SINCE commencing research on my family history I have become more aware of the long history of Newton-le-Willows and Earlestown. As a consequence I have discovered a number of 'missing' artefacts.

Firstly, does anyone know the whereabouts of the model sailing ship (possibly the Cutty Sark) which was presented to Newton many years ago and which stood in a glass case in Newton library? The story was that it was removed for renovation, I would guess at least ten years ago.

Is the renovation complete yet? Where is the model now and when is it coming back to its rightful place in Newton-le-Willows? It was presented to the town of Newton, after all.

Secondly, what happened to the Grand Junction Bell which was also housed in Newton library and which dates back to 1839? This is of particular relevance to the long industrial history of the town.

Finally, where is the 'Bloody Stone' which was sited at Red Bank by the railway bridge? I remember this being apparently 'accidentally' removed during bridge repairs and was found later, after an outcry by local residents, and the promise made to put it back. How long does it take? We are still waiting.

Perhaps local people can help solve these mysteries. Maybe our local politicians, both Liberal Democrats and Labour alike, can shed some light on these matters. I, and many others, sincerely hope so.

To finish, why is there no heritage trail or even signposts directing visitors to the many sights of interest around the town? Two examples worthy of such recognition are Castle Hill, believed to be an ancient burial mound, and the locally known Nine Arches, built by Stephenson, and the first viaduct to span a canal -- not just any canal, but the first real man-made navigable waterway of the industrial revolution.

Others include the Huskisson memorial which commemorates the first person to be killed on a public railway on the very day of the line opening and lies at the site of the tragic accident, The Vulcan Foundry (sadly soon to close) and the restored Vulcan Village built by Tayleur and Stephenson, the site of LNWR Viaduct Works, Sankey Sugar, which imported cane from the Commonwealth for refining, Parkside Colliery, the last pit in the once great Lancashire coalfield, the many churches in the town which reflect the influx of people from around the British Isles to Newton-le-Willows and its near neighbours, the Tudor-style waiting room at Earlestown railway station, Red Bank (the site of a significant Civil War battle) and Earlestown market with its ancient charter. The list goes on and on.

Are these places of history and interest forgotten by those we elected into power? Do they deem them not to matter? I am Newton-le-Willows born and bred and am rightly proud of its history and heritage. I see no reason why others should not share in all it has to offer.

MR S. Massey, Newton-le-Willows