Archive
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A round-up of what's on
LOOKING for a complete change after Christmas? Then join a candlelit tour of Lancaster Castle on Friday, January 18, at 7.30pm. Places are limited and should be booked on 01524 64998. WRAP up warm for a guided ghostly evening tour of Hoghton Tower, near
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Execs swap suits for stage
EVERYONE loves a good ol' traditional pantomime and council officers from South Ribble Borough Council are ready to perform a real rags to riches tale! Council officers -- including the South Ribble's chief exec' -- are preparing to swap their suits for
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Staining stunner
PUPILS at Staining CE school used their art skills to win sports gear in a special competition. Youngsters from reception age to Year Six at the Staining Road school entered pictures of their favourite sports activity into United Co-op's Sports for Schools
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Awards for Ann
A FYLDE teacher has been honoured for her long service to a Lytham school. Ann Nowell, joint head of King Edward VII and Queen Mary School, joined the junior school in September, 1981, and she received special awards for 20 years' service at ceremonies
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Michael is so well versed
FORGET Pop Idol -- Poetry Idol is the next big thing! Year Seven English pupils at St Mary's High School, Blackpool, held the competition as part of their poetry study. And Michael Houghton was voted class 7Y1's Poetry Idol 2001 -- after heated debate
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Just Jamie: Too old to party, too young to learn!
I'M not one for doing resolutions -- my long standing resolution was always I don't do resolutions -- but things are slowly changing. I'm knocking on in years (29 this year) and perhaps it's time to start looking at the way I conduct myself. I'm not talking
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Willcock back in the fold
RAMSBOTTOM UNITED will again have Chris Willcock in their squad for Saturday's home game against Flixton. Striker Willcock has returned to the Riverside on loan from Rossendale United, who snapped him up in the summer. Another player who moved to Dark
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Tip top Tommy keeps Stand in it
Leek CSOB 1 Stand Athletic 2 STAND had to battle hard to collect three points at Harrison Park last Saturday against an inspired Leek side. Thankfully, Latics keeper Tommy Allen was on top of his form and made a string of saves of the highest order. It
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All for nothing
Newbury...9pts Sedgley Park...7pts SEDGLEY will wonder for many a long day how they managed to lose this one. The pack dominated the scrums, possession was plentiful, territorial advantage almost total - but all the team had to show for 80 minutes effort
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Smart work as Heys chop down Willows
Willows 1 Prestwich Heys 6 AIR MILES Manchester League Premier Division LEE SMART made a dramatic return to action for Prestwich Heys last Saturday, scoring four times in a comprehensive win over Willows at Salteye Park, writes Steve Howard. After a six-week
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Today's the day
1863: Four-wheeled roller skates were patented by James Plimpton in New York. 1885: The first successful surgical removal of an appendix was performed in Iowa, USA. 1887: Thomas Stevens became the first man to cycle around the world. 1929: Australian
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Hunchback comes to Oswaldtwistle
ST Mary's Pantomime Group has chosen an unusual production for its next offering. The group is presenting The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre from Thursday, January 17, to Saturday, January 19, at 7.30pm.
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Youth theatre group
YOUNG people in the Darwen area are being invited to join QFX -- Darwen Library Theatre's youth group. The venture offers them the opportunity to experience the magic of theatre and they can take part in a series of exciting and dynamic drama-based activities
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Cinders joins the Addams Family
A TRADITIONAL tale of true love -- with a twist -- is on the cards for Greenbrook Methodist Church's production of Cinderella next week. The show, at the church hall in Greenbrook Road, Lowerhouse, Burnley, opens on Tuesday and runs until next Saturday
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When will the elderly learn?
WHEN are the elderly going to cotton on that every report of old people being robbed of their life savings in their homes just attracts the criminals? The place for large sums of money is in the bank. Each report sends out the message 'come and rob me
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Sett point made on paving work
REGARDING your article about the sett paving in Church Street, Blackburn (LET, December 4), I would like to correct your statement that George Cox & Sons Ltd were awarded the contract from Blackburn with Darwen Council. Tarmac Ltd are the main contractors
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Scope to help us improve
AS the new year gets under way, Scope enters an exciting era in its development as it approaches its 50th anniversary. Over the last 50 years, Scope has achieved much to improve the lives of people with cerebral palsy, but recognises that there is still
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Deal will not help tackle poverty
I WAS concerned to hear of the BAe Systems deal to supply a state-of-the-art military air traffic control system to the impoverished African country of Tanzania at a cost of £28 million. Tanzania has only eight military jets. Even taking into account
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Lovely weather, pity about the tower
WHAT wonderful weather we have had between Christmas and New Year. People from far and wide as well as locals have taken advantage of it by walking the magnificent snow-covered Darwen Moors -- only to find the main attraction , the Tower, still closed
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Toast sparks alarm
A HOUSE was heavily smoke-logged after bread became wedged inside a toaster. Smoke from the burning toast spread throughout the property in Wash Lane, Bury, on Thursday night (Dec 27). A fire crew helped ventilate the house. No-one was injured.
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Woman robbed in street
A 71-year-old woman was robbed in broad daylight on Thursday. (Dec 27). The woman was in Heaton Fold, Bury, at 11am when a car pulled up alongside her and a man jumped out of the passenger seat. He grabbed the pensioner's handbag, containing £98 worth
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Goodwill and good food!
THE spirit of goodwill was alive and well over the festive period thanks to local organisations such as Bury-based Making Space. The support group for people who suffer severe mental illness provided a traditional Christmas day lunch for those who would
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Guardians go online
THE Peak and Northern Footpaths Society, the guardian of footpaths and bridleways in Bury, has launched a new website and e-mail address. The society, which has footpaths inspectors throughout the region, works closely with the local authority and landowners
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MP welcomes police reform
RADICAL plans to reform the police have been welcomed by Bury MP David Chaytor. The Government's White Paper proposes extending policing to community support officers and organisations such as street wardens. These officers would work with the police
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Schools receive cash for security
SCHOOLS in the borough will receive a chunk of £10 million in Government funding to help reduce attacks, trespassing, vandalism, theft and arson. The announcement that Bury will get a £37,953 share for 2002-03 from the Capital Modernisation Fund (CMF)
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It's war at Elton!
IT'S war on the playing fields of Bury's Elton High School! But no-one was hurt when Year 8 pupils took part in a re-enactment of the English Civil War. The whole year discovered what life was like during the 17th century bloody battle led by Oliver Cromwell
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MBE for Wing Commander
THE new year got off to a flying start for Bury-born Wing Commander Ian Derbyshire. The 53-year-old, who serves with the operations engineering squadron at RAF Leeming, North Yorkshire, attained his current rank in November. He has now been awarded an
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Cash boost for ambulance service
WHITEFIELD-based Greater Manchester Ambulance Service received the perfect festive gift of £200,000 to buy lifesaving equipment. The money was raised through the Children's Hospitals Appeal Trust over the past year thanks to street donations, school fund-raising
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MBE is Nancy's reward for service to church
A FOUNDER member of a local bible club has been awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours List. The accolade recognises Mrs Nancy Baber's services to the Prestwich Crusaders which holds non-denominational bible classes at Bridge Methodist Church in Radcliffe
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Challenge Cup back at Wembley in 2006
THE Rugby League Challenge Cup Final is set to return to Wembley in 2006, according to chairman Sir Rodney Walker. Sir Rodney says the new National Stadium should be ready to host rugby league once more in four years' time. Sir Rodney, chairman of UK
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Blues may offer Kenna a home
BLACKBURN'S out-of-favour full-back Jeff Kenna hopes to make his loan move to Nationwide First Division club Birmingham City a permanent one. Kenna, who has already spent a spell on loan at Second Division Wigan this season, has helped the Blues keep
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Berg can't melt in front of Sheron
THE man in form heading into tomorrow's FA Cup tie is Mike Sheron and Rovers could do well to take note. The Liverpool-born former Manchester City front-runner has hit the goal trail of late taking his season's tally to seven from 16 league and cup outings
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Barnsley flying up table
BLACKBURN Rovers need to beware an upwardly mobile Barnsley side at Oakwell. Saturday's FA Cup third round tie promises to be a tough call for Rovers -- the Tykes may be languishing in the bottom half of the table but new boss Steve Parkin has revitalised
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Cash in on collectibles
CLEAR out the attic and rummage through the cupboards -- you could have old photographs and coins worth a small fortune! Putting a value on historical artifacts is not the easiest task in the world -- especially to the untrained eye. But at an event in
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Pianist comes home to play
A YOUNG musician from Preston has come home for the holidays to play his first professional concert in Lancashire. Sebastian Smallshaw, from Lightfoot Lane, Fulwood, started playing the piano just five years ago, and has now played with some of the country's
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No more freezing in
STAFF at a Preston school are celebrating after receiving a £626,000 cash boost to upgrade art and PE facilities. Work to improve the school's gym, sports hall and changing rooms at Our Lady's RC High School, in St Anthony's Drive, Fulwood, is expected
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Pat is a mum in a million
AFTER being 'mum' to more than 100 children there is no denying Pat Green is one in a million. As well as raising her own two daughters, 54-year-old Pat has adopted four children and provided a temporary home for up to 150 children as a foster carer.
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Road hazard of big freeze
LANCASHIRE County Council have said roads are still not safe despite being gritted. Drivers in the county are being warned that even though salt and grit has been used on the county's main roads, the extreme conditions means that there is still a danger
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Italian job for actor Dermot
A PRESTON actor is off to Italy to start a six-month stage tour. Thespian Dermot Canavan, 37, of Fulwood, Preston, plans to join the cast of the Palchetto Stage Company, early this year for rehearsals of Shakespeare's The Tempest. In the lead role of
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Oxygen bid to save pet hamster
FIREFIGHTERS gave a hamster emergency oxygen in a vain attempt to revive it following a house fire in Padiham yesterday. They were called to the kitchen blaze at a house in Graham Street at 2.30pm after a pan left on a gas cooker caught fire. A smoke
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Addict's 'campaign' of theft
A RAIDER went on a "veritable campaign" of offending in Burnley to feed his heroin addiction, a court was told. Burnley Crown Court heard how Anthony Archer, 21, who struck over a few weeks last October, had little thought for the consequences of his
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Police probe into fire
DETECTIVES are interviewing a number of youths in connection with an arson attack on a house in Thorn Street, Burnley. The youths, who cannot be named for legal reasons, have not been charged with any offence and police inquiries into the blaze are continuing
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Head will be back
A SUCCESSFUL headteacher targeted by a hate campaign will be back in charge next week when pupils return to school. And the chairman of governors at Northern Primary School in Bacup Nick Stratton has already received a letter from a parent supporting
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Gift for attack victim
A KIND-HEART from Burnley sent £100 to a 91-year-old mugging victim who was attacked in Radcliffe. The son of Gertrude Dockery, Stan, contacted the Lancashire Evening Telegraph to give a personal thank-you to 'A Ainsworth' who sent his mother the money
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'Maverick' hits out at riot report criticism
MAVERICK former Burnley councillor Harry Brooks today hit out at the task force report which he said labelled him a disruptive influence on the town. The retired politician, who was on holiday when Lord Tony Clarke's report was published in November,
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CD reviews
A LOOK at the lastest sounds. SKINNY: Coming Up Roses (Cheeky Records) -- With a laid back groove and something of a swaggering, anthemic feel this Skinny track is a refreshing start to the new year. Taken from their highly acclaimed second album 'Taller
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Youths take to trax
DOZENS of young people revved-up for a fun motorsports day -- the first of its kind in Preston. The Fun and Learning day at Preston Trax, Riversway Docklands, Preston, was organised by members of the YouthWorks project and aimed at encouraging the youngsters
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Andy in royal relay honour
A PRESTON man has been selected to take part in the Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay -- the Commonwealth Games' equivalent of the Olympic Torch relay. Andy Cooper, 24, of Grove Street, Bamber Bridge, will run 500 yards with the baton during its 50-day journey
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CBE for the Brigadier
A FORMER Preston army commander is among those to be honoured in the Queen's New Year honours list. Brigadier Alex Birtwistle OBE, who was colonel of The Queen's Lancashire Regiment, has now been appointed a CBE. The Brigadier was honoured for his services
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Five years ago
HOSPITAL staff were praised for coping with an influx of emergency cases over Christmas and New Year. Medics and nursing staff at Blackburn hospitals were hard-pressed to cope with a rise in emergency admissions but hospital bosses revealed that no patients
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Ten years ago
A MYSTERY virus baffled doctors as it swept the county leaving hundreds coughing and spluttering. The up-surge in cases of the flu-like virus emptied offices and filled surgeries but the cause remained unknown. Other symptoms included hot and cold shivers
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Mum was in labour as car crashed
THE FAMILY of a young mother who was killed in a car crash today revealed that she was in labour and on her way to hospital to give birth when she died. Jeanette McKenna, 33, and her unborn baby girl were heading for Queens Park Hospital, Blackburn, when
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Chemist rota...
CHEMISTS on duty in Preston and Leyland. Chemists on duty on Sunday, January 6, are: Moss Side Pharmacy, Dunkirk Lane, Leyland, 10am-2pm; Boots, Fishergate, Preston, 10.30am-4.30pm; Moss Chemists, Asda, Fulwood, 10.30am-4.30pm; Moss Chemists, Sainsburys
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Seasiders slip-up at Stoke
SERGEI Shtaniuk and James O'Connor scored for Stoke, as The Seasiders were beaten 2-0 by the division's new leaders at the Britannia Stadium. Shtaniuk powerfully headed home Bjarni Gudjonsson's 13th-minute corner to hand Stoke the lead, in a first half
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Sharp end
MANUFACTURERS in the region continue to be at the sharp end of the economic downturn. That's the worrying conclusion following a survey of business carried out by the EEF (Engineering Employers' Federation) in the North West. With this sector now technically
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Leader welcomes flexible hours decision
A BURY business leader has welcomed the decision to rule out the automatic right for parents to work flexible hours. And Andrew Ratcliff, chief executive of Bolton and Bury Chamber, is urging the Government to invest in a targeted support package to help
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Orders up for grabs
BUSINESSES in Bury have six million reasons to celebrate the New Year. Because that's the value of orders up for grabs via Bolton and Bury Chamber's Business Advantage service. Business Advantage, which is backed by the Bury Times, was launched in November
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Dicks out to silence Little
THE Clarets may be up against non-League opposition but, in Julian Dicks, Canvey Island possess a man with a great deal of top flight experience. And the clash between a man who has starred at the highest level and Burnley winger Glen Little, who aspires
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Canvey are no comics
JEFF King returned from a family holiday at Euro Disney determined to prove once again that his Canvey Island club is anything but a Mickey Mouse outfit. The man who has masterminded the incredible rise of the club since taking over as manager in 1992
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Clarets keen on Cup
THE special atmosphere of FA Cup third round day has had everyone at Turf Moor buzzing this week, according to assistant boss Sam Ellis. "We are really looking forward to it but we know it will be another difficult game for us," he explained. "We've had
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Execs swap suits for stage
EVERYONE loves a good ol' traditional pantomime and council officers from South Ribble Borough Council are ready to perform a real rags to riches tale! Council officers -- including the South Ribble's chief exec' -- are preparing to swap their suits for
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Charter Marks for 'excellence'
WYRE Borough Council is celebrating after two of its front line services retained their Charter Mark for excellence in public services. The Food Safety team and the Development Control and Administration team (above) impressed assessors with their commitment
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Fire started by candle
A CARELESS candle lover started a severe fire in the bedroom of a Blackpool flat. A candle was lit and left unattended on the windowsill of a ground floor flat in a block of four flats at 123 Preston New Road, on Thursday, January 3. Two fire crews rushed
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Gritters had problems
BURY Council admits its gritters experienced problems in keeping major routes open during last weekend's cold snap. The recognition follows a barrage of complaints to both the town hall and the Bury Times about the dangerous state of roads after hail,
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Debbie's magic role in panto
ACTRESS Debbie Margolis is casting her spell on audiences as the magic fairy in a Manchester pantomime. The professional performer, a former Bury Grammar School pupil, is currently starring in Mother Goose at the Wythenshawe Forum. Debbie, who is originally
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Welfare staff in truancy sweeps
EDUCATION Welfare staff are to continue with their truancy sweeps following the success of a two day pre-Christmas campaign. Working with police in Bury town centre, officers stopped more than 100 young people, of whom a significant number were with a
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Lions issue new ID cards for pupils
CHILDREN'S identity cards are to be issued to parents in Ramsbottom. The ID cards will be the size of a postcard. They will bear all the details needed by the police, such as name, address, date of birth, distinguishing marks and an up-to-date photograph
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Pigeon pests
BURY town centre hairdresser Mena Fry has got the bird with council bosses and pigeon lovers over droppings deposited outside her shop. Street pigeons have taken up roost above the Haymarket Street salon Tucci, after publicans next door at The Knowsley
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Ring and Ride goes high-tech
GREATER Manchester's popular Ring and Ride has celebrated its tenth birthday with a hi-tech gift. To celebrate the occasion, Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) has bought service users a special present in the form of a new vehicle
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Sporty start to new year
SPORTY youngsters in East Bury can join in a fitness frenzy come the New Year. A huge range of leisure activities has been organised for them, and some for adults, from football and cricket to badminton and fencing. Louise Robbins, East Bury sports outreach
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Clarets keen on Cup
THE special atmosphere of FA Cup third round day has had everyone at Turf Moor buzzing this week, according to assistant boss Sam Ellis. "We are really looking forward to it but we know it will be another difficult game for us," he explained. "We've had
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Crime spree teenager tackled
POLICE and council officials today began proceedings against a teenager said to be responsible for several crime sprees in Darwen. Lancashire Police led the application for an anti-social behaviour order against Lee Taylor, 15, of Darwen, in a bid to
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Credit Union looking for new members
MEMBERS of the first credit union to be set up in Darwen celebrated success in 2001 with an appeal for new members to swell their ranks in 2002. The borough's branch of the Credit Union reported a healthy membership base and said they were going "from
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A helping hand
A SELF-HELP course designed to encourage happiness is being run by Darwen's Raphael Holistic Centre. The six-week course is aimed at helping to change people's lives, belief systems and develop a sense of humour. Each week from January 19, organisers
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Say less, listen more
A GOOD New Year resolution for our political leaders would be 'I will say less, listen more and pay heed to what people say'. The year 2001 has been a year in which politicians have accused the voting public of being apathetic, as the numbers of people
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Charity needs runners
HAVE any of your readers got guaranteed places for the Flora London Marathon on April 14? The Stroke Association is currently looking for people with marathon places to run in aid of the charity and help raise vital funds for research into this devastating
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Don't spoil old Leyland
AT long last the new Tesco in Leyland looks likely to be up and running by Christmas 2002 -- and what a huge building it looks like being. Although I'm very happy that Leyland is finally going to have a decent supermarket I can't help feeling concerned
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Cinders joins the Addams Family
A TRADITIONAL tale of true love -- with a twist -- is on the cards for Greenbrook Methodist Church's production of Cinderella next week. The show, at the church hall in Greenbrook Road, Lowerhouse, Burnley, opens on Tuesday and runs until next Saturday
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Chemists open
THE local Sunday chemist rota. Blackpool: Boots*, 28-38 Bank Hey Street, 10.30-4.30pm; Co-op Pharmacy (in Asda), Cherry Tree Road, Marton, 10-4pm; Moss Chemist, Morrisons, Squires Gate Lane, 10-4pm; Lloyds Pharmacy*, 110 Talbot Rd, 10-5pm; Superdrug,
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In the mood for entertaining
WHILE the vast majority of the country was taking a day off work to recover from New Year's Eve revelling, Maureen Nolan spent the afternoon in a chilly East Lancashire hall rehearsing for her starring pantomime role. Maureen, 47, one of the founder members
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Opportunity knocks at jobs 'show'
NORTH WEST businesses are being given a unique chance to showcase their services in one of the region's most exciting learning and work fairs. Now! expo 2002 is being staged at Blackpool Winter Gardens on January 23 and 24 and will bring together dozens
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The heat's on to keep warm
COLD fronts don't worry TV personality Fred Talbot and to prove it he braved the bracing Blackpool weather to help launch a heating campaign. The celebrity weatherman visited Blackpool's Tower Ballroom recently for the launch of the The Heat Is On --
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It's gift-wrapped with love
SANTA CLAUS made a very special stop-off at Victoria Hospital's Berry Ward on Christmas Day bringing bundles of gifts and festive fun to children ill in hospital -- thanks to your caring Citizen. Presenters from The Wave were also there with Blackpool
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You're in the army now!
A RESCUED horse is now riding high after passing the first stage of her new career with the Royal Horse Artillery with flying colours. Four-year-old Penny from the International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH) centre at Penny Hill Farm, Blackpool
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Ex-chief is honoured
THE New Year brought special honours for Fylde folk, including former Blackpool Transport boss Tony Depledge. Mr Depledge, who was managing director of Blackpool Transport for 15 years, was awarded the OBE in Monday's New Year's honours list. He joined
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Down Your Street...
A LOOK at what is on around the area. ST ANNES WORK off Christmas excesses with exercise classes at St Annes YMCA. The YMCA offers something for everyone -- daytime and evening aerobics classes, boxercise, circuit-training, yoga, tai-chi, badminton, Pilates
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Competition in doubt after trophies stolen
FOUR irreplaceable bowling trophies belonging to a group of ex-servicemen have been stolen -- leaving the fate of their competition hanging in the balance. The trophies, dating back to the Second World War, are presented to the winners of a popular tournament
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Service at Cathedral
THE first Sunday service of the year takes place at Blackburn cathedral this weekend. Holy Communion starts at 8am followed by matins at 9am where the anthem will be O come ye servants of the Lord, by Tye. The Cathedral Eucharist is at 10.30am where the
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Council tax rise warning
COUNTY councillors today warned that council tax will rocket and services will be cut back as they wrestle to keep finances under control. And Lancashire County Council leader Hazel Harding has asked councillors to review their budgets in a bid to keep
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Locals bid to halt wreckers
FED-UP residents want a CCTV system to protect their area after claiming to have suffered vandalism and abuse from youths for months. Those living in the Park Farm Road area of Feniscowles, Blackburn, said that since the summer teenagers have damaged
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Down in the mouth at dentists
AN acute shortage of dentists offering NHS treatment is making the service offered across East Lancashire among the worst in the country. And the situation looks set to continue, as health bosses admit they are powerless to stop dentists refusing NHS
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Council and Press agree to consult
LEADING councillors have agreed to consult editors and reporters before deciding whether to ban some important documents from being released to the media. The move by Lancashire County Council's cabinet committee came after complaints that the proposals
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Bailey aims to topple Dominoes
JOHN Bailey is after a confidence-building start to the new year as Nelson are still desperate for a win. A late 4-3 loss to Bootle over the Christmas period was a blow to the Blues who are suffering this term after two seasons challenging for promotion
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Winning is top of Wilkes's wishes
DARWEN manager Steve Wilkes has made a New Year's resolution - for his side to start beating the lesser teams. Wilkes's side tend to play well against the top sides - they drew 2-2 against Formby last week in a game they feel they should have won - but
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Hawks facing tough testers
BLACKBURN Hawks are in for a tough weekend with back-to-back away games in the English National Hockey League North. The Hawk's travel to meet the Billingham Eagles tomorrow before heading south for a clash with arch-rivals Altrincham aces 24 hours later
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Kennedy wants Cup win for boss
GREAT Harwood skipper Neil Kennedy wants to win tomorrow's Worthington Challenge Trophy quarter-final for the management. Boss Denis Underwood and his assistant John Hughes have struggled this season as Harwood languish at the wrong end of the NWCL Division
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Coleman looking for new faces
STANLEY boss John Coleman is in the hunt for some new players as the Reds enter the second half of the season. Coleman was gutted to miss out on Burscough hitman Lee McEvilly who, after Stanley had bid £10,000 for him, joined Third Division Rochdale for
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Council failing in its duty
DOES any reader know of another holiday town in Britain besides Blackpool in which streets are filthier than in a third world country. The council fails to remove bin bags of rotting, stinking refuse from back streets; where public conveniences are shut
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Kindness to creditors, not animals
RE the imminent closure of the RSPCA Centre on Division Lane, Blackpool, the salient facts seem to suggest that the trustees of the centre are faced with Hobson's Choice. Either the centre continues to run at a projected loss, thus entailing liability
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Moyes rumours won't die down
NORTH END start 2002 the way 2001 ended -- full of uncertainty. Their most pressing concern of the coming week is whether their FA Cup tie against Brighton will get the go-ahead. After having Tuesday's clash against Sheffield Wednesday shelved due to
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Yes...
THE icy blast certainly caught many by surprise - not least motorists. But it was nothing compared to the frosty reception afforded to the council after it was accused of being slow out of the ice-blocks with its army of gritters. Coun Ashley Whalley,
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What's so different?
WOULD someone like to enlighten me as to why the "bin men" cannot handle excess refuse (that is any bags of rubbish alongside our bins) for 50 weeks of the year but, because they want two weeks off at Christmas, they will quite happily move them then?
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We applaud the actions of MEP
WE work in Greater Manchester for a well-established charity, as part of their community support project. Much of our time is spent with individuals who have multiple sclerosis and who take cannabis in various forms. Without doubt, the drug has a very
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Researching epilepsy deaths
WE were very sorry to read about the tragic death of epilepsy sufferer Jayne Currie, reported recently in your newspaper, and would like to send our condolences to her family. Epilepsy is the most common serious brain disorder, affecting at least one
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My church hall plan would be accepted
EARLY in 2001 I publicly gave my ideas on the proposed new church hall for Tottington St. Anne's. To remind readers, what I suggested was an extension to the existing National School. I believe that had my proposal been taken up we would have avoided
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Cannabis arrest was "a pathetic stunt"
THE recent arrest of the Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies in Stockport for possession of cannabis was a crass act of self-publicity for which he should be ashamed. I was present the day before Chris's arrest when he announced to a meeting of the Association
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£15 million bid for Shakers
A SECOND consortium is bidding to take over beleaguered Bury Football Club in a £15 million deal. The Bury Times can exclusively reveal that three cheques have been lodged with the High Court for the shareholding of former Shakers supremo Hugh Eaves.
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EVENTS taking place in East Lancashire on Saturday, January 5
A LOOK at events, from amateur theatre to rambles through our beautiful countryside. Blue Peter bring and buy sale, St Paul's Church Hall, Audley, Blackburn, 1-3pm. Church of the Good Shepherd ramble, Blackburn. Meet church hall 10.15am or Hurst Green
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EVENTS taking place in East Lancashire on Sunday, January 6 and Monday, January 7
A LOOK at events, from amateur theatre to rambles through our beautiful countryside. SUNDAY Accrington Naturalists and Antiquarians Society meet Cannon Street Baptist Church Hall, Accrington, 2.30pm. Members slides and exhibits. Service for Epiphany,
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A pop-ular show
STUDENTS at Beacon Hill High School saw their teachers in a whole new light as staff turned pop stars for an afternoon. More than 200 pupils lifted the roof with "We Will Rock You" before staff donned costumes and took to the stage as The Bangles, Boyzone
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Stand-up and be counted
TOP comedian Justin Moorhouse is the latest big name lined up to top the bill at Blackburn's Lock 'n' Load Comedy Club next week. And Manchester-based Justin, who has connections with both Blackburn and Burnley, hopes he'll receive as warm a welcome from
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INJURY BOOST FOR LIONS
SWINTON Lions boss Tony Humphries welcomed the news that Andy Leatham, Rob Barraclough, Jon Neil and Gareth Chambers could return for their home game against Dewsbury. All four players took the opportunity to rest over the Christmas period and prepare
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Boro face another freeze
RADCLIFFE BOROUGH look to be in danger of being frozen out for at least another week as the icy temperatures continue to keep the region in the grip of winter. Last Saturday's match at Stocksbridge was an early victim of the freezing conditions and the
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This week in 1977 25 years ago
MOP AND PICKET: Bury Council was heading for a dust-up with its Mrs Mops if plans went ahead to replace them with contract cleaners. The National Union of Public Employees said that it would fight the proposal "right down the line" and if necessary would
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Take the blame, councillor
HAVING just authorised the invasion of Normandy in 1944, General Dwight Eisenhower wrote: "I take full responsibility." What a pity that the Executive Member for Regeneration in Blackburn and Darwen does not adopt a similar attitude. Instead, as traffic
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Ashley, out of step with public
REGARDING Councillor Ashley Whalley (LET, December 29) I do not know how he can still walk the streets of Blackburn without a bodyguard after the mountains of criticism which have been, and are still being heaped upon him. It is a classic case of the
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Firefighters called to pub
THREE fire engines were sent to a Leigh pub at 2.30 am today after reports that a bedroom was on fire. People passing the Boar's Head in Leigh Road saw what appeared to be smoke and flames inside a bedroom and dialled 999. When firefighters arrived they
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Fire bombs probe at pub
POLICE are investigating reports that fire bombs were thrown at a pub in Leigh after a fire broke out. A fire brigade spokesman said the fire, at about 11.30pm last night, was restricted to the lobby of the Red Lion in Westleigh Lane, Westleigh, because
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At last, it's a winner!
PART of the doomed Millennium Dome has been given a second lease of life and a new home at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Blackpool Pleasure Beach bought a ticket box and promised that this part of the Millennium Dome would not be a failure. And it's not!
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Raiders target post office
POLICE are appealing for witnesses to an armed robbery at a Bury post office on Saturday morning (Dec 29). Two men wearing balaclavas entered Limefield Post Office on Walmersley Road at 9.15am. They threatened staff with baseball bats before trying to
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Reward for charity work
A FORMER deputy head of Parrenthorn High School in Prestwich has been rewarded for her charity and community work with place on the New Year's honours list. Mrs Maureen Cooper, of Norden, retired ten years ago and receives an MBE. The former Bury Convent
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Setting the standard
SETTING the standard in more ways than one is Mrs Janice Lloyd. She has just been declared the North and East Lancashire Royal British Legion (Women's Section) Standard Bearer after impressing judges with her smart appearance and precision in a series
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Crime spree teenager tackled
POLICE and council officials today began proceedings against a teenager said to be responsible for several crime sprees in Darwen. Lancashire Police led the application for an anti-social behaviour order against Lee Taylor, 15, of Darwen, in a bid to
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Boyfriend on murder charge
A MAN has appeared in court charged with murdering his girlfriend in the West End pub where she lived after they went to London from East Lancashire. Gareth Richard Horton, of Walmsley Street, Darwen, was arrested after the body of 22-year-old Charlotte
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Instructors raise thousands to train guide dogs
DRIVING instructors from Bury signalled their good intentions by helping to raise more than £20,000 to provide guide dogs for the blind. And along the way, the ten-strong team from Bury's BSM driving school had a chance to make a few dreams come true.
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Santa raises £7,000 charity cash
RADCLIFFE Rotary Club's annual Christmas charity collection has broken all previous records. More than £7,000 was collected by the door-to-door Santa sleigh tour and collections at Radcliffe Asda. President Mr David Beesley said: "Our objective this year
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Centurions on their travels in the Cup
LEIGH Centurions travel to face Halton Sims Cross, of Widnes, in the third round of the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Challenge Cup. Leigh East must also travel, they play at Sheffield. The full draw for the third round of the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Challenge
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Busy days ahead for town court
BURY'S modern courthouse is set to take on a massively increased workload. Controversial plans to close Bolton magistrates court will mean cases being dealt with in Bury. The closure of Bolton is recommended in a radical review by the Greater Manchester
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"Courage" cash for 91-year-old Gertrude
A MYSTERY benefactor has given elderly mugging victim Gertrude Dockery a happy start to the new year. This week the Bury Times received five £20 notes through the post. The accompanying letter from A. Ainsworth of Burnley explained that the money was
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Tykes can test us says Hignett
IT IS a strange fact but fans of Blackburn's FA Cup rivals Barnsley are just as eager to see Craig Hignett in action as the followers of his current club. The 31-year-old midfielder has been on the bench for Rovers in recent games, but to face his former
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'Dunny will start' says Souey
DAVID DUNN will get his first team chance tomorrow when he stands in for the suspended Garry Flitcroft in the FA Cup tie at Barnsley. The England Under 21 midfielder has been on the bench for three of the last four Premiership games as Tugay and Flitcroft
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Winger Duff is man Parkin fears
BARNSLEY boss Steve Parkin may not have to face Andy Cole - but he is more worried about coming up against Rovers World Cup-bound winger Damien Duff. The Tykes boss has picked the Republic of Ireland star out as the one to watch as his in-form First Division
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Cash boost for Cuerden
PRESTON'S Cuerden Valley park, in Bamber Bridge, has been awarded a £1.6 million cash boost to help restore its natural beauty. The 19th century park, currently in a state of disrepair, will be restored by Lancashire Wildlife Trust with a grant of £895,000
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Not a day off in 50 years!
FIFTY years of work and not one day off! Incredible! But for Leyland grandad that is his remarkable employment record. And now you could say Keith Fairhurst, of St Anne's Road, Farington, deserves some time off. But instead Keith, who officially retired
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Start New Year with a donation
IF you are looking for a new home for unwanted Christmas gifts and wondering what to do, why not drop them off at one of the charity shops for St Catherine's Hospice, Preston, where they can be sold to raise money for the good cause. As a specialist centre
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John charts wind of change
JOHN Westcott was on a tramp steamer in the South Atlantic when he had his first experience of tornadoes. A series of six or seven waterspouts - tornadoes which suck up water - hit the area, turning everything "pretty black". Although he wasn't frightened
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House raider could escape custody
A HOUSE raider who went into the property next door through the loft may escape custody - and be helped with his battle against drugs instead. Burnley Crown Court heard how John Cheetham, 25, helped himself to property to the tune of almost £1,000 but
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Hoppers hope for second half revival
THE first half of Preston Grasshoppers' season has followed a similar path to the season before. Hoppers have only managed four victories from their 13 league fixtures and consequently lie fourth from bottom in the league. With three sides to be relegated
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Youngsters rise to the challenge
CASTING the mind back to pre-season and the worrying trend of defeats that were inflicted on a young side, it is fair to say that Preston Hockey Club coach Colin Sinclair is more than satisfied with top spot at the mid-season break. So far the junior
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Accy star come off list
ACCRINGTON Stanley striker Lutel James has come off the transfer list. The former Bury ace was put up for sale earlier this week because of failure to pay a fine imposed by the club because of a sending off against Rossendale United. But Stanley manager
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New Year, new babies
AS revellers welcomed in the New Year, a happy bundle of babies gave their parents something special to celebrate at the start of 2002. Champagne corks were popping at the maternity wards at Sharoe Green Hospital, Preston, as parents celebrated the arrival
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Mum-to-be heartache
A HEARTBROKEN boyfriend today spoke of his love for the woman who died in a crash as she drove to hospital to give birth to his child. Jeanette McKenna, 33, of The Copse, Accrington, died after her car went out of control on Shadsworth Road, Blackburn
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Junior Football: YMCA
IN the 'A' game YMCA reached the break 1-0 ahead with a strike by Oliver Fox. With the stiff cold breeze in their favour in the second half, though, YMCA dominated and added a further six goals with just one reply from the plucky Rangers. Fox netted twice
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McMahon looking for a striker
BLACKPOOL boss Steve McMahon has admitted he is now desperate to sign a striker to replace Brett Ormerod. The 25-year-old was sold to Southampton last month for £1.75million, and McMahon is yet to find a new forward to come in on a permanent basis. Veteran
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Stay out of court!
THREE local lads who were all educated in Bury are helping to keep businesses out of court. Gareth Williams, Andrew Peters and Andrew Herricks bring a distinct Bury dimension to the dispute resolution department of leading Bolton law firm Keoghs. Thousands
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Climate levy cost
AN engineering employers' group is getting hot under the collar over the results of a survey into the Climate Change Levy. The EEF (Engineering Employers' Federation) has published the first survey on the costs to engineering and manufacturing of the
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Kuqi bid knocked back
STOCKPORT County boss Carlton Palmer has confirmed that Burnley have had a bid for Shefki Kuqi turned down. County are thought to want around £500,000 for the Finnish international and Palmer said: "We've had an offer from Burnley that we turned down
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Ternent will be wary of Canvey dreamers
CANVEY Island coach Glenn Pennyfather played under Clarets boss Stan Ternent at Crystal Palace more than a decade ago and he admitted: "Knowing Stan, there is no way he will underestimate us." Pennyfather's first reaction after hearing the draw was to
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Keeping bench warm is tough
IF SITTING on the bench is good enough Becks, it's good enough for me! Seriously though, it isn't. I am bitterly disappointed that I am not in the side at the moment but I am sure the manger would want me to feel that way. These things happen in football
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Roads closed in bomb alert
THE main roads around Mamlock House in Bury Old Road, on the border of Prestwich and Crumpsall, were blocked off by police for more than three hours and King David High School campus was used to accommodate residents unable to return to their homes. The
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Steps break up is a tragedy for Rebecca
THE demise of the pop group Steps has hit Radcliffe's Rebecca Watson a lot harder than most fans. That is because Rebecca (12) of Knowles Street was their official number one fan. She was cheering along with thousands of other fans at the group's sell-out
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Bikes on trams debate
METROLINK users and cyclists will be given their say on whether bikes should be allowed on trams. Greater Manchester transport chiefs have decided to go out to public consultation on this issue. Members of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority
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'Dunny will start' says Souey
DAVID DUNN will get his first team chance tomorrow when he stands in for the suspended Garry Flitcroft in the FA Cup tie at Barnsley. The England Under 21 midfielder has been on the bench for three of the last four Premiership games as Tugay and Flitcroft
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Preston game off
PRESTON'S FA Cup third round clash against Brighton has been called off due to a frozen pitch. The Lilywhite's faced a long trip to Brighton and an early announcement was made to avoid fans travelling in the event of the game being off. The game has been
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New year, new venues, new bands
WE go into the New Year with renewed hope that the local jazz scene will continue to flourish, despite the obvious fact that so many of us -- musicians and followers -- aren't getting any younger. I have been guilty in the past of expressing fears that
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Haven knows we're not miserable now!
IN our New Year's list of guitar bands to watch for in 2002, Haven's name sits proudly alongside the likes of The Music, The Coral and Blackburn's The 'Burn. And even before the festivities have faded, they're preparing to make their mark, with a timeless
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Shakers match off
SHAKERS' Second Division match at Huddersfield was called off an Friday due to a frozen pitch.
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Boyfriend on murder charge
A MAN has appeared in court charged with murdering his girlfriend in the West End pub where she lived after they went to London from East Lancashire. Gareth Richard Horton, of Walmsley Street, Darwen, was arrested after the body of 22-year-old Charlotte
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Tragic mum's heart defect
A YOUNG mother who tragically died just hours after giving birth to her son in Burnley General Hospital had a congenital heart problem. Coroner's officer for East Lancashire PC Bob Wilson said after consulting with specialists Home Office pathologist
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Party man punched in face at petrol station
A MAN who wanted to buy cigarettes at a service station in Rawtenstall was attacked and punched in the face and head after asking a man for a bottle opener. The 22-year-old, who does not want to be identified, was returning from a New Year's Eve Party
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Council tax bill shocker
PENSIONERS Stephen and Joan Spencer were threatened with court action by Rossendale Council, despite paying their council tax each month. The problem is they pay their bill at the end of the month and the council wants them to pay at the start. The couple
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At last, it's a winner!
PART of the doomed Millennium Dome has been given a second lease of life and a new home at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Blackpool Pleasure Beach bought a ticket box and promised that this part of the Millennium Dome would not be a failure. And it's not!
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Execs swap suits for stage
EVERYONE loves a good ol' traditional pantomime and council officers from South Ribble Borough Council are ready to perform a real rags to riches tale! Council officers -- including the South Ribble's chief exec' -- are preparing to swap their suits for
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Stand-up and be counted
TOP comedian Justin Moorhouse is the latest big name lined up to top the bill at Blackburn's Lock 'n' Load Comedy Club next week. And Manchester-based Justin, who has connections with both Blackburn and Burnley, hopes he'll receive as warm a welcome from
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New year, new venues, new bands
WE go into the New Year with renewed hope that the local jazz scene will continue to flourish, despite the obvious fact that so many of us -- musicians and followers -- aren't getting any younger. I have been guilty in the past of expressing fears that
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Cleaner New Year to all!
KIDNEY patients across the Fylde have reason to celebrate this New Year -- thanks to a new £40,000 water treatment unit installed at Devonshire Road Hospital. The new unit, paid for by Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde Community Health Trust, can supply high
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Why shelters are running very late...
PASSENGERS who are fed up of "getting soaked" while they wait for trams at Cleveleys are to have their problem put before Blackpool Borough Council this month. Anchorsholme Ward's Lib Dem Councillor Jon Bamborough has received so many complaints about
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Daniel and Lisa are 'tops'
TWO Blackpool and The Fylde College students have won awards recognising their achievements in the college and the community. Lisa Young and Daniel McEvilly were named NCFE Student of the Year and Blackpool's Young Person of the Year at separate award
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A sad Christmas for some
A WOMAN is murdered by a violent partner every three days in Britain. And Christmas and New Year brought a sharp rise in the number of incidents of domestic violence reported to the police in the Fylde. In Blackpool, Bispham, Lytham, St Annes and Kirkham
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Pool receives charter mark
DAISYFIELD Pools in Blackburn has received the Government's special Charter Mark for excellence. The prestigious award recognises the high quality of service provided by staff at the pools and demonstrates the success achieved by a centre that has improved
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Mother and child 'unaware' of fire
A FIRE officer has urged all homeowners to fit smoke alarms after a blaze grew as a mother and baby sat unaware in the next room. Both were unhurt as the mother was alerted once the fire had been going for a short while at her house on Pleckgate Road,
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Easier access on new bus routes
BLACKBURN Transport has announced a number of improvements to bus services in the area, with effect from Monday, January 7. Routes from Blackburn to Wilpshire via Whalley New Road and Brownhill (currently services 2, 2A, 4, 4A) will be replaced with a
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Gritter drivers face rage
GRIT rage has gripped Lancashire's roads with drivers of gritting lorries coming under verbal and physical attack from other motorists during the New Year freeze. As temperatures outside have dropped, the in-car heat has risen as tempers rage, giving
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Education bosses 'drive off teachers'
EDUCATION bosses were today accused of driving teachers away with pressure and paperwork after it was revealed they had the worst staff recruitment problem in the North West. Blackburn with Darwen Council, which was awarded Beacon status for improving
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Kelly wary of bottom club
RAMSBOTTOM manager Mike Kelly will not be taking Flixton for granted when the two sides meet at the Riverside tomorrow. The NWCL first division strugglers are nine points adrift at the bottom of the league with just one win and one draw all season. "They're
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Kendal fined for 'poaching' Lee
KENDAL TOWN have been fined £100 by the Westmoreland FA for 'poaching' Padiham's one-time star striker Lee Chambers. It is the biggest fine meted out by a County FA for an illegal approach. Chambers moved to the UniBond first division side earlier in
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Dale snap up former Rover
ROSSENDALE UNITED have signed former Blackburn Rovers midfielder Lee Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick, who played in the same FA Youth Cup final team as David Dunn, has signed from Leigh RMI, the team he joined after leaving Third Division Hartlepool at the end
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Rocket shot down by One Dart
CHURCH ace Ronnie "The Rocket" Baxter bowed out in the quarter-final stages of the Skol World Championship in Purfleet. Seeking an elusive first world crown Baxter fell 6-2 against 'One Dart' Peter Manley. The match was always going to be played at a
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Stand can reach 'another dimension'
STAND have shown manager Nick Davis they have 'another dimension' to their game after beating an incredibly strong Leek CSOB side last Saturday. Davis said CSOB were the best team his side had come up against this season and asked their manager after
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Outraged at Ashton Gardens decision
ASHTON Gardens belongs to the people of St Annes NOT Fylde Borough Council and no part of it should be sold unless every resident of St Annes agreed to the sale. As such I am outraged at the council's decision to sell any part of Ashton Gardens, especially
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Honours for men of high principle
CHRISTMAS came early for the North West's Euro realists in the shape of final proof, if any were needed, of the self-serving opportunism exhibited by Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies, as he was arrested in the full glare of publicity to support the legalisation
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No...
BLACKBURN Rovers fans making their way back from a home defeat against Derby had their misery compounded when they were stuck behind gritters, seemingly caught short by the cold snap. And they were not the only ones who had cause to complaint. A local
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Benefit cheats beware
'Commit fraud and you'll pay up' -- that is the hard hitting message from South Ribble Borough Council chiefs as councillors reinforce the authority's commitment to stamp out benefit fraud. It comes as experts predict Housing and Council Tax Benefit cheats
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Stop at home!
POLICE have issued a warning to all motorists to take extra care on the roads in and around Blackpool after a spate of weather-related accidents across Lancashire over the holiday. And according to the region's Met Office the freezing weather is set to
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Entitled to an opinion
THE Duke of Edinburgh was attacked for comments about the national stadium fiasco. A government spokesman said he should keep out of the matter, asking: "What does he know about football?" Clearly that should not be a reason for not voicing an opinion
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Appeal's £27,300
MAY I place on record my very sincere thanks to the public in Bury and surrounding areas for their donations to the 2001 Poppy Appeal. My thanks also to the voluntary groups who look after the static points and those who braved the weather during the
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Not the way to change drugs laws
I wish to strongly disassociate myself from the misguided and irresponsible actions of the Liberal Democrat Euro MP Chris Davies. In the Netherlands, cannabis use is not legalised. The authorities tolerate it and it is this that has led to the culture
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No gritting complaints? I don't believe it
THE chaos caused by the lack of gritting of local roads on Saturday night was an absolute disgrace. Those charged with the responsibility of looking after the town's roads ought to be ashamed of themselves. Then to compound the problem with their feeble
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Metro treats us like battery hens
JAMES B. Mason is surely right that Metrolink passengers would prefer to see porters, booking clerks and other staff on the stations, guards on the trams and signalmen for the control and safety of rolling stock (Your Letters, Dec 21). This doesn't happen
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Girls re-live abduction attempt terror
A TERRIFIED girl leaped from a speeding car in a shocking abduction attempt. Eleven-year-old Karin Brown bruised her back and legs as she jumped from the vehicle in Fern Grove, Bury, on Sunday evening (Dec 30). And a friend has told the Bury Times how
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Macca sounds cup warning
BLACKPOOL'S festive programme ended with them collecting only two points out of a possible 12 when they went down 2-0 to league leaders Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium on New Year's Day. After the game Blackpool manager Steve McMahon fumed: "Stoke
