10 years ago

LAW students enjoying a trip to Burnley Magistrates Court were stunned when a defendant made a daring dash for freedom.

The man had asked for his handcuffs to be removed while in the dock, but when unshackled he stepped on a chair, vaulted the security railings, barged into students, and ran out the door.

Police and ushers chased him around the court until a woman blocked his way in the foyer and he was bundled into the court coffee shop and arrested.

25 years ago

CORONATION Street fans were assured they would not miss out on their favourite soap during a nine-week blackout at ITV following a dispute with technicians.

The company was forced to pull the plug on programmes after workers demanded wage increases that would see their pay up 40 per cent over two years.

But TV bosses promised worried soap fans they would take up exactly where they left off when the service returned.

50 years ago

COLLEAGUES of a Blackburn machine operator with the "cleverest pair of hands" in Lancashire went on strike after she was promoted ahead of more experienced workers.

More than 600 workers protested after Olive Waddington, 26, of Thwaites Road in Oswaldtwistle was promoted at the ROF.