RHYMES, they are a'changing - and the traditional chimes of the ice cream van could soon be replaced in favour of modern pop tunes.

If plans proposed by the Mr Big's of the ice cream world win the support of vendors, the distinctive strains of Popeye the Sailor Man, Greensleeves and Blue Danube could be a thing of the past.

Although the familiar melodies have filled Preston's streets for years, to let locals know Mr Whippy is around,

manufacturer Birds Eye Walls and the Ice Cream Alliance, which represents 750 outlets, want to attract youngsters with the latest hits from Fatboy Slim and The Chemical Brothers.

But Preston's ice cream-eating public think the idea is daft, while local sellers believe it is all just one falsetto.

Stephanie Berry, who parks her Ewood Dairies van on Preston's Flag Market, said: "I think the catchy pop tunes would start to get on people's nerves.

"We have always used Blue Danube and people always know it is us in the street and come out when they hear it. Most firms use only one tune because they are so expensive to buy."

Susan Post, who drives her van in the Preston area, added: "It's traditional to have old chimes inside an ice cream van and I don't think the customers would like the change." Her feelings were shared by pensioner Eva Moss, who said: "We couldn't have pop blasting in the streets. Nobody would know what it was for."

Ben Jackson, 14, from Longridge, didn't like the idea of pop music being used, but had some ideas of his own.

"Perhaps they could use Postman Pat or the music from the Milkybar advertisement," said the St Cecilia's pupil.

And Annette Yates, who was shopping with her grandson Jack, two, thinks they should lose music altogether.

She said: "I much prefer it when they ring one of the handbells. Even Jack recognises that!"

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