Archive

  • Let's calm the windfarm storm

    OVER the past few years plans to erect wind turbines have prompted vociferous protests throughout the North. But they are not the first structures in the countryside to cause demonstrations of anger. What about the march of enormous pylons decades ago

  • Winter bowls

    THE first winner of the Atherton Park winter bowling competition is Billy Griffiths who beat Richard Foster in the final 21-19. The consolation final was won by MalThompson who beat John McCaul in the final 21-16.

  • Fletcher is the star

    FOUR tries from Ross Fletcher were the highlight of Leigh RU's 60-7 demolition of Kirkby Lonsdale. After an early Kirkby Lonsdale converted try, Leigh took control of the rest of the game. Tries came at regular intervals, the first from man of the match

  • System due for change

    I THINK Mr Stirton (LET, October 11) is quite right regarding British Summer Time. I have yet to meet anyone who says 'Oh, goodie, the clocks are going back'. At least in the morning it is lighter every minute that passes. Travelling conditions have changed

  • Mother should be grateful

    DID your heart bleed for C Taylor (LET, October 6) who is peeved that shopping is such a chore because disabled people park in bays marked for parents and children? C Taylor CHOSE to have children. I do not know of one person who chose to be disabled.

  • Lynda Lee-Potter dies

    LEGENDARY Leigh-born Daily Mail columnist Lynda Lee-Potter died on Wednesday. She had been suffering from a brain tumour. Editor-in-chief Paul Dacre announced her death "with great sadness". He said: "Lynda joined the Mail in 1967 and for the past 32

  • Customs seize coach with 700,000 cigarettes

    A BLACKBURN coach full of women bingo players was stopped by customs officers in France trying to bring 700,000 cigarettes into the country - five times the allowed limit for the number of passengers on board. Today Paul Critchley, director of Dreamline

  • Tugay's vow to Rovers

    BLACKBURN Rovers midfielder Tugay today pledged his future to the club by revealing he wants to stay at Ewood Park for another season. The 34-year-old's commitment to Rovers was brought into question earlier this week when stories emanating from Turkey

  • MP in flight security call

    EAST Lancashire MP Peter Pike wants all UK airports to photograph passengers as they do at Manchester and Gatwick. The Burnley Labour back bencher told Transport Secretary Alistair Darling that: "In this day and age, airport security is unfortunately

  • 'Pacific' trip...

    THEATREGOERS will take a trip to the "South Pacific" courtesy of a village drama group. Golborne St Thomas Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society are performing Roger and Hammerstein's famous musical from Monday, October 25, to Saturday, October 30. An

  • Cash fear is quashed

    PARISH councillors in Worsthorne have dispelled fears they could be breaking council rules by helping out the village reading rooms. The parish council discussed plans to subsidise the shortfall in the reading rooms income at their meeting earlier this

  • Perfect pairing

    TWO highly acclaimed musicians will perform Schubert's great song cycle in The Great Hall at Lancaster University next Thursday (October 28). The visit of tenor Mark Padmore and pianist Maggie Cole is part of the Lancaster International Concert Series

  • Next time it'll be two stars!

    THE BOSS of a Burnley housing association said today he was determined to improve after the service was given a one-star rating in a report. Tim Pinder, Chief Executive of Calico, formerly Burnley and Padiham Community Housing, said he welcomed the findings

  • Boffin books a week in corridors of power

    A LANCASTER University scientist is pairing up with Lancashire MP Hilton Dawson. Physics research fellow Dr Richard Haley will spend all next week in the House of Commons to get a 'behind the scenes' insight into how Government science policy is formed

  • College plans birthday bash

    ST MARTIN'S College wants to hear from ex-students ahead of a free alumni reunion dinner next month. The bash - on Saturday, November 13 - aims to celebrate the college's 40th anniversary in style. To be held on the Lancaster campus, it will start with

  • Bid to stub out smoking deaths

    SMOKERS in East Lancashire are set to be given a helping hand to kick the habit in a bid to cut the number of tobacco related deaths each year. A series of new initiatives is being launched by Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale's Primary Care Trust's Stop

  • TV stages a bank robbery

    A BANK robbery in Carnforth is to feature on the BBC's Crimewatch programme. A camera crew was in town this week to film a reconstruction of the robbery which took place at Barclays Bank on August 3. The film will show how raiders, wearing balaclavas

  • Tips from the top

    AWARD-winning film writer, director and producer Chee Keong Cheung is to pass on tips to budding filmmakers at a two-day course at Lancaster's Folly gallery. Chee has produced and directed more than 20 short films and consulted and advised on a further

  • Hegley heads Litfest line-up

    POOCH-pampering poet and comic John Hegley headlines this year's Lancaster Litfest as he brings his new show to the city. Born in Newington Green in 1953, Hegley moved to Luton at an early age. After leaving school he worked as a bus conductor and social

  • Cash strapped city pulls festival plug

    THE biggest annual event in Morecambe has been scrapped as Lancaster City Council looks to save money. The Festival of Light and Water has drawn crowds of thousands to the resort in recent years - but has now been consigned to the history books From next

  • Shakers star signs up for three months

    BURY defender Matt Barrass has extended his short-term contract at Gigg Lane by another three months. Barrass, aged 24, signed a short-term deal in the summer after battling back from a series of injuries. The Bury-born full-back's contract was due to

  • 'Resign seat' call to Labour defector

    PENDLE councillor Gary Rowland has defected from Labour to the Tories eight years after being elected. Mr Rowland, a councillor for Marsden ward in Nelson since 1996, said he was joining the Conservatives after losing faith in Labour. The switch means

  • Sparks at big fireworks show

    SPARKS are set to fly on October 30 when Bury holds its biggest-ever firework display. To celebrate 20 years in the firework business, Radcliffe businessman Peter Stephenson is donating £20,000 worth of professional pyrotechnics for a spectacular charity

  • Fatties targeted in fitness battle

    SPORTING facilities in Radcliffe are to be given a big boost to tackle the town's growing number of fatties. The move comes in the wake of a survey which revealed that more than one-third of the town's population is overweight. The Active Radcliffe scheme

  • Village with luxury of three stations!

    STEVE Williams, secretary of Brindle Historical Society, has been delving deep into railway history. He has spent 12 months researching and chronicling the story of trains through Hoghton, over 160 years. His findings show that the line between Blackburn

  • Party time

    HIGHER Folds Residents' Association will hold a community party between 7pm and 9.30pm on Friday at St. Gabriel's Parish Centre. A fancy dress disco with refreshments for the children will be followed by bingo and disco for adults from 9.30pm to midnight

  • Band makes some noise on its birthday

    ASTLEY Youth Band will celebrate its 10th birthday in style with a gala concert at the venue where it made its debut. The big event, which will also mark the launch of the latest CD, has been organised for Saturday at Astley St Stephen's Church, the anniversary

  • Down the years

    10 years ago A YORKSHIRE terrier narrowly avoided becoming a hot dog after being saved from a blazing car. Ponti the pooch was left in the parked car in Accrington town centre when smoke started streaming from under the bonnet. Firefighters smashed a

  • Flying start to village week

    HOWE Bridge Community Environment week got off to a great start. Now the villagers will continue to enjoy themselves on Thursday night sampling the cheeses and wines of France (take along a bottle and join in) from 8pm onwards in the Leigh Road Scout

  • Kids in the fast lane

    AROUND 150 youngsters were in the fast lane at the annual Radcliffe Scouts swimming gala. A total of 45 races were held at Radcliffe Pool on Saturday night where the 7/17th Wesley Methodist group came out as the overall winners. Runners-up were the 14th

  • Unibond Premier Division

    LATEST table P W D L F A Pts Workington 14 10 2 2 29 8 32 Hyde United 13 8 5 0 24 9 29 Whitby Town 15 8 4 3 25 23 28 Leek Town 13 8 3 2 29 14 27 Burscough 14 8 2 4 33 25 26 Farsley Celtic 15 7 2 6 23 16 23 Guiseley 14 6 5 3 30 24 23 Prescot Cables 14

  • Time - and a great healer

    A 100-year-old clock tower in the centre of Great Harwood looks set to get a facelift thanks to the efforts of local people. The town square structure is in poor condition and urgently needs work to clean and waterproof the clock face. It is estimated

  • Latest planning applications

    LATEST planning application submitted to Wigan Council include: 47 Ladies Lane, Hindley - single storey rear extension; 96 Chestnut Drive South, Leigh - single storey rear extension; 12 Greenways, Leigh - two storey rear and dormer front extensions; Asda

  • Bungling robbers plead guilty

    TWO bungling armed robbers are facing a lengthy jail term after making a series of blunders while raiding an off licence. Marc Maitland, 37, and Franceso Ligreci, 25, yesterday admitted brandishing a firearm to rob Premier Store, St Hubert's Road, Great

  • Market hall sale rumours slammed

    THE leader of Hyndburn Council has hit out at opponents who say planned changes in the way Accrington market hall is managed amount to a sell-off. Recently it was revealed that the council planned to attract an outside investor into the Victorian market

  • Eleanor has a date with royalty

    BLIND student Eleanor Ridgway was so delighted with her college support team she nominated them for an award. As a result the 22-years-old from Tyldesley lined up on Tuesday to receive a prize from Princess Anne in London. Eleanor is a student at the

  • Vet warns of a killer's return

    PET rabbits are at risk from the killer disease myxomatosis -- which virtually wiped out Britain's rabbit population in the 1950s. In the past few weeks the virus has resulted in the deaths of several animals in the Tyldesley area - the tame rabbits having

  • Residents win footpath fight

    A FOOTPATH through an industrial estate has been re-instated following a victorious battle by residents. After legal discussions between Wigan Council and landowners of Leigh's Moss Industrial estate the well-used path, which runs from St Helens Road

  • Radcliffe parks bowling league

    THE presentation evening was held at Dobbies Social Club, Bradley Fold on October 15, and was attended by a room full of happy bowlers to receive their cups and prize money. League chairman, Ronald Hall, presented cups and prize money. It was lovely to

  • Call for an end to 'our muddy hell'

    HOUSE proud families have threatened to block a development site entrance near their homes. People in Wigan Road, Atherton, claim their lives are being made a misery by lorries spreading dirt from the Gibfield site. They say the state of the road is horrendous

  • Improvements on the way for tenants

    BIG improvements to the services provided for local council tenants have been unveiled by the borough's housing chiefs. Bosses at Wigan and Leigh Housing have drawn up radical plans to move away from a traditional office-based system of reporting repairs

  • Midland has great dignity

    WITH reference to S.Hyde's letter published in the Citizen last week under the headline 'Midland will always be ugly'. Mr Hyde seems to be under a misapprehension the bricks and mortar are not what makes the Midland Hotel so remarkable but the style in

  • Decision will not help police

    I WANT to echo the concerns voiced by Inspector Jill Townley about the man who has had his anti-social behaviour order quashed. This just undermines the good work the police have been doing in The West End - and as a result this man will be empowered

  • Who will pay for repairs?

    IT IS rumoured that some £500,000 will have to be spent before the Lancaster to Caton cycleway can be re-opened. Will this come out of the county's five-year cycleway budget, or will it be taken from carriageway or footway budgets that were allocated

  • Schoolboys back on glory trail

    AFTER last season's successful National Schools rugby KO Cup campaign, boys from Lancaster Royal Grammar School are back on the glory trail again. Last season the LRGS team made it all the way to the semi-final before going out to eventual winners Coulston's

  • Champs stay on right track

    LANCASTER maintained their grip at the top of the National Water Polo League with another three wins to keep their unbeaten record intact. They faced three stiff tests but managed to see off unbeaten Bristol, Rotherham and a physical Birkenhead outfit

  • Star man Ryan gives City the edge

    LOCAL hero Ryan Elderton won Lancaster City a £5,000 cheque as he stole the show with a barnstorming display to edge the Dolly Blues beyond Kings Lynn in the FA Cup third qualifying round. Elderton grabbed the only goal of the cup tie - and ran the show

  • Forget the weather, this is politics in action

    THE weather may have been poor, but last Friday in Blackburn was for me really uplifting. At lunchtime I went to Pleckgate School to be quizzed for an hour by students in years 10 and 11 from four schools in Blackburn, and a panel from St Helens, connected

  • Attack sparks police appeal

    POLICE are appealing for help after a 51-year-old man and his son were attacked and beaten on their way home from a night out. They were walking along Owen Road, close to Skerton High School, just after 11.30pm on Saturday night when they were 'ambushed

  • Police support praised

    BURNLEY MP Peter Pike has given Commons praise to community safety officers and neighbourhood wardens in supporting the police. Following the experience in his constituency he said that increasing numbers of such officers on the streets was giving the

  • Burnley buses

    Burnley Football Supporters Club have announced travel details for the forthcoming away games at Leeds United and Brighton and Hove Albion. Coaches for Leeds United, at Elland Road on Wednesday, November 3, will leave Colne bus station at 5pm, Nelson

  • Striker Blake sets his goal

    ROBBIE Blake insists his goals will mean nothing unless Burnley can start turning their draws into wins. Blake admitted the Clarets camp was again left frustrated after Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Coventry City at Turf Moor. That was Burnley's sixth draw

  • Sue's village date

    CATON'S Station Hotel is the venue for jazz from vocalist Sue Parish on Sunday. The popular singer will be entertaining with her trademark blend of classic songs, accompanied by Jon Moore on guitar, Robin Joiner on piano and Roy Cansdale on bass. The

  • Pub introduces Mild

    MILD Bill Paterson brings his blues ballads to a Lancaster pub this week, promising a night to remember. Mild Bill plays the Ye Olde John O'Gaunt on Sunday night - just one gig in a week filled with music at the Market Street venue. Monday night sees

  • Leigh win first game

    Leigh Harriers 21 Burtonwood 12: LEIGH Harriers RL finally got off the mark this season with an excellent win over Burtonwood Bridge. The first half saw Burtonwood under constant pressure. It wasn't long before the Harriers pressure paid off when a kick

  • Victory joy ruined by serious injury

    Thatto Heath 12 Leigh Miners 30: LEIGH Miners Rangers paid a dreadful price for their return to winning ways. Inspirational half-back Mark Wallington suffered an horrific leg injury which caused the abandonment of Friday's floodlit game eight minutes

  • Gin Pit speedway finale

    ASTLEY & Tyldesley rounded off the 2004 outdoor cycle speedway season by hosting the final round of the Northern Fours & Junior League series at Gin Pit. Tameside and Bury started off the day as joint leaders of the Fours League with Astley &

  • Bury and district darts league

    2004 Roll of honour DIVISION ONE BENTLEY CUP Winners: Eagle & Child A; runners-up: Black Lane. KENYON CUP KNOCK-OUT Winners: Tottington Park B; runners-up: Eagle & Child B. MERIT WINNER G. Keating (Eagle & Child A) 16 from 18 played. DIVISION

  • Soccer zone

    ALL the details BURY TUESDAY DIVISION A P W D L F A Pt AJK Carpets 11 10 0 1 62 21 30 Zinc Allbacks 11 8 1 2 53 34 25 Parkfield FC 10 7 1 2 74 31 22 Kiav 11 5 2 4 31 26 17 Azzuri 10 4 1 5 37 48 13 Blueline City 10 3 0 7 34 53 9 Blue Bell 11 2 1 8 37 55

  • Bury Sunday LEAGUE

    LATEST results MILLENNIUM CUP Hark to Dandler 0, Bridge Inn 6; Jolly Waggonners 8, Loofes 6; Rostrons 2, Horse & Jockey 5; Swan & Cemetery 1, Huntley Mount 11; The Cave 1, Horseshoe 2. PREMIER DIVISION Bury Supporters 4, Pleasant View 2; Elton

  • Mistakes prove costly for Boro

    RADCLIFFE BORO 1, WITTON ALBION 1: SOME times cliches are inaccurate but on this occasion two of them are spot on - this was indeed a game of two halves, and Boro can consider the result as two points lost rather than one point won writes Peter Collins

  • Andreas gets to grips with top title

    A TEENAGE weightlifter has lifted the title of North West Young Sportsperson of the Year. Andreas Michaelas, of Stand Lane, Radcliffe, scooped the title after competing against 400 others in the OCS company-sponsored competition. He will now travel to

  • Matt dies day after his 100th birthday

    A FORMER cabinet maker from Radcliffe has died, the day after his 100th birthday. Widower Mr Matt Greenhalgh, of York Street, lived most of his life in Radcliffe, and was a good friend to many people in the area. He died on Monday at Fairfield Hospital

  • Trainee on fraud charge

    A TRAINEE worker fraudulently obtained more than £1,600 from a Radcliffe accounts firm, a court heard. Zak Matthew Gallagher (18) was told by magistrates at Rochdale that he avoided going to prison by the "slimmest" margin. Gallagher had pleaded guilty

  • Town goes green to meet targets

    ALMOST every household in the borough is to receive a full complement of recycling bins in a bid to meet tough Government targets. Another 14,000 homes will be sent boxes and bags to recycle glass, plastics and textiles from January 1, with a further

  • Party time

    HIGHER Folds Residents' Association will hold a community party between 7pm and 9.30pm on Friday at St. Gabriel's Parish Centre. A fancy dress disco with refreshments for the children will be followed by bingo and disco for adults from 9.30pm to midnight

  • £100 grant for Trust

    THE conservation charity, Woodland Trust, are helping people make a difference to their local environment by giving away a £100 grant to organise a tree planting event. The scheme is open to any community and all you have to do is register your planting

  • Shoppers 'get parking boost'

    TRADERS are set to cash in on a new scheme that has freed up car parking spaces in Rossendale in time for the Christmas shopping influx. The move has been welcomed by the town's Chamber of Trade after spiralling parking problems led to shoppers being

  • 'Pacific' trip...

    THEATREGOERS will take a trip to the "South Pacific" courtesy of a village drama group. Golborne St Thomas Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society are performing Roger and Hammerstein's famous musical from Monday, October 25, to Saturday, October 30. An

  • Teenager trapped

    THE MUM of a teenage holidaymaker trapped on a Greek island after he claimed thieves stole his hired-moped today pleaded: "I just want my son back home." Arron Cobb, 18, of Hillcrest, Stacksteads, has been forced to find £1,500 demanded by the scooter

  • Charity worker meets Countess

    CHARITY worker Jenny Lloyd from Astley met with royalty when the Countess of Wessex visited Henshaws Society for Blind People. Jenny, who is the Community Services Manager at Trafford-based Henshaws, introduced Sophie, Countess of Wessex to some of the

  • Boxes of love from Tyldesley head overseas

    THE vicar of Tyldesley St George's Church accepted 200 shoeboxes filled with love from school children. The Rev Chris Straton led a 200 strong congregation in a combined Thanksgiving and Rotary Club service at the church. Pupils from Freddies provided

  • Jamboree on air...

    SCOUTS spoke to their counterparts in this country and abroad through a jamboree on air. Members of the 1st Astley troop took part last weekend's event organised by the Manchester Radio Club at their Gin Pit village HQ. Three of the boys, Charlie Thompson

  • Student found hanging

    A CORONER has recorded an open verdict into the death of an 18-year-old who was found hanging days before his A-level results were due out. Richard Coysh, was found hanging in the bedroom of his home in Sandy Lane, Hindley, on August 16. The teenager

  • Flying start to village week

    HOWE Bridge Community Environment week got off to a great start. Now the villagers will continue to enjoy themselves on Thursday night sampling the cheeses and wines of France (take along a bottle and join in) from 8pm onwards in the Leigh Road Scout

  • Marsden Trophy bye for Boro

    BORO have been given a bye into the second round of this season's Marsden Trophy. They are joined by last season's other losing semi-finalists Chorley; runners-up Accrington Stanley and winners Morecombe. The full first round draw is: Leigh RMI v Marine

  • Glendon threatens to get tough

    SOME managers are happy if they avoid defeat; others are driven to achieve perfection; Boro boss Kevin Glendon is firmly in the latter category. Having seen his side come from behind to grab a point against Witton Albion, Glendon's was one of disappointment

  • Council moves up the league

    BURY Council is taking further steps to move it up the performance league. It has drawn up an improvement plan after an Audit Commission inspection which noted that Bury had come within a whisker of being a "good" council. Only 18 months ago, it was given

  • Pupils hamper to help community

    A RADCLIFFE nursery has served up a bumper harvest to help out the community. As part of the curriculum at Radcliffe Hall Kindergarten, the youngsters have been looking at foods and cultures from around the world. They also spent time talking about sharing

  • Go back to church plea

    PUPILS from Ainsworth have been helping to encourage people back to church. Children from Christ Church CE Primary School took part in a harvest thanksgiving service as part of the 'Back to Church' event. Porch Projects collected harvest gifts that had

  • Change for the better by GPs

    HEALTH bosses have assured residents in the borough that changes to GPs' out of hours services will not affect the care they receive. From December 1, family doctors will have the option to "opt-out" of out-of-surgery service. Currently, most of the GPs

  • Back by popular demand

    THE Shades Jazz Orchestra returns by popular demand to Wigan Jazz Club on October 31,12.30 to 3.30 pm, playing the music of the great Stan Kenton at The Mill at the Pier.

  • Scene set for another bonfire spectacular

    ANOTHER fantastic firework display has been promised for the annual Witton Park bonfire - and this year the sky will be alive with the sound of music. The event, which has been held annually since 1983 and is organised by the Rotaract and Rotary clubs

  • Customs seize coach with 700,000 cigarettes

    A BLACKBURN coach full of women bingo players was stopped by customs officers in France trying to bring 700,000 cigarettes into the country - five times the allowed limit for the number of passengers on board. Today Paul Critchley, director of Dreamline

  • A school of excellence

    A BLACKBURN high school was today celebrating becoming one of the country's most improved schools for GCSE results. And Witton Park High School Business and Enterprise College said it had been told by the Department for Education and Skills it had one

  • Stanley travel

    Accrington Stanley's supporters' coach to Scarborough on Saturday will leave the Crown pub, Whalley Road, Accrington at 10am and costs £10. To book a seat contact 07775 704072.

  • Eleanor has a date with royalty

    BLIND student Eleanor Ridgway was so delighted with her college support team she nominated them for an award. As a result the 22-years-old from Tyldesley lined up on Tuesday to receive a prize from Princess Anne in London. Eleanor is a student at the

  • Use those old cobbles for traffic calming

    I'VE found a solution to traffic calming. There's no need for the ridiculous humps like those in Walmesley Road and Windermere Road. All that councils have to do is rip up the tarmac and reveal the old cobbles. They certainly slow vehicles down. Atherton

  • Pensions crisis strikes home

    THE pensions crisis has struck home with the government who will have to decide what can be done to stop a timebomb. Apparently we should be saving more for our old age, but what's the point? Forward thinking employees who decided to forego holidays,

  • Good to see we're clearing the clutter

    I'M glad to see that English Heritage have joined my long-standing campaign to save our streets from unnecessary signs, road painting and street furniture. Last week Women's Institute members were mobilised in a joint campaign with the government's heritage

  • Leaders beaten

    LEADERS AFC Tyldesley lost their first game on the season in the Leigh Soccer League. After opening with six straight league wins, Tyldesley were beaten 4-3 by title rivals Asda Golborne who closed the gap at the top of the table. Spencer (2), Munro and

  • Late goals sink Colls

    AFTER their midweek 2-2 draw against Great Harwood Town, Atherton Colls travelled to top of the table Fleetwood Town in good heart, although three key players were missing. They got off to a dream start when new signing from Salford City Anthony Johnson

  • EVENTS in East Lancashire on Friday, October 22

    BURNLEY Rossendale Valley Sailing Club's Sailing and Windsurfing Tuition, Clowbridge Reservoir, Dunnockshaw, Burnley. Tel: 01282 412965. "Cream of Hendrix," Carlton Hotel, Burnley. Craven and Pendle Geological Society, Barden Community Association Conference

  • Players wanted

    SOCCER side Simply Fresh Foods needs players aged 16-plus for its side which plays in the Wigan and District Amateur League and stages home games in Atherton. Ring Bob Billingham at work on 0161 703 7023.

  • Nothing wrong with paths

    I WRITE in response to your article (LET, October 15) concerning cemetery path repairs. I walk my little dog at least three times a day in what I consider to be a safe and tranquil place. The footpaths may not be perfect but to suggest they are dangerous

  • Join in Marathon and help charity

    THE London Marathon is a great opportunity to get fit and to raise money for a good cause, so if you're running next year's London Marathon why not make a difference and run for The Institute of Cancer Research, home of the Everyman Campaign! Most people

  • House unsuitable for scheme

    RE Your article (LET, October 18) on the paint stripper attack at a proposed boys' home in Darwen. As residents of Whitehall Terrace, we do not think there is much mystery about this vandalism. It is nothing to do with the plans to open 1 Whitehall Terrace

  • National Service the answer to our problems

    SOME 25 years ago I offered, by means of a letter, the idea of the use of National Service, in response to problems somewhat similar to those of today. I was given the lame excuse that if the nation was to consider reintroducing National Service the rest

  • Ex-Journal boss Fred dies, 85

    RETIRED editor and general manager of the Leigh, Tyldesley and Atherton Journal Fred Pinder has died aged 85. Mr Pinder was found in the bathroom of his home in Hendon Street, Leigh last Friday by police who broke in after a concerned curate raised the

  • Teenager trapped

    THE MUM of a teenage holidaymaker trapped on a Greek island after he claimed thieves stole his hired-moped today pleaded: "I just want my son back home." Arron Cobb, 18, of Hillcrest, Stacksteads, has been forced to find £1,500 demanded by the scooter

  • Promoted Centurions sign five

    PROMOTED Leigh Centurions have announced their first batch of signings as the club's preparations for Super League start to gather pace. The first five to put pen to paper include three newcomers and two current Hilton Park favourites. With rumours rife

  • Stand up row

    BLACKBURN Rovers needs to be very careful about how it deals with home supporters on this issue. Poor displays on the pitch in the last 18 months have already cost the club 3000 home fans (and the revenue that goes with this), so to lose any more would

  • Dig request to be denied

    COUNCILLORS in Hapton are to decline the opportunity of having the village's common dug up to reveal more about the history of the area. Hapton Parish Council have received a request from a group of enthusiasts called Phoenix Artefact Reclamation about

  • Baby death will remain a mystery

    THE family of a baby who died while asleep in his mother's arms will never know the cause of his death, an inquest heard. The hearing was told how Louise Claire Cheetham awoke early on the morning of June 6 to find her four-month-old son cold. She told

  • Head's joy at school's status

    THE headteacher of a Burnley school has spoke of his joy as it was finally granted specialist status. Speaking at the 44th St Theodore's Catholic Sports College and Sixth Form prize giving evening John Tat said the school was growing in size and popularity

  • Parking zone is unveiled

    MOVES to improve parking in part of Burnley will come into operation from next month. On Monday November 1, a controlled parking zone will be come into force in the Top o' the Town area. It will allow resident and business permit holders to park in designated

  • CCTV cameras first at school

    ANXIOUS parents no longer have to stop watching their children at a Burnley school's gates thanks to Big Brother-style cameras. Sunnybank Prep School, Manchester Road, has become the first in the country to introduce CCTV so parents can watch youngsters

  • Corrie star aims to be 'Queen Vic' with series

    CORONATION Street star Julia Haworth today revealed her ambition to become the next Victoria Wood after starting work writing a six-part TV sitcom. Julia, 25, who plays nanny Claire Casey in the soap, has been working hard on the Corrie set, filming wedding

  • Julie doubles up

    A SONGSTRESS from Yorkshire has a double date in Lancaster this week as part of a major national tour. Julie Ellison will be showcasing her talents in two city pubs just as her debut solo CD 'At Last' is attracting radio airplay across the UK, USA, Canada

  • Trombone trips through the years

    JAZZ ace Dennis Rollins brings his trombone excellence to Morecambe's Platform - with a night of tributes to black music. Acclaimed musician, composer and educator Rollins is well known on the British and international jazz scene - and promises to take

  • Water money crucial for North Lancs

    WATER improvements in the area could come to a stop unless funding is guaranteed after December, it is feared. The Environment Agency wants Ofwat - the Government's water watchdog body - to ensure that much-needed sewer improvement projects in North Lancashire

  • Man died after 'lethal cocktail'

    A MAN suffering from a mental illness died after taking a lethal cocktail of alcohol and medication, an inquest has heard. Frank Richardson, 41, of Carlton Street, Nelson, died on June 3. His father William Fox told the hearing that he went round to check

  • Scarlett's 300: Balaclava heroes

    Bygone Burnley, with BILL ASHWORTH OCTOBER 25 is an important anniversary date in the military calendars of Britain, France and Russia. It means something, too, for the people of Burnley and district, though it's not likely that many these days can say

  • Log on...for a balloon flight

    A COLNE man is encouraging others to tap into computer skills after using them to share his wedding photos with friends across the globe. Graham Catlow took a course at the Open Door Centre in Colne and now keeps in touch with old school pals through

  • Drive to improve safety in workplace

    A JOINT venture between Pendle Council environmental health service and safety officers is aiming to improve health and safety standards among local employers and employees. The council has joined forces with other local authorities and Pendle's Business

  • Radcliffe ladies darts league

    LATEST details Staff A 3, Hardy Hall 6; Swan & R A 8, Hare & Hounds 1; Wilton 2, Swan & R B 7; B Queen 4, Staff B 5; Shirt 9, Old Cross 0. Staff A 2, Swan & R A 7; Hare & Hounds 1, Shirt 8; Hardy Hall 4, B. Queen 5; Old Cross 5, Wilton

  • Fans day a big success

    RADCLIFFE Borough's supporters' team hosted a soccer tournament at the Community Sports Complex, Stainton Park, and the day proved a big success. The 14 teams were divided into two sections, with the Boro side in Group A with: Hyde United, Stevenage Borough

  • Big plans for school

    A HEADTEACHER has underlined his determination to improve his school with new projects. At the annual speech night for St Christopher's CE High School, Accrington, Alasdair Coates also rewarded pupils' achievements, and praised teachers for their hard

  • Bury Bowls Association

    THE 2004 season has been an eventful one, and at the annual general meeting in January 2005 survival tactics will have to be discussed. It will be decided whether competitions will be held on Friday evenings and also on the introduction of lady and junior

  • Runners take to the hills

    RADCLIFFE AC runners took to the hills again when they joined more than 100 teams from all over the UK in the 16th Athletic Fell and Hill Running Relay Championships. A six-strong team in the open class covered courses on the hills above Kinder Reservoir

  • Historic club has a future

    A SCHEME to bring one of East Lancashire's oldest buildings back to life as a restaurant, offices and apartments has been resurrected. Plans have now been submitted to Hyndburn Council to transform the former Conservative Club in Canon Street, Accrington

  • Radcliffe short mat bowling

    LATEST details Premier Division: Duck Club 6, Allens Green A 2; Whitehead Park 3, Allens Green B 5; Seedfield 1, Allens Green C 7; Hollinhurst 7, Totty Mix 1; Walmersley A 1, White Horse 7; Ainsworth 8, Jubilee 0; Odds & Sods 4, Hot Shots 4; Allens

  • Traders shoppers united in road protest

    TRADERS and shoppers facing new road restrictions launched a town centre protest on Wednesday. Banner-carrying objectors claimed that the proposed plan will leave businesses stranded 'on an island' and kill off the town centre altogether. Some shopkeepers

  • Nostalgia can be a good thing

    WE WISH to reply to the letter from S Hyde about the Midland Hotel in a letter published in the Citizen last week. We first saw the Midland on the internet. It attracted us to the area for the first time as tourists - and now we are residents. The Midland

  • Enforce 20mph limits

    YOU have reported on a tragic death in Morecambe and a campaign for speed restrictions on South Road. It seems to me that greater use and enforcement of 20 mph zones is the answer. The Government's own figures show that at 20 mph only five per cent of

  • We must not legalise euthanasia

    THERE is, at the moment, tremendous pressure to legalise euthanasia, or 'assisted suicide', with many heart-rending stories used to back up this demand. Recently, there was a salutary example where a husband tried to assist his wife in her distress: the

  • Three and easy for Shrimps

    MORECAMBE made it eight games unbeaten as they enjoyed a three and easy romp at the Lawn against Forest Green Rovers. And for once the Shrimps' ace in the pack Michael Twiss failed to get onto the scoresheet as he played second fiddle to his colleagues

  • Derby draw delays Dynamos

    CCM DYNAMOS missed out on their opportunity to move to the top of the British Energy North Lancs Football League as they were held 1-1 by Squires. With leaders Kirkby Lonsdale sitting out Saturday's action, the Dynamos could have overhauled them at the

  • A family affair...

    ASTLEY & Tyldesley Road Runners husband and wife partnership Brian and Lorraine both won prizes in the recent Green Drive 5 in Lytham. Brian finished second in the V55 catagory in 30.54 with Lorraine third in her catagory in 34.25. Meanwhile the rest

  • Kicking racism out of sport

    A YOUNG soccer squad is helping to tackle racism in sport. Hindsford Bandits, who play in the Leigh and District U15s League, are in the front line of the national campaign launched in 1993 'Let's Kick Racism Out of Football'. The league champions and

  • Young guns aim high

    TWO young cricketers have taken further steps towards a successful playing career after being awarded Lancashire Cricket Club scholarships. Sixteen-years-old Karl Brown (right), who plays for Bolton Association side Atherton, and Steve Mullaney, aged

  • Heroic Golborne win points again

    GOLBORNE Parkside's injury-hit team produced another heroic performance to beat Haydock 24-18. Golborne took an early 6-0 lead with a long range try from Craig Parr, goaled by Stuart Arkwright. Further injuries to Greg Dale and Carl Kelly further disrupted

  • Harriers win team awards

    LEIGH Harriers ran well to collect two team awards in the first SE Lancs Cross Country League match of the season. Clash of the day at Leigh's Marshall Street College came in the U15s two miles between the club's two English internationals, Dionne Allan

  • East throw away a match-winning lead

    Leigh East 22 Hull Dockers 28: LEIGH East lost their first home game of the season as they threw away a 2-0 lead in yet another frustrating performance of a frustrating season. The result pushed newly promoted Hull Dockers two points clear at the top

  • Tyldesley break new ground

    Tyldesley 14 Broughton Park 5: TYLDESLEY RU produced a solid performance to overcome Broughton Park 14-5 in the second round of the Powergen Intermediate Cup. After last week's disappointing home defeat Tyldesley faced up to one of the former big clubs

  • Radcliffe & district pool league

    LATEST details Premier Division: Roach Hotel A 3, Victoria 4; Masons Arms A 6, Staff of Life A 1; Rainsough Brew 3, Swan (Rad) 4; rileys 4, Welcome A 3; Hamers Arms 6, Shirt Club 1. First Division: New Inn A 3, Summerseat Lib 4, Bridge Taverners A 0,

  • Papermakers on receiving end

    WHATEVER is happening? For the second week running Papermakers went down 7-0, this time at the hands of a much strengthened Mason. The visitors put up a fight though, the first four games going to three legs. Fortunately 'Makers domino players salvaged

  • Walshaw take charge at the top

    WALSHAW Conservative B continue to make headway in the Bury Amateur Billiards League. This week they overcame the challenge from Dobbies A and now hold a commanding lead in the table as their closest rivals, Seedfield, were without a match. In their match

  • Striker Blake sets his goal

    ROBBIE Blake insists his goals will mean nothing unless Burnley can start turning their draws into wins. Blake admitted the Clarets camp was again left frustrated after Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Coventry City at Turf Moor. That was Burnley's sixth draw

  • Tugay's vow to Rovers

    BLACKBURN Rovers midfielder Tugay today pledged his future to the club by revealing he wants to stay at Ewood Park for another season. The 34-year-old's commitment to Rovers was brought into question earlier this week when stories emanating from Turkey

  • Awards for unsung workers

    TWO unsung workers based in Radcliffe have been highly commended in a national awards scheme. Paul Warde (35) and Julie Brick (37) from Bury Lifelong Learning Service based in Radcliffe, were celebrating after attending the STAR Awards Ceremony in London

  • New crash at accident blackspot

    AN accident blackspot where a teenager was killed earlier this year was the site of another collision on Sunday. A motorbike and Ford Fiesta crashed in Bolton Road, near the junction of Homer Street, where 15-year-old Natalie Danielle Pickwick Jones was

  • Thanks for much, gran

    CARING Alice Taplin celebrated her 90th birthday on Thursday in the company of the grateful grandchildren she fostered. Mrs Dawn Percival (45) of Meadowcroft, Radcliffe, and her sister Rae (40) were cared for by Alice after their mother died in the 1960s

  • 999 warning over fireworks

    FIREWORKS fans in Radcliffe are being warned to "get wise" or "get hurt" as bonfire night approaches. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has issued advice on how to avoid injury from fireworks and bonfires as new laws come in cracking down on

  • Five years of bringing together the Entwistles

    zA FAMILY history group set up by a Darwen woman has helped 74 members make connections with others researching the same family. The Entwistle Family History Association recently held its fifth annual meeting at the Old Rosins Inn, Pickup Bank, when one

  • Crunch night in turbine protest

    MORE than 100 protesters plan to descend on Blackburn Town Hall tonight in a bid to stop wind turbines going up on moors above Edgworth. The Edgworth Against Turbines (EAT) group has campaigned for almost 12 months since an application was submitted for

  • Coffee time

    rA COFFEE morning and bric-a-brac sale will open at 10am on Saturday at Leigh United Reformed Church, Union Street, Leigh.

  • Officers plan to clean up crime in a day

    DARWEN was being swamped with police officers today as a force launched its biggest ever one-day crackdowns. More than 40 officers were attempting to sweep the town free of criminals, before leaving at the end of the day. Over the next few months the

  • Back by popular demand

    THE Shades Jazz Orchestra returns by popular demand to Wigan Jazz Club on October 31,12.30 to 3.30 pm, playing the music of the great Stan Kenton at The Mill at the Pier.

  • Big Band ready for action

    A COMMUNITY 'big band ' is ready to start rehearsing. The Fred Longworth Bigger Band rehearsals begin on Monday, November 8 (7-9pm) at the Printshop Lane Arts College in Tyldesley. Contact Rick on 01942 883796 (school hours).

  • Reduced services in planning

    STAFFING problems in the planning office at Rossendale Council have led to a reduced service. Following the departure of planning officer Daniel Hartley and others, planning services have been cut while the council appoints new officers. Officers at Stubbylee

  • Have your say on crime

    OPINIONS on policing and crime prevention will be voiced next month in Leigh and Wigan. Ashley Crumbley, deputy director of community protection with Wigan Council highlight how the authority is supporting the police in reducing and preventing crime.

  • Band makes some noise on its birthday

    ASTLEY Youth Band will celebrate its 10th birthday in style with a gala concert at the venue where it made its debut. The big event, which will also mark the launch of the latest CD, has been organised for Saturday at Astley St Stephen's Church, the anniversary

  • Pro-life group's chain of love

    PRO-LIFE campaigners will form a chain of love to remember the millions of unborn babies killed by abortion. Leigh members of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children are inviting supporters to join them in the annual silent witness to the children

  • Search starts for our Young Citizen

    THE search is back on for the area's top young citizen. The Journal is looking for youngsters up to the age of 18 who have made an impact in their local community. Charity work, the field of education, environment, sport are all areas where the Young

  • Andreas gets to grips with top title

    A TEENAGE weightlifter has lifted the title of North West Young Sportsperson of the Year. Andreas Michaelas, of Stand Lane, Radcliffe, scooped the title after competing against 400 others in the OCS company-sponsored competition. He will now travel to

  • Praise for top children

    CHILDREN from the borough were honoured at a night of celebration at Bury Town Hall. The Celebration of Achievement Awards saw the positive work of the borough's looked-after children recognised. It was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Councillors

  • Cash for youngsters

    A FUNDING workshop is to be held in Radcliffe to help those who work with youngsters. The evening session will be held at the Radcliffe Community Resource Centre in Church Street West, on December 2, from 6.30pm to 9pm. The workshop is designed to give

  • Opera comes to town

    A MISMATCHED group of people trading tales of their great scrapes and escapes, makes up the Hope Opera. The show, by the Riding Lights Theatre Company, is coming to Radcliffe. The production is set around a kitchen table, where people from all walks of

  • Birthday milestone earns charity boost

    REACHING a milestone birthday was a perfect excuse for David Lewis to raise some cash for charity. Mr Lewis, from Bradley Fold in Radcliffe, held a fundraising bash to celebrate his 40th birthday and raised money for Bury Hospice. He trailed around Radcliffe

  • Kids in the fast lane

    AROUND 150 youngsters were in the fast lane at the annual Radcliffe Scouts swimming gala. A total of 45 races were held at Radcliffe Pool on Saturday night where the 7/17th Wesley Methodist group came out as the overall winners. Runners-up were the 14th

  • On the sculpture trail

    A NEW piece of artwork is to be installed in Radcliffe. Bury Council has commissioned the sculpture, as part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail, and plans are in place to erect it over the next few days. The new sculpture, to be placed in Outwood, is the result

  • Sparks at big fireworks show

    SPARKS are set to fly on October 30 when Bury holds its biggest-ever firework display. To celebrate 20 years in the firework business, Radcliffe businessman Peter Stephenson is donating £20,000 worth of professional pyrotechnics for a spectacular charity

  • Name for top child of the year

    NOMINATIONS are now open for the title of Radcliffe boy and girl of the year 2004. This annual award aims to acknowledge youngsters who play an important role in the community. Nominees may show particular kindness, caring, courage, thoughtfulness for

  • Big Band ready for action

    A COMMUNITY 'big band ' is ready to start rehearsing. The Fred Longworth Bigger Band rehearsals begin on Monday, November 8 (7-9pm) at the Printshop Lane Arts College in Tyldesley. Contact Rick on 01942 883796 (school hours).

  • Knifeman in threat to slash prostitutes

    AN 18-year-old Blackburn man told police he was going to use a large kitchen knife to "slash" prostitutes and pimps. Hyndburn magistrates heard that as Martin Bury was being arrested a prostitute walked past and he called her "dirty" and said he would

  • Equipment declared safe after 19 months

    PUPILS at a Blackburn primary school can finally have fun in their playground -- after waiting 19 months for it to be declared safe. Playground equipment was installed at Cedars County Infant School last spring, but a report by the Royal Society for the

  • We'll be stronger this time against Scarborough

    Paul Mullin's weekly column IF there is a plus side of carrying a knock, it has to be getting out of aerobics this week! Although it's improving, my back's been troubling me for a couple of weeks, so I opted for a workout in the gym instead. Having said

  • Cheers to the laughing policeman

    A GOOD laugh cheers me up no end. I know I can look forward to having one on Monday evenings thanks to the laughing policemen in the BBC 2 comedy "Early Doors". I sit there alone and fall about. They're the best comic roles on the box by a long chalk.

  • Farewell to a 'good old fashioned GP'

    I WAS saddened to learn the departure of a Leigh family doctor. A disillusioned Dr Hans-Christian Raabe, who came to Leigh just four years ago, has decided he's had enough and is heading for pastures new in Canada. Unbelievably Dr Raabe, who has experienced

  • Have-a-go heroes deserve reward

    HAVE-A-GO hero cousins Paul and Jack Eatock foiled a bag snatch at a Leigh superstore on Sunday. The duo were entering the Asda foyer when a thief ran past them carrying a ladies' handbag. They answered staff cries to stop him and gave chase. The incident

  • RMI U10s enjoy cup win over Bears

    LEIGH RMI U10's travelled to Boothstown Junior Bears in the first round of the Bolton & Bury District Cup. Late in the first half Holland came on to put Leigh one up with a well taken goal. Substitute Morris took a good pass from Wilkinson and curled

  • Hindsford edge tight contest

    HINDSFORD won a close game 3-2 at home to Hollinwood on Saturday. They took the lead within minutes of the start when Paul Cunliffe set Neil Critchley free but he was pulled back and Ryan Willett scored from the penalty. Hollinwood equalised with a powerful

  • RMI need to cash in on Cup

    RMI will have to go the hard way about making the First Round Proper of the FA Cup after being paired with Accrington Stanley for the second time in as many seasons writes Martyn Hindley Leigh were beaten by their on-form neighbours from the Nationwide

  • RMI slide to another loss

    Dagenham 2, Leigh RMI 0: RMI's disappointing season continued as poor finishing saw them slip to their fifth successive defeat. Dagenham & Redbridge striker Craig Mackail-Smith scored both second-half goals to leave RMI still searching for only their