MOP AND PICKET: Bury Council was heading for a dust-up with its Mrs Mops if plans went ahead to replace them with contract cleaners. The National Union of Public Employees said that it would fight the proposal "right down the line" and if necessary would picket council meetings.

OFFICER DIES: Bury traffic policeman PC John Cameron died after his patrol car overturned and burst into flames following a collision with a lorry on the fog-bound M66 near Heapbridge. PC Cameron and colleague PC Michael Kennedy, who survived, had gone on to the motorway to help colleagues cope with the treacherous conditions.

DONE THEIR BEST: The Cub pack of Bury Unitarian Church disbanded after more than 20 years through lack of support. The three remaining Cubs were transferred to different packs in the area.

NEW LEASE OF LIFE: After closing in October the previous year because of a lack of funds, the YMCA building in Eden Street, Bury, was reopened by the Bible Baptist Church.

THE COST OF CHRISTMAS: The repayment cost of a £1,000 loan was £50 per month over two years.