A LEYLAND security firm landed a gem of a job guarding £500,000 worth of the world's most precious replica diamonds - including copies of the famous Koh-i-Noor and Pink Panther.

John and Wendie Fitzpatrick, of Southport Security Rangers in Slater Lane, Leyland guarded the shipment of sparklers on loan from De Beers diamond merchants when they were displayed at Leonard Dews' top Blackpool jewellery shop to celebrate 120 years in business.

Mrs Fitzpatrick said: "We are experienced in all types of security, but this was certainly different - especially looking after all those diamonds.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.