THIS week's story highlighting how our region's police force has put in a firm order for a sky patrol aeroplane will no doubt be reassuring news to everyone.

We have become quite used to the drone of the force helicopter on searchlight patrol above our homes, liaising with ground forces to help root out wrongdoers. Will those people who have become sick and tired of having their lives disrupted by rowdies and criminals now sleep sounder at night knowing there's a fixed-wing super plane looking after their interests? Cheers CHARITIES look set for another boost from booze.

One of the region's premier tasting sessions -- the Bent and Bongs Beer Bash -- is drawing close and this year, Parkinson's Disease sufferers will benefit from the Round Tablers' pet beer festival, with proceeds being donated for research.

Special brews of Atherton Ale and Bongs Bitter have been concocted specially for the event, which promises to be another lively gathering for a very deserving cause. Thank you COUNCIL workmen were praised by their bosses for showing true grit in keeping the main roads passable during the recent cold snap.

The 11-strong team was on call at all times and ready to be on the road within an hour of bad weather warnings and so helping to avoid major disruption to essential services

The borough's 200 miles of major roads, major bus routes, town centre roads and hospital emergency entrances were all treated.

Pity about the dangerous side streets.

But how nice to be thanked by the bosses for a job well done.