Archive

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Paltry penalty

for a lost life STRUCK off the medical register for three months after the death from an overdose of a teenager for whom he prescribed the heroin substitute, methadone, over the phone, Blackburn GP Dr Francis Kwasi Apaloo can consider himself fortunate

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Russ treble boosts classy Rams

Leek CSOB...2 Ramsbottom Utd...5 RAMSBOTTOM United produced a fitting tribute as they got back into action following the recent death of manager Ken Bridge. Mr Bridge's funeral had been held just over 24 hours earlier and the Rams no doubt had Ken in

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No kidding, it's tough being second

Just Jamie, a weekly look life by Jamie Diffley AIRING the business of your nearest and dearest in public was never going to be easy and I knew I would be skating on thin ice chronicling the lives of those closest to me. But the chastising I expected

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Holdstock aims for home rule

DALE Holdstock has more reason than most to look forward to Swinton's game at Hull KR on Sunday. Holdstock is set to start his first game since joining Swinton on loan from St Helens in the second row against his hometown club. Hull KR is also the club

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Kelly eyes double firsts

MIKE KELLY has his eyes on a win double after Ramsbottom United's latest success. Ramsbottom United's caretaker-manager takes his side to St Helens Town tomorrow, then will be preparing them for a home game against Fleetwood Freeport on Tuesday night

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Boro new boys plug gaps

Winsford United 1 Radcliffe Borough 2 A DEBUT goal from Liam Croxton and a second half Lee Kissock penalty gave Boro a well-deserved victory. Both Croxton and Boro's other debutant, Gus Wilson, put in fine performances, which suggests they will prove

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Sedgley shape up for a showdown

SEDGLEY Park Rugby Club is geared up for a huge game this Saturday as league leaders, Stourbridge, visit Park Lane. Last Saturday's match against Tynedale was the victim of the foot and mouth scare, but the one game that was played in the league could

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Super Smith has a Hey day

Finnair Manchester League Premier Division Prestwich Heys...1 Elton Fold...2 ELTON FOLD took the honours in this tough local derby with a disciplined, hard-working performance that earned them their first away league win of the season. The three points

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Boro's Vaux pop

THE mini-revival that has taken Radcliffe Borough clear of the UniBond League Division One relegation zone will be put to the test tomorrow (Sat March 10) when high-flying Vauxhall come calling at Stainton Park (kick-off 3pm). Boro will be champing at

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Life in the Lions

Swinton Lions 18 Dewsbury Rams 20 TWO Paul Smith tries weren't enough to give Swinton a much-needed league victory, but the Lions performance did put a spring back in the step of coach Mike Gregory, writes Steve Bott For Swinton battled away in an entertaining

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Car criminal jailed

A THIEF told a car owner he had witnessed a break-in on her vehicle. But while the woman went to report the incident Daniel Fletcher, who had committed the break-in, ran away. And Blackburn magistrates heard that when police called to arrest him he again

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Keep the royal title for hospital

ROYAL Blackburn British Queen Hospital -- that's the new name I suggest for Queen's Park Hospital. It includes three little letters that are an old, but fleeting reminder of Blackburn Royal Infirmary, never to be forgotten, for its hospitality -- being

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Parking: any ideas councillor?

HOW on earth can Councillor Paul Browne state that trade would suffer in Darwen if proposals are brought forward to stop people parking all day on the Market and Foundry Street car parks? (LET, March 2). Last Friday I tried to park on these car parks

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Why do asylum seekers come?

IN response to Mrs L Cook (Letters, February 12), who declared that we are 'swamped' with asylum seekers "basically because we are seen as a soft touch," where has she got her information as to why people come to the UK to claim asylum? The Government

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Sculptures an insult to the cotton 'slaves'

IAGREE with Councillor Peter Greenwood's condemnation of the 'cotton plant' sculptures proposed for Church Street, Blackburn, on account of them "honouring slavery and greed." What knowledge have the council leader and his regeneration spokesman Councillor

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Oxygen for man in hay fire

A MAN was given oxygen on the M66 at Bury. The 30-year-old man was driving on the slip road at Junction 2 near Heap Bridge on Friday (March 2) when hay in the rear of his pick-up caught fire. He was given oxygen by firemen. He declined hospital treatment

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Call for windfall tax

MP David Chaytor is calling for a windfall tax on the "obscene" profits made by oil companies. He says that the money raised should be spent on giving tax incentives to drivers who switch to cleaner fuels, and on more research into renewable fuels. Mr

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Rush-hour accident halts traffic

RUSH-HOUR traffic was brought to a standstill following a minor road accident on Thursday (March 8). One motorist had to be cut free from his car and taken to North Manchester General Hospital for treatment. A second driver also required hospital treatment

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Inquest opens on rugby player

AN inquest was opened on Friday (March 2) into the death of a Bury-born French rugby league star. Relatives of Nicholas Nuttall, who was born in the borough 31 years ago, gave evidence of identification during the brief hearing. Mr Nuttall's body was

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Rescue team awarded PC for web use

BOLTON Mountain Rescue Team has gone on-line. The team, which provides search and rescue cover in the Bury area, has been awarded an Internet-ready PC and one-year access to the Internet by British Telecom Community Connections, a UK-wide scheme helping

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Dancing for joy

THE dance school which helped launch the career of Popstars winner Suzanne Shaw is celebrating its year of glittering triumphs with a name change. Pupils at the Parklands Dance School in Bury, which has changed its name from Freelance, have enjoyed a

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Charity dream

A CHARITY dream has become a reality for Radcliffe man Ian Siddall. During the past 12 years he has made 25 mercy missions to Romania in his trusty van, taking aid to the needy. And on Saturday (March 10) he will open a shop in Church Street West which

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Man rescued from chip pan blaze

A RADCLIFFE man was rescued from his smoke-logged flat after he attempted to extinguish a burning chip pan. Mr David Brennan was overcome by fumes and collapsed in the kitchen. He was pulled clear by firefighters who gave the 47-year-old oxygen before

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Phase One is already in use

A BUILDING to grace the new millennium is taking shape for members of Radcliffe's Bridge Methodist Church. Phase One of the ambitious renovation programme for the Milltown Street building has now been completed. Improvements and adaptations totalling

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New services for the disabled are unveiled

PARENTS of disabled children were invited to discover a range of new services on Tuesday (March 6). A new Re:d centre is being built in east Bury and will offer short breaks, youth projects and educational help for youngsters with physical or learning

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Hundreds pay tribute to football man Ken

AROUND 450 mourners packed into St Peter's Church in Bury on Friday (March 2) to pay their respects to popular football manager Ken Bridge. Sporting figureheads from across the borough attended the service, in addition to players, officials and supporters

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I feel justice has finally been done

IN Gillian Edmondson's eyes, justice has finally been done. Ever since her son's death on Friday March 21 1997, she has fought to find answers to the questions she had about the tragedy in Preston New Road, Blackburn. In November 1998, she watched as

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Rachel chooses dad rather than sunshine isle

A RADCLIFFE topless beauty spurned the chance to get married on a Jamaican beach . . . so she could walk down the aisle with her dad. Page Three stunner Rachel Travers cancelled plans for a £2,500 wedding in Montego Bay after her dad Mel said he couldn't

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TV viewers to thank for Marvin's money

FAILED businessman Marvin Baker has got his life back on track after winning the support of thousands of TV viewers. The Prestwich entrepreneur, who lost everything when his publishing company collapsed, charmed his way to a jackpot of £15,000 in the

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Holiday bin blues banished

SWEEPING changes should banish Bank Holiday bin blues for thousands of residents. Town hall bosses are scrapping the collection of domestic waste on Mondays following repeated complaints. Many people whose bin day is Monday were unhappy that their bins

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Town hall considers rescue bid for Shakers

TOWN hall bosses are looking at a rescue plan to throw beleaguered Bury FC a financial lifeline. They are considering joining a community trust which might allow them to plough funds into the cash-strapped club. Council leader Derek Boden says he is seriously

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BLACKBURN ROVERS RES 1 MANCHESTER CITY RES 1

Richards England call up MARC Richards celebrated his call-up to the England Under 18 squad with a goal for Blackburn Rovers reserves against Manchester City. Richards has been named in the England squad for the first leg of the U18 European Championship

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Central bus situation is a joke

I AGREE with most of the letters regarding the town centre. The bus station is a joke. The buses that unload and load at the rear of T J Hughes can very rarely stop at their allocated stop and just pull into the first space available. The pedestrian area

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Who pays for EEC projects?

I AM not surprised at the complexities regarding staying in the EEC or else opting out. The subsidies for propping up certain members of the EEC leave much to be desired. Southern Ireland for instance. For every pound they contribute they receive eight

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We are the champions

MY husband and I had taken a much-needed holiday in Gran Canaria but we made the mistake of phoning a friend at home in St Helens only to be told that Saints had been drawn against arch rivals Wigan in the Rugby League Challenge Cup. It put us off our

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Would you believe it?

I WROTE to the Star about a year ago telling you of the problem we have with dog muck around our local area. I could not play football on the local field because it was so bad. Thanks to yourselves and the council something was done in the form of bins

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Schools deserved their praise

THE letter headed 'Well done to all the rest' (Dear Star, Feruary 22) fills me with concern. The writer begins by praising the work of teachers and schools who have not had the public praise recently given to some schools in the report of the Chief Examiner

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Fire crews rescue 3 from pub blaze

THREE people were rescued after being trapped upstairs by a fire at a town centre pub early today. Ladders were put up to the windows by firefighters who rescued landlord Harry Crusick, Philip Wrench and Karen Hannah from the Park View pub, opposite Turf

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Disabled

shopper parking spaces petition DISABLED shoppers are hopeful of a change of heart by Burnley council to allow them more parking spaces near the town centre. A major improvement scheme now under way in Lower St James' Street would have meant that only

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Nursery gains full marks in Ofsted report

A NURSERY called Little Acorns is sowing seeds leading to its children making good progress in their learning, schools' inspectors found. The nursery had been run in Burnley College since 1991 in a purpose-built nursery with children of full-time students

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Theatre cuts give town the blues

BURNLEY Mechanics was the very symbol of Burnley's civic pride -- a £3million arts and entertainment centre which won international acclaim as the home of the town's once-renowned National Blues Festival. Now, as part of massive council cuts, it is set

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MP rocked by quake during visit

MY recent visit to Pakistan was quite unlike any of my previous visits abroad as an MP, and such visits are important if we are to know and understand the world in which we live. It would be no secret to say that the timing was not of my favourite choice

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Lead water pipes: MP gets answer

GORDON Prentice is backing a new drive to rip out lead pipes leading to and in East Lancashire homes. He has raised the Lancashire County Council campaign on the health threat with Environment Minister Bob Ainsworth. In 1999 a survey in the North West

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Mother sets up healing sessions for kids

A NELSON mother-of-three who set up a healing and therapy business seven months ago has decided to branch out by forming a children's healing session. Shanaz Akhtar, 37, of Manchester Road, opened the One Stop Health and Beauty Clinic in Accrington last

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Saints add newcomers to squad

SAINTS have signed Australian forward Heath Cruckshank from Sheffield Eagles and stand-off Radney Bowker from Leigh Centurions. The former has joined until the end of the season, with the latter on a month's loan. Cruckshank was at Leigh last season and

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Portico power on at top

Folly Lane 6 Portico Panthers 44 THE Panthers retained the leadership of the North West Counties League Premier Division with this comfortable victory over struggling Folly Lane. It didn't take the visitors long to get on the scoresheet with Mike Hobin

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Great advertisement for Rugby League

Bradford Bulls 31 Saints 24 SIMPLY magnificent in defeat and worthy of at least a draw! That was the galling lot of Saints in this clash of the titans when Super League VI was launched in the Valley Parade cauldron on Sunday. Postponed due to snow on

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Chemists on weekend dispensing duty

THE following duty chemists will be available for dispensing services on Sunday, March 11, between noon and 1pm (unless stated otherwise): Longster's Pharmacy, 578 Warrington Road, Rainhill; Taylor's Chemist, 191 West End Road, Haydock (10am to 8pm);

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Magpies flying

CHORLEY: Ken Wright's side travel to Ashton United looking to maintain their fine recent form in the UnBond First Division. The Magpies have lost just two of their last 14 league fixtures and are in the semi finals of the Chairman's Cup after last weekend's

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Red hot Russ

RAMSBOTTOM are hoping they don't suffer a backlash from a St Helens side who have fallen from grace in recent weeks. Rammy travel to Knowsley Road for the first time to take on a side who have slipped to fifth place in NWCL Division One. And Ramsbottom

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Future's rosy for firm with twenty new jobs

THE future of a Barnoldswick business threatened with closure at the end of last year is looking rosy following the creation of 20 new jobs. Albert Hartley Textiles, at Crow Nest Mill, has been taken over by its biggest customer R. Soper Ltd and it is

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Billy's on the ball

MEMORIES of soccer glory days at Vista Park were revived by publication (January 25) of a photograph of the legendary Earlestown FC team of the early 1950s. Now, ex-player Billy Hughes, featured in that picture will doubtless stoke up further happy recollections

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Victim 'poorly'

A MAN left fighting for his life after being attacked on a night out remained in a high dependency unit at the Royal Preston Hospital today. Thomas Gibson, of Accrington, was described as 'poorly but stable' today. He was found semi-conscious on a street

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Cyclist improving after crash

A YOUNG cyclist injured in a collision with a bus is getting better. A spokesman for the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital said eight-year-old Alexander Tolley, of Manchester Road, Accrington, was "improving." The accident happened eight days ago as

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Police call time on underage drinkers

POLICE in Great Harwood are cracking down on underage drinking in a bid to curb anti-social behaviour. The initiative has been launched to try to cut the number of incidents of drink related nuisance in the area. There have been a number of recent complaints

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Centurions help to fight crime

SWAP two Tim Streets for one Neil Turley; or a Simon Svabic for an Adam Bristow. From this week Leigh Centurions RL fans will be able to do just that! The Centurions have teamed up with Leigh police to launch a series of 24 rugby cards. The cards feature

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Adventure pals set to turn turtle

TWO friends will enjoy a tropical beach adventure with a difference this year - helping to save endangered leatherback turtles. Nichola Lynch and Kate Lo will spend two months combing the beaches of Costa Rica during night-time patrols searching for turtle

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Planning applications to go before the council

LATEST local planning applications submitted to Wigan Council include: 48 Bradshawgate, Leigh -- reposition of existing shop front forward; Alpla, Bridge Street, Golborne -- build two silos adjacent to existing silos; 124/126 Market Street, Atherton -

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Proud Acc's successful answer to the Dome

ACCRINGTON was rolling out the red carpet and doff its collective cap to the Princess Royal today. The Princess is visiting Accrington this afternoon to officially open the New Era community centre. It was Lancashire's answer to the Millennium Dome --

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Former soldier wins pension after 30 years

A FORMER army medic has won his 30 year fight to be awarded a war pension. And he believes his victory could pave the way for veterans of World War Two, the Gulf War and other conflicts to fight for pensions. Leonard Griffiths, 55, from Higher Fold, Leigh

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Renovated dream house to be demolished if owner loses appeal

COAL MERCHANT Paul Rogers faces a nail-biting wait to find out whether he can live in his mossland dream home or be forced to knock it down. "If I lose my appeal I've been told I will have to demolish the farmhouse within a month or the authorities will

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Flats charges battle rages on

RESIDENTS in Astley angry about "unfair" charges levied on their property could help to change the law of property leasehold for tens of thousands of people. The 88 residents of Abbey Road and Tintern Avenue have been fighting a six year battle with their

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Jail 'an option' for man with history of violent offending

POLICE parked across from Key Street, in Clitheroe, saw Michael Gavin Joseph Bisping 'charge' from the pub and then punch another male 'extremely' hard. Blackburn magistrates heard that the force of the single blow knocked the other man off his feet and

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Volunteer year

THIS year is the United Nations International Year of Volunteers (IYV 2001) -- an opportunity for Journal readers to get involved in a global movement. There are loads of ways readers can get involved in IYV 2001 from wearing the IYV 2001 volunteer ribbon

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Do we really want to be in the Super League?

ON and off field, Leigh Centurions' aim is Super League. Call me a heretic, but after the intimidation and aggression from Warrington in the Challenge Cup, Paul Terzis's comments on those tactics and the disgraceful scenes at Wigan on March 2, I ask should

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lADAM Rickitt, best known as Nick Tilsley in Corrie, is flashing his six pack again in the daytime s

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Aye spy

AN Essex council is hiding tiny cameras in cans on unofficial rubbish dumps to catch illegal tippers. The plan is aimed at builders who don't pay to use proper sites and fly tip in the countryside. Now those kind of sneaky spy cameras I AM in favour of

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Overcoming hurdles

lON the evening before his appearance on Countdown one of last week's contestants dreamed he got the nine letter word relations -- and didn't know whether to put that forward or the anagram orientals. And it actually came up! Eery how things like that

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Moore plans Moor raids

ROTHERHAM United boss Ronnie Moore may be ready to raid Turf Moor again to bolster his side's promotion hopes. Former Clarets striker Alan Lee has formed a potent striking partnership with Mark Robins to fire the Millers into second place in Division

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Would-be MP joins precinct saga

MORE police officers are needed to put an end to vandalism at Holcombe Brook Shopping Precinct claims Coun John Walsh, Conservative prospective Parliamentary candidate for Bury North. His call follows a survey undertaken by himself at the precinct in

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Battle to stop £1.4m homes plan

A CAMPAIGN to stop Summerseat's popular Waterside Inn from closing to make way for a controversial £1.4 million housing development intensified this week after developers submitted new plans. Villagers are drawing up new battle plans to fight the proposals

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Undoing seatbelt saved my life

A PASSENGER told how he cheated death when he was thrown through the sunroof of a skidding car as it smashed into a lamp post in Bury. Andrew Hunt (27) believes undoing his seatbelt just seconds before the impact saved his life. As reported in last Friday's

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Open verdict in ay inquest

A WIFE was found cradling her dead husband on the M60 at Whitefield after her attempts to "teach him a lesson" during a drive home ended in catastrophe. Terry Mangan, who had a daughter from a previous relationship, fell from the bonnet of his car when

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Budget storm as taxes rocket

YOU'RE living on borrowed time, and here comes the General Election! That was the stark message from Bury's Tory councillors after town hall bosses officially handed residents an inflation-busting seven per cent hike in council tax. Labour's budget was

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I was right to fear cancer

A FORMER Radcliffe pub landlord claims that his long-running campaign to link high voltage power cables and childhood cancers has been vindicated by new findings. For the past seven years Mr William Singleton (57), of Warwick Road, Radcliffe, who packed

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Robbie's toilet tirade

BURY FC chairman Terry Robinson has slammed a minority of Shakers fans who are costing the club money. After some so-called supporters damaged the toilets at Millwall's New Den ground earlier in the seaon Lions fans did the same at Gigg Lane in what is

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Newby hoping fort a long stay

JON Newby has revealed that he would like to stay at Bury permanently. Whether that is financially viable is another question but it shows how much the Liverpool loan striker has fallen in love with the club and the fans. Newby, who struck a last minute

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Save our Shakers diary dates

A SAVE Our Shakers Golf Day is being held at Walmersley Golf Club on Thursday May 10. Teams of four are invited to take part at a cost of £200 plus VAT per team. Food will be provided and there will also be a presentation evening after the vent with a

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Duff out of Gunners clash

DAMIEN Duff was today ruled out of Rovers' FA Cup showdown with Arsenal at Highbury. The Republic of Ireland international damaged his shoulder when he was sent tumbling in the box during the second half of Wednesday night's Cup triumph over Bolton. And

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Good news for workers

THERE was good news for Rolls-Royce workers at Barnoldswick, with the announcement that airline Cathay Pacific is to lease three additional Airbus Industrie A340-600 aircraft. Barnoldswick manufactures fan blades and other components for the Trent 500

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Helping hand for women

A programme to give women a helping hand in the workplace is to be launched in Blackburn later this month. The Springboard Women's Development Programme is run by Judy Hinds, who believes the iniative will help empower them to take more direction in their

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Budget helpline to assist small firms

EAST Lancashire accountants Mayes Business Partnership have launched a Budget 2001 Helpline to help businesses keep on top with new measures introduced by the Chancellor. And according to partner David Mayes, Gordon Brown's budget should inject up to

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We need a dogs' home

A TWIN plea has gone out to St Helens Council to open a dogs home in a bid to solve the mounting problem of stray dogs in the town. The Lost and Found Pets Register and Rutland House Veterinary Hospital believe that the current dog warden service is simply

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Fearless Bury to sink Pirates?

TAKE the day off. That's the reward Bury boss Andy Preece gave to his eleven heroes after the magnificent midweek win against league leaders Millwall. Preece ordered his squad to spend Wednesday and Thursday relaxing at home to rest their weary legs and

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Life so precious for Michelle

A BRAVE mum has overcome all the odds to beat cancer -- after being told by doctors her chances of survival were minimal. Michelle Hampson-Hague, from Abinger Road in Garswood, was diagnosed as having secondary cancer of the liver last April and specialists

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Parr High could be facing closure

A SCHOOL which last year was revealed as having the worst truancy record in the country could be facing closure in 2002. As the Star went to press, St Helens Council was debating the future of Parr High School. Members of the council's Executive Committee

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Hunt on after bus robbery

POLICE are hunting a man who robbed a bus driver at knife-point. The victim, who does not want to be named, was driving the number 346 bus along Bolton Road, Darwen, at about 11pm on Wednesday, when he stopped the bus to let a male passenger on board.

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Charity concert

A CHARITY concert featuring guitarist/vocalist Johnny Gold has been arranged to start at 8pm on Friday, March 23 at St Paul's Labour Club, Westleigh by the local branch of the Cats Protection Leasgue. Admission is £1 on the door, or reserve yours on 01942

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Clean-up launched to rid streets of litter

THE streets of Darwen are to be cleaner than every before after a clean-up campaign was launched by council bosses. Litter-ravaged streets in the Sunnyhurst area are to be tidied up eight times a year instead of four as part of the massive operation being

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Wounding charge

A 33-year-old Lowton man will appear at Bolton Crown Court next Tuesday facing Section 18 charges of wounding and theft following an incident in which a security guard was injured at Sainsbury's Leigh store. Bryan Hughes of Pond Street, Lowton was remanded

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MP in glass crisis talks

MP DAVE WATTS held last-ditch crisis talks on Tuesday with the administrators of Ravenhead Glass to see if a buyer can be found to rescue the threatened glass site. On Monday, workers at the 159-year old glass maker were devastated to hear that production

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We're coming in out of the cold!

YOUNGSTERS are looking forward to a new look school after a £500,000 cash boost from education bosses. Infants at Sudell Primary School in Ellison Fold Terrace, Darwen, have been promised an end to cold walks across the yard after plans were given the

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Neighbours seek peril road action

NEIGHBOURS along a narrow village road are trying to put the brakes on speeding drivers who are putting lives at peril. Drivers and motorcylists regularly roar down Mossborough Road in Rainford at the speeds in excess of 50mph on their way to either Rainford

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Jay born at top speed!

A PROUD Hindley Green mum can show off her baby . . . born in the maternity vroom! Melanie Gallagher, 29, gave birth to 5lb Jay in hubby Geoff's BMW as they dashed to Billinge Hospital. The couple set off from their home on the 12-mile trip to the maternity

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Journal is thanked by cops after break-ins

POLICE have thanked the Journal for helping in an awareness campaign to combat a spate of burglaries. Officers in Leigh were concerned about the number of opportunist thefts from homes with windows left open and doors unlocked. They have now reported

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'No cuts' budget agreed

COUNCIL Tax in St Helens is to go up by 5.75 per cent after the local authority agreed what it described as a "no cuts budget which safeguards vital services". But in what she describes as a difficult budget, Council Leader Marie Rimmer said that lack

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Roof climbers warned by police

POLICE have been horrified at the number of youngsters risking their lives by climbing on roofs in Leigh. Officers say there have been a spate of calls from people concerned about children on derelict mills and other derelict buildings and scaffolding

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Store's cash helps hospice clean up after yob attack

HOSPICE bosses were all smiles after being given a generous donation to repair damage from a yob attack in Hindley. The staff had been sickened when they discovered the wreckage at Wigan and Leigh Hospice on Kildare Street three weeks ago. But thanks

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£250,000 youth project launched

A £250,000 project to help young people in Atherton find jobs and training was launched today. A new enterprise centre built as an extension to the community centre on Dorset Road in Hag Fold was today due to be opened by Wigan Council leader Lord Smith

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Motorist purge nets 16 arrests

A CRACKDOWN on motorists prompted by a hit and run accident involving a nine-year-old boy from Leigh has netted 16 arrests and 28 summons. Traffic cops stopped more than 100 cars during the spot checks which lasted two weeks at the end of February. The

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Ladies say thanks for saving our lives

TWO elderly ladies from Atherton had the chance to tell firemen: "Thank you very much for saving our lives." The pensioners from Woodlands House Residential Home were rescued from their beds after fire broke out in their bedrooms in the early hours of

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'Man of steel sparks bomb alert!

AN ASTLEY man sparked a terrorist alert in northern Spain when security guards thought he had a bomb strapped to him. John Bourke had security guards pointing 9mm automatic guns at him when he set off alarms in a bank. Bank staff in the city of Bilbao

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Bernadette tells of success as No Smoking Day nears

PHOTOGRAPHER Bernadette Briers was a total nicotine addict for 14 years. Sadly during that time she had two early miscarriages -- which she blames on her smoking habit. So when she became pregnant for a third time last year she decided that this time

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Drivers left in the cold

SNEAK thieves have been stealing cars in the Leigh area while owners are out . . . defrosting them. The cars were taken when owners left the engine running to clear the windscreens. The latest thefts come as police warn that a gang of car thieves has

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Drunk duo angered by no taxis

ANDREW McCarron, 32, of London Road, Blackburn, and Scott Adrian Dagg, 18, of Pritchard Street, Blackburn, were each given a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered to pay £55 costs by Blackburn magistrates after pleading guilty to being drunk

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Mother in court for third time in a year

PERSISTENT shoplifter Lorraine Pennington was given a final chance by magistrates when she appeared in court for the third time this year. Blackburn magistrates heard that she was already subject to probation orders imposed for the same offence and she

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Father Jim called to give his advice

A PRIEST devoted to helping drug addicts has been consulted by a government body about his work. Father Jim McCartney, who runs Blackburn's THOMAS organisation, joined other delegates from religious organisations for a conference on dealing with ex-offenders

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Bridge life savers earn police award

THREE Lancashire police officers have been given a Chief Constable's Commendation for saving the life of a man who was threatening to jump from a motorway bridge. The 32-year-old Blackburn man, who is married with children, called police on his mobile

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American vets join fight to stop foot and mouth

AMERICAN vets have been flown in to help fight the outbreak of foot and mouth in Lancashire, it was revealed today. The move came as government vets awaited results which could confirm two new cases -- at unnamed sites in Withnell and Great Harwood. Five

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'Lack of evidence' delayed charges

BOSSES at the Crown Prosecution Service have blamed lack of evidence for the delay in charging three people with the murder of horse dealer Leslie Jackson. Leslie Jackson, 69, was found battered to death at his home in Sussex Drive, Audley, Blackburn

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Plenty to play for at Stanley

JOHN Coleman insists there is still plenty to play for in the league although Stanley are now concentrating on building for next season. The Crown Ground boss has his sights set on the new campaign but he wants his side to finish as high as they can in

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Hodgson

struggles to 12th in Spain NEIL Hodgson was given a Spanish inquisition as the chase for the World Superbike crown kick-started in Valencia today. The Burnley rider continued where he left off at the final official test of the season by struggling at

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Blues rock Town

CHEADLE 1 CLITHEROE 4 CLITHEROE put together one of their best away displays of the season to grab three priceless points . . . and all of it after going a goal behind. Watched by the management team from Taunton, their opponents in the semi-final of

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Hodgson chasing World champion Edwards

NEIL Hodgson will be keeping his eye on World Superbike champion Colin Edwards as the American begins the defence of his title in Spain this weekend as the 2001 season fires into action at the 2.95-mile Valencia circuit. Burnley's Hodgson, on his GSE

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Prescot take league points

Lucas 8 Prescot RU 15 Prescot earned two valuable league points following this close encounter with a plucky Lucas side. After an early Lucas penalty, the visitors took advantage of slack tackling when centre Chris Leigh broke through to score their first

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Close call for Park

Tyldesley 29 West Park 32 LEADING 19 points to nil after just 15 minutes, holders West Park must have felt that passage into the Lancs Trophy quarter final was a formality. But Tyldesley clearly had other ideas and in the end only a penalty by youngster

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Help to stop unwanted pets

I WOULD like to make people aware of a local charity called PUP (Prevent Unwanted Pets). The charity provides help for people on low incomes to cover the cost of neutering cats and dogs. This reduces cruelty towards unwanted pets, many of which now find

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Don't pay them for interviews

ALL praise to Peter Mandelson for reportedly donating £10,000 to the Daily Mail's campaign to bring the Omagh bombers to justice. However, the former Northern Ireland Secretary is a public servant and, as such, has a duty to explain to the public, clearly

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Clamps made Metrolink parkers take more care

WE would like to respond to Matt Drinkwater's letter headlined "Forget clamping, get some security" (Bury Times, Feb 16). In early December, the car park at Radcliffe was newly marked in line with current design standards for car parks. There were several

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Get real, it's time to join

IN reply to T. R. Miles (Feb 20), I would point out that I did say that 25 per cent inflation in the 1970s was due to the trebling of oil prices, which caused workers' wages to be doubled. After the NCB took over, miners were always highly paid for dirty

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Stop wasting our money

HAVING wasted £500,000 on a ludicrous town centre traffic scheme which benefits nobody, and paying for a silly mail shot asking if we want a directly-elected mayor, it's hardly surprising that this year's council taxes and rents are rising three times

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Court TV isn't fair

TV cameras will be allowed into courts in England and Wales for the first time. Major appeals will be screened first, and the experiment may eventually be extended to crown courts. I don't agree with it. It's bad enough for defendants stating their case

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Car boots are back

lTHREE cheers for the car boot season which is starting up again this week. Both sellers and buyers will be keeping their fingers crossed that we have a drier spring and summer than last year when almost every Sunday was a washout. It was most depressing

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Witness appeal after robbery

POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a robbery at Bargain Booze, Lugsmore Lane, Thatto Heath at 7.50pm on Tuesday, February 27. A man threatened staff with a baseball bat before escaping with a quantity of cash. Contact DC Mal Van Schaik on 0151 777

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Saints help tackle drugs fight

SAINTS' Super League match away to London Broncos, at The Valley in Charlton, on March 24 will take on an added significance. The Broncos will be teaming up with Crimestoppers to promote the drug prevention campaign SNAP which aims to raise awareness

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Singing parsley?

PLANTS can sing according to biochemist Linda Lang who has released a CD featuring the unique sounds of parsley, mustard and white clover. Must rush out and buy it. It came about while she was examining the molecular structure of a herb and found they

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Police hunt for flasher

POLICE are appealing for witnesses to an indecent exposure which took place at 7.20pm on Thursday, March 1, in Grange Park Road, St Helens. An 18-year-old woman was walking along Grange Park Road when she was approached by a man who exposed himself and

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Del and Rodney are welcome back to our screens

HURRAH! Del Boy and Rodney are filming another three part Only Fools and Horses for Christmas. Believe it or not it's five years since the fantastic duo screened the show in which they became millionaires at last -- and which was watched by an audience

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Goldie's looking her age . . . and SO WHAT?

THE ever youthful Goldie Hawn was spread all over the Sunday papers, if you'll pardon the expression. A picture of her leaving the Brit awards revealed a fat, flabby thigh after a night on the town. How dare she? The fickle finger of fat has hit the Laugh

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Lifeline for Chernobyl kids

A FUND-raising evening in aid of the Chernobyl Children Lifeline will be held at Burtonwood Catholic Club on Saturday, March 10. Terry Lennaine of Radio City and Magic 1548, Liverpool will host his Roadshow and there will also be pop trivia quiz with

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Do your best to keep foot and mouth under control

I DIDN'T think I would be hit so directly by the disastrous outbreak of foot and mouth disease on only the second day. Apart from the emptying meat counters in my supermarket, I set off for my usual walk along the canal bank -- to find prohibition notices

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Saints get marriage blessing

DEVOTED Saints fans can now tie the knot at Knowsley Road after the club was granted a licence to host marriage ceremonies. And race-goers will be equally delighted to learn that they can now combine their wedding day with a trip to the races, following

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Warning issued over burglaries

POLICE are urging people to be on their guard following a spate of burglaries. The first incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, March 3, when a set of car keys were taken from a house in Derwent Close, Rainhill, and used to steal a Vauxhall

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Warm welcome for dancers

MEMBERS of the English National Ballet were given a warm welcome to St Helens when they presented workshops at nine local schools. The theme of the workshops was the ballet, 'Giselle' which the company, currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, has

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Meteors earn scorching grant

A LOCAL group of disabled sports stars are celebrating after hearing they have been awarded £6,000. Meteors Wheelchair Basketball Club have received the grant as part of the Sportsmatch Scheme. A delighted Peter Jackson, Chairman of Meteors said," This

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See you at the forum

THE next meetings of the local Area Forums will focus on the three options for a new look Council as part of the Government's modernisation of local government. They will be held on Wednesday, March 14 at 7pm at the following locations: Area 1 - Newton

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Stage door opens for youngsters

SCHOOLCHILDREN in St Helens will have the opportunity to work with professionals in the arts. They have been chosen to pilot a creative partnership scheme, which aims to give them exciting opportunities to experience the arts and creativity at first hand

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Museum clocks up timely salute!

PRESCOT Museum has just 'clocked up' the coveted Charter Mark status for excellence in public service. Renowned for its unique collection of clocks and watches, it houses a permanent display in an upstairs gallery complete with reconstructions of watchmakers

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Great night for senior citizens

MORE than 300 senior citizens enjoyed a wonderful night at the Lowton Civic Hall as guests of the Rotary Club of Newton-le-Willows. The idea first came to fruition some years ago when the club wanted to benefit the community who had supported the Rotary

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Michelle's fund-raising honoured

OUR charity champ Michelle Lewis is on top of the world after receiving the Paul Harris Fellow award for outstanding work in the community. Michelle has raised an incredible £1.2 million by taking part in sponsored wheelchair events, car boots, abseiling

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It's only natural!

THATTO Heath Meadows has became the town's fourth nature reserve after being officially opened by the mayor, Councillor Pat Robinson. The Meadows, off Sutton Heath Road, is a small river valley that has remained undeveloped. It represented a remnant of

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Entente cordiale...

PAUL Terzis and Grant Doorey have been putting their heads together this week to try and plot the downfall of Warrington in the Challenge Cup on Sunday. Leigh boss Terzis and Doorey, the player/coach of French giant-killers Villeneuve and the Centurions

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College takes safety award

ST HELENS College has received a prestigious award for the second year running in recognition of their efforts during last year's European Week for Health and Safety. St Helens College was among 20 North West recipients of the Health and Safety Executive

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Exercise classes for over-60s

THE over-60s in Parr are being encouraged to take part in new weekly exercise classes. Music to movement sessions, which have already taken off in hospitals, nursing homes, sheltered housing and special needs clubs across the country, have now been introduced

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Bowker joins Saints

LEIGH Centurions' reserve stand-off Radney Bowker has joined his old boss Ian Millward at St Helens. Bowker, 21, has only made one substitute appearance for Leigh's senior side this season after being a regular for the previous two years. Now he has again

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May date set for Trans-Pennine Final

THE on-off Trans-Pennine Cup final between Leigh Centurions and Keighley Cougars is back on. The showdown between two of the major NFP Grand Final contenders will now go ahead at Cougar Park on Wednesday, May 16 with a 7.30pm kick off. The game was originally

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Super-charged Leigh sting weak Wasps

York Wasps 12 Leigh Centurions 84 THE Leigh Centurions Northern Ford Premiership juggernaut just keeps rolling along writes Mike Hulme Last night's 14-try demolition of York puts them on track to become one of the few clubs in the game's history to pass

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Toddler's 'op wait agony'

AN UPSET mother says her toddler son is in agony after waiting almost a year for a delicate operation. Marie Buckley, of Winston Avenue, Parr, says she has been told that 19-month-old Joshua may have to wait up to another seven months for his circumcision

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Preece's Lion tamers

Bury 2 Millwall 1 IT "turned out nice again" for Andy Preece's Shakers on Tuesday evening - perfectly fitting for the 40th anniversary of George Formby's death. But not even the celluloid antics of the buck-toothed Lancashire comic could hold a candle

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This week in 1976 25 years ago

WAR TOYS: A grenade and a mortar bomb from the First World War were discovered in an empty council house at Whitefield. The explosives were later proven to be harmless and were probably used for drill purposes in the war. EXTRA TIME: Technical hitches

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Today's the day

1796: Napoleon took Josephine for his lawful wedded wife. Engrossed in plans for his Italian campaign, he had forgotten his nuptials completely, turned up two hours later and had to wake the registrar. Both bride and bridegroom gave their ages as 28,

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Fire boss blasts 'mindless' caravan arsonists

FIRE crews today slammed the arsonists who set fire to a caravan containing gas canisters. As crews from Blackburn Fire Station threw up an exclusion zone around the blazing caravan, in Bonsall Street, Mill Hill, the fire spread a neighbouring garage,

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Samaritans call for volunteers

THE Samaritans exist to provide emotional support for local people who are passing through a crisis, may feel suicidal and feel that they have no one else to turn to who can help them. We have a constant need for new volunteers to replace those who leave

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It's a fair way to rock the night away

ROCK on! That's Bury funfair which has been pulling in revellers to The Rock. The popular event, which finishes tomorrow (Sat March 10) comprises a host of popular rides and sideshows. And Bury's mayor and mayoress, Bill and Joyce Johnson, joined in the

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Farmer could face prosecution

A RADCLIFFE farmer could become one of the first in the country to be prosecuted after breaking foot and mouth regulations. Mr Andrew Stott, who runs Coney Green Farm with his father Albert, was interviewed on Saturday afternoon (March 3) after two separate

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Hot on the charity trail

A TEAM of eight Bury firemen are planning a 300-mile charity mission in France, but leaving behind their usual transport. Lads from the Green Watch at Bury Fire Station will be getting on their bikes and pedalling from St Malo to Bury's twin town of Angouleme

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Centre is step closer

A COMMUNITY centre could soon be established in Tottington. Plans are being drawn up to renovate two derelict rooms in the village library. The news has been welcomed by villagers who have staged a long-running campaign for the centre. Mr Mike Ormerod

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Search is on for WW1 Lancs Fusilier

AN amateur Belgian archaeologist is appealing to Bury Times readers to trace a First World War survivor. Aurel Sercu is trying to find Edgar Coleman, who served with the 2nd Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers Regiment during the Great War, or any of

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At the cutting edge!

AN OLYMPIC fencing ace from Hungary is thrusting ahead with plans to make the sport popular in Bury. When Robert Kiss retired from the sport after competing in Barcelona in 1992 and Atlanta four years later, he decided to look for a new challenge. He

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Wolves antics vindicate Leigh boss

WHEN Paul Terzis openly questioned Warrington's tactics after their Challenge Cup defeat at Wilderspool two weeks ago, many observers felt they were listening to a sore loser. Now, in the wake of the disgraceful scenes at the JJB Stadium last Friday,

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Fight for a forgotten community

PEOPLE power will spearhead a fight to improve what has been described as a "forgotten" community in Bury. Now, the New Mosses Tenants' and Residents' Association has drawn up a "hit list" of problems it aims to tackle head-on. The association was formed

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No fear says Eyal

MIDFIELD maestro Eyal Berkovic today said Rovers have nothing to fear as they prepare for an FA Cup showdown with Arsenal. The little Israeli inspired Rovers to their fifth round replay victory over Bolton in midweek. And he believes his new team-mates

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BIG MONEY MAN

Sylvain Wiltford: Arsenal broke their transfer record in the summer to sign French international striker Wiltford from Bordeaux for £13 million. The 26-year-old, whose last-gasp goal against Italy helped France to Euro 2000 glory, has scored 11 times

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Restaurant plan no laughing matter

I READ the letter from 'Disgusted Eccleston' with some disbelief. How can anyone make such flippant remarks about such a serious issue as the proposed siting of a McDonalds Restaraunt on Rainford Road, Windle? The correspondent adds nothing positive to

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Freddie warns Rovers

ARSENAL wide-boy Freddie Ljungberg believes Sylvain Wiltord could turn out to be the ace up Arsene Wenger's sleeve as the Gunners prepare for an FA Cup quarter final showdown with Rovers tomorrow. The former Bordeaux striker has taken time to settle in

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What a caring bunch

YOU hear so many bad things these days, but not Friday, February 23. In Church Street I took a tumble. No sooner had I hit the pavement than I heard voices. There must have been about six people came to my aid. I remember a young mother with a pram came

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Duff out of Gunners clash

DAMIEN Duff was today ruled out of Rovers' FA Cup showdown with Arsenal at Highbury. The Republic of Ireland international damaged his shoulder when he was sent tumbling in the box during the second half of Wednesday night's Cup triumph over Bolton. And

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Hignett's FA Cup memories

MIDWEEK goal-hero Craig Hignett knows all about the magic of the FA Cup after reaching the final with Middlesbrough four seasons ago. But the midfield schemer's thirst for further cup glory still remains unquenchable and he is desperate to add another

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Ever heard of the Good Samaritan?

SO all beggars become millionaires! Because two people give £2 in two seconds are we to assume that everyone that particular beggar asks gives money? Gosh! I never realised we, the people who have always given. We never return? Come on, you have judged

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Sensitive support for our youngsters

RECENTLY, a reader raised concerns about the availability of emergency contraception in schools. May I assure the reader that school nurses in St Helens do NOT prescribe emergency contraception and there are currently no plans for them to do so. However

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Blaze hero Lee rescues mum

POWERHOUSE Lee Anders has been hailed a hero after bulldozing through his front door to rescue his sleeping mother and sister from a blaze at their home. The burly 19-year-old prop forward with Parr Hare and Hounds Rugby League squad was at his friend's

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Drive for more specials

GORDON Prentice wants a new drive to reverse the fall in Lancashire's number of special constables. Since September 1997 the force has lost 138 of the part-time coppers. Now the Pendle MP is pressing Home Secretary Jack Straw and his Junior Minister Charles

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Finch out of form

Leigh Harriers 21 Haresfinch 8 FINCH'S good form of late was just a distant memory as they crashed to this first-ever defeat at the hands of Leigh Harriers. After a fairly even first half, Harriers led 12-8 at the break, the visitors' points coming from

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Bold edge home in grandstand finish

Bold Miners 14 St Judes 13 THE Wiganers started strongly and only good defence, with full-back Ste Dumphy and scrum-half Mark Saunders promiment, restricted them to a penalty goal. Bold hit back though with strong running by Chris Burgess and Damien Spiers

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Missed chances cost Hounds

Parr Hare & Hounds 14 Bamber Bridge 20 HOUNDS were left to rue a string of missed chances and some sloppy defence as they let slip a game which they could and should have won. After conceding an early try, the home side dominated the remainder of

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Bulldogs end long losing streak

Milford Marlins 23 Blackbrook Bulldogs 26 THE Bulldogs bounced back from an early 10-point deficit to snatch victory with two late tries and end an 11-match losing streak. Milford made an impressive start, centre Chris Smith going between the posts for

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Must do better!

Haydock 38 Widnes St Maries 30 DESPITE taking the spoils, coach Kevin Thompson was far from pleased with Haydock's performance as their usually solid defence leaked 30 points. St Maries started strongly and took the lead with a converted try after 13

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Heath bring Hawks down to earth

Thatto Heath Crusaders 56 Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks 10 LEAGUE leaders Crusaders powered back from an early two-point deficit to see off the third-placed Hawks with a 10-try display. A Jon Nicholls penalty after only two minutes gave the visitors a

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Blues double

CLITHEROE: The Blues travel to struggling Leek CSOB with two things on their mind. One is to clinch the win to keep up their NWCL Division One title bid and the other is to have clean bill of health before next week's FA Vase semi-final first leg in Taunton

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Trophy tonic

BACUP: Brent Peters has made the NWCL Second Division Trophy his main priority this season. Bacup travel to Warrington Town tomorrow for a tough quarter-final clash knowing that they are three wins away from winning some silverware. Peters said: "We still

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100-year-old trees hacked

TWO 100-year-old ash trees in Colne have been severely damaged despite one resident asking for them to have Tree Preservation Orders placed on them more than two years ago. Dr Caroline Palmer, of Woolpack, said she had spoken to Pendle Borough Council

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Bridging an 84-year gap

THOMAS Finney has bridged two world wars and sealed an 84-year gap. For the pensioner of Princess Avenue, Windlehurst, has acquired first world war medals awarded posthumously to the heroic father he never knew. Thomas was just a babe in arms back in

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Fanny the no-nonsense knocker-up

WAS the inimitable Fanny Goldthorpe the last knocker-up in town? Well, according to a Parr reader known as 'Kirky', she was certainly a strong candidate, having rapped the early-morning window panes right up to the early 1980s. Kirky (full identity supplied

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Spooky echoes of Penlake House

THE ghost of Penlake House is given a spooky airing by a pensioner reader who claims first-hand knowledge of two hair-raising incidents which happened while she was living there. Miss Edith Carter, now 90 but still blessed with a pin-sharp mind, also

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Alf was one of life's champs

ALF Tyrer was a highly-popular individual who gained respect and admiration for both his engineering expertise and the outstanding athletics prowess which earned him international recognition. Always fitness-conscious, the one-time cross-country and marathon

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Letter campaign saved my sanity

GREAT Harwood man Peter Fell was this week dramatically cleared of a double murder after spending 17 years behind bars. Throughout his time in prison he wrote to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, always protesting his innocence. Reporter DAVID HIGGERSON

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Vote for us say by-election hopefuls

LOCAL voters will be going to the polling booths next month in Atherton where a by-election has been called to fill the Wigan Council vacancy following the death of Cllr Joe Clarke. It promises to be an intriguing battle with Labour's favourite Mark Aldred

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Residents worried after developer unveils Atherton plans

DEVELOPMENT notices slapped on lamp-posts sparked a scare among residents in Atherton. They feared that drug addicts and paedophiles could have been housed at the proposed scheme. Shock waves ran through the "tree estate" after the revelation of housing

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Councillors' concerns at traffic calming measures

HEAD-ON smashes could result from moves to slow down motorists on what was once one of the borough's most dangerous roads, claims a councillor. Cllr John Lea fears that boy racers and joy riders could cause a tragedy following traffic calming alterations

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'Visiting councillors would not get off bus' claim

PLANNING councillors have been accused of not bothering to step off a bus to look at the site of a controversial new shopping centre and community hall for Lowton -- because it was raining. Objectors who gathered a 1,700 name petition and sent 108 letters

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Action man Brian is back!

ACTION man Brian Jarvis is back on duty but he intends staying well clear of Westminster. This week, interviewed at his Leigh home, Cllr Jarvis -- who six weeks ago looked odds-on to become Leigh's next MP -- revealed how he never really wanted the job

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Dangerous?

THE chevrons on the roundabout at Atherleigh Way are too near the kerb and will cut someone in two one day. They should have a rounded edge for safety. It's the same at Sandy Lane, Lowton and all over the country. They are most dangerous and should be

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SOME hospital nurses are apparently finding out what it's like to be old by filling their shoes with

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£550 billion contracts there to be won

LOCAL businesses found out how to win public sector contracts worth a staggering £550 billion per year at a seminar in Bury on Thursday (March 8). Gareth Jones, former Head of Procurement at DETR (Department of Environment, Transport and Regions) advised

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Service awards for loyal Pennine duo

TWO Bury-based radio engineers are certainly on the right wavelength when it comes to loyal service. And the duo have received awards in recognition of their 20 years' service with the town's Pennine Telecom. Anil Taylor (45) is a senior systems engineer

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Link offers free advice

WORK with us! That's the clarion call issued to captains of industry in Bury. The invitation comes courtesy of the new Business Link Network for the Greater Manchester North area of Bolton and Bury, Oldham, Rochdale and Wigan. They want the area's professional

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Colleges get a new supremo

A FORMER Bury College executive has been appointed the first director of the Association of Colleges (AoC) North West. Tony Watmough will be at the helm of the association which represents more than 60 further education, tertiary, sixth form and specialist

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What a wonderful World

A LEADING computer company will create 500 new jobs at its state-of-the-art £13 million Bury base, officially opened on Wednesday (March 7). The jobs boost, which will see the workforce of PC World Business increase to 1,000, will take place during the

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No to Tesco

EMOTIONS ran high as residents turned out in force to voice their opinions about Tesco's proposals to extend the store in Prestwich. More than 200 people packed in to the Longfield Suite on Tuesday night (March 6) to take part in the public meeting organised

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Search for father's war grave ends in India

A RADCLIFFE man has finally found peace of mind after an emotional quest lasting nearly 60 years was solved with the help of the Internet. Mr Tom Veasey, of Winchester Drive, has at last been able to locate and visit the Indian grave of his father who

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Number one man opens new college building

IT was only fitting that the most expensive educational building ever built in Bury should be opened by the country's number one in education. The Rt. Hon. David Blunkett, Secretary of State for Education and Employment, performed the official naming

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Scots boss Brown backs Shakers

SCOTLAND boss Craig Brown was the guest speaker when Bury FC held their Save Our Shakers fund-raising dinner at Old Trafford's Manchester Suite on Monday evening. The Bury Times-sponsored event is expected to raise more than £20,000 for the club and attracted

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Hanley's trophy haul

RAMSBOTTOM'S Ben Hanley has just added another top trophy to his collection -- the Champion British Kart Driver Rankings title for 2000. His achievement was honoured by top British touring car driver, Matt Neal, who presented Ben with his award during

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Shakers fans plan Oldham stroll

MORE than 60 people have put their names down for the Save Our Shakers sponsored walk to Oldham Athletic on Saturday, March 31. Organiser Anita Watson has been delighted with the response from fans and there's still time for you to pick up a sponsor form

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Bull boost for the Jaguars

DO you play hockey? Would you like the chance to represent your town? How about representing Lancashire? Or North West England? Bury Jaguars Junior Hockey Club are going from strength to strength with another player being selected to represent Lancashire

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Bad break for Wilson

Stand Athletic 8 Willows 0 STAND'S growing army of spectators were served up another goal feast at Ewood Bridge last Saturday as they blasted eight past a bewildered Willows side. But despite this excellent performance, the match will be remembered for

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Moore plans Moor raids

ROTHERHAM United boss Ronnie Moore may be ready to raid Turf Moor again to bolster his side's promotion hopes. Former Clarets striker Alan Lee has formed a potent striking partnership with Mark Robins to fire the Millers into second place in Division

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Classic kit car makes grade in Madrid

THE spirit of Jaguar is alive and well at Rishton classic car specialists Autotune, with Spain the latest target for its export drive. An 'Aristocat,' a replica of the famous XK marque, will shortly be attracting attention on the streets of Madrid, where

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Advanced drivers hit the jackpot

THE community of St Helens is about to benefit from a £4,000 grant, thanks to the National Lottery Awards For All Scheme. St Helens Advanced Motorists have won the award and will use it to improve road safety in St Helens by offering low cost Advanced

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All action health zone!

MERSEYSIDE Health Action Zone has received a glowing report from Government inspectors. Following a visit by officials from the NHS, the Government Office North West and the Social Services Inspectorate, Merseyside was named as one of only three 'examplar

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Age proof cards snapped up

PUPILS at St Cuthbert's RC High School became the first on Merseyside to snap up their Proof of Age cards as a scheme to stamp out the 'uderage' sale of some restricted products moved up a gear. Launched at Saints in November, St Helens Council's Age

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In memory of Tricia

A CHARITY event in the memory of a popular Astley horse rider who died from liver cancer is set to raise thousands. The life of Tricia Head, 40, of Bodmin Road, will be remembered at a memorial social at Leigh Rugby Leigh Club on Saturday, April 14. Tricia

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Teen burglar left fingerprints on CDs

A TEENAGER who burgled a Darwen home had to face the music when his fingerprints were traced on compact discs. William McClung left behind the tell-tale clue during his raid on the Entwistle Street property. The householder was having a bath at the time

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Farmers praise public in fight

AS the persistent threat of the foot and mouth crisis hangs over the country, farmers in the St Helens area are asking for the public's continued co-operation to control the disease. They have also praised the people of St Helens for what they say has

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Slimmed down mum's delight

A ONCE over-weight mother-of-three has counted so many calories she can now fit into her daughter's jeans. June Hunter, 36, of Brighton Terrace, Darwen, has lost more than five stone and gone down four dress sizes after 12 months of strict dieting and

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Police warn of hoax 999 calls

CHILDREN are continuing to put people's lives at risk by hoax calls from telephone boxes in the Leigh area, police say. Officers fear genuine 999 calls will not being answered while fire, ambulance and police respond to fake calls which have been reported

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House blaze victim back home

A HINDLEY mother pulled unconscious from her blazing home after a 999 operator traced an emergency call to her mobile phone is back home. Deborah Smith, 26, a mum of two, was in intensive care at Wigan Infirmary after a blaze started in her living room

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Forestry scheme grows and grows

EXCITING forestry plans aimed at turning industrial eyesores in to a community woodland paradise have stepped up. A rough land site at Bickershaw is being developed in to a haven by The Forestry Commission who have leased the Barlows Farm site from the

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Heather takes the plunge in name of comedy

MADCAP Heather Tither will take the plunge for Red Nose Day -- into a bath of green 'sludge'. Golborne Asda's events co-ordinator, 29-year-old Heather will spend six hours luxuriating in the contents of 10 cases of mushy peas. The mother-of-three is being

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Let's hope that these wishes are delivered

THE COMMUNITY of Hag Fold has come together to lead the way for the rest of Wigan. Long overshadowed by a bad reputation, the decent people on the Atherton estate are fighting back. They know what they want from their own community. They know what will

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Ashi's countdown to the Games

WITH only 500 days to go Ashi Arora is aiming to make Manchester's Commonwealth Games a winner. Ashi who is deputy president of the Manchester Junior Chamber of Commerce, is planning ahead for what will be her duties as president during the showcase event

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Why ex-horse hater Kelly's riding high!

AN ATHERTON schoolgirl who could not stand the sight of horse muck has scooped two top prizes in her first show. Kelly Lamb, aged nine, of Car Bank Street, would not even go near horses 12 months ago. Her horse mad mum Joanne had hoped to get her daughter

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Diamond day for Bob and Sally

WAR hero Bob Bryson and his wife Sally celebrate their diamond wedding day next Thursday. The couple, who met parading the streets of Tyldesley, married by special licence at the town's Parish Church -- only months before Desert Rat Bob left for war service

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Pupils bake up a good idea and sample a pizza the action!

PUPILS have cooked up a pizza business action with a top local bakery. Manufacturing students from Shevington High School will now see their prize-winning pie go on sale to the public through Waterfield's chain of 33 shops. The youngsters invented the

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Search for a bridesmaid!

A FORMER Mosley Common couple who celebrated their golden wedding on Saturday are now searching for one of their bridesmaids. Jehovah's Witnesses Clifford and Kathleen Broadhurst, who now live in Westgate, Morecambe, want to find their bridesmaid Mildred

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Church vision comes alive!

IN 1996 the congregation at a Golborne Church had a vision for the future. They decided that Heath Street Methodist Church needed a £90,000 facelift if it was to meet the needs of the new Millennium. And now that dream has come true. The church, which

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New classroom in a home from home

MAYOR of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Jack Bury, visited a new facility which will bring the home into the classroom in a bid to help struggling children. The Sunshine Room at St Andrews C of E primary school in Scotland Bank Terrace has been designed

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Learning is flippin' good fun for kids

CHILDREN at a Blackburn primary school donned masks and snorkels for a visit from their new partners. Roman Road Primary School has teamed up with school friend Apeks diving equipment manufacturers to teach the children more about the business world.

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MP's son in student protest

HERE is Blackburn Labour MP Jack Straw's son William, joining forces with Liberal Democrat spokesman Evan Harris. He is protesting over the imposition of tuition fees and the abolition of student grants imposed by the government his father is a senior

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I feel justice has finally been done

IN Gillian Edmondson's eyes, justice has finally been done. Ever since her son's death on Friday March 21 1997, she has fought to find answers to the questions she had about the tragedy in Preston New Road, Blackburn. In November 1998, she watched as

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Lister looks to experience

JOHN Lister has added experience to youth as Colne continue to look to climb away from the foot of NWCL DivisionTwo. The Holt House boss has recently signed midfield pair Keith Gilbert and Aidy Moran, both 34, and they look likely to make their debuts

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Duo have

changed Shakers fortunes BURY visit Bristol Rovers on the back of an unbeaten run which as seen them notch up five wins from their last seven games. And Rovers, challenging for promotion last season, have incredibly won only one game at home all season

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Church in hunt for new professional

CHURCH are hoping to name a new professional withthin the next couple of weeks after losing the services of new South African star Justin Kemp. The all-rounder had agreed to replace Mike Watkinson as paid man at Blackburn Road this season but after receiving

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Dale's triple whammy

ROSSENDALE United's promotion hopes could be hit by a triple whammy. The high-flying Dark Lane side are suffering from a fixture pile-up due to the petrol crisis and weather -- and now possibly the foot and mouth outbreak. Dale, now up to fifth place

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Former gaffer tips Nelson for glory

NELSON have their best ever chance of winning promotion from NWCL Division Two according to stalwart striker Nigel Coates. And he should know because he was manager for four years! And the current squad at Victoria Park is the strongest he has seen in

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Age no concern

to ace Horsfield By STEVE TINNISWOOD VETERAN striker Martin Horsfield believes the squad rotation system has come in 10 years too late! The 38-year-old Great Harwood hitman would more than welcome the chance to rest his weary limbs from time to time.

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St Helens McDonald's JOL round-up

RESULTS Under 16s: St Annes 2 Knowsley South 1, Rainford Rngrs 1 Rainhill Utd 8, Bleak Hill 1 Penlake Jnrs 8. Under 12s: Knowsley South 4 Blackbrook Jnrs 0. FIXTURES Sunday, March 11 Under 16s: Whiston Juniors v Bleak Hill Rovers, Knowsley South v Rainhill

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Ruskin stay cool in torrid clash

De La Salle (Salford) 17 Ruskin Park 15 RUSKIN visited previously unbeaten De La Salle with unavailability and late cry-offs resulting in numerous positional changes for what turned out to be a torrid 'friendly'. The visitors' defensive qualities were

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Cables bounce back with win

Curzon Ashton 0 Prescot Cables 2 PRESCOT bounced from a midweek defeat at Skelmersdale to get back on track with this hard-earned success. The first half of a game played on a pitch that was part glue-pot and part ice rink, produced little in the way

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Rainhill Junior League round-up

RESULTS Sunday, March 4 Under 15s: Basildon 0 Whiston Juniors 3, Blackleyhurst 1 St Annes Rovers 9, Bleak Hill Rovers 5 Lane Ends Athletic 1, Knowsley South 1 Rainford Rangers 2, Seneley and Garswood 9 Denton Athletic 2. Under 13s: Haydock Juniors 0 Bleak

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Chris turns tables on clubmates

ST HELENS Sutton AC members took part in the major event of the domestic cross-country season when they travelled to Durham for the National Championships. Considering the recent weather, the course was pleasantly firm but the day was bitterly cold and

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Town take a late tumble

Newcastle Town 1 St Helens Town 0 TWO incidents in the closing five minutes of this rather sterile affair sealed Town's fate and condemned them to their first away league defeat of the season. The game was heading for a goalless draw when St Helens almost

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St Helens Combination round-up

FOLLOWING a Liverpool County FA ruling that the Combination under 18 side should travel to play their CFA Inter League semi-final on their opponents ground, West Derby JFL, after the initial fixture at Ruskin Drive was called off, the St Helens outfit

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Taxes should be going down

WITH all the computers and other modern technology, our council tax bills should be going down, not up. After all, businesses, who do not have a monopoly like the council, need to manage with fewer office staff to stay competitive. Could someone at the

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Don't criticise them, join them

IT is quite apparent that "Frustrated First-time Voter" (Your Letters, Feb 23) is merely trying to seek excuses not to go out and vote. Cheap jibes at local councillors only emphasises this. It is immature and arrogant to presume that these men know nothing

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Keep quiet about militants

ROBIN Cook has said that the Conservatives are "running scared" on the EU and that Tory Eurosceptics are the "Militant Tendency" of their party. With 80 per cent of the public opposed to the Single Currency, and wide public distrust of the European Union

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CCTV won't help me

I WAS somewhat surprised that my little letter (Feb 8) provoked Ch. Supt. Hollowood into feeling the need to respond. Unfortunately he totally missed the point. Of course, as a victim I did confine my criticism to the police because, at the end of the

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Shame on those who ignore warnings

ON Friday, March 2, I returned home from work to find that Bury Council had closed the unadopted section of Ainsworth Hall Road in Ainsworth to try to stop foot and mouth disease reaching our area. I am in full agreement with this and thought the council

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Dotty doggies

lI WAS really embarrassed when I answered a call to the Dental Examination Board on Wednesday. The form I had to take with me had been snatched by my post hating Westie who got to it first and tore it somewhat. I stuck it together as best I could and

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A wee bit silly

lA WOMAN has suggested that dog owners should carry a plank with them for their pets to wee on -- because their urine is killing trees. For goodness sake what next? What are owners supposed to do run after their pet and slip the wood in place as the dog