Archive
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Why Clare followed the hard road to fame
THE Road Less Travelled is a fitting name for Clare Teal's new album. For Skipton-born Clare has never done things the easy way. She explained: "As a jazz singer that's what you do -- you take the road less travelled. "Jazz has always been a niche market
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No longer a man's world
BUSINESS in East Lancashire has traditionally been a male-dominated affair. But as a dynamic new group of women is challenging old attitudes, Business Editor Andrew Calvert discovered some the reasons behind their success stories. . . THE traditional
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Bury FC: A sign of the times
THERE'S no excuse for anyone travelling down Manchester Road for not knowing who the Shakers' next home opponents are. Especially now that this new, superb advertising sign has been erected at the junction with Gigg Lane. The custom designed matchday
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Rugby Union: Bury slump to Burnage battlers
BURNAGE ... 26 BURY ... 22 AFTER last week's debacle at De La Salle, facing Burnage was not to be taken lightly as they only lost by one point against DLS in the first round of this season's Lancashire Cup. Bury kept up a constant pressure for the first
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Bury FC: Shakers put through the Mill
ANDY Preece reckoned his team's potential downfall this season might come in scoring goals. Right now, Preece's problem is how to stop the ball flying into the net at the other end of the pitch. And the Bury player boss agrees that until the right balance
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Taxi firm man took bosses' cab
A TAXI firm employee took a cab without the consent of his bosses and then forced a police car off the road. Blackburn magistrates heard that Naveed Ali was disqualified at the time of the offence and tried to avoid prosecution by giving false details
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Drink-drive club singer banned from road
CLUB singer Wendy Hillman crashed her boyfriend's car into the gates of Bold Venture Park in Darwen. Blackburn magistrates heard that a witness saw the car mount the kerb and collide with a wall, leave the kerb and then re-mount it before hitting the
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Electric blanket blamed for death of man
AN elderly man from Clayton-le-Woods could have died when his electric blanket overheated, an inquest heard. Leslie Wrennall, 79, of Watkin Road was found dead in his bedroom by his brother Morris, on July 30. Mr Wrennall had been diabetic and took medication
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Late drinks licensee fined £200
POLICE who went into a Blackburn pub at 2.50am found more than 40 people still drinking. Blackburn magistrates heard that officers had been alerted when they saw people leaving the Lord Raglan on Kings Road. And when they stopped outside the pub the officers
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Working with Renee a privilege
AFTER having the privilege of being a patient on Renee Allan's ward -- D3 at Queen's Park Hospital, Blackburn -- what can one say? All the staff were caring, professional and busy. Yet they had time to smile. I have known and worked with Renee Allan for
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Residents might just enjoy facility
REGARDING your report (LET, August 28) about residents' protests over a planned new outdoor pursuits centre at Blacksnape, this smacks of "not in my back yard." Do the residents of Cranberry Lane not realise that we all have to make sacrifices in the
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Real devolution, not tokenism
IT is a shame that Councillor Don Rishton (Letters, September 15) decided that those who oppose the Government plans for regional government do so from self-interest. Some of us did not want the particularly lukewarm version of regional government on
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Water burst causes chaos
DRIVERS face rush hour delays in Tyldesley on Friday after a water main burst. Police sealed off Castle Street, near to the Butchers Inn, after the leak was reported shortly after midnight. Motorists heading into Atherton were warned to expect delays.
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Great sound, great crowd and all that jazz
TWO cracking shows in a week prove that little theatres can handle big bands and all that jazz... Chris Dean once again brought the Syd Lawrence orchestra to Blackpool's Grand Theatre and delivered a striking and well-balanced set of big band classics
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Doing it the bard way at Stanley Park
SHAKESPEARE is alive and well and being performed at Blackpool's Stanley Park this week. A few sound glitches marred an otherwise enchanting opening night on Thursday of The Taming of the Shrew. It was a memorable production, right from its unconventional
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Club mourns golf pro (21)
WHITEFIELD Golf Club was this week mourning the death of young professional golfer Daniel McArevey It is believed the 21-year-old was found hanging on Sunday, September 7. Daniel became a professional golfer at the club, in Higher Lane, as a teenager
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Billy's historic challenge
A MAN who lost his sight while clearing mass graves in Bosnia, and who last month claimed a motorcycle landspeed record, will deliver a pioneering presentation to schoolchildren this month. Billy Baxter will visit Woodhey High School in Ramsbottom on
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Chance to home in on your house
IT will be open house at Bury's Jinnah Day Centre next Thursday (Sep 25) for people keen to trace the history of their homes. Bury Council is holding the event at the Alfred Street centre between 3pm and 7pm as part of national Archives Awareness Month
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Brave Dana touches hearts and pockets
GETTING his kit off has helped to pile up the pounds to help a sick little girl. A recent "Half Monty" striptease by firefighter Clive Hopkinson at the Chicago Rock Cafe in Bury, together with a raffle and ticket sales, raised £1,300 for the Dana Carroll
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Try a day without using your car!
BURY car users are being asked to leave their vehicles at home for a day to celebrate In Town Without My Car! The day, on Monday, is a Europe-wide campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of less car dependent lifestyles and encourage people to try
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Nursery helps little Lucy
A TODDLER is to benefit from medical equipment bought by a Bury nursery when she undergoes surgery next month. Twenty-month-old Lucy Kaye is to have one of her kidneys removed at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. And the equipment bought with
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Pick up a pen to fight crime
RESIDENTS in the borough are being urged to pick up a pen and write off crime. As part of a campaign to combat burglary, police officers in Bury will be handing out free Operation Magpie UV marker pens to mark valuables from televisions to mobile phones
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Sharp-shooter's shot in the arm
MATT Jansen has set his sights on gunning down Portsmouth tomorrow after admitting that last week's wonder goal against Liverpool has given him a massive shot in the arm. Jansen's stunning eighth minute strike was his first Premiership goal at Ewood since
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Red row is over
BLACKBURN boss Graeme Souness today insisted this week's row with Liverpool has not cast a shadow over Rovers' preparations for tomorrow's game at Portsmouth. Souness will be relieved to return to football matters at Fratton Park at the end of a week
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Fire-eater burnt
A FIRE EATER was treated for burns to his mouth by ambulance crews on Wednesday and taken to Royal Preston Hospital after a performance went wrong. He is believed to have been juggling with bottles of fire at the Students' Union building, University of
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Raid on van
THIEVES escaped with up to £20,000 in cash after raiding a Securicor van on Wednesday. The van with its three man crew was filling up a cash machine at the Esso filling station on Blackpool Road, near to the Deepdale Retail Park. A guard was transferring
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Man hunted over sex assault
POLICE are appealing for witnesses to an indecent assault on a 15-year-old girl who was groped on her bottom on the Old Tram Road, Lostock Hall, as she walked home from school at 9.20am on Wednesday, September 18, feeling unwell. She was aware of someone
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Hitting back at abusive partners
A WOMAN who was regularly beaten by her abusive husband is helping to launch a police initiative clamping down on domestic violence. Susan Wilkinson met her partner in the late eighties and for a decade was subjected to horrifying acts of violence. Even
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Barbara's a lifesaver
A TELEPHONE operator helped save a woman's life by keeping her calm after a fire engulfed her home. Barbara Pilkington, 40, of Leyland, works for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service on the emergency telephone line. In the early hours of Monday she received
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One-stop youth advice shop
DEVELOPERS could soon be moving into the new post office building to create a huge drop-in centre. Plans have been submitted to turn Urban Exchange, empty except for the post office, into the Preston Young People's Centre. If approved, the building in
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Hospice tickled pink by cake from baker Les
BAKER Les Gott put his skills to good use to make a cake for guests at Hospice Care for Burnley and Pendle. The gesture was part of Asda's week of activities for the breast cancer charity Tickled Pink. Other events planned include fun days and a pub crawl
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Shakers must tighten up -- Preece
SHAKERS may have to ditch their entertainers tag to haul themselves back into the promotion race writes Chris Hall Bury appear to have solved their striking problems of last year, with 14 goals from eight matches making them one of the most prolific teams
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Shakers boss eyes another new signing
ANDY Preece is preparing for another plunge into the loan market to land an experienced midfielder writes Chris Hall Former Manchester United star Ben Thornley last month joined Bury on a non-contract basis to plug the gap left by Phil Charnock's departure
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Extra cash in subsidary shake-up
PENDLE could be in line for a £1million boost under new proposals put forward by the Government. A consultation paper has announced possible changes in the way housing subsidy is paid to local councils. The plans would see Pendle receive an extra £550,000
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We're still standing after inquiry backing
RESIDENTS in Nelson are celebrating "a victory for a community" today after the Government ruled their homes could not be demolished. Two public enquiries have been held in the three years since Pendle Council tried to compulsorily purchase 162 homes
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Auction kicks off with famous names
A SOCCER boot signed by England skipper David Beckham and a cricket bat autographed by the England team are two of the items to go under the hammer at an auction next month. The sale is being staged by Bury C of E High School to help raise funds for its
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Teenagers in the swing
YOUNGSTERS are being invited to try their hand at golf as part of a project to cut vandalism at the course. Teenagers from the Callon estate, Fishwick, will receive tips on how to play the sport from members of Fishwick Hall Golf Club, Glenluce Drive.
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Licensees consulted on change
PENDLE councillors agreed last night to consult all the borough's 293 licensees about new licensing procedures which could be "like a millstone". Under new legislation, the council will take on the role of licensing the sale of alcohol -- currently carried
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Night where gimmicks got in way
AS theatrical Shakespearean experiences go this has to be the most bizarre. A distracting device that bore no relation to the plot, was the centrepiece. A small puddle that grows into a lake in the middle of someone's house! Every single actor and most
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D-day nears in countdown
IT will be one of the biggest gala nights East Lancashire has ever seen -- but time is running out for anyone who wants to submit nominations for our Pride of East Lancashire Awards. There are just 12 days to the deadline so if you know of any individual
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Rani's exotic cocktail is irresistible
SHE was known as the Oprah Winfrey of Singapore. But now Rani Moorthy has taken on a totally different role -- or 12, to be precise. For in her one-woman play Pooja, the talented actress and writer plays parts as diverse as an aging grandmother, a spinster
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School raided by thieves
PROJECTORS worth £12,000 were stolen in an overnight raid at a Preston School this week. Police believe the thieves may have hidden themselves in Walton le Dale High School, Brindle Road, during a parents evening on Wednesday, September 17, but activated
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Award for police officer
A PRESTON police officer is to receive an award for risking his life diving into the docks to try and rescue a man. PC Jason Hill, a dog handler for Preston police, threw himself into the freezing waters of the Riversway Docks while he was off duty last
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Five years ago
PUPILS at Rhyddings High School, Oswaldtwistle, were working out in a top-class fitness suite courtesy of a Health Club. Hicks Health and Racket Club, based in Clitheroe Cricket Club, underwent an upgrade and donated their old equipment to the school.
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999 fire hoaxer 'cut off'
A MALICIOUS caller's mobile phone was barred after its owner made a prank call to firefighters at 8pm on Wednesday. Sub Officer Steve Harrison said the caller had made several malicious calls to police and fire services, in addition to the one on Wednesday
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Tycoon dismisses takeover of carpet company
THE Swedish millionaire who grabbed a near 30 per cent stake in East Lancashire carpet manufacturer Gaskell plc has assured the company he has no intention of taking over the business. Entrepreneur Peter Gyllenhammar spent an estimated £1.3million earlier
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Star Julie has lots to offer
SOAP star Julie Hesmondhalgh is hoping a celebrity auction will raise money to help Hyndburn's needy. Julie, who plays Coronation Street's Hayley Cropper, has put together a collection of goodies autographed by her celebrity friends to raise funds for
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Telecom takeover
BURY-based Pennine Telecom, one of the region's premier telecoms suppliers, is under new management. After growing the company from nothing into a multi-million pound business over the past 27 years, Ian Macpherson and Richard Evans have retired and sold
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Fairy-tale win for 'Brigadoon'
A PICTURESQUE Ribble Valley hamlet dubbed Brigadoon by admirers has come out tops in the Lancashire Best Kept Village Competition for the second year running. Harrop Fold won the hamlet section, heading a list of honours for the Ribble Valley, which was
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Junior soccer
DON'T be fooled by the scoreline as Rangers dominated the first half and should have been 3-0 up before Thornton scored against the run of play. Another goalkeeping error ensured that Thornton took an undeserved 0-2 lead by the half-time interval. The
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O'Grady is new skipper
FORMER Irish international Dylan O'Grady has been named as Fylde's new first team skipper. O'Grady, 31, joined Fylde in the 1998/99 season, making 92 appearances, scoring 24 tries and 120 points. He stood in as captain on several occasions last season
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Rugby league
BLACKPOOL Stanley's match kicked off over an hour late due to the referee turning up late but it made no difference as they comprehensively beat their opponents Springview, from Wigan, playing some great team football alongside some great individual performances
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Junior soccer
BJFF raced into an early lead when a through ball put Ashley Bird clear, but were soon pegged back following a swift counter attack by the lively Gym front line. The next 15 minutes saw almost constant BJ pressure with Bird notching another three before
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Tax planning seminar
A FREE tax planning seminar is to be held next Thursday (Sept 25) for members of Bury's business community considering investment in land and property. The event is aimed at people looking for an alternative to traditional savings products but who lack
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Enterprising companies wanted
WHERE are Bury's enterprising businesses? That's the question being posed by the Queen's Award for Enterprise office which is anxious to receive more local entries for this coveted competition. So far, only three companies from Bury and Whitefield and
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Housing freeze block
THE effects of a possible freeze on house building in Fylde will be under the spotlight at a council meeting tonight (Thursday). A change in county council policy, coupled with a Government decision on a planning appeal in Lancaster, means that Fylde
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Stan's challenge to striker Blake
STAN TERNENT has urged Robbie Blake to become Burnley's fox in the box. The Clarets need a lift to get their tails up following two successive defeats that have halted the momentum gained by a hat-trick of victories. Burnley have drawn blanks in losses
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Rockers on road to fame
TEENAGE rockers are hoping to strike a chord with fans and judges when they perform at a battle of the bands charity tournament. Members of rock band Red Cry are just one of the groups taking part in the musical extravaganza which will be staged at Leyland
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Police appeal to prom have-a-go heroes
POLICE are appealing for two men to come forward after they gave chase to thieves who attacked a female Australian tourist in front of her daughter on Blackpool Promenade. The incident occurred after the mother and daughter were befriended by a man and
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Theatre group's venture
A THEATRE group is breaking away from producing pantomime for a new venture. The Apple Dance Players, formed four years ago, take a trip back to the Seventies for their latest production, singer-songwriter/comedian Mike Harding's hilarious Fur Coat and
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Daniel's exhibition of note!.
DANIEL Parker's musical upbringing has influenced his latest photography exhibition although he cannot play a note himself. Daniel's father, Vinny Parker, is a piano/keyboard player and Daniel was brought up listening to records of his brand of modern
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"Bullet Barber" speeds on to TV screens!.
MOTORBIKE ace Robert Barber is hoping to capitalise on a string of racing successes after having his exploits documented by a TV film crew. The former Coney Green High pupil, who had his season filmed for a documentary on the cable channel Men and Motors
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Traders present 6,800-name petition
STALLHOLDERS against the proposed relocation of Bury market have taken their fight to the town hall. Traders' representatives presented a 6,800-name petition to Bury Council chiefs on Tuesday. The signatures were from members of the public who are backing
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Against all odds
WHEN Gary Price was born, his family did not think he would live to enjoy his teenage years. But Gary overcame the odds, celebrating his 18th birthday last Friday and becoming an accomplished musician, horse-rider, DJ and computer whizz-kid along the
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Red row is over
BLACKBURN boss Graeme Souness today insisted this week's row with Liverpool has not cast a shadow over Rovers' preparations for tomorrow's game at Portsmouth. Souness will be relieved to return to football matters at Fratton Park at the end of a week
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Take a chance to shine
IF YOU'VE always wanted to play the spoons -- or any other folk instrument for that matter -- Fylde-based folk network Folkus is holding a series of learning workshops throughout Lancashire this autumn. The one-day events are being held at various venues
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No longer a man's world
BUSINESS in East Lancashire has traditionally been a male-dominated affair. But as a dynamic new group of women is challenging old attitudes, Business Editor Andrew Calvert discovered some the reasons behind their success stories. . . THE traditional
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Music tuition for children
UP and coming pop stars will be able to get tips from the experts after two Darwen musicians started offering music lessons. Singer Paul Davies, 21, of East Park Avenue, and guitarist Mark Bateson, 20, of Lynwood Avenue, are offering guitar, singing and
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Heartache over stolen locket
ELDERLY people are warned to be more vigilant against thieves after a pensioner had a precious locket stolen. Police in Darwen are urging people to remove keys from doors, keep windows locked and not to give anyone access to their homes who they do not
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Murder charge against brother dropped
THE case against one of two brothers charged in connection with the death of a man outside a pub in Rawtenstall town centre has been dropped. Paul Mcdonald, 21, of Lavender Hill, Rawtenstall was charged with the murder of David Taylor in July but the
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How Susan swapped Brookside for Brooklyn
TO soap fans she's known as a Lottery winning gambling addict. And so convincing was Susan Twist during her three years as money-mad Rosie Banks in TV's Brookside, she still gets suspicious looks from fellow shoppers when she pops out to buy a Lottery
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Rani's exotic cocktail is irresistible
SHE was known as the Oprah Winfrey of Singapore. But now Rani Moorthy has taken on a totally different role -- or 12, to be precise. For in her one-woman play Pooja, the talented actress and writer plays parts as diverse as an aging grandmother, a spinster
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Why Clare followed the hard road to fame
THE Road Less Travelled is a fitting name for Clare Teal's new album. For Skipton-born Clare has never done things the easy way. She explained: "As a jazz singer that's what you do -- you take the road less travelled. "Jazz has always been a niche market
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Jubilee plan is no cause to celebrate
BLACKPOOL'S hoteliers and traders have spoken out against controversial plans to build on Jubilee Gardens at Cleveleys. Blackpool Combined Association (BCA) -- which says it represents 1000 members, the majority in tourism -- has revealed it wrote to
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Feel the benefit
FYLDE pensioners are being offered a free benefits check as part of a series of events marking this month's Age Concern Week. People of state pensionable age can visit Age Concern Fylde's branch at St George's Road, St Annes on September 30 for advice
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'Over limit' trucker loses his job
A 59-year-old long distance lorry driver was resigned to not driving for a living again after being breathalysed after a Sunday afternoon drink. Blackburn magistrates heard that Colin Campbell Parkington had spent all his working life behind the wheel
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Why did our daughter die?
A DEVASTATED family laid their daughter to rest then began a quest to find out why the 21-year-old law student died after a minor operation at a Blackburn hospital. Saira Faruque, of Lomeshaye Road, Nelson, died following a routine sinus operation and
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Men threw bottles at Asian fest
ONE man has been jailed and three others given community punishment orders for their part in a riot that broke out when 300 people gathered to celebrate the end of a religious festival. Preston Crown Court heard how a "thoroughly disgraceful incident"
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ICE HOCKEY: Hawks look to fend off Lions
BLACKBURN Hawks aim to get back to winning ways this weekend as they face a tough ENHL (North) clash at Nottingham Lions. The Hawks slumped to a 6-2 defeat at Sheffield in their last league encounter and the Midlands outfit are hot on their heels as a
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Rampant Reds keep Hill to nil
COLNE confirmed their promotion intent at Holt House with a second win in five days for new manager Nigel Coates. James Webster's corner was returned to him in an attempted clearance and his pin-point cross was met by Scott Gizon to head Colne into the
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Young guns
PADIHAM manager Graham Haworth is digging into last year's championship-winning reserve team to unearth some gems of the future. He has little choice in the matter given the players missing from his first team squad, but he has every faith in the ability
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Market forces
BACUP Borough manager Brent Peters has vowed to keep himself busy in the transfer market in an effort to make his squad a driving force in the North West Counties Division One. But he admits his progress in making new signings has been hampered by a flurry
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Lynch looks for winning start
NEW Rossendale manager Paul Lynch had mixed feelings after seeing his side in action for the first time. Dale director and former Manchester City and England player David White took charge of the game at Kendal on Tuesday and Lynch admitted he was impressed
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Smith signs for Harwood
GREAT Harwood Town have signed up Kendal manager Peter Smith - but John Hughes doesn't have to worry about losing his job. It's Harwood boss Hughes who has arranged for Smith, a crowd favourite in his previous playing days at The Sportsmans, to join his
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Shotton target for Ramsbottom
RAMSBOTTOM United manager Andy Grimshaw is hoping to avoid more north east naivety in the FA Vase tomorrow. As their name suggests, Shotton Comrades will arrive at the Riverside hoping their solid team spirit will see them through the second qualifying
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Houllier's hypocrisy is hard to swallow
GERARD Houllier's condemnation of Lucas Neill smacks of double standards. The Liverpool manager's attack on the Blackburn defender, using words such as 'cowards challenge' and 'appalling' are well out of order. Let me take you back to December, Gerard
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Face heavy fine when dogs whine
MAY I suggest that Karen Cooke (Citizen Sept. 11) contact her Local Environmental Dept. re the persistent dog barking which she and her neighbours are suffering. I did and was told that it is a public nuisance and offence and carries a heavy fine. The
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Heart foundation keen to help
THE British Heart Foundation (BHF)is dedicated to teaching children from an early age the importance of looking after their heart and as such have an extensive range of free resources available to schools. Unfortunately many schools are unaware of this
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County can make us cross
'SETTING the record straight.' Following a public meeting at Carelton, Wednesday, Spetember 3, arranged by the Labour Party, it would appear that neither Cllr Hargreaves nor I or the borough has done anything to institute a crossing at the Castle Gardens
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This yelllow will not make you mellow
IN the nineteenth century 'progressive' Europeans were responsible for helping a parasite to spread Yellow Fever throughout the African continent. There was a high mortality rate amongst the indigenous population. Then we had the expansion of Maoism during
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Out of town planners should involve the local community
WITH regard to the article, hoteliers fail to bridge gap. I agree completely with Vernon Smith's comments of the Blackpool and Fylde Rail Users Association about the Bloomfield Road bridge being preserved and kept in place. With decorative features e.g
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PNE topple Coventry
RICARDO Fuller scored twice and Richard Cresswell claimed his first goal of the campaign to help ease pressure on manager Craig Brown against what was eventually a nine-man Coventry City. Fuller headed North End in front after 35 minutes when he connecting
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Coleman senses the Daggers will be out
JOHN Coleman is refusing to read too much into Dagenham and Redbridge's inconsistent start to the season. The Daggers were strong contenders for promotion to the Third Division last season but just missed out on a coveted place in the Football League,
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Ward Six gives first-class service
I WRITE in response to Mrs Crabtree's letter (September 12) expressing dissatisfaction at the standard of housekeeping on Ward Six at Fairfield Hospital. I have to say I cannot agree with her comments. I have an elderly relative receiving care in Ward
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Bemused by the council's new bin regime
MIKE Savage's letter (September 12) regarding the emptying of bins and removal of rubbish that doesn't fit, makes me wonder if his department considered this response with due regard to the council's "one size fits all" recycling policy, and their brown
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New brown bin is a total waste
IT is now blatantly obvious that Bury Council is wasting council taxpayers' money. I refer to the issue of a brown wheelie bin for garden waste to every household. Every household, that is, even those who do not have any garden to speak of, such as myself
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Pound for pounds.
FOURTEEN Whitefield pupils will literally be following in the footsteps of their teachers this weekend. They will be pounding the streets of Newcastle to raise pounds for St Bernadette's Primary School. The youngsters, aged ten and 11, are taking part
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Terry to hold classes
ARTIST Terry O'Toole will be holding watercolour classes for beginners and improvers on Thursdays at St Annes Parish Rooms, Headroomgate Road, St Annes from October to December. For more details, telephone Terry on 01254 207791.
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Author to visit library
LANCASHIRE born author Anna Jacobs will visit Blackpool Central Library on October 1 to discuss her novels, Blackpool Council has announced. She'll be talking about her latest novel, Our Mary Ann, based on events in Blackpool and Brighton at the start
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Genuine excuse to Bond
A SEAN Connery look-a-like will be on hand as Blackpool's Winter Gardens plays host to a James Bond Christmas Party to raise money for the RNLI. Guests will be welcomed with a shaken-not-stirred vodka martini and have the chance to have their photo taken
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Burglar busters!
BURGLARIES in Bury dropped by a crimebusting 50 per cent last month, bucking the trend hitting other police divisions. In August alone, a traditionally busy period for intruders and sneak thieves, there were 115 break-ins, compared to 229 in August last
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Shopping drives me off my trolley
ONLY a woman could shop for every single day of the week and not feel as if she'd just wasted seven days in her life. After a week doing just that I have decided never to go shopping ever again. People say you should never say never. Well I'm saying never
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EVENTS taking place in East Lancashire on Saturday, September 20
A LOOK at events, from amateur theatre to rambles through our beautiful countryside. 50/50 Dancing, Tony's New Empress Ballroom, Town Hall Street, Blackburn, 7.30pm-11pm. Music, Drama, Elocution and Ballet Festival, The Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley
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People, not power must take priority
IT may strike people as bizarre that two East Lancashire Labour MPs are telling hundreds of electors that they would rather do without their votes. This strange situation involving Blackburn's Jack Straw and Darwen and Rossendale's Janet Anderson comes
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Triumphant homecoming for trombone legend
JAZZ trombone legend Roy Williams, born in Farnworth, near Bolton, 60 plus years ago, makes no secret of his delight at returning to familiar territory to play gigs. And he has certainly been in his element this week with concerts at The Rhythm Station
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Cricket: Elton look to spoil Walshaw's party
IT'S going to be a tense weekend for Walshaw as they attempt to secure the Bolton Association league title. Standing in the way of the Sycamore Road side are local rivals Elton. And Walshaw need that win to clinch the silverware. Walshaw go into the game
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Cricket: Brox face a nervous wait
BROOKSBOTTOMS' promotion bid now hangs by a thread despite their impressive demolition job on erstwhile leaders Bolton Indians in theManchester Association. Results elsewhere mean that Brox must win again at the weekend and hope that Rylands can help
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Amateur soccer: Late leveller costs Highfield
ATHERTON TOWN...2 HIGHFIELD UTD...2 FOLLOWING the previous week's comprehensive Lancashire Amateur Cup win it was back to league action for Highfield and a trip to second placed Atherton Town. Highfield were bolstered by the midweek signings of both Dave
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Australian archbishop visits town
THE Archbishop of Sydney is visiting Blackburn at the weekend to talk about ways to make the church more relevant. The Very Rev Dr Peter Jensen will be speaking at Christ Church, Mosley Street, at 6pm on Sunday on the topic 'shaping the Church for mission
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Course to help arthritis sufferers
ARTHRITIS sufferers who have been trained in how to manage its symptoms will be leading a course to help other sufferers. The Healthy Living Centre in Brookhouse and Blackburn Arthritis Care are holding a six-week course for sufferers starting on September
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Speed fines cash swell for treasury
CONGRATULATIONS must be extended to the Lancashire Partnership for Road Safety on their plans to introduce the new dedicated child road safety campaign, Beesafe, which is soon to be 'rolled out' in schools across the county from this new term. However
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Four escape from overturned car
FOUR youths had a miraculous escape when they emerged virtually unscathed after their car landed on its roof. The Vauxhall Corsa flipped after a collision with a Renault van in Radcliffe Road, Bury, near Ribchester Drive at 9.30pm on Saturday. Fire officers
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Homes needed for abandoned kittens
GOOD homes are needed for three kittens found abandoned in a cardboard box in Bury. Bury RSPCA discovered the hungry and thirsty kittens (two males and one female) on Tuesday morning and is looking after them until suitable homes can be found. Jason Bowles
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Why did our daughter die?
A DEVASTATED family laid their daughter to rest then began a quest to find out why the 21-year-old law student died after a minor operation at a Blackburn hospital. Saira Faruque, of Lomeshaye Road, Nelson, died following a routine sinus operation and
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The ward nobody wants
TWO Labour MPs are embroiled in a fight over a council ward filled with Tory voters -- that neither of them wants. The new ward has been proposed by the Government's Boundary Commission, which is conducting a review of Parliamentary seats in Lancashire
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Robbers flee as victim retaliates
A BURLY businessman flattened two armed men who tried to rob him. Mr Mashar Baig fought back when the pair carrying knives confronted him outside Barclays Bank in Bury New Road, Prestwich, on Wednesday afternoon. Within seconds, the thugs were left writhing
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Swap bulbs and see the light
FREE energy-efficient light bulbs are up for grabs at an awareness-raising day next week. Residents can hand over one ordinary (working) bulb and get two "green" ones in return when they visit Bury Council's energy show house on Tuesday (Sep 23). The
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Cinema plan a hit with the public
PROPOSALS to create a new cinema in Bury town centre have been voted the most popular feature of the planned £150 million Mill Gate centre redevelopment. And centre co-owners Westfield say that an exhibition to publicise the revamp generated a clear majority
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Murphy won't be at Willows - Salford say he will!
THE mind games are in full swing as the clock ticks down to Sunday's play-off showdown between Leigh Centurions and Salford City Reds. Newly-appointed Director of Rugby, Alex Murphy, says he won't be at the game; Salford reckon he'll be there! But Murphy
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'Don't cut our lifeline'
PENSIONERS living in a Preston suburb fear they are going to be left stranded this winter as the bus route near their homes looks set to be axed. Doris McArdle, 79, of Crownlee, Penwortham, is one of many elderly residents living in retirement bungalows
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Vera finally learns truth
A LOSTOCK Hall woman whose first job was at Preston's Gold Thread Works, says she had no idea the embroiderers she helped were producing top secret badges. Vera Taylor (nee Eccles) of Glendale Crescent, Avenham, started work in the Avenham factory in
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Tragic loss of 'Mr Wonderful'
'BIG, loud and obnoxious, but absolutely wonderful' -- those are the words used by a Preston woman to describe her biker husband who tragically died this week. Family man Tom Webb was riding-in his brand new, 1,000cc motorbike for the first time, when
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Car park charges will 'kill shops'
SHOPPERS and motorists reacted angrily after it was revealed South Ribble, the only area in Lancashire to offer free parking, is considering introducing charges. The borough's councillors have launched a major consultation into parking management and
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This Asda be the biggest singalong
SHOPPERS and staff sang their hearts out for charity at Burnley's Asda store in a bid to break the world record for the biggest sing-along. They were linked by video with pop singer Louise, who was in Asda's Leyton store in London to sing her new track
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Cutting down on school run 'is healthy'
NEW government plans to curtail the daily 'school run,' where parents take their children to class in the car, will be good for children's health as well as helping cut congestion on East Lancashire's roads, says Peter Pike. Getting young people to walk
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Rosegrove Bulletin
A FULL planning application from Ensign Developmens, Ensign House, Irwell Street, Rosegrove, to demolish existing buildings and erect six dwellinghouses on the same site, is an amendment to previous application to erect the houses at a different angle
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Drive for safer road paying off
ROAD safety campaigners in Burnley were today celebrating a 77 per cent drop in casualties on a road they targeted. The Burnley Road Safety Community Partnership staged a gory mock-crash in Colne Road in June and held a road safety event at nearby Barden
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Tot, 2, hurt as man threw ashtray
A TODDLER ended up bleeding from his head when she was hit by an ashtray thrown during a row, a court was told. Burnley Magistrates heard how drunken and raging Christopher Hattersley, 25, later told police he had not aimed the ashtray at anybody. The
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Riot victims may miss out on £1m
PEOPLE who made claims estimated at a total of £1million after the Burnley riots may have to foot the bill themselves if the Riot Act (Damages) is repealed. A repeal, which would let Lancashire Police Authority off its obligation to pay damages, is due
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Children to design card for Eid and Christmas
PRIMARY school children in Pendle are being asked to promote cultural diversity in the borough by designing a card to celebrate both Eid and Christmas. All primary schools in the borough have been invited to enter a competition to design the card which
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Cash joy for beauty spot
CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating victory in a two-year battle for cash to restore an area of natural beauty. Members of the Clover Hill Residents' Action Group have been awarded £31,000 of funding for improvements to Quarry Hill Nature Reserve, in Nelson.
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Chance to triumph slips
HOPPERS have only themselves to blame for this defeat after conceding no fewer than seven penalties to the opposition. They scored three tries to their opponents two but lack of discipline proved their downfall. Hoppers were 16-3 behind after 20 minutes
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Ladies cruise past Liverpool
PNE Women dominated this match, and nearly went ahead on four minutes when Dawn Holland's header was well saved on the line by the 'keeper Minutes later Mel Walker's shot shaved the post and it was Sarah Berry who opened the scoring on 14 mins. PNE had
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Drug user stole trolley load of goods
A THIEF who helped herself to a trolley load of goods from Sainsburys had gone there by car - but was a banned driver, a court was told. Burnley Magistrates heard how Vicky Parkinson, 35, who got behind the wheel twice more after being ordered off the
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A journey into Ireland's past
TRANSLATIONS brings 19th Century Ireland to the Library Theatre stage in this tale of army suppression, love and learning. Brian Friel's play tells of the events that impact on a rural community in County Donegal when two English officers come to map
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How Susan swapped Brookside for Brooklyn
TO soap fans she's known as a Lottery winning gambling addict. And so convincing was Susan Twist during her three years as money-mad Rosie Banks in TV's Brookside, she still gets suspicious looks from fellow shoppers when she pops out to buy a Lottery
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Brewery fined for polluting Ribble
BREWERY giants Interbrew UK Limited have been fined £15,000 for polluting the River Ribble. Preston Magistrates' Court imposed the penalty on September 12, and the company was also ordered to pay £867.15 in costs. In recent years site drainage, contaminated
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Ten years ago
PUPIL pop stars just missed the number one spot in a national contest. The eight-strong team from St Andrew's CE School, Blackburn, rubbed shoulders with Phil Collins when they were runners-up in the British Youth Rock and Pop Awards.
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Gangs "hijack" three vehicles
POLICE are promising to take action after three cars were 'hijacked' in the last eight days. All the vehicles were stolen from their owners in the Prestwich area. Now the local police chief has said that extra manpower will be brought in to tackle the
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Pages to have you thinking
AN international Buddhist monk launched a meditation handbook at a Clitheroe bookshop. The Venerable Kelsang Namkhyen, resident teacher at the Losang Dragpa Buddhist Centre, Todmorden, launched the New Meditation Handbook, which contains 21 step-by-step
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Girls are on the ball
THORNTON were on the attack from the start and Celtic soon found themselves pinned in defence. Alice Jackson had an excellent game in midfield, and scored a hat-trick before the break. Emma Perrett scored a brace, and was a handful for the Celtic defence
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Keep it clean
A DATE with premiership outfit Birmingham awaits for Blackpool next week -- but Steve McMahon's side must first bid to climb the second division table. They visit Edgeley Park on Saturday, bidding to build on a much improved defensive performance against
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Chauffeur on the road to success
EX-policeman Matthew Hanson has swapped his helmet for a chauffeur's cap. And the 27-year-old businessman hopes he will become a force to be reckoned with after launching his own luxury transport company. Matthew has quit the force and headed for the
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Take assembly
THE AGM of the Friends of Lytham Hall takes place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, September 24 at Lytham Assembly Rooms. There will be a talk by Ann Pinder about the Clifton family of Lytham Hall, and an update on improvement works going on at the hall.
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Survival is the primary concern for Ternent
STAN Ternent has insisted it would take a master magician to transform cash-strapped Burnley into a Premiership side at present. Supporters have notoriously high expectation levels for their side after a meteoric rise up the league ladder under Ternent's
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Beresford faces up to the Clarets for first time
PAUL WELLER reckons former Turf Moor favourite Marlon Beresford has overcome his confidence crisis just in time to face his old club. Beresford amazingly faces the Clarets for the first time in his career tomorrow after signing a short-term contract with
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Prescott blocks Freeport plan
PLANS for a massive extension to Fleetwood's Freeport Shopping Village have been blocked by the Government. The Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, has, on the advice of Government inspectors, rejected the application for more shops and leisure facilities
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Well it is the spice of life
SOME of Blackpool's best-loved comics cooked up a treat at Blackpool Pleasure Beach on Friday. There were some funny goings on as the likes of Phil and Roy Walker, Johnnie Casson, Charlie Hale and Tony Jo gave guests at the Pleasure Beach's Paradise Room
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Masterplan model
BLACKPOOL Council could be set to create an Urban Regeneration Company in a bid to boost its resort Masterplan. The company -- modelled on similar ventures in Liverpool and East Manchester -- would work to bring private investment into the area along
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Public vent anger over market plan
ANGER over the proposed relocation of Bury Market bubbled to the surface as plans were put before members of the public. Voices were raised as developers Westfield described their plan, which would see the popular market located alongside Kay Gardens
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Burnt-out house is used as a tip
AN ANGRY mum is demanding action after the burnt-out house she and her four children used to live in has been turned into a dumping ground. Ms Paulette Brooks says the Powell Street home she had lived in for eight years, which was destroyed by fire in
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Anti-wind farm group condemns mast attack
CAMPAIGNERS opposed to a wind farm on Scout Moor have condemned the vandalism of a £15,000 weather mast erected to test conditions for the development. The 50 metre construction, situated on moorland between Edenfield and Whitworth, was gathering wind
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Old soldiers say farewell
A GRANITE memorial will serve as a lasting tribute to Tottington Ex-Servicemen's Association, which disbands this weekend after 80 years. The end of its long and illustrious era will be marked with a special Evensong service at St Anne's Church, Tottington
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Stan's challenge to striker Blake
STAN TERNENT has urged Robbie Blake to become Burnley's fox in the box. The Clarets need a lift to get their tails up following two successive defeats that have halted the momentum gained by a hat-trick of victories. Burnley have drawn blanks in losses
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I liked them so much, I became a Criminal
RHYTHM Man Frank Reid can't quite believe his luck. He used to spend his evenings drumming with bands in pubs and clubs around Leicester but he's now set to tour America with the group he used to worship as a fan -- the Fun Lovin' Criminals. Frank, 28
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Tycoon dismisses takeover of carpet company
THE Swedish millionaire who grabbed a near 30 per cent stake in East Lancashire carpet manufacturer Gaskell plc has assured the company he has no intention of taking over the business. Entrepreneur Peter Gyllenhammar spent an estimated £1.3million earlier
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Bury FC: Must do better
IT'S been a real rollercoaster start to the season for the Shakers but for manager Andy Preece it's come as no surprise. The Bury boss has been as disappointed as anyone with his team's inconsistent start to the campaign, but reckons given the squad size
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London stage beckons for dancer Lucy
DARWEN Moorland High School pupil Lucy Reed has won a scholarship at a top drama and dance college. Lucy, 15, from Stacksteads, near Bacup, went to the Studio La Pointe college of dance in Leeds for the first time at the weekend and will continue to attend
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Witness plea to handbag snatch bid
POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an 11-year-old boy tried to snatch a pensioner's shopping bag. The victim was walking along South Street, Bacup, between 9.45am and 10.30am on Wednesday when she was approached by the youngster who tried to grab
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Stylish work on walkway
LOCAL young people on a task force training scheme with environmental group Rossendale Groundwork have been helping to improve a 22km stretch of the Rossendale Way. And the standard of work has won praise from their supervisors, Karl Bischtschuck and
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Bravest feat in memory of her sister
A WOMAN has turned the tragedy of losing her sister into a battle of bravery -- and become the first person to win a prestigious award. Courageous Hazel Mrozek, 35, of Lowerhouse Green, Lumb, Rossendale, decided to run in The Great North Run, in Gateshead
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Triumphant homecoming for trombone legend
JAZZ trombone legend Roy Williams, born in Farnworth, near Bolton, 60 plus years ago, makes no secret of his delight at returning to familiar territory to play gigs. And he has certainly been in his element this week with concerts at The Rhythm Station
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We need to get it right for locals too
BLACKPOOL South MP, Gordon Marsden, says the resort's regeneration must benefit residents as well as visitors. Speaking in a parliamentary debate on seaside regeneration, Mr Marsden again called for the creation of a seaside regeneration trust, along
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I liked them so much, I became a Criminal
RHYTHM Man Frank Reid can't quite believe his luck. He used to spend his evenings drumming with bands in pubs and clubs around Leicester but he's now set to tour America with the group he used to worship as a fan -- the Fun Lovin' Criminals. Frank, 28
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He's a first class Male!
HOSPITAL staff are being encouraged to get on their bike -- or bus -- to work as part of a healthy transport scheme this week. Blackpool Victoria Hospital is encouraging members of staff to find an alternative to driving to work, including walking, cycling
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Keep windows shut despite heat say police
BY DAY the mercury may be rising as the Fylde coast basks in the rays of a glorious Indian summer. But police are warning householders to lock all doors and windows against nocturnal intruders despite the stifling temperatures after dark. The note of
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Union's counter attack
BLACKPOOL shop workers suffering because of violent and abusive customers are asking the public to back a campaign to improve workplace safety. Members of the retail union USDAW were in Hounds Hill shopping centre on Tuesday to promote the union's 'Freedom
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Hero Kevin in line for bravery award
A BLACKPOOL dad-of-two who saved a couple from drowning has made it through to the semi-finals of a national heroism award. Kevin Mackay, 47, is in line for a Vodafone Life Savers Award after bravely plunging into the sea off Blackpool last May to rescue
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We were very lucky
AN INVESTIGATION has begun into a huge fire which gutted a shoe store in Blackpool town centre on Tuesday night. One eyewitness told The Citizen how he looked on fearfully as the Shoemarket's first floor windows shattered in the heat and flames erupted
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I'm not up the creek!
CELINE Dion and Shania Twain eat your heart out... Blackpool Pleasure Beach has its own talent brewing in the form of fallen Pop Idol wannabe, Emma Dane. Millions of people across the UK tuned in last Saturday to watch the 19-year-old university student
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Doctor with the right medicine for Europe
EACH month, Euro-MPs from all 15 EU member states, gather at the European Parliament in the leafy island city of Strasbourg, France, to vote on policies and legislation relating to our everyday lives. Citizen reporter -- Lori Hudson -- met local Euro-MPs
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Retail park work now under way
WORK has started on a new £30 million retail park in Blackburn. Leading DIY chain B&Q is poised to take the largest unit on the new site, a 150,000 sq ft warehouse, at Nova Scotia Mill, off Bolton Road and Russell Street. Three smaller units, with
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We must learn to curb 'steep decline'
A HEADTEACHER has called for a debate on the future of education in Britain to halt the 'steep decline' of standards. Dr David Hempsall of Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Blackburn, said the examination system needed a radical overhaul to meet the needs
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Gun probe: We're off say travellers
A GROUP of travellers has promised to move on at the weekend following claims two schoolgirls were threatened with a shotgun. Police sent a liaison officer to speak to the people living on land in Sett End Road after an incident at Queen's Park Technology
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I gambled away £25,000 in cash
A FATHER of three found himself before a court after the official receiver failed to believe he had gambled away more than £25,000. Azim Patel, 30, of London Walk, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to an offence under the Insolvency Act. He admitted failing to
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Aunt's death was my greatest loss
FORMER Blackburn Rovers star David Dunn travelled home to help a charity close to his heart reach its fund-raising goal. The midfielder, who joined Birmingham City for £5m in the summer, was at Mister Fu's Chinese restaurant in Blackburn last night to
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Judge names pervert teacher
A PAEDOPHILE teacher jailed for abusing two young girls has been placed on the sex offender register for an indefinite period and risks up to five years in prison if he breaches a sex offenders order. And a district judge, reversing an earlier ban on
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The ward nobody wants
TWO Labour MPs are embroiled in a fight over a council ward filled with Tory voters -- that neither of them wants. The new ward has been proposed by the Government's Boundary Commission, which is conducting a review of Parliamentary seats in Lancashire
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Nelson eye cup chances
NELSON will gain a good indication of their title chances in a cup tie tomorrow. Currently lying third in North West Counties Division One, they welcome second-placed Maine Road to Victoria Park in the FA Vase second qualifying round. But manager Dave
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Four players down
DARWEN have four players missing for their FA Vase second round qualifying clash at Liversedge tomorrow. Paul Baker and Denny Khan are unavailable, Scott Derbyshire is on holiday while Jimmy Khan has jetted off to Las Vegas after celebrating his 40th
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Burgess steps down after Jones contract dispute
CLITHEROE have been rocked by the resignation of chairman Dave Burgess. The former manager, who has been instrumental in helping the Blues become a driving force in the North West Counties Division One both on and off the pitch, stepped down from his
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Link think
I AM pondering the reason why a council can boast so loudly of providing a hospital link for South Shore, Mereside, Norbreck and even Fleetwood while at the same time stealthily removing the only hospital link for Cleveleys, Anchorsholme, Little Bispham
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Flagging up a good idea for resort chiefs
IT has come to mine and the committees' attention that following the acceptance of Havering (Essex) Council, to fly the St George's flag all year round, Fylde and Blackpool Borough Council should follow suit by flying the flag at each town hall in the
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That sinking feeling
WYRE Borough Council have opened a public exhibition at the Frank Townend Community Centre, Cleveleys, with questionnaires requesting the public's views as to how the promenade at Cleveleys should be developed. It is really unbelievable that the Wyre
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Now go and do it again!
CRAIG Brown has warned his players that Tuesday's 4-2 win over Coventry City will count for nothing if they don't repeat the feat against Rotherham this weekend. With Ricardo Fuller doubling his goal tally for the season with a brace and Richard Cresswell
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First winner of council "bribe"
HEARTY congratulations to Mr Gill, the first winner of Bury's "tenants lotto". He gets his reward for doing something he is supposed to do . . . pay his bills. I thought it was only children we bribed to be "good". The council assures us that taxpayers
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Throw out the council, not the rubbish
WHILE taking our excess rubbish to the tip this weekend, I couldn't help but think about last week's letter from council officer Mike Savage, defending the policy of binmen emptying rubbish out of non-closed bins on to the road. I don't know where to
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Stop mass medication without consent
FOR decades now there have been persistent attempts to force upon us the fluoridation of our water supplies. The justification for this is a minimal improvement in children's teeth, an "improvement" which does not consider the wide variation in child
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Picture this
THE Red Rose Postcard Club holds it third annual postcard fair at Marsh Mill, Thornton on Sunday, September 28. Huge collections of fascinating old postcards and cigarette cards will be on display and visitors will have the chance to chat with experts
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Down Your Street...
RETIRED and enjoy a natter? Thornton Probus Club holds fortnightly morning meetings, plus social events including club outings, lunches and dinners. Wives are always invited to social events. The club has been established 23 years. If you are interested
