Archive
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Play games? You've just slot to be kidding
Those were days, when you had to boil an egg and paint a funny face on it and call it an Easter Egg. The eggs on sale in the supermarket just don't have the same appeal. But back to more pressing matters. I've never been much of gambler because I always
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EVENTS in East Lancashire and surrounding areas on Good Friday, April 9, 2004.
DJ Semple, The Work's, Burnley. After School Club (ages four-11 year-olds), Burnley Boys's Club, 3pm-6pm. Victorian Industrial Landscape, The Weavers Triangle, Burnley. Tae Kwon Do, Padiham Leisure Centre, 5.30pm-7pm. 60s Music, Churchills, Bank Parade
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George retires after a lifetime of scouting
From the Guide files of Thursday, April 12, 1979: MR George Shadick retired after a lifetime of scouting. After enrolling as a young cub in 1923, with the 7th Prestwich group, he went on to found the 18th Prestwich (Seaforths) in 1936 where he became
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Good lord! Is that my phone?
Open House, with BILL JACOBS. . . PENDLE peer Tony Greaves was left red-faced as he made his final, and vain, plea for the House of Lords to reject postal voting in the North West for June's local council and European elections. As he came to his conclusion
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Cycle Speedway: Off to a flyer!
BURY Pedalsport got their national league campaign off to a great start last Sunday with a double victory and they were all the sweeter as they were away from home at Birmingham. The second team were in control right from the start and over the twelve
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Soccer: One goal enough for quarter-final place
Redrow Lancashire Amateur Cup BURY GSOB...1 OLD BOLTONIANS...0 SPENCER Woods' early strike proved sufficient to carry Bury through to the last eight of the competition in this highly competitive game between these two local rivals. After relatively comfortable
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Soccer: Slack Rams throw away win at back
SALFORD CITY...4 RAMSBOTTOM UNITED...3 NWCFL First Division POOR defending cost the Rams this seven goal thriller, as it was a game they could and should have won. The Rams welcomed back Lee Buggie and Gareth Gardiner to the starting line-up, with leading
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Rugby Union: Signs are good from a game to savour
STOCKPORT RUFC II...23 BURY RUFC...26 BURY should have taken on West Park Warriors on Saturday, but they were unable to field a team so the match will be played later in the season. They could have taken the soft option of having a day off, however, as
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Boxing: Amir's on the march!
ATHENS-bound Amir Khan is being tipped to eclipse British heroes Audley Harrison and Ricky Hatton after catapulting himself onto the world stage. The 17-year-old Bury Boxing Club wonderboy became the first English boxer to qualify for the Olympic Games
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Who is best of the modern era?
ARSENAL have lost the Treble, but are they still the finest English team ever? And which of their players would make a Best Ever team from the last 25 years? Columnist Neil Bonnar has selected his best ever team compilation. It will annoy you, or intrigue
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Heys win local derby - just
PRESTWICH HEYS...4 RADCLIFFE AMATEURS...3 Bolton Hospitals Cup WITHOUT a league game last Saturday, Heys faced Radcliffe on Monday night in their first ever game in the Bolton Hospital Cup, with all the proceeds going to the Bolton Hospice. Against local
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This wheelie is a marvellous idea
IT is interesting to note folk griping about the council not taking rubbish bags put out at the side of the bins. I remember when the wheelie bins were introduced and we were told that we could fit all our rubbish into the bin, which we all did. Since
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Park are almost there
HARROGATE...12 SEDGLEY PARK...26 RFU National League Two DESPITE dropping the ball from the kick-off, Sedgley made a dream start to their promotion game at Harrogate. Richard Oxley took the resulting scrum against the head and powerful, accurate play
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We all need to reduce waste
IREAD with surprise the letters in the recent edition of your paper about readers having difficulty understanding why Blackburn with Darwen Council have introduced - some 12 months ago - an alternate weekly collection service for recycled materials. You
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CPS to view Malcolm's case again
THE case of Malcolm Rowley has been referred back to the Crown Prosecution Service six years after he drowned at a council care home. Disability Now has taken up his mother Brenda Rowley's long campaign for justice for her 30-years-old severely disabled
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Three days to shape our season
The Andy Lochhead column JUST the other day, I read Arsene Wenger moaning about Arsenal having to play every three days in a packed programme of fixtures. (Not a problem they have any more, mind you!) However, it made me chuckle to hear a manager claiming
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A night at the races for Hurdles charity
CHILDREN were under starters order at a charity race night. Held at the Lord Raglan in Nangreaves, the fund-raiser netted £1,900 for Bury-based Hurdles, a family support group for children with special needs and disabilities. Children who "ran" the races
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Woman's blaze rescue
A 66-year-old woman from Bury was rescued from her smoke-filled home by firefighters after a chip pan fire. Firemen were called to Brunswick Street at 5.50pm on Thursday night after a chip pan fire quickly spread through the kitchen. The woman was reluctant
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Neighbour helps tackle house fire
TWO men needed hospital treatment for smoke inhalation after they tackled a house fire. The 27-year-old owner of the house in Audlum Court, Bury, and his 51-year-old neighbour, used a garden hose to fight the blaze as fire crews were called shortly after
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Growers have real spring in their step
IT was showtime for the borough's growers over the weekend when both Tottington and Ramsbottom horticultural societies put on a show. Although both spring shows were primarily for daffodils, there was also a large array of other plants, flower arrangements
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Fuss on the bus for pregnant mum
A PREGNANT mum claimed she was told to get off a bus with her two-year-old daughter even though there was standing room. Louisa Nowrie and toddler Holly boarded the First Bus 524 near Radcliffe Metrolink Station to travel to Dumers Lane, Radcliffe at
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Town planning to be streamlined
RADICAL changes are on their way for town planning in Bury. The town's Unitary Development Plan is set to be scrapped as part of a Government shake-up of the planning process. Town hall bosses will now be asked to draw up a more flexible set of plans
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Ewood hero Dunc fears for Rovers
FORMER Blackburn Rovers star Duncan McKenzie will be watching tomorrow's events at Ewood Park with more interest -- and anguish -- than most. The charismatic striker, who also became an idol at Elland Road and Everton in the 1970s, has had to endure three
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Fire at derelict house
A FIRE destroyed a derelict house and damaged the neighbouring property. Firefighters were called to Coniston Avenue, Whitefield, at 9.30pm on Friday (April 2) after flames were spotted coming from the boarded-up house. Children are being blamed for starting
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Easter activities for children
SCHOOLCHILDREN are enjoying a host of outside activities to beat the boredom during the Easter holidays, thanks to Bury Council's BLAST programme. The Bury Leisure Activities Outside School Term scheme offers specialist soccer coaching, rugby, cricket
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Post-vote pollsters get final chance to register
RESIDENTS have until next Tuesday (April 13) to make sure that they are registered to vote in this year's elections. The big day, June 10, will see both local elections, when all 51 council seats are up for grabs, and the European Parliament elections
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Pensioner dragged from car
A PRESTWICH pensioner fell victim to carjackers on Wednesday night (April 7). The 68-year-old man was parking his car in Hilton Lane when a team of armed men, wearing masks, dragged him from the driver's seat before stealing his VW Golf V6 vehicle. Now
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Stroke awareness offered by Rotary
MEMBERS of the Rotary Club of Prestwich and Whitefield kept up the pressure to deliver free health checks to local residents. As part of Stroke Awareness Day on Saturday (April 3), the organisation set up blood pressure checks by qualified nurses at Tesco
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24-hour theatre tickets service on-line
THEATRE goers to Burnley can now buy tickets when ever they want thanks to a new 24-hour booking service. The Burnley Mechanics Theatre have launched an internet booking service enabling customers to select the best seats in the house from their homes
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Bird sanctuary closure shock
A POPULAR wildlife sanctuary in Cliviger has closed. Rockwater Bird Centre would normally be reopening now after closing in October for the winter. But owners Cheryl and Paul Thomas have decided to call it a day and shut for good. A closed sign has recently
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Rosegrove Bulletin
THERE are a few vacancies left in the Birds Chippy Rosegrove Mixed Doubles competition to be held at Lowerhouse Bowling Green on Lowerhouse Lane on Sunday, April 11 starting at 10am. Entry fee is £5 per pair, contact Brian Smith (01282 439579) or at 9
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Time ticking away to save town hall clock
CAMPAIGNERS in Padiham are bidding to save a rare clock after funding to have it restored collapsed at the last minute. The water clock, built in 1870, is one of only two of its kind in the country but is currently in bits in Padiham Town Hall. The town
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Cash gift will help tree planting take root
A PRESTWICH churchyard is set to blossom after a generous donation from the Yorkshire Building Society. St Mary's Action Group received £240 from the building society's Community Investment Fund to plant new trees in St Mary's CE Church grave yard. For
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Frowns over Face-to-Face
A SERIES of public meetings organised by Burnley Council has been branded a "disaster" by opposition councillors. The council's Face-to-Face Roadshow aimed to give residents the opportunity to see what the council was doing and raise any issues of concern
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Investor award just the tonic for chemist shop
A PRESTWICH chemist has the prescription for success. For Prestwich Pharmacy has become the first chemist shop in the borough to be awarded coveted Investor in People (IIP) status. And the accolade, which is a firm commitment towards staff training and
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Litter louts shown the red card
A MOVE to get residents to clean up their act will see two housing estates joining forces to undertake a community clean-up. Residents from the Barclay Hills and Griffin estates in Burnley will take part in the first event of Operation Red Card - a council-backed
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Treatment via your telephone
SPINAL and brain surgery patients can now have follow up appointments with their consultants from the comfort of their own living room. Royal Preston Hospital, part of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Trust, which is a specialist treatment centre for patients
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Padiham and Hapton Bulletin
THE Mayor's Ball held in Padiham was a huge success. Hosted by the Mayor Coun Bob Clark and the Mayoress Mrs Hazel Rushton, the event was completely sold out. Among civic guests who attended were the Mayor of Burnley, Coun Lillian Clark and her husband
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Shakers look for holiday safety points
BURY go into the Easter holiday programme on Good Friday looking to kill off once and for all their remote - but nagging - relegation worries. They currently stand two short of the accepted 50-point safety barrier and take on high-flying Torquay United
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Youngsters reap their rewards
BURY FC boss Graham Barrow and Manchester United and England star Gary Neville were the guests of honour at Gigg Lane when the Shakers rewarded their youngsters for the season's efforts. The pair were on hand to present commemorative medals and prizes
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New home project keys handed over
A PROJECT to provide supported housing which meets the needs of people with learning difficulties has been successfully completed. Burnley and Padiham Community Housing has spent the last six months buying and renovating a bungalow in Colne. The keys
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50 years ago
DARWEN'S Music and Arts Club faced closure after a lack of public support, which forced the club to suspend activities of drama, film, music and visual arts. And Blackburn's St John's Young Wives attracted a full house to their Mannequin Parade where
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25 years ago
ALTHAM's machinery firm, MJP, called for improvement of hospital facilities in Accrington because the machinery used by its workers proved dangerous despite safeguards - and they did not feel they could rely on the hospital service when their staff sustained
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Head puts minister on spot over cash
A LEADING head teacher took on a Government minister by demanding answers on what he claimed were misleading budget promises, it was revealed today. Head at Accrington's St Christopher's CE High School Alasdair Coates put schools minister David Miliband
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Historic building complex planned
A HISTORIC Accrington building, once the town's Conservative Club, could become a restaurant, office and apartments complex. The old Churchill's nightclub, on Cannon Street, is the subject of a regeneration scheme being considered by a Bolton developer
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Police crack down on yob misery
FED up residents are being urged to help police tackle young yobs creating a nuisance in Hyndburn. Large numbers of youths meeting at Union Road, Rowan Avenue, and Trinity Street, are causing problems for residents by drinking on the streets, disturbing
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How long?
PART of Manchester Road, Bury, in the Sunnybank area, has been resurfaced and is in pristine condition. I wonder how long it will be before the different utilities commence excavations for pipe-laying etc? A. P.TOBIAS
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Is this really cost-efficient?
I WATCHED in disbelief the removal of our black box recyclable items. The man physically sorts the rubbish by hand as the lorry is parked. Is this really cost-efficient? Also we have to wash our rubbish. What a good use of our water and our time when
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Sounds like a fortnight to me
COUNCILLOR Paul Nesbit stated (Letters, March 26) that "traditional waste will be collected in Week One, but in Week Two the recyclables will be collected" He then adds: "Logic tells me, therefore, there is still a weekly collection, but for different
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Good news for town's homeworkers
BURY'S band of dedicated homeworkers could get more more money under new minimum wage regulations. They could be among 170,000 such workers nationwide to benefit under new rules announced by the Government. The changes will mean that home and piece workers
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Recycling: I am a dutiful Stepford wife
HOW do I cope with all the recycling now expected of me by Bury Council? I previously had a domestic bin under my sink in which I put a bin liner and then filled it daily with tins, waste meat etc.. When this bin liner was full I tied it up and put it
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South to taste Lancs' finest foods
FOOD producers from Lancashire are to challenge the north-south divide when they present their produce in Westminster later this month. They will be among more than 30 of the finest food producers in the North West to showcase their wares in the House
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Maps to help nail patients on the run
STAFF at an East Lancashire mental health unit are to be issued with maps of a nearby village to help them find patients who have absconded. Bosses at the Calderstones NHS Trust have been told that many staff can't find their way around Whalley, the nearest
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BAE workers facing a bleak future
WORKERS were today calculating the financial and emotional cost of yesterday's jobs bombshell. Employees on BAE's four major plane programmes - Eurofighter Typhoon, the Joint Strike Fighter, Hawk and Nimrod - have been devastated by the job losses, blamed
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Cruel horse owner jailed over dog
A 68-year-old man has been jailed for looking after another person's dog. Blackburn magistrates heard that John Robert Muir Layland was banned for life from keeping horses or dogs after being convicted of cruelty and neglect charges involving racehorses
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Ternent wants players to end relegation battle
STAN Ternent is urging his Burnley players to finally banish all relegation fears this Easter. The Clarets are primed for a nervy trip to Walsall tomorrow before hosting fellow strugglers Watford at Turf Moor on Monday. And Ternent knows a maximum six-point
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Town hall staff demand better pay
TOWN Hall staff, who are members of Unison, are urging councillors and MPs to support their national pay claim for local government workers. The claim is for four per cent plus £200 pay rise with a £6.04 per hour minimum wage. It also includes improvements
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Heart-breaking run by father in memory of Jade
MEMORIES of a much-loved stepdaughter will be foremost in the mind of runner Roy Clarke during the London Marathon. Teenager Jade Clarke Smith died within weeks of returning from holiday and having a brain tumour diagnosed in August 2001. Jade, who attended
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Carnival countdown
THE countdown to Prestwich Carnival 2004 has begun. With just ten weeks to go to the big event on Sunday, June 20, Father's Day, it's all systems go to make this year's carnival the best ever. And with last year's festival of fun beating all records,
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Mumps epidemic fear
DOZENS of teenagers in the borough have been struck down by mumps, causing fears the epidemic could spread even further. Twenty-six cases have been reported in the past three weeks, and doctors are now urging teenagers to be vaccinated against the illness
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"Fare" cop by bus driver Mark
THE next stop for a bus passenger was the local police station when he boarded Mark Newbon's single decker. Mark was working the Bury to Manchester route when he instantly realised there was something familiar about a teenager who got on the bus at Sedgley
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Headteacher was a class act!
AS PARRENTHORN headteacher Arthur Francis retires after 16 years, he can feel proud in the knowledge that the school is approaching one of the most exciting times in its history. After being tipped for amalgamation or even closure in the 1980s, due to
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Wilkinson secures point
Bacup Borough ...1 Woodley Sports ...1 BACUP Borough got a well-earned point against league leaders Woodley Sports. The high flying visitors had the better of the early exchanges but Bacup goalkeeper David Felgate was more than a match for them. It was
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McCluskie prepares Rossendale for tough task
JIM McCluskie believes Rossendale are going to have to do it the hard way if they are to finish in the top 13 in UniBond League Division One. Dale are in 17th place at the moment and the caretaker boss has set his sights on four wins in the last six games
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Coates hopes Reds can cruise to title
CONFIDENT Colne need a maximum of just four wins to secure the North West Counties Division Two title. And after an impressive 6-2 win over Oldham Town at Holt House on Wednesday Nigel Coates's squad rotation system is paying dividends. The Reds boss
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Miller piles on misery at the back for United
Ramsbottom United...4 Fleetwood Town...6 DESPITE scoring four goals at home and creating numerous other clear-cut chances, the Rams still contrived to lose this match against Fleetwood Town last night. Defending more suitable in a comedy show and goalkeeping
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Sculpher sets his sights
CLITHEROE manager Lee Sculpher is grateful for the massive boost Bacup Borough gave his side's title ambitions in midweek. And he is banking on the Blues doing themselves a favour when they go to Congleton tomorrow. Bacup held Clitheroe's title challengers
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Patterson: Why I had to quit Magpies
MARK Patterson today admitted the demands of non-league football forced him to resign as Chorley manager. The 38-year-old former Blackburn Rovers player stepped down following the 4-0 defeat at Stocksbridge Park Steels on Tuesday, which signalled the
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Martin signs off the air
AND finally: Martin Henfield will read his last bulletin for BBC News North West on Sunday (April 11). Martin, who lives in Ramsbottom, is retiring after 34 years of broadcasting for the BBC in the north west and the Midlands, where he started in local
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Ternent wants players to end relegation battle
STAN Ternent is urging his Burnley players to finally banish all relegation fears this Easter. The Clarets are primed for a nervy trip to Walsall tomorrow before hosting fellow strugglers Watford at Turf Moor on Monday. And Ternent knows a maximum six-point
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Youth working for sex sense
TEENAGERS in Darwen have produced a leaflet about sexual health to help other young people deal with their concerns. A group of 18 boys and girls from Youth Works, a government-funded project aimed at keeping youths off the streets, took part in a project
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Secret load of immigrants
AN employee at Darwen-based Zen Wallcoverings today told of the moment six immigrants emerged from a lorry delivering wallpaper from France. Helen Weaver, export sales administrator, was with the French driver and his translator when he was interviewed
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Thought for food at the big fair
VISITORS and residents can have an enjoyable time this weekend at the Farmers' Market Local Produce and Craft Fair which takes place in Ramsbottom on Easter Sunday. A visitor will be the Foody Farmer - a farmer turned chef, who will be selling homemade
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Danger drive for 16 miles
A DRUNK police worker who drove 16 miles on the wrong side of a motorway started her journey in Rossendale, a court heard. Sandra White, a 50-year-old divorcee, was beginning a three-month prison sentence after magistrates in Manchester were shown a police
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Prestige block 'ready on time'
WORK on a revolutionary £2.8million office complex in Bacup is coming to a climax with the project both on time and within budget. The doors to the Kingfisher Centre at Futures Park, Newchurch Road, are due to open early in May and the team behind the
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Diocese rewards school's hard work
A CHURCH of England primary school has been praised by the Diocese for its achievements. St Paul's CE Primary in Kersal was recently presented with a certificate in recognition of its hard work by the chairman of the Manchester Diocese Board of Education
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Heart-breaking run by father in memory of Jade
MEMORIES of a much-loved stepdaughter will be foremost in the mind of runner Roy Clarke during the London Marathon. Teenager Jade Clarke Smith died within weeks of returning from holiday and having a brain tumour diagnosed in August 2001. Jade, who attended
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Free package for first 1,000
BURY companies can sign up for a free multi-media business growth tool worth £195. The package is being given away by Accountax Services to the first 1,000 firms which apply. Called Simple Stuff That Works, the multi-media tool is designed to help owner-managed
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Company wound up after probe
A COMPANY which charged exorbitant fees to list firm's entries on an Internet business directory has been wound up following an investigation by the DTI. Online Business Index Limited (OBI) contacted thousands of businesses in Manchester and London by
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Headteacher was a class act!
AS PARRENTHORN headteacher Arthur Francis retires after 16 years, he can feel proud in the knowledge that the school is approaching one of the most exciting times in its history. After being tipped for amalgamation or even closure in the 1980s, due to
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Worker claimed £2,119 in jobless benefits
A BLACKBURN man has appeared in court for claiming benefits while in employment. Trevor Bamber, 34, of Yates Fold, was given a conditional discharge for six months by Blackburn magistrates after pleading guilty to making false representations to obtaining
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Compost garden or kitchen waste in free kits
GARDENERS are being urged to think green during their garden spring clean. The Lancashire Waste Partnership is promoting composting as the ideal way to deal with most garden waste as part of its 'Don't Wriggle Out of Composting' campaign. About a third
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Appeal to fans
ACCRINGTON Stanley manager John Coleman has urged supporters to raise the roof and ease aching legs. The Reds chief has admitted that, while his players can match the professional Conference teams for fitness, the strain of a long season is starting to
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Whalley blasts indiscipline
ACCRINGTON Stanley chairman Eric Whalley has slammed the players after the club's disciplinary record reached new levels this week. Late dismissals for Dean Calcutt and Rory Prendergast in Tuesday's Lancashire FA Marsden Trophy final defeat at Morecambe
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Antiques fair's back
IT'S TIME for bargain hunters to get egg-cited as the annual Easter Saturday giant antiques and collector's market returns to the Blackpool Winter Gardens. Up to 250 stall holders are expected to set up shop in the gardens. Public opening times are from
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All aboard the Metro
MOTORISTS will be enticed to take the tram with the news that Metrolink is to create park and ride sites at Besses and Whitefield at a cost of £590,000. The developments will allow drivers to park their cars and to board trams. Altogether, four park and
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BOWLS: Lord's new date
THE Derek Lord Bowling Tournament played at Whalley Bowling Club last Saturday was badly affected by the weather. The competition will continue and be played to a conclusion on Sunday, April 25 starting at noon. Players should report at that time. Any
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BOWLS: It's Alexandra the great!
ALEXANDRA made their best start to the Super League campaign when they crushed Lostock Hall Con Club 6-0. Captain Brian Tomlinson led the way, 21-8, followed by David Hoyle who ran out from 7-7 to win 21-7. Vincent O'Donnell and Andrew Sharples both won
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All the latest sports news
CLICK here for our sports round-up
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A draw will suffice for ace Fourie
A REMARKABLE turnaround in form has seen Sedgley Park control the wobble they found themselves in, in mid-January, and get back on track for one of the two promotion spots on offer. A draw against roses rivals Doncaster on Saturday will be enough to send
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Yes to weekly bin collection
COUNCILLOR Joan Grimshaw recently posed three questions on the Letters page: Do we all agree on the need to curtain landfill waste? Should we not recycle as much as possible? If we all agree, then do we need a weekly grey bin collection, as much more
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They didn't take my black box
I HAD my reservations regarding the black box recycling system, but the leaflet said "Rethink your Rubbish". So I did. Instead of taking all my recyclables to Asda I put them in the black box and put them out for collection. I got home from work and it
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Seeing Red over racism
SCHOOLS throughout the borough were on "red alert" when they attended an event to re-inforce their commitment to tackling racism. Pupils produced a series of hard-hitting posters, stories and poems for the Show Racism the Red Card (SRTRC) campaign which
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Soap stars pay tribute to young Street actor
A STAR-shaped floral tribute from the Bury drama school tragic actor Dean Worswick attended was among the many wreaths at his funeral on Thursday. His agent Carol Godby wrote: "To my little star, twinkling bright from heaven. Good night and God Bless.
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Who is best of the modern era?
ARSENAL have lost the Treble, but are they still the finest English team ever? And which of their players would make a Best Ever team from the last 25 years? Columnist Neil Bonnar has selected his best ever team compilation. It will annoy you, or intrigue
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EVENTS in East Lancashire and surrounding areas on Saturday, April 10
Victorian Industrial Landscape, The Weavers' Triangle, Burnley. Saturday Morning Club for five-14 year-olds, Vanguard Community Centre, 65 Bevington Close, Burnley, 10am-1pm. Ballet and Tap Dancing for children age two years upwards, Debra McLaren School
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A template for cutting crime
WE all know that drugs and crime are inextricably linked. Addicts will do almost anything to get the money to fund their habit and it is believed almost 70 per cent of all crime in the county is caused by the need to satisfy this craving. When offenders
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Tough new way to beat addiction
APPROXIMATELY 70 per cent of crime in Lancashire is driven by drugs, police estimates suggest. Many people would advocate longer prison sentences as a deterrent for addicts stealing to fund their habits. But Crime Reporter IAN SINGLETON hears from recovering
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'We'll work to save others like Victoria'
MORE than a year after the inquiry into the death of tragic Victoria Climbie was published, councils, police forces and education authorities in Lancashire are still coming to terms with its findings. DANNY BRIERLEY reports. . . ON February 25, 2000 ,
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Gymnastics: Freeman goes for the gold
FORMER Bury Grammar School pupil Mark Freeman is swinging back into action - against the odds. The 19-year-old gymnast was advised by the medical men to retire from the sport after breaking his thumb but he now has his sights set firmly on becoming an
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Soccer: Football kids fight Ramadan ban
A JUNIOR football team featuring eight Muslim players, has been fined £250, thrown out of a cup competition and deducted nine points for failing to play a number of games. Abraham Moss Warriors, an under-12s team from Cheetham Hill, Manchester, claim
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Thanks for helping me keep in touch
I LIVE in Aussieland and I come from Darwen so it was great to see St Edward's Primary School doing Australian projects. My family still live in Darwen so I will probably be back there at some time. I read the Darwen, Blackburn news over the internet
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Who wants this rubbish policy?
FROM the many letters in your paper it is very obvious that many people in the borough are deeply unhappy with the new policy on waste. I have many telephone calls from constituents in my ward complaining about it and talking to people I have found hardly
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Wounded Lions miss out on a big chance
OLDHAM RUFC...42 SWINTON LIONS RUFC...15 Arriva Trains Cup West Group. FOR the second time in less than a week, the Lions gave National League One opponents more than a match for most of the game, only to fade away badly in the closing stages. However
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Bin collection system needs to be watched
IFULLY agree with P Ormerod about the bin collection fiasco operating at the moment. In my view, people have taken the re-cycling system on board, even if this means that many older, and in some cases disabled, people are inconvenienced with having to
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Reinventing Radcliffe: still time
RESIDENTS in Radcliffe still have time to give their opinions on the future of the town. Comments need to be with Bury Council about the Reinventing Radcliffe scheme by April 16. These will then be passed onto independent consultants Urbed. Views or ideas
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Cricketer found dead in his car
A POPULAR and well known cricketer who played games all over East Lancashire has been found dead in his car. Robert Riley, 39, was discovered at 2am on Wednesday by a police officer after his family reported him missing. His family today revealed how
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Cruel horse owner jailed over dog
A 68-year-old man has been jailed for looking after another person's dog. Blackburn magistrates heard that John Robert Muir Layland was banned for life from keeping horses or dogs after being convicted of cruelty and neglect charges involving racehorses
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Market switch "not won hearts"
A BURY MP believes that a case has not yet been made for moving Bury Market. Developers Westfield have not won the hearts and minds of Bury people with their £150 million plan to transform the town centre said David Chaytor. After talks last week with
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Council sacks care worker after assault
A CARE worker has been sacked after he was convicted of indecently assaulting a resident in the council's care. Graham Williams (63), of Masefield Avenue, Radcliffe, admitted two charges of assaulting the vulnerable adult at the home in which he worked
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It's my biggest game yet, says Souey
GRAEME Souness has labelled tomorrow's relegation showdown with Leeds United as "the biggest game since I came to the club." With just three points separating the sides on either side of the Divison One cut-off point, the clash at Ewood Park is pivotal
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Council's vision is made clear
A VISION for future services and developments in the borough is to be agreed by Bury Council. The new corporate plan sets out a serious of ambitions and "milestones" for the next three years. Covered in the wide-ranging strategy are goals for education
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McLean plan not on agenda
A DECISION on the future of Whitefield town centre could take several more weeks. A plan by David McLean Homes to build a Tesco store, apartments, shops and bars will not be discussed at Tuesday's planning meeting (April 13) as first thought. Town hall
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Maria second "noisy" TV date
PRESTWICH mother-of-two Maria Fuller will be featured on ITV's Neighbours From Hell programme on Tuesday, April 13. Mrs Fuller has been interviewed by Carlton Television over her long-running battle with "neighbours" Metrolink. The Fuller family, who
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Cubs in "pole" position after trophy win
A CUB scout group from Whitefield proved they were "poles" apart from their peers when they won the annual Totem Competition. A six-strong team from the 25th Prestwich and Whitefield St Bernadette's Cub Scouts are now proud owners of the Totem trophy
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Musical youths enthral audience
THE cream of the borough's young musical talent had the opportunity to play in front of a roving audience. The chance came when Bury Music Service staged its annual open day at its base at Mersey County Primary school in Whitefield. Parents were able
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Crime advice from expert team
BAD weather rarely stops criminals from carrying out their business and it failed to stop residents in Whitefield from receiving crime prevention tips from the experts. Despite a deluge of rain on Tuesday (April 6) crime prevention, trading standards,
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Council are challenging Audit rating
BURY Council is to appeal against a recent Audit Commission Corporate Assessment Inspection. Leaders feel that some of the council's achievements have not been fully recognised, even though the report refers to good progress in the nine key areas under
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Sixth formers visit nation's seat of power
DESPITE attending classes in temporary accommodation until their new school is built next year, pupils at Manchester Jewish Grammar School are still enjoying a full timetable. Recently, 43 sixth formers were invited to the House of Commons by Bury South
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Tenants' input into housing strategies
LOCAL authority tenants have more than a foot in the door when it comes to having an input into a new strategy. For tenants and residents are being put right at the centre of all decisions about housing services in Prestwich and Whitefield, thanks to
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'Rat-trap' cars for thieves
'RAT-TRAP' cars are being used by police in Burnley to catch out thieves breaking into vehicles this Easter. The cars, which will be monitored by police and cameras, will be parked in locations around Burnley and left with property on show in a bid to
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Appeal to help find missing Michaela
A 14-YEAR-OLD girl is still missing from her Radcliffe home after disappearing six weeks ago. Police are concerned for the safety and welfare of Michaela Dawson who was last seen around 11.30am on February 19, at an address in Radcliffe. They appealed
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10 years ago
GINGER McCain, who had trained the legendary Red Rum to triple Grand National glory, was helping Darwen's Bert Proos train his four horses in the build up to the 1994 Grand National. Mr Proos, whose popular horse Rinus came third in 1990, was hoping to
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Over-limit driver had chablis at breakfast
A DRIVER three times the limit at lunchtime told police he had had a glass of chablis with his breakfast. Burnley Magistrates heard how Robert Alcock, 34, was stopped in the town after he seemed to have trouble following the contours and curves of the
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Jamming them in at local pub
BOB Marley and a pint of mild please! That's the order of the day at a Great Harwood pub where a new reggae night is proving a huge hit with punters. The once-a-week reggae special at the Duke of Wellington is the brainchild of reggae-loving landlord
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Phones anger as line blew down
RESIDENTS were without their phones for three weeks after lines went dead when a 90-metre overhead cable blew down in heavy winds at Baxenden. BT is considering compensating customers and apologised for any inconvenience. But it said the repair work was
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Why not ask him?
VARIOUS editions of the Lib-Dem Focus newsletter contain an article on the future of Fairfield Hospital, demanding that Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust come clean. I find this rather strange, as Lib-Dem councillor Tim Pickstone is actually a member
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Stop moaning about recycling
WHAT a lot of moaning minnies we have in Bury. "My bin isn't large enough" . . . well ask for an extra one. "The black box is too heavy" . . . so leave it near the gate. "The food will rot" . . . well put it in a bag. Why are people so negative about
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Stop the BNP's growing influence
IT is an indictment on all governments in Britain since 1945 that, after the death of millions fighting fascism and racism, the fascist British National Party (BNP) is raising its ugly head again in Britain. In June this year, to celebrate D-Day, Tony
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Total anger from gym members
MEMBERS of a Whitefield gym were left in a fit of anger on Wednesday when the company introduced car parking fees. Before the Total Fitness centre opened, those joining were informed that the car parking facilities would be free. Advertisements in the
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Making a Splash for soccer legend Tom
WHEN a Ribble Valley firm was asked to help make a tribute to football legend Sir Tom Finney, they knew just which staff members to put on the job...the ones with Preston North End season tickets! Work on a re-creation of The Splash - a picture taken
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Easter changes
BURNLEY fans are reminded that there will be a change in opening hours over the next few days due to the Easter Holiday. The Turf Moor ticket office and Clarets Superstore will not be open on Good Friday, but normal opening hours will resume on Saturday
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McGregor to branch out at back
MARK McGregor knows he needs to hit the ground running alongside Graham Branch in the heart of Burnley's defence this weekend. The duo will be partners for the first time this season at Walsall tomorrow and then against Watford at Turf Moor on Monday.
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Tragedy sparks child protection measures
CHANGES to provide better protection for Prestwich and Whitefield children could be on their way in response to a high-profile national tragedy. A string of measures to plug gaps in the welfare system are being considered as part of Bury Council's response
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Protest walk to protect the village peace
VILLAGE calm was disrupted temporarily on Saturday (April 3) in an attempt to maintain peace and quiet in the long-term. Around 150 villagers, horseriders and tractor drivers made their way through Simister Village to protest against a proposed business
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No dumping of new waste plans
TOWN Hall bosses have pressed ahead with phase two of its controversial waste collection scheme despite protests from residents. They conceded that many householders have been upset that their regular weekly collections have been halved to fortnightly
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Chinese visit paves the way for teacher swap
FRIENDSHIP links with the Far East are growing stronger after a visit to the borough from a Chinese party. Guo Liangxiao, Mayor of the City of Datong, stayed at the Village Hotel and Leisure Club, in Bury, for four days with ten other delegates from where
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Fans can lift the players to victory
The Simon Garner column I'M not one of these who likes to bang on about the crowd getting behind the players. I mean, supporters aren't stupid. They pay their money to go and watch their team so of course they're going to cheer them on. But as a former
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Bins delay will be a magnet for rats
WHILST re-cycling is an entirely laudable arrangement, which I entirely support, the way Bury MBC have gone about this demonstrates bad planning which is likely to lead to serious problems. The first major problem is caused by the decision to collect
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Darwen bid to end derby hoodoo
DARWEN and Great Harwood Town are hoping to have plenty of ammunition in their armour when they go head to head at the Anchor Ground tomorrow. Darwen boss Steve Wilkes has virtually a full squad to choose from, with Ian Lang being the only absentee as
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Ex-Dale boss hopes it will be third time lucky at Chorley
JIM McBride wants to be the next manager of Chorley and he is hoping it is going to be third time lucky. McBride has been put in temporary charge following Mark Patterson's resignation on Tuesday night - but he has revealed that he wants it for keeps.
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Town hall staff demand better pay
TOWN hall staff, who are members of Unison, are urging councillors and MPs to support their national pay claim for local government workers. The claim is for four per cent plus £200 pay rise with a £6.04 per hour minimum wage. It also includes improvements
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Police grade 999 calls before they turn out
THE type of crime you suffer will now dictate when, or if, a police officer will attend. In a bid to prioritise police response to 999 calls, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has introduced a new grading system to ensure a more efficient use of resources
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1,000 mile charity trek to help wife
ANDREW Monk will literally be following in his father's footsteps when he undertakes a marathon walk to Germany in aid of multiple sclerosis charities. The 43-year-old Bury man has been inspired into undertaking the gruelling 1,000 mile trek after witnessing
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Seeing Red over racism
SCHOOLS throughout the borough were on "red alert" when they attended an event to re-inforce their commitment to tackling racism. Pupils produced a series of hard-hitting posters, stories and poems for the Show Racism the Red Card (SRTRC) campaign which
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It's my biggest game yet, says Souey
GRAEME Souness has labelled tomorrow's relegation showdown with Leeds United as "the biggest game since I came to the club." With just three points separating the sides on either side of the Divison One cut-off point, the clash at Ewood Park is pivotal
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Holiday protest walk against the turbines
RESIDENTS from Tockholes, Darwen and surrounding areas are being encouraged to take to the moors on Easter Monday to protest against the wind turbines above Edgworth. Campaigners will set off from the Toby Inn, Edgworth, at 10am for a peaceful protest
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Potter reading puts Ben at the top
SCHOOLCHILDREN from across Ramsbottom and Bury took part in a book reviewing competition to celebrate World Book Day. Book review champion was 12-year-old Ben Fairhurst who impressed judges with his interesting critique on Harry Potter and the Order of
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Cricketer found dead in his car
A POPULAR and well known cricketer who played games all over East Lancashire has been found dead in his car. Robert Riley, 39, was discovered at 2am on Wednesday by a police officer after his family reported him missing. His family today revealed how
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Chinese visit paves the way for teacher swap
FRIENDSHIP links with the Far East are growing stronger after a visit to the borough from a Chinese party. Guo Liangxiao, Mayor of the City of Datong, stayed at the Village Hotel and Leisure Club, in Bury, for four days with ten other delegates from where
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Photo buffs in the frame
WILDLIFE photographers, professional and amateur, are invited to join The Wildlife Trust's photographic courses. Run by top North-west photographer Jason Smalley, the courses will provide you with everything you need to know about the art. All courses
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Musical youths enthral audience
THE cream of the borough's young musical talent had the opportunity to play in front of a roving audience. The chance came when Bury Music Service staged its annual open day at its base at Mersey County Primary school in Whitefield. Parents were able
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Sixth formers visit nation's seat of power
DESPITE attending classes in temporary accommodation until their new school is built next year, pupils at Manchester Jewish Grammar School are still enjoying a full timetable. Recently, 43 sixth formers were invited to the House of Commons by Bury South
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Sarah is new head receptionist
BURY'S Village Hotel & Leisure Club has appointed Sarah Vining as their new head receptionist. Sarah was appointed after working as a reception team leader since the hotel first opened its doors in August, 2001. The 32-year-old has served in the hotel
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Girls Aloud in Blue concert
CHART-TOPPERS Girls Aloud have confirmed they will support Blue in next month's concert at Ewood Park, Blackburn. The event, on Sunday, May 23, will be the largest event of its kind ever staged at the Premiership ground with 25,000 fans expected to make
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Barbara's a Wondermum
A MUf-four who survived a horrific accident in which she was crushed by a forklift truck has been shortlisted for a national Wondermum award. Warehouse packer Barbara Rostron, 47, of Surrey Road, Blackburn, suffered serious injuries to her lower body,
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Stanley sunk by supersub Green
Telford 1 Accrington Stanley 0 - Suzanne Geldard reports CONCEDING a second fluke goal in as many games stalled Accrington Stanley's hopes for an end of season revival. And manager John Coleman was left wondering not only when results are going to take
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1,000 mile charity trek to help wife
ANDREW Monk will literally be following in his father's footsteps when he undertakes a marathon walk to Germany in aid of multiple sclerosis charities. The 43-year-old Bury man has been inspired into undertaking the gruelling 1,000 mile trek after witnessing
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Sounds like a fortnight to me
COUNCILLOR Paul Nesbit stated (Letters, March 26) that "traditional waste will be collected in Week One, but in Week Two the recyclables will be collected". He then adds: "Logic tells me, therefore, there is still a weekly collection, but for different
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Like an episode of "Yes Minister"
PICTURE the scene, Mr Blair and his acolytes poring over the asylum statistics, frantically trying to come up with a solution to the ever-increasing tide of humanity flooding into more and more angry communities. What can we do? What on earth will the
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Bins: Bury MBC "will be liable for injury claims"
WHILST re-cycling is an entirely laudable arrangement, which I entirely support, the way Bury MBC have gone about this demonstrates bad planning which is likely to lead to serious problems. The first major problem is caused by the decision to collect
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Disused nightclub is set alight
A DISUSED nightclub was damaged in a suspected arson attack on Friday morning. Whitefield firefighters were called to the former Benny's Nightclub in Wharf Fold Road, between Bury and Radcliffe, at 1.30am. Fire chiefs believe the vandals broke into the
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Mumps epidemic fear
DOZENS of teenagers in the borough have been struck down by mumps, causing fears the epidemic could spread even further. Twenty-six cases have been reported in the past three weeks, and doctors are now urging teenagers to be vaccinated against the illness
