Victoria Park, off Bury New Road, Whitefield, and arranged stalls, children's entertainment, raffles, tombolas and food. The event, held

  • Mail managers tell MP: We've sorted problems

    ROYAL Mail managers have promised Burnley MP Peter Pike that problems with postal deliveries in he town have been solved. But he still remained unhappy at the scale of disruption last month and proposals to close seven post offices in his constituency

  • Drivers' mobile offences rocket

    MOTORISTS are finding that talk isn't cheap. In the last two weeks of May, police across Greater Manchester issued 553 fixed penalty fines of £30 in a new crackdown on drivers who use their mobiles while driving. The figure represents an increase of more

  • More than a quarter postal votes returned

    MORE than a quarter of the Burnley electorate have already voted in this year's local and European elections. At 3pm yesterday 17,529 of the new postal ballot packs had been returned to the Town Hall, representing 27.3 per cent of possible votes. Election

  • Our angels shine in annual honours

    NURSES at Fairfield Hospital and North Manchester General have been rewarded for their dedication to patient care on the birthday of Florence Nightingale. Among those honoured in the annual Pennine Acute Trust Nursing Awards last month were two from Fairfield

  • Rallying cry to resurrect annual gala

    RESIDENTS are being urged to support plans to bring back Briercliffe Gala. The gala was an annual event in the area until 1990 when it died out due to a lack of support in organising it. But now a group of six residents has formed a gala committee in

  • Major purge to rid centre of beggars

    A MAJOR crackdown is being launched to try to rid Burnley of the scourge of beggars. Town centre bosses and police have teamed up in a bid to tackle the half-a-dozen beggars who, they say, are putting off visitors to the town. The crackdown will take

  • Can you help?

    PEOPLE with time to spare are being urged to get stuck in to help the community. This is National Volunteers Week - and Lancaster and Morecambe residents are being asked to help out where they can. The week aims to celebrate the work done by the UK's

  • Campaigners launch action

    GRASS roots action is the focus of a new 12-month drive to encourage people to make more impact on green issues. As communities across the globe celebrate World Environment Day on Sunday, a campaign has been launched closer to home to get people involved

  • Fire engulfs tanks

    A THICK black cloud of acrid smoke could be seen across Morecambe and Lancaster as a fierce fire engulfed old chemical storage tanks. At its height about 25 fire fighters tackled the blaze, spending an hour bringing it under control with foam jets and

  • Book honours local heroes

    MOVING stories of local soldiers who died in two world wars have been pieced together to form a book. The 'Book of Honour' pays tribute to men and women who died fighting for their country. It will be presented to the community on Sunday - the 60th anniversary

  • Carnival stages a welcome comeback

    BURY carnival is back with a bang on Sunday (June 6) after a year's absence. The gala, which for more than 30 years had been the highlight of the town's events calendar, will be staged at the Mosses car park in Cecil Street between 11am and 4pm. It is

  • Akbar bags seven wickets in fine win

    A SUPERB spell of bowling by Raouf Akbar helped Preston to an easy victory over Blackpool on Saturday. Batting first, Preston scored 207 for 7 with Munaf Bavla (51) and Ian McDonnell (61) top scorers for the home side. Tim Barry returned the best figures

  • Test of iron in the sun

    LANZAROTE may sound like like the ideal place to spend a weekend lazing on the beach and enjoying a few drinks in the bars. But for Daniel Banks, of Woodland Avenue, Bamber Bridge, it involved doing something just a little more strenuous. In fact it meant

  • Free admission for under eights next season

    NORTH End are to increase adult season ticket prices by around five per cent for the next season but will be offering free entrance to matches for under eights. There are also price cuts for under 16s. Prices are the same for OAPs and students and season

  • D-DAY: I saw the inhumanity of man in wartime

    FOR one veteran of the D-Day landings, this week's commemorative events will be more about those who aren't there than those who are. Fred Hartley, of Berriedale Road, in Nelson, will travel to France with the Royal British Legion on his 83rd birthday

  • 50 years ago

    MEN in East Lancashire were asked to co-operate in an inquiry into the effect of National Service on civilian employment prospects. It formed part of a nationwide enquiry recommended to Sir Walter Monckton QC, Minister of Labour and National Service by

  • Goodbye from all the babies

    HAPPY memories were shared at a party to bid the Neonatal Unit at Sharoe Green hospital a fond, but emotional farewell. More than 70 babies, children and teenagers who fought for their lives after being born prematurely since 1986, the year the unit opened

  • 25 years ago

    A BLACKBURN firefighter suffered burns to his wrist and neck when he battled through flames to find a child believed to be trapped in a burning house. It was later discovered the child had already been pulled from the house in Parkinson Street, Mill Hill

  • Surgeons hired to ease crisis

    THREE new NHS dentists have been appointed for the Hyndburn and Ribble Valley area - thanks to a £250,000 Government cash boost to ease the dentist shortage. It means up to 6,000 residents will be able to continue receiving NHS dental care. And cash is

  • Twins bid to 'net' job for summer

    ENTERPRISING twins Nick and Scott Oates have set up their own website in a bid to find work for the summer holidays The 14-year-olds teamed up with their mum when they got fed up of applying for the usual shelf-stacking jobs. Together they designed an

  • Mayor opens gem of a new shop

    A NEW sparkle is being brought to Radcliffe's retail market. For a jewellery shop has opened in the town's Deansgate, helping in the ongoing regeneration of Radcliffe. Richard Anthony's jewellers is being run by husband and wife Richard and Susan Dandy

  • A topical slant on recycling

    AM I the only person to notice this seasonal litter fest as the local elections loom? Litter is falling through my letter box. I suppose it's "recycling" of sorts; the same promises of our local council wannabes, glossy paper, dodgy photos. So which bin

  • Million thanks for ISA help

    CHILDREN'S charities have said "thanks a million" to Skipton Building Society savers. Customers have helped raise £135,269 for the NSPCC and Children 1st in Scotland, bringing the total funds donated to the charities since 1997 to more than £1 million

  • Thanks for egg raffle support

    THE Radcliffe & Whitefield Lions would like to thank the public and pub landlords in Little Lever, Radcliffe and Whitefield for participating in our Easter egg raffle. We would also like to thank "A Touch of Class" dance studios, Little Lever, who

  • Parking fine threat to showroom

    THE owner of a Whitefield car showroom says he is struggling to carry on his business because of the scourge of traffic wardens. Jack Stone, who runs the Radcliffe Car Centre on Radcliffe New Road, was given a parking ticket last month after leaving a

  • Journalist dies

    FRIENDS and colleagues are mourning the death of a former Prestwich journalist. Corin Gibson (32) had been a lifelong sufferer of Crohn's disease and died in hospital last week. The cause of his death is not yet known and an inquest will be held. Corin

  • Don't be fooled by bin U-turn

    LIKE many people, I was amazed at Bury Council's U-turn in deciding to continue the weekly black bin service, but I then had second thoughts. I have canvassed in several wards and they have all complained about the muddle of Bury's new multi-bin system

  • Tony Blair talks exclusively to the Guide

    PRIME Minister Tony Blair has told The Guide he is looking at more severe sentences for carjackers and violent criminals. He gave an exclusive interview to reporter Karen Spibey during an unannounced visit to Whitefield Police Station last Friday. He

  • Clean up your act

    LANCASTER City Council needs to put its council tax money where its mouth is. With the arrival of summer I have seen the increasing numbers of people using the Lancaster cycleway, gawping at the Millenium Bridge and strolling along the beautiful quayside

  • Don't blitz the ballroom

    IT MUST come as a great surprise to many local people that in the same week as the Government is giving great publicity to the major health problems caused by obesity and lack of exercise that our local ballroom should even be considered for closure and

  • Lights must stay

    I WRITE in response to letters regarding the traffic lights at Scale Hall Corner. The signals were introduced by the county council as part of a traffic calming scheme, the aims of which included reducing the volume and speed of traffic on residential

  • Freedom must be defended

    I ATTENDED a 'debate' in Manchester Town Hall in the run-up to European elections. On the platform were representatives of the UK Independence Party, Conservatives, Lib-Dems, Labour and the Greens, and the usual mud-slinging followed. One didn't expect

  • Brakes put on village speeders

    SPEED limits are to be introduced in two Ribble Valley villages after police discovered that none had ever been imposed. Lancashire County Council is now working with local officers to introduce the limits through the centres of Worston and Rimington.

  • Harvey brings in more fire power

    MORECAMBE boss Jim Harvey has added extra firepower to his front line - with the signing of six-foot striker Sean O'Connor. The big front man comes to the Shrimps from a two-year stint at Queen of the South in Scottish League Division One. Born in Wolverhampton

  • Appeal for witnesses

    POLICE in Burnley are appealing for witnesses following an alleged assault on a 17-year-old male two months ago. He was walking along Brunshaw Road, Burnley, in the direction of Rochester Avenue with two friends when they say they were attacked by a group

  • £1m centre gives firms digi boost

    A £1 MILLION state-of-the-art multimedia centre will be launched officially in Bury on Monday. The centre will give Bury companies the edge in using digital technologies to support their business growth. The Multimedia Centre is located in the heart of

  • Women look at new laws

    NEW legislation will come under the spotlight at the latest meeting of women's business forum group, Mosaic. The organisation has a number of businesswomen from the Bury area as well as counterparts from other areas of north Manchester. An invitation

  • Mega-council or the City of Fylde?

    RULED by Blackpool or dominated by East Lancashire? That's the question people in St Annes and Lytham are to be asked later this year as preparations begin for the biggest local government shake-up in decades. Fylde Council is set to be abolished, and

  • Steve seeks a Premier prize

    CONFIDENCE has been dented, but thankfully not battered. Steve Cotterill carried the air of a manager without a care in the world as he signed away the next three years of his life to Burnley Football Club. Some might see it as a gamble for a raw recruit

  • Road death follows row with girlfriend

    A 23-year-old man was killed in a road accident on Saturday morning (May 29) , shortly after a row with his girlfriend. Asif Hussain, of Brentwood Court, Prestwich, sustained serious head injuries when he was in collision with a blue Ford Ka while crossing

  • Residents petition against doctors' practice

    WORRIED residents in Prestwich want plans to convert a much-loved Victorian home into a private doctors' practice to be shelved. Householders around Cheddleton Lodge, on West Road, fear the refurbishment would spoil the area. They believe security fixtures

  • Brave Ruth

    A TEENAGER from Prestwich may never walk again unless she undergoes major surgery. Ruth Smith, aged 13, who suffers from the growth stunting condition achondroplasia, has developed spinal stenosis and faces an operation at Pendlebury Children's Hospital

  • Balancing act to challenge for gold in Athens

    PRESTWICH swimmer Adrian Turner's performance in the Olympics hangs in the balance. For the medal hopeful has adopted an unusual balancing trick as part of his training. Adrian (27) will compete in the 200m and 400m individual medley in Greece in August

  • Parking fine threat to showroom

    THE owner of a Whitefield car showroom says he is struggling to carry on his business because of the scourge of traffic wardens. Jack Stone, who runs the Radcliffe Car Centre on Radcliffe New Road, was given a parking ticket last month after leaving a

  • Judge praises hero police officer

    A POLICEMAN who single-handedly disarmed a violent knifeman is in line for a bravery award after his courage was commended by a judge. Heroic PC Richard Pendlebury (30), based at Whitefield, was sprayed in the face with CS gas and threatened with a knife

  • Don't cyclists deserve some "security"?

    PASSENGERS on the Metrolink can now look forward to improved safety, security and peace of mind, thanks to an increase in the number of safety officers patrolling the system. The managing director of Metrolink said: "This important scheme will benefit

  • Man appears on murder charge

    A BLACKPOOL man has appeared in court to answer charges of murder and assaulting a police officer. Christopher Maunder, aged 45, of Charles Street, Blackpool has been charged with the murder of 40-year-old Michael Nelson-Lane of Warley Road, North Shore

  • Carnival stages a welcome comeback

    BURY carnival is back with a bang on Sunday (June 6) after a year's absence. The gala, which for more than 30 years had been the highlight of the town's events calendar, will be staged at the Mosses car park in Cecil Street between 11am and 4pm. It is

  • Half-mast tribute to first lady mayor

    FLAGS flew at half-mast over Bury Town Hall this week following the death of Bury's first lady mayor. Mrs Christina Ormrod (82), who had represented Pilkington Park in Whitefield for more than two decades, died peacefully on Saturday after a long illness

  • Battle stations as Railway takes a trip into the past

    VISITORS to Bury and Ramsbottom over the Bank Holiday could be forgiven for thinking they had stepped back to wartime Britain! With the approach of the D-Day anniversary, the sixth annual wartime weekend organised by the East Lancashire Railway took on

  • OK -- We'll go

    "OK. We'll go." Within hours of this simple command being uttered, an armada of sea-faring crafts began to leave English ports with thousands upon thousands of troops, many of them fresh faced boys, aboard. Hundreds of aircraft carrying parachutists or

  • Wartime chat with my brother-in-law

    ALBERT HALL from Countess Lane, Radcliffe, was called up on August 21, 1939, and, following basic training, served with the Royal Artillery, the 50th Northumbrian division and the 53rd Welsh Division. My D-Day began on October 23, 1942, in El-Alamein.

  • Pool: Radcliffe ace goes for world title

    RADCLIFFE pool ace Karl Boyes is ready to mark his 888.Com World 8-Ball Championship debut by collecting a world title. Boyes failed in his bid for individual glory when he lost in the third round to fellow England international Ian Hubbard. But the 20

  • Soccer: Glendon works the transfer market

    THE revolving door is working overtime at Stainton Park as Radcliffe Boro manager Kevin Glendon plots his side's course for promotion next season. Former Sunderland, Burnley and Bury defender Gordon Armstrong has signed from Conference outfit Accrington

  • Cricket: Pasan delivers mighty KO

    ALL-ROUND excellence from Radcliffe professional Pasan Wanansinghe helped the Racecourse side collect maximum points from their weekend double-header. A century and seven-wicket haul from the pro consigned Werneth to defeat on Saturday and local rivals

  • Rovers face fight to sign Norway star

    BLACKBURN are heading for deadlock in their attempts to sign Norwegian starlet Morten Gamst Pedersen. Rovers have yet to make a written bid for the 22-year-old winger because his club, Tromso, have not indicated if they will release him before their season

  • Khan's golden dream still alive despite defeat

    BOXING sensation Amir Khan believes he can still strike Olympic gold despite losing his latest fight to a world champion. The 17-year-old Bury Boxing Club fighter could not have had a tougher test than having to face double Olympic and world champion

  • Pregnant sheep savaged by dogs

    A PREGNANT ewe was savaged by two boxer dogs which had escaped from their owner's Darwen home, a court has heard. Blackburn magistrates were told the blood-stained dogs were found standing over the stricken animal which later had to be destroyed to end

  • Man in row attacked police

    A MAN who tried to butt a police officer during a domestic incident could be facing prison. Lee Tiernan, 31, of Todmorden Road, Bacup, admitted a charge of affray at Rochdale magistrates court and was remanded on conditional bail while pre-sentence reports

  • Climb of their life

    TWO mountain rescuers are to scale the heights - this time to raise money instead of saving lives. Stephen Taylor and Martin Burby, from Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team, are training for the Bob Graham Round, a 74-mile traverse of 42 Lakeland

  • Spring for new site

    A MAJOR new development on the main route into Blackpool will not be completed until next spring, the borough council has admitted. New plans were submitted this week for the Central Corridor Gateway scheme, an attractive landscaped reception area on

  • It don't mean a thing...if it ain't got that Bling

    A BLINGING musical launch saw the wraps come off Blackpool Pleasure Beach's latest addition. The £2million Bling ride, the first of its kind in the world, will swing thrill-seekers in three different directions high above the Pleasure Beach. Those riders

  • Airport sold in £13million deal

    REGULAR flights to Europe could be up and running within months after Blackpool Airport's £13 million takeover. Midlands-based City Hopper hopes to quadruple passenger numbers in less than five years after taking over the Squires Gate site. They have

  • Partner grabbed by throat

    A MAN who grabbed his partner by the throat and threw her to one side told police it was 'only a domestic'. Blackburn magistrates heard the couple's three-year-old child witnessed the incident and was extremely upset. Stephen William Gormon, 27, of Heys

  • Castle statue row radio debate

    A DEBATE over the erection of a statue to honour former Blackburn MP Barbara Castle has been aired on national radio. The Lancashire Evening Telegraph previously revealed that Blackburn with Darwen Council planned to create a memorial to Baroness Castle

  • Six-year-old saves coma drama dad

    A FATHER today praised his six-year-old girl for saving his life by injecting him with insulin after he suffered a severe diabetic attack. Simon Holliday slumped on the floor in his Blackburn home in a semi-coma. But his daughter injected his leg after

  • Tragic Emily's funeral message...

    A TEENAGER who "walked away from death" at least five times has said an emotional farewell to family and friends by choosing the songs for her funeral. Emily Culligan, 19, lost her brave fight against a rare form of bone cancer last week. Hundreds of

  • Bust-up in elections

    TWO election candidates were involved in a street confrontation prompted by an allegation of vote rigging. Police were called to Blackburn's Bastwell ward when the dispute, which allegedly ended in violence, began over postal voting election packs. The

  • Flag-flying wave of national pride

    THE English flag is being flown on the sides of cars, lorries, vans and even tractors and bin wagons and is draping down in front of shops. Some buildings have even been painted with the famous cross in the run-up to football's European Championships.

  • Gazza has to make the 'greatest' team

    ENGLAND'S greatest team will be revealed in a three-hour TV special tomorrow evening. And thanks to computer generated graphics, we'll see legends from five decades play on the same pitch together. Imagine Bobby Charlton and Gazza running the midfield

  • Elections are here

    WE are now in the European election campaign proper. I see that as well as the three main parties lots of smaller groups are also standing. Sadly one of these is calling itself 'Liberal Party' in what looks like a deliberate attempt to create confusion

  • Losing the trust

    IN reply to Mr Croysdill's letter (Citizen May 25). As the Government's spin doctor in the North West, it comes as no surprise that at EU Election times (June 10), he resorts to a tactic of trivia (anti EU message in a bottle) by "shooting the messenger

  • Big three running scared as E-day approaches

    AS the day of reckoning, D Day, the tenth of June approaches the desperation of the three old jaded parties grows more and more apparent. According to an ill-written article in the Daily Mail senior Tory, Labour and Lib Dem, figures (anonymous, of course

  • Search is on for new blood

    FOLLOWING the shock departure of midfielder Michael Keane to Hull City, North End manager Craig Brown insists he knows who he wants to have in his squad by the time pre-season training gets under way in just over a month's time. The Ireland under-21 international

  • Hysterics over bin letters

    I COULDN'T live without it -- it's the highlight of the week and when I read "The Letters' page, well -- tears roll down my cheek! But I have to say that the copy -- dated 21st of May had me rolling in hysterics, yes, the "Waste Bins' won the day! I marvelled

  • Council paper highlights the good news

    I CAN understand council press officer Neil Sterio's disappointment at Councillor Walker's comments (Letters, Bury Times May 28) but, having read the Metro News since it was first published, I am of the opinion that it only portrays the best of what Bury

  • Officer's criticism took me by surprise

    BEING accused of defamation by a council officer is a unique experience in my 30 years as a councillor, following my referral of the civic newspaper Metro News to the Standards Board and District Auditor for its extreme bias. The paper is in direct contravention

  • Down Your Street...

    BISPHAM KILMORY Place Day Centre Over 50s Club (top of Briarwood Drive) is holding a jumble and bric-a-brac sale on Wednesday (June 9) at 6pm. Admission 20p. ST BERNADETTE'S parish hall, All Hallows Road, hosts a gardeners' evening with Myerscough College

  • Judge praises brave PC

    A POLICEMAN who single-handedly disarmed a violent knifeman is in line for a bravery award after his courage was commended by a judge. PC Richard Pendlebury, who lives in Bury, was sprayed in the face with CS gas and threatened with a knife after Paul

  • Big three head for Hilton Park

    LEIGH RMI have arranged three-money spinning pre-season friendlies. The Railwaymen's summer begins with a trip to Kidsgrove Athletic on Thursday, July 15, before local rivals Wigan Athletic make the short journey to Hilton Park on Wednesday, July 21.

  • Pennine Way trek for church

    From the Guide files of Friday, May 18, 1979: EIGHT parishioners of Stand All Saints Church were preparing to walk the Pennine Way to raise money for the church restoration fund. Supporters were asked to purchase draw tickets which enabled them to predict

  • Park players try for record

    From the Guide files of Friday, May 11, 1979: PLAYERS at Sedgley Park Rugby Club succeeded in making the longest try in the world, and were hoping it would officially be recognised in the record books. The 15 men smashed the existing record of 680 miles

  • Soccer players in crash drama

    From the Guide files of Friday, April 27, 1979: MEMBERS of Prestwich Heys were involved in a car crash after their coach was delayed on the motorway. The lads chose to go to the match against Eastwood Hanley by car but two of the vehicles were involved

  • Len's a Jimmy Tarbuck TV star

    From the Guide files of Friday, June 1, 1979: SELF-EMPLOYED chartered accountant Mr Len Fish appeared on the Jimmy Tarbuck quiz show, Winner Takes All. Mr Fish, of Park Road, Prestwich, stood to win £1,000 from the show and the chance to reappear on future

  • Rural settings not sites for speeding

    TOWNS and built up areas have long had speed limits of 30mph to slow traffic down because of the very real risks to pedestrians of all ages. Rows of shops, garages and other businesses as well as schools, offices and pedestrian crossings all mean traffic

  • Snooker: Del gives Paul the full Monty!

    THE final of this year's Bury District Snooker League Scratch Competition, sponsored by president Neville Spivey, was played at Elton Liberal Club. Del Redmond and league chairman Paul Taylor, battled their way through to the final. The first frame was

  • Cycle speedway: Bury duo's international date

    CONGRATULATIONS to two Bury-Pedalsport youngsters, Ben Scranage and Tom Doyle, who will be on international duty for their respective countries, on Saturday at Great Blakenham, Suffolk. After a couple of young England caps, Ben has been picked for the

  • Cricket: Weather hinders Association's early pacesetters

    MOTHER Nature was not very kind to the Leigh Laners of Elton last weekend. Although they managed to finish both of their games, several points went to waste. On Saturday, Elton faced the unenviable trip to Little Hulton, and were greeted with a wet, green

  • Decade of access is celebrated

    A CENTRE which has helped thousands of people into jobs, college, and training courses, celebrated its tenth anniversary this week. Managers at Brookhouse Access point in Whalley Range, Blackburn, joined their Darwen colleagues, who also recently marked

  • Students in voting survey

    FIRST-year students on the HND in Public Services at the East Lancashire Institute of Higher Education at Blackburn College have completed a survey for Blackburn with Darwen Council on voting habits within the borough. The aim of the survey was to gain

  • On the ball

    FOOTBALL came home to Prestwich and Whitefield with the launch of two new ball zones for youngsters. Manchester City and England player Trevor Sinclair went back to his roots to sign autographs for fans at St Mary's Park, Prestwich, while Shakers mascot

  • Merger would cost us dear

    WITH regard to the proposed boundary changes for a county-wide authority, which could include Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool, or Blackburn with Darwen and Hyndburn, or Blackburn with Darwen with Hyndburn with Blackpool with anyone else who fancies

  • Balancing act to challenge for gold in Athens

    PRESTWICH swimmer Adrian Turner's performance in the Olympics hangs in the balance. For the medal hopeful has adopted an unusual balancing trick as part of his training. Adrian (27) will compete in the 200m and 400m individual medley in Greece in August

  • Don't waste valuable votes

    A SUGGESTION to all those people who, for reasons best known to themselves, will not be voting on June 10. If you consider that they are all the same or just cannot be bothered to vote then you are missing an opportunity to make your voice heard. If you

  • Death crash lorry driver named

    A LORRY driver who was killed after her HGV careered off a slip road on the M60 and hit a tree has been named. Wendy Louise Aldred, aged 31, of Hough Lane, Tyldesley, lost control on the northbound carriageway at Junction 5 on Thursday just after 5am.

  • Ted ringer!

    BY GEORGE - it's 100 years since the birth of one of Britain's favourite entertainers of all time, and his glorious career is being celebrated at Blackpool's North Pier. The George Formby exhibition was opened by the legendary funnyman's brother, Ted,

  • Star on the run with the police

    STAR of Coronation Street, Bury-born actress Nikki Sanderson, is to go on the run, with the police. Nikki, who plays hairdresser Candice and is a former pupil of Affetside Primary and Tottington High schools, will join Greater Manchester's Chief Constable

  • Driving to war with my brother

    June 6, 1944, was a memorable date, one that lives with you over the years, said ERIC MASSEY from Fourth Avenue, Fairfield Our company was the 718 Artisan Works, Royal Engineers. I was formerly in the RASC but my elder brother persuaded me to join him

  • The day that we prayed

    MRS JOYCE BERRY of Lomond Drive, Woolfield, Bury, was aged nine at the time of the D-Day landings and her father was among those fighting My vivid memory of that day was when I was nine years old. At the time, my mum and I were living at my grandma's

  • Town Hall voting help for disabled

    PEOPLE with learning disabilities are to get extra help to cast their postal vote in the June 10 elections. Staff from social services and Bury Primary Care Trust will be offering support at Bury Town Hall. Officers say that, traditionally, few people

  • John shapes up for top competition

    A TOP bodybuilder has muscled his way into qualifying for a chance to be crowned British champion. After enduring a 100-day diet of tuna, chicken, potatoes and water, John Hamer lifted the 70 kilos title at the English Federation of Bodybuilders (EFB)

  • Fire crews dispute over

    THE firefighters' pay dispute is over. Crews across the borough and the rest of the country have returned to normal working and will now receive a 3.5 per cent increase, the union says was due in November. The failure by the national employers to pay

  • Hunt goes on to catch ay puppy killers

    POLICE are still hunting the thugs who threw a puppy to its death from a motorway bridge nearly two weeks ago. The Labrador-mongrel had its legs and jaw bound with tape. It survived the 30ft drop onto the southbound carriageway of the M66 at Ramsbottom

  • 'There were few pleasant memories . . .'

    SYD SLATER of Avon Drive, Bury, was a Regimental Sergeant Major with the Royal Engineers. He and his wife, Mary, were married on February 12, 1945 -- eight months after he risked his life on the beaches of Normandy. HERE cannot be many pleasant memories

  • Bust-up in elections

    TWO election candidates were involved in a street confrontation prompted by an allegation of vote rigging. Police were called to Blackburn's Bastwell ward when the dispute, which allegedly ended in violence, began over postal voting election packs. The

  • Quarry mud play warning

    A TEENAGER dramatically rescued from an Accrington quarry has warned other youngsters to 'play safe' to avoid suffering her plight. Kirsty Barras, 13, was with seven friends when the group decided to go for a walk to find new places to play. Their jaunt

  • 6th June -- 19 Forever

    by Graham Bedford from Edenfield. White marble headstones at 'Attention', Row upon row of straightest backs; With telling lines writ on their faces, Revealing only the barest facts. Fearstruck thousands, vomit tainted, hit the water from the landing craft

  • Street robberies cut by a third

    A SIX-month police operation across the borough has helped to reduce street robberies and catch more offenders. Since Operation Rockingham was launched last November, the number of street robberies has reportedly fallen by 33 per cent . A total of 188

  • MP's move over killer fireworks

    A BURY MP has helped light the touchpaper in the campaign to ban shops from selling potentially killer fireworks. David Chaytor is urging his Bury North constituents to write to the Department of Trade and Industry prior to the end of the consultation

  • Teenager sexually assaulted in toilets

    POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a serious sexual assault on an 18-year-old man in toilets at Moor Park, Preston, on Sunday, May 30. At 4.10pm the teenager went into a toilet cubicle in the Garstang Road side of the park and was approached by two

  • Model way to look at city

    A SCALE model of what the multi-million pound Tithebarn development could look like has gone on show at Preston Minster this week. The 1:100 scale model is the final year project of a fine art student from the University of Central Lancashire. Louise

  • Brownies' birthday

    BROWNIES from Prestwich and Whitefield will join other groups from Bury South for a birthday party on Saturday (June 5) Around 250 youngsters will be joining in the celebrations at Giant's Seat, off Ringley Road, Radcliffe, to mark 90 years of the Brownie

  • Detective speaks out as Greenwood freed

    A FORMER detective who investigated the death of Preston law student Janet Murgatroyd has expressed his disappointment with the Court of Appeal's decision to free the man convicted of killing her. Appeal judges in London said it was "impossible" to hold

  • Drop in holiday drink crime

    POLICE in Preston and Leyland have hailed a special operation to curb alcohol related crime over the bank holiday weekend a success. Operation Nightsafe used high profile patrols to target known trouble spots, enforce street drinking bans, and carry out

  • Teenager attacked with glass in throat

    A YOUTH is in hospital after having his throat slashed on Friday night (May 28). The 18-year-old was attacked with a glass outside The Grapes Inn in Bury New Road, Prestwich at about 11.50pm. Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident. Det Sgt

  • Back to the beaches for D-Day veteran

    A WAR veteran is travelling to the Normandy beaches in France this weekend to help commemorate the 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Former rifleman, Percy Leonard, is one of many old soldiers taking a trip to the beaches in northern France where

  • MP warns on post axe

    AN East Lancashire MP has said plans to close a dozen post offices could rip communities apart. Burnley MP Peter Pike issued the warning after the Royal Mail announced plans to shut 12 offices across Burnley and Pendle. Mr Pike said if the proposals are

  • New role for dental expert

    THE President of the British Dental Association is getting his teeth into a new role. Dr Anthony Kravitz has joined Bury Primary Care Trust's professional executive committee. As a co-opted member of the body, Dr Kravitz, who lives in Prestwich, will

  • Children sobbed as their mum was beaten up

    A DRUNKEN man beat up his terrified girlfriend while her three sobbing children were at home, Burnley magistrates heard. The court was told how Camillus Walsh, 36, was said to have met up with victim Justine Davies twice a week for sex sessions. Walsh

  • On the ball

    FOOTBALL came home to Prestwich and Whitefield with the launch of two new ball zones for youngsters. Manchester City and England player Trevor Sinclair went back to his roots to sign autographs for fans at St Mary's Park, Prestwich, while Shakers mascot

  • Food driver's sex bid with girl, 12

    A 36-YEAR-OLD takeaway delivery driver who tried to have sex with a 12-year-old girl is today starting a three-month jail term. Burnley Crown Court heard Shams Uddin, a married man with children and a prominent member of the Bangladeshi community, claimed

  • Police target unruly youths

    COMPLAINTS of youngsters behaving badly have led police to step up patrols in Bare and Torrisholme. PC Guy Hamlett says police have received several reports about youths hanging about, being disorderly, underage drinking and causing criminal damage. One

  • Parking free-for-all

    MOTORISTS in Burnley can continue to park illegally in Burnley town centre after plans for a crackdown were delayed. The parking free-for-all will continue through the summer after plans for decriminalisation were delayed until September when the council

  • Police call time on binge drinkers

    BINGE drinkers were targeted over the bank holiday weekend as the police rang last orders on boozy punters causing violence. More than 60 people were arrested as part of the county-wide police Nightsafe campaign. In Lancaster and Morecambe police patrolled

  • Quarry mud play warning

    A TEENAGER dramatically rescued from an Accrington quarry has warned other youngsters to 'play safe' to avoid suffering her plight. Kirsty Barras, 13, was with seven friends when the group decided to go for a walk to find new places to play. Their jaunt

  • Suzanne takes a hike

    A LANCASTER woman is to hike 6,000 metres up to the summit of an extinct volcano. Suzanne Chorley is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, to raise cash to boost sex education and help poverty-stricken farmers. The 22-year-old, pictured

  • Helpers win Royal approval

    A committed group of volunteers who serve up support to sick people have landed a thank-you from the Queen. St John's Hospice helpers have been chosen for the 2004 Queen's Award for Voluntary Service for maintaining the quality of life of terminally ill

  • Plastic ponies head for Platform

    CLINGING onto childhood memories has spurred a woman on to throw a huge collectors' fair in Morecambe. Victoria Stapleton has a passion for collecting My Little Pony goods - an obsession she has kept a closely guarded secret. But now she is about to hold

  • Send in the clowns

    A BID to get more bobbies on the streets in a crime hotspot has lost out to a project for training circus clowns. Lancashire police wanted extra cash to tackle crime and social exclusion in Morecambe's West End. But the request for a slice of £10m of

  • Shakers 33-1 for title

    THE bookies have wasted no time in announcing prices for the respective divisions next season. Favourites for the Third Division championship - according to Ladbrokes - are losing play-off semi-finalists this year Northampton Town at 9/2. They are followed

  • Newby set for a return

    FORMER Shaker Jon Newby could be set to make a dramatic return to Gigg Lane. The ex-Liverpool striker left the club last summer, the unwilling victim in a cost-cutting exercise. However, twelve months into a two year contract with Huddersfield Town he

  • 'Green' link fir villages

    A TRAFFIC-FREE route to link towns and villages across the north of Pendle could soon be launched. Pendle Council and Lancashire County Council are investigating the creation of a new route for walkers and cyclists to link Earby, Kelbrook, Salterforth

  • Pupils to make videos for MTV

    THE MTV music channel could soon be screening music videos made by Radcliffe schoolchildren. Coney Green High School is one of 30 schools in the country chosen to take part in a new initiative called the BOOM! Music Video Academy, through which children

  • D-DAY: Soldier's tales of liberating Brussels

    AFTER the bloodshed of the Normandy landings, thousands of reinforcements swarmed onto mainland Europe, liberating villages, towns and cities across Europe. In the second part of our D-Day series ANDREW TAYLOR talks to a soldier who was greeted with kisses

  • Council alert over asbestos

    ENVIRONMENTAL health officers from Pendle Council have issued an appeal to businesses to check their procedures for dealing with asbestos. A duty to manage asbestos came into force on May 21 as part of a strategy to eradicate asbestos-related disease.

  • Town in bloom - all for a tenner

    BUSINESS will be blooming in Colne after a decision to offer subsidised planting equipment to encourage traders to help brighten up the town. Pendle Council will be offering hanging baskets with brackets, screws and instructions to 250 businesses for

  • 10 years ago

    A DISPUTED piece of land was on the verge of being converted into live-in allotments for hippy families after a reclusive Eccleshill farmer bequeathed part of his estate to travellers. Lawyers had ruled the bequest would not stand up in court but travellers

  • Man critical after head wounds op

    A MAN was rushed to hospital for life-saving surgery to his head after a suspected attack in Accrington. Police officers questioned a 23-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assault after the injured man, believed to be 34-year-old Paul Dickson, was

  • Quarry mud play warning

    A TEENAGER dramatically rescued from an Accrington quarry has warned other youngsters to 'play safe' to avoid suffering her plight. Kirsty Barras, 13, was with seven friends when the group decided to go for a walk to find new places to play. Their jaunt

  • Company picks up green award

    RADCLIFFE-based A&E Threads has been honoured by the Business Commitment to the Environment (BCE) awards, for its sustainable business programme. The company, which manufactures threads for the trade and consumer markets, has been honoured for its

  • We pay to have our bin cleaned

    WE have our bin cleaned and disinfected every fortnight, for which we pay a nominal charge. Therefore we don't want to acquire another bin from somebody who doesn't bother to have it cleaned. Hence, the colourful number on our bin and box! SUE BARLOW

  • Building boss points the way to skills solution

    A PRESTWICH businessman has played a pivotal role in the publication of a report underlining urgent action to tackle the UK's skills shortage crisis. And Harry Johnston believes he has been instrumental in persuading the Government to adopt a scheme to

  • We spotted the bin difficulties

    COUNCILLORS Vic D'Albert and Roy Walker were understandably upset at the council's decision to resume a weekly collection of grey bins (Guide, May 28). Much of their local election campaign has focused on this issue. Those who engage in political opportunism

  • I will air my views: good or bad

    I ACCEPT that Mrs Boyle (Guide 28 May) works diligently for Prestwich, but I think any resident has a right to express their own opinions. So if I do not like the new water feature at the Longfield Centre; I will say so. I think the "green glass" section

  • New cameras haven't changes a thing

    I READ the article about the 'wonderful' CCTV cameras erected at Skerton Triangle (Citizen, May 20) with some amusement. I'm sorry but I haven't noticed any difference since the cameras went up - and I think you will find that most other residents agree

  • Children's terror at castle 'gunman'

    A MAN fired an imitation handgun in the grounds of Clitheroe Castle and pointed it at terrified schoolchildren as they ran away. One of the boys pushed his friend to the floor and dived to the ground, because he did not know if the weapon was real or

  • Promenade sculpture another bad idea

    THE construction of the sculpture depicting the Lake-land hills has been going on for several months and shows little sign of being completed. For the last three bank holiday weekends, this has presented visitors to Morecambe with a rusty pile which blocks

  • Steer clear of needless change

    YOUR reporter Nadia Jefferson-Brown highlights the crucial fact that one-tier local government will only be introduced if residents vote for an elected regional assembly in the autumn referendum. Indeeed, the Deputy Prime Minister's own official pamphlet

  • 300 enjoy schools competition

    ALMOST 40 teams from 25 schools took part in Lancaster City Council's annual rural primary schools' five-a-side foot-ball competition at Salt Ayre. With more than 300 competitors and spectators descending onto Salt Ayre's pitch, teams were split into

  • Torrisholme take derby day honours

    TORRISHOLME came out on top in the eagerly-awaited local 'derby' with cricketing rivals Bare on Sunday. Only hundreds of yards separate the pitches of the teams who play in the top division of different leagues - and it was Torrisholme who moved into

  • City swimmers miss double

    A YOUNG Lancaster team played well but was unable to add the ASA National Knockout trophy to its league championship in Manchester at the weekend. With several senior players missing - notably Campbell, Bowers, Burgess and Bush - the city swimmers were

  • Rosegrove Bulletin

    PEOPLE who attended the recent Music Hall Night at St Mark's Church had a great time. Father John was on duty on the piano with Tom Bond and Les Girls in full flow, singing and dancing and suitably dressed for the occasion. The church is also hosting

  • Green light to derelict homes clearance

    DERELICT houses in two Burnley streets are to be bulldozed after councillors gave the green light for their demolition. The council's executive approved for the compulsory purchase and clearance of the six houses within the Home Zone Regeneration area

  • New Vue cinema complex

    THE rebranding of a popular Pilsworth cinema complex has taken top billing. Now, Bury cinemagoers can "Vue" the new look at the multiplex which previously operated under the Warner Village banner. Vue Entertainment has taken over the Pilsworth cinema

  • Steve dispels Stoke myths

    STEVE Cotterill has finally moved to dispel the myth he abandoned Stoke for Sunderland. Burnley's new boss created a furore in the Potteries in October 2002 when he quit City after just 13 games to become Howard Wilkinson's number two at Sunderland. Unfortunate

  • Nothing was going to rain on Steve's press parade

    THE claret and blue umbrella turned out to be surplus to requirements. While carrying the object into his first press conference was an inspired way of nailing his colours firmly to the Burnley mast, Steve Cotterill hardly needed protection from any media

  • Cotterill lays out plans

    STEVE Cotterill has warned Burnley fans there will be no quick fix by splashing the cash. The new Clarets chief this morning began the hard task of assembling a squad capable of holding its own an a fiercely competitive First Division next season. Cotterill

  • First lady mayor has died

    FLAGS flew at half-mast over Bury Town Hall this week following the death of Bury's first lady mayor. Mrs Christina Ormrod (82), who had represented Pilkington Park in Whitefield for more than two decades, died peacefully on Saturday (May 29) after a

  • Patient found dead in a hospital cell

    A CONVICTED rapist was found dead in a cell at Prestwich Hospital after he was allegedly involved in a violent struggle with nursing staff. Now a police investigation has been launched into the death of Azrar Ayub who had been detained indefinitely under

  • Building boss points the way to skills solution

    A PRESTWICH businessman has played a pivotal role in the publication of a report underlining urgent action to tackle the UK's skills shortage crisis. And Harry Johnston believes he has been instrumental in persuading the Government to adopt a scheme to

  • Free and easy boost

    FYLDE freemasons gave a financial boost to a host of local charities this week. St Annes Lifeboat Station received £500 towards its Project Water-Pressure appeal which will help ensure that new lifeboat headquarters has enough water pressure to wash its

  • Hello Hello Hello

    VOLUNTEERS are needed to 'help police with their enquiries'. Lancashire Constabulary is looking to recruit new part-time helpers this week - National Volunteers Week. Tasks will include telephoning people to update them on the progress of investigations

  • Rock ready to roll in weeks?

    PLANS for the Rock Triangle could be approved within weeks after they received the nod of Government approval. The news comes as small firms complain they are being "left in limbo" over redevelopment plans for the Rock Triangle. Under a scheme lodged

  • 'It can be devastating for some people'

    VOLUNTEERS are wanted to help victims of crime. With around 180,000 victims and witnesses of crime across Greater Manchester every year, there is a growing need for specially-trained people to provide them with emotional support, information and practical

  • I'll keep watch on the lodges, vows David

    A BUSINESSMAN who had his offer to buy lodges at Lowercroft turned down has vowed to make sure they are maintained by the current owner. Bowland Drive resident David Jennings says he will pay for an expert to regularly check on the condition of the reservoirs

  • Targets for the big guns

    JACK LOMAX, from Stand Lane in Radcliffe, was signalman with the Royal Navy on board HMS Grey Shark. Days before the Normandy Landings, Jack's ship ran the gauntlet along the coast of France while senior officers mapped the locations of the enemy guns

  • A tot of rum after a tough day

    Able Seaman George Stott Able Seaman GEORGE STOTT of Dumers Lane, Radcliffe, was only aged 22 when thousands of men poured from hundreds of ships on to the beaches. ON Sunday, June 5, we moved anchorage to a position just outside Portsmouth Boom. As we

  • Swimming: Quartet shine in the triathlon

    FOUR Radcliffe Swimming Club members have excelled in two different forms of triathlon recently. Laura Thomasson and Bethany Kinsler were competing in the National Triathlon Championships in Wolverhampton. This event involves a swim, a run and an air

  • Cotterill lays out plans

    STEVE Cotterill has warned Burnley fans there will be no quick fix by splashing the cash. The new Clarets chief this morning began the hard task of assembling a squad capable of holding its own an a fiercely competitive First Division next season. Cotterill

  • Anger at voting mix-up

    COUNCIL bosses were unable to explain why a Darwen man was sent proxy postal voting forms two years after his death. Relatives of George Heyes reacted angrily when the forms arrived at his former home in Birch Hall Avenue. So far, council officers have

  • Have say on future shape of housing

    RESIDENTS in Rossendale are being encouraged to put forward their ideas for a shake-up of local housing. Rossendale Borough Council is planning its strategy by carrying out a consultation process. It will consist of fact sheets, presentations and a questionnaire

  • Police pair hurt in road accident

    TWO police officers and two women were taken to hospital when a police LandRover and a van collided in Rossendale last night.. A third car then collided with the police vehicle but was only slightly damaged. Its driver was unhurt. The accident happened

  • Fire rescue girl's award

    A TEENAGER from Rossendale is to be presented with a prestigious national award for a heroic fire rescue in Bacup. Vicky Ticehurst, 16, will receive the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society Award from local police and the Mayor of Rossendale at Rawtenstall

  • Cafe boss Freda hanging up pinny

    THE owner of a Rossendale cafe who has lent a sympathetic ear to residents for almost three decades has served her last cuppa. Freda Clegg, who runs the Koffee Kup, in Waterfoot, is retiring today, and -- to say thank you to her customers -- the 60-year-old

  • Top of the class for adults

    EIGHT learners proved they were the "creme de la creme" when it comes to continuing their education. They all attend day or evening classes in the borough, and were presented with Learner of the Year awards during national Adult Learners Week. The presentations

  • Vicar delivers dumped mail

    A VICAR turned postman when he found 61 letters dumped in a wheelie bin outside his church. The Rev Julian Hartley, of St John's Church, Mosley Common, delivered half the letters himself after a stand-in postman failed to distribute them to the correct

  • Tidy up scheme for rock garden

    BISPHAM'S Rock Gardens could be getting a face-lift the council has told neighbours of the Devonshire Road site. Greenlands ward councillor Kath Benson and Phil Morton of the council's parks department met with residents' group, The Friends of the Rock

  • A real tower of strength

    A RETIRING Lancashire police officer is riding off into the sunset by taking-on a tough Blackpool to Paris cycling challenge in a bid to raise funds for cancer sufferers. Training centre officer, Inspector Wayne Howard will put his best pedal forward

  • Passion killer!

    POLICE are celebrating after a Blackpool swingers club became the latest casualty of the resort's alcohol-related crime-fighting initiative - Nightsafe. More than 1,500 bottles of unlicensed alcohol ranging from beer and alcopops to spirits and champagne

  • Up against it!

    MORE THAN 90 per cent of St Annes residents oppose council plans to sell off part of Ashton Gardens, controversial survey results show this week. Supporters of Ashton Gardens (SOAG) say 93.9 per cent of those who responded to May's referendum said 'no

  • Calls for curb on gun control

    GUN USE at Blackpool Zoo is causing concern after the controversial killing of a fox cub on Friday. Staff at the tourist attraction destroyed a lone cub early on Friday morning. The zoo says it was shot after it was found in the howler monkey enclosure

  • Run with your peers for charity

    IT'S time to get big-hearted and join The Citizen team in raising money for the British Heart Foundation. Once again, we are proud to be backing the charity's annual fund-raising Blackpool 3 Piers Walk, taking place this year on Sunday, September 12.

  • Litter protest over fast food car park

    FAST food customers are creating a litter headache for residents living close to a KFC restaurant in Blackburn, a meeting was told. Managers at the Haslingden Road shop have applied for planning permission to build an extension and extend a car park.

  • Youngsters take to the law

    AS families in Prestwich and Whitefield celebrated the Jewish festival of Shavuot last week, children at local schools were taught about the importance of the occasion. Yungsters at King David Infant School were told the story of when Moses was given

  • Mum drunk with child, 2

    A DRUNKEN 25-year-old Darwen mother was seen staggering home with her two-year-old daughter walking in front pushing a doll's pram. Blackburn magistrates heard that Lisa Faulkner was so drunk she could hardly stand when police officers concerned for the

  • Loser in love finds his number is up

    THOMAS Winters was a loser in love and a lottery loser after damaging a terminal belonging to Camelot. Blackburn magistrates heard the lottery organiser was claiming £3,500 compensation for damage caused to the lottery equipment. And shopkeeper Simon

  • Walking for work

    ENGINEERS from East Lancashire factories are joining a march calling on the government to protect and develop British manufacturing. Union leaders say 3,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost in the North West this year. BAE Systems announced 1,000 losses

  • Blatant act of betrayal by Fylde borough council

    IT looks as if members of Fylde Borough Council have reneged against their promise to the people of St Annes, after the public protest march a few years ago that they would not be selling any part of Ashton Gardens -- our town's park, this is blatant

  • Cricket: Duk down cup dream

    THE ups and downs of cricket were experienced within 24 hours by Prestwich. They maintained their position at the top of the Lancashire County League with a plucky five-wicket victory over Cheetham Hill, but were dumped out of the Walkden Cup by Dukinfield

  • Don't be fooled by bin swing

    LIKE many people, I was amazed at Bury Council's U-turn in deciding to continue the weekly black bin service, but I then had second thoughts. I have canvassed in several wards and they have all complained about the muddle of Bury's new multi-bin system

  • Signs there is an election due

    IT must be close to voting time because I have seen the mechanical roadsweeper around these streets recently. I probably will not see it again until next year: if there is an election then. Also, there has been a scurry of letters from councillors and

  • No pain...

    HAVE tablets and treatments failed to relieve your back pain? Then BackCare invites you to its next meeting at the day centre, South Shore Hospital, on Wednesday, June 9 at 7.30pm. Hands-on healer Brother Roy of the World Healing Crusade will be guest

  • A taste of the Caribbean

    THE SOUNDS of the Caribbean are set to visit the Fylde coast as one of the UK's most celebrated steelpan bands drops into Blackpool's Houndshill Shopping Centre. The Birmingham School of Pan will be presenting a host of "sunshine music" numbers at the

  • Overwhelmed by Bury people

    I LIVE in Bolton and am writing to praise the people of Bury. My mother has just moved into a residential home in Bury, from Cheshire, so neither of us is familiar with your shopping centre. In addition, my mother is registered blind. One recent Saturday