TINY Eleanor Smith has proved she is a real water baby by getting her first swimming certificate aged only two-and-a-half. Proud mum Kathy, 35, watched her daughter - born 14 weeks premature with a chronic lung condition - swim unassisted across the pool
A CENTURY of memories has been preserved, thanks to a skilled stonemason. Two giant sandstone blocks from the male and female entrances when the old Simms Cross School was demolished, have been turned into sculptures. Stone figures of a boy and girl now
TWO police officers have appeared at Chester Crown Court charged with raping a woman on New Year's Eve 2002. Raymond Waring, aged 31, of Sexton Avenue, in St Helens, and Stephen McGuire, aged 33, of Guernsey Road in Widnes, will appear next on Monday,
A MODEST hero, Guardsman Lees Chadwick's actions in a desperate battle spoke for themselves. Mr Chadwick, born in Hale Village in 1920, has died at the age of 84. He won the Army's second highest-ranking medal for gallantry, the Distinguished Conduct
WINSFORD United looked to have slipped up in the race for promotion from North West Counties Division Two following a 1-1 draw away at mid table Ashton Town. And the result, which continued The Blues run of erratic form, seemed all the more desperate
A REPLICA of Camilla's platinum engagement ring is proving a bestseller - at a Widnes supermarket. Her dazzling £30,000 diamond has been replaced with cubic zirconia and is on sale at Asda for just £19. "We can't get enough of them," said Jennie Beechey
THE decision on a second Mersey crossing has been put on hold until after the General Election, writes Stephen Bailey. Crossing chiefs believe their bid is tantalizingly close to success, but election rules have meant an announcement cannot be made until
Featuring an impressive four-band line up, the gig will include sets from For Tomorrows, Anna's Jukebox, Mushroom Fish and K-Hole. Entrance to the gig, in Meadow Drive, costs £3 and doors open at 8pm. Bands set for big date
Although it wasn't without drama, reporter SHELLEY SMITH discovered a people who always seem to triumph over adversity OUTSIDERS would be forgiven for viewing Rostherne as an odd little place. For this quintessentially English village, which is home to
ABBA fans can make like a Dancing Queen at Debees Music Bar in Winsford when leading tribute band Abba Forever take to the stage. With the trademark glitter make up, big hair and white and gold satin cat suits, the six-piece band will perform all the
The Wirral based band, who play a dynamic range of music from haunting ballads to melodic choruses and are no strangers to the live circuit having toured extensively as The Hedgehogs. Doors to the venue, in Queen Street, Northwich, open at 8.30pm and
THE league is currently accepting new applications to join their league for U17s, U18s, U19s and U20/21s for season 2005/06. Interested clubs must be able to field/register sufficient players and have a good standard of playing and changing facilities
NORTHWICH Victoria spoiled Barnet's championship party on Saturday with a 2-0 win that moved them out of the relegation zone. But this game was about much more than that. It was about Vics' pride, their future in the Nationwide Conference, Steve Burr's
BILLED as the local derby, the game was played in tremendous spirit by two excellent, well-drilled sides. In the early exchanges, the Moorfield engine room of Sam Brady, Patrick McMullin and Jack Armstrong made their intentions clear with some bone crunching
ST MARIES suffered a surprise loss to a much-improved Woolston team. Despite the prompting of Bobbie Goulding and the barging runs of Harry Naughton and Carl Mercer, St Maries could not find a way through the opposition defence. The much bigger Woolston
The team is run by FA qualified coaches and this season has trained with Blackburn and been invited to tournaments at Everton and Blackburn. Anyone interested should contact Mark on 07720-405878.
IN perfect conditions for rugby league, Widnes Moorfield came up against a very well disciplined and organised Saddleworth side. Both sides put in some immense tackling and it proved very hard for either side to breach the others defence. After starting
WIDNES U8s RUFC won the Vale of Lune festival last Sunday in Lancaster. Being applauded by all present for their passing skills and great open rugby, they won all three pool games against Warrington (40-5), Aspatria (30-10) and Kirkby Lonsdale (35-5).
A THREE-week nightmare has come to an end for the parents of little Gypsy Mellor after tests revealed that she does not have leukaemia. The tot lives just a few doors away from Rebecca Watts and yards away from Sharon Pymer, both of whom died from a rare
FOLLOWING a major reshuffle in the structuring of Cheshire's policing there is a new bobby on the beat in Middlewich. As reported in the Guardian last month, Middlewich Police Station will be home to 11 officers dealing with crime and disorder and PC
A WORKSHOP has been organised by the Middlewich Vision aimed at finding out where residents want a youth shelter to be placed in the town. Caroline O'Brien, coordinator of the Middlewich Vision, has invited members of Congleton Community Action Team and
TOWN councillors are concerned that parking rule cannot be enforced on a majority of roads in Middlewich. Clr Paul Edwards says that most of the double and single yellow line markings in the town are pointless because they are incomplete following previous
WITH the summer months just round the corner a community group is putting together plans to brighten up Middlewich. Following on from last year's success, when the town was pronounced winner of the North West in Bloom competition, the Middlewich Community
RUNCORN failed to widen the gap between themselves and their nearest relegation rivals, losing 1-0 away at Redditch on Saturday. A single goal conceded early in the game put paid to the Linnets hopes of taking advantage of Moor Green's home defeat and
SPRING is in the air so - if you haven't already done so - it's time to get the mower out and start cutting the grass. If you haven't any grass but are planning to lay a new green sward then here is an idea for you to try. Despite the fact that rotary
A GLITTERING gala dinner evening awaits the cream of Vale Royal business talent on Wednesday, June 15. For those shortlisted in the prestigious Vale Royal Business Awards will be invited to Portal Golf and Country Club, Tarporley. The awards have been
A JOINT community safety action group in Davenham and Moulton looks set to go ahead as more hot spots for anti-social behaviour emerge. As reported in the Guardian, representatives of both parish councils will make up the group, which aims to meet regularly
ONE of the oldest clubs in Winsford is appealing for people to pull together and stop it from going out of existence. Winsford Liberal Club in Siddorn Street, which is more than 120 years old, has seen a steady decline in membership during the past few
TOP cops enjoyed five minutes of fame when they stepped into the spotlight last month. Vale Royal's finest took to the stage at Oaklands Hotel, Gorstage, to receive awards and certificates of commendation after making outstanding contributions to policing
A PAIR of Winsford teachers have returned home after spending two years carrying out voluntary work in a poverty stricken area of Nepal. Colin and Sandra Upham, of Carisbrook Drive, worked as advisers for the Nepal government in an attempt to improve
FIRE crews were called to a Winsford factory after a worker suffering from heat exhaustion collapsed inside a silo. Rescuers used specialist equipment to remove the 20-year-old from the chamber at Colin Stewart Minchem Ltd on Weaver Valley Road. The incident
Work goes on to save wetlands VITAL work to enhance some of Cheshire and Europe's most important wildlife habitats has now been completed. With the aim of preventing the drying out of wetland areas causing loss of plant species, birch trees and invasive
THE pain of being separated from her children has forced a Runcorn mum to spearhead a fight to change the law. Lesley Coleman will be leading a candlelit vigil outside Liverpool Family court on April 22. It's being held to highlight the problem of mothers
RESIDENTS are being asked to help in the next stage of a five-year countywide transport strategy blueprint. Cheshire County Council's draft local transport plan proposals have been released for public consultation and residents have until Friday April
A NORTHWICH yoga business is moving premises due to the unprecedented increase in popularity of the ancient form of therapy. Doug Bowler, 51, is an expert in Dru yoga and has decided to relocate his business from his home in Oakwood Lane, Barnton, to
THE sight of blood pouring from an old woman has led a passenger to call for first aid kits on every bus. Lesley McGarrigle saw the woman fall and gash her leg on Saturday as she got off a number 82A Arriva bus in Halton Road, Runcorn. "Her leg just went
MID Cheshire's religious leaders have paid tribute to Pope John Paul II following the pontiff's death on Saturday night. The Polish-born leader headed the Roman Catholic movement uninterrupted for 26 years - fighting off an assassination attempt as well
SCIENCE students from Weaverham High School geared up for a teambuilding challenge when they joined in a Krypton Factor-style event at Reaseheath College. The Year 10 pupils faced a series of mental and physical tasks at the Nantwich college as part of
A FESTIVAL of health and beauty takes place at Northwich Memorial Hall on Saturday to raise money for two charities. Half the money raised at the event will go to the Asian tsunami appeal and money raised from a lucky dip and raffle will go towards Independent
CHILDREN were devastated after the solar light they put on their grandmother's grave was stolen. They clubbed together to buy the light for Doreen Sadler's plot in Runcorn cemetery. But less than a week later it was stolen. Doreen's husband Peter said
COMPANIES are being urged to sign up for this year's Vale Royal jobs fair. The event is taking place on Thursday, May 19, and this will be the job fair's sixth consecutive year. According to Job Centre figures, there are often at least 300 vacancies for
A SAFETY strategy has been released aimed at reassuring the community on issues of crime and disorder in Vale Royal. The Vale Royal Community Safety Partnership published its three-year community safety strategy on Thursday and hopes it will lessen the
THE decision on a second Mersey crossing has been put on hold until after the General Election, writes Stephen Bailey. Crossing chiefs believe their bid is tantalizingly close to success, but election rules have meant an announcement cannot be made until
A DEDICATED helpline for people who require urgent dental treatment was launched last Monday. The line will also help those who wish to receive help and advice to register with an NHS dental practice for regular care. It is particularly aimed at people
Yvonne Crookall is one of them. She says: "I am a middle-aged woman and I work at Asda Runcorn and a lot of people have been coming in thinking it's us in your piece." She's referring to last week's column in which I censured two women behind the counter
A SON has paid tribute to his fun-loving Davenham mum after she was killed in a collision on the A49 last month. Sybil Pace, 70, failed to regain consciousness after the fatal accident, between Acton Bridge and the Weaverham roundabout, on Monday, March
A DISABLED man from Moulton is asking whether provisions have been made for wheelchair users at Northwich Railway Station. The man, who does not wish to be identified, is hoping that when the station is refurbished, access will become easier for the disabled
A THREE-week nightmare has come to an end for the parents of little Gypsy Mellor after tests revealed that she does not have leukaemia. The tot lives just a few doors away from Rebecca Watts and yards away from Sharon Pymer, both of whom died from a rare
ARCHEOLOGY hopefuls will have the chance to get their hands dirty with a Roman dig in Castle. A site has become available next to the Blue Barrel pub on Chester Road and a trial dig has been provisionally arranged for April 23 and April 24. Volunteers
A SKIP hire firm has applied for planning permission to create a recycling and hire operation centre - despite facing strong opposition for a similar proposal last year. Cheshire County Council is currently considering the revised application from Ash
A POLICE officer who travelled to Thailand to identify bodies of tsunami victims has been killed in a minibus crash. Father-of-one Kevin Brinkman from Northwich, who was due to be married this year, was in Phuket as part of the British police's response
DEVASTED carnival organisers have slammed the mindless vandals who ransacked a 'secure' Rudheath Scout hut, destroying costumes and equipment. Everything needed to stage the annual summer event had been kept safely in the Scout hut, on Middlewich Road
WITH regard to schoolchildren crossing the busy A556, a spokesman for Cheshire County Council has said a safety assessment was carried out and the route meets with requirements. This of course is true if the children use the route but as they will find
SCHOOL soccer stars are being asked to cast their mind back more than 50 years to put names to two faces captured on camera. Market Place reader Ellis Wardle has provided a photograph of the football team at the former Church Road School, Barnton. The
to hunters I ALWAYS felt from my observations of the huge police presence at hunts in Cheshire that they were there acting as security guards for the hunters. As far as I am concerned, whenever members of the hunt misbehaved in any number of ways, never
IN reply to Clr Ann McEllin, one can hardly call Lostock a village any more and I was not condoning the development of the former garage site, I was only pointing out that whatever is built on that particular site will pale into insignificance with what's
THERE was a touch of spring in the air with the arrangements of seasonal flowers displayed in the village hall for the March meeting of Lach Dennis WI. President Olive Reed welcomed members and final arrangements were made for the annual dinner at The
SCHOOL soccer stars are being asked to cast their mind back more than 50 years to put names to two faces captured on camera. Market Place reader Ellis Wardle has provided a photograph of the football team at the former Church Road School, Barnton. The
MARCH president Ruth Smith welcomed members to the meeting. Alison Middleton reported on her enjoyable day at a workshop at WI House and gave the treasurer's report, stressing the need for more funds to be raised. Volunteers were requested to undergo
THE March meeting of Moulton WI opened with Jerusalem. On arrival each member was given a tube of Smarties that, when the sweets were eaten, members were asked to fill up with whatever they could afford to donate towards the refurbishment of the WI House
on the right road A TEAM of safety experts will descend on the M62 at Birchwood later this week. A special vehicle will record the undulations in the M62 eastbound slip road at Birchwood overnight on Thursday, April 7, and April 8. The Deflectograph records
A THIEF has stolen a radio that landlords and traders have been using to alert each other to criminals in Knutsford. The radio operators may now have to change the radios' frequency in case the thief is also tuning in. "Somebody could now be listening
YOBS who kicked a defenceless man during a terrifying mob attack in Knutsford last summer walked free from court on Thursday. Judge Stephen Clarke told Clive and Emlyn Tomlinson that he could not send them to prison because the ringleader Lee Nixon had
CLASSICAL music could be piped into Knutsford Train Station to help calm down vandals. British Transport Police believe the gentle melodies will either pacify yobs or force them to gather elsewhere. "It will be low levels of classical pieces," said John
STARBUCKS has been given permission to open a coffee bar in Knutsford. Macclesfield Borough Council approved the company's plans to change the use of a proposed shop in the Royal George development after it agreed not to serve customers outside. "We were
MIDDLEWICH Town Reserves' push for the Mid Cheshire Reserves Division title was given fresh impetus on Saturday with a 1-0 away win at Garswood. Both sides started well and the home team could have gone in front when a shot was deflected towards goal,
Hi there, this seems a bit strange, me emailing something like this, but I'm a student nurse and I work with a nursing agency. About six weeks ago I was doing an agency shift at a nursing home, which used to have caves from the sea underneath where an
I would like to know if my spiritual guide could have been my late cousin who I never met. I used to have an imaginary friend when I was little and I always felt someone was always with me. The name I used for my imaginary friend, I have recently found
My mother died last June very suddenly, at the age of 58. Her passing was troubled and fraught and I often wonder if she is now 'settled' and at peace. I often wish to see a medium of some sort, to have contact with her, and to know she is with us, but
Is my dad at peace and has he made his peace with his mother? Christine, Perth, Western Australia Hi Christine, Your dad is at peace now but only in the way we think. What happened on this side was a learning curve for him and your mother. They are the
My partner committed suicide. He had been ill for some time. He did something that hurt me just before he died. Did this contribute to his death? I have felt him near me, has he been here? Gill, St Helens Dear Gill, You know deep down that he is sorry
I AM writing in response to a letter printed in last week's Knutsford Guardian from an angry, unselfish mother. I, too, am appalled by the attitude of many disabled and able-bodied people without children in Booths car park. Over the past seven years
CRUNCH talks to decide the future of Runcorn's 'premier sports ground' on Monday night earned the Pavilions a stay of execution. Pavilions Arena Limited, which owns the ground, met with Halton councillors and the Runcorn & District FA to find an alternative
Egerton U8 0 Macclesfield U8 0 ON a beautiful warm and sunny day Egerton treated their fans to a magnificent display of skills and teamwork. They demonstrated great awareness of both their opponents and team mates' positions. Will Booth tackled abundantly
THE award-winning Watermill Theatre's touring production of The Comedian comes to Plumley Village Hall on Saturday April 16 for one night only. Ade Morris' latest work is a bitter-sweet play, brimming with sparkling old gags that will touch the hearts
britain's changing climate could one day force an age-old tradition to change. More rain and less sunshine now mean that many gooseberries - grown for competition - are ripe enough to pick a few weeks before the shows in July. "It is not about growing
"GOD helps those who help themselves," recorder Nicholas Parry told a Widnes man at Warrington Crown Court on Friday. He continued: "You have been given every conceivable opportunity to avoid prison and everybody has bent over backwards to help - everybody
CELEBRATIONS to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War are well under way. Her Majesty, the Queen will host a lunch for veterans in Buckingham Palace on VJ Commemoration Day, Sunday, July 10, after a historic show in Horse Guards
"WE'RE excellent!" That's the jubilant message Halton Council employees hailed this week as they celebrated joining an elite group of top-rated authorities. "It is now official," said proud council leader Cllr Tony McDermott. "We all represent and work
North West Counties Division Three Mark Norris Building Services ALBERT Park gained a valuable two points at Haydock with what in the end was a fairly comfortable win. It proved to be an even better victory when you consider that they trailed 14-0 after
Results for March 19: March Extra Medal: Division One: Ian Webster 76-12=64; Conrad Blenkinsop 71-6=65. Division Two: Jim Speedy 80-15=65; Harry Coomer 82-16=66. Division Three: Ian Kelsall 85-18=67; Mark Hagan 87-19 =68. Division Four: Mark Withers 90
Premier division big hitting Rhondda Celtic inflicted a first defeat of the season on Athletic Klub. The Celts 1-2 thrashing moved them up to one from bottom, a point behind league leaders Jade Flower who comprehensively beat title hopefuls Tonyrefail
James Boardman from Liverpool Pembroke was the first to make it across the finish line in a time of 24 minutes 45 seconds, closely followed by the winner in the women's category, Jennifer Clague from Liverpool Harriers who made it in 27 minutes 22 seconds
Results for March 31: Moorfield SC 3 Blundell 2; Yew Tree 0 Commercial No2 5; Cricketers 3 Doctors 2; Commercial No1 3 Our Lady's 2; Halton Stadium 2 Prince of Wales 3; Smithy Manor No2 2 Ball 3; Simms Cross 2 Smithy Manor No1 3; Lowerhouse 1 Millfield
IN the Frontrunner premier division Whiston and Halebank would appear to be the only threats to Penlake. Halebank won their derby match with Moorfield 3-1 on Saturday to stay in the hunt, whilst Whiston thumped last season's top dogs St Michaels 4-1 on
THE Vets returned to winning ways with a comfortable victory with the hero of the day Ivor Lewis scoring a try to celebrate his 63rd birthday. The spring sunshine and the dry pitch allowed the Wids to throw the ball around from the off and Brian Gill
West Cheshire League A LACK-LUSTRE first half saw Mond fall behind in the 34th minutes following a corner they failed to clear. The only chance Mond engineered was a corner that Robinson headed over the bar. The half time team talk resulted in a completely
Mark Norris Building Services Results for April 2: Premier Division: Halton Simms Cross 64 Halton Farnworth 4. Division Three: Haydock A 20 Albert Park 34. Division Four: Leigh East 54 Widnes Tigers 34. Division Five: Weaverham Rangers 0 West Bank Swan
Fixtures for April 7: Maurice Hewitt Challenge Cup: Semi Final: At Widnes Rec: Mill Brow SC B or Vikings v Village SC A or Wid Rec; USC or Horse & Jockey A v Sundowner or Majors. April 11: Maurice Hewitt Challenge Cup: Final: At Widnes Rec: Finalists
THE second round of the Individual competition took place last Friday night with 32 players competing for the last four places with one player going through from each of four venues. Those eventually winning through were Steve Roberts and Ian King (Tricorn
THE second round of the Individual competition took place last Friday night with 32 players competing for the last four places with one player going through from each of four venues. Those eventually winning through were Steve Roberts and Ian King (Tricorn
Mark Norris Building Services Results for April 2: Premier Division: Halton Simms Cross 64 Halton Farnworth 4. Division Three: Haydock A 20 Albert Park 34. Division Four: Leigh East 54 Widnes Tigers 34. Division Five: Weaverham Rangers 0 West Bank Swan
THE owner of a trendy bar has bought one of Knutsford's finest restaurants. Living Ventures - the Knutsford-based business behind The Living Room - has paid £16.4million for the Est Est Est chain. On Monday chief executive Tim Bacon said that the Italian
PLAYING their fourth match in eight days and still, with five new players, to have a training session together, Albion produced a tremendous display that had Leek Town on the back foot. On 16 minutes Adam Foy produced superb control work before threading
WITTON Albion brought a hectic week to a close with a 0-0 home draw against play-off rivals Guiseley. Playing their third match in five days Albion looked weary, but tried to use an early onslaught to break down the visitors. But somehow they failed to
I AM afraid Mr Webster is living in the past. The industrial era of this town has gone, and good riddance, we had years of pollution, filthy air, people with breathing problems, to call this part of being an industrial town is cobblers. The rich man on
A HAIR salon has won a top rating from the industry handbook. The Hair and Beauty Bar has been awarded four stars by the Good Salon Guide, and it's only been open for just over 12 months. "We were absolutely delighted," said Janet Bradshaw, 39, who co-owns
WINSFORD United will regard this as two points dropped, but their performance was first class and only an over-fussy official spoilt what could have been a fine match. The referee's constant penalising of the smallest offences meant that neither team
HEARTBROKEN Joseph Kinsella, 10, was reunited with his stolen bike - minutes after the Widnes World was published last week. His bright orange 'Ghetto' rally bike disappeared from a computer games shop while his brother, Robert 11, borrowed it. Julie
REPAIRS and refurbishment have closed St John's Church, Lostock Gralam, for 28 weeks until the autumn Substantial work has been needed for some time and it is only since the sale of St Andrews Church in Wincham that funds are now available for the work
CHAMPIONS Beechwood Celtic overcame Widnes Wolves 2-0 to make it 23 wins on the spin thanks to two goals from Tom Turkington who was joint man of the match with Jake Peacock. Celtic are now one game away from a 100 per cent record for the season. M Percival
NORTHWICH Victoria boss Steve Burr is delighted that his side got back to winning ways - against the champions elect Barnet. And the manager, who has overseen one of the most tumultuous seasons in Northwich's history, is backing his side to move forward
A SMALL army of volunteers turned out to Middlewich Cricket Club to give the venue and grounds a facelift. Middlewich Cricket Club took part in England and Wales Cricket Board initiative Natwest Cricket Force 2005 on Saturday and Sunday to get the club
THE Maries travelled to Hindley and came away with an excellent 11th win in a row. Try scorers were Chris Doolan, Craig Glover, Adam Sadler and Nathan Langton who crossed with a brace each and Ryan Thelfall converted four. Man of the match was Bradley
A RESIDENTS' association has expressed its dismay at the resignation of Middlewich Town Councillor Emma Brown. Andy Bailey and Mike Hunter, spokesmen for CW10residents, were sad to learn that Emma had stepped down from her role but thanked her for the
A MIDDLEWICH councillor is backing a father's peaceful campaign to support parents who have become separated from their children. Town councillor Chalky White says he will attend a candlelight vigil organised by Richard Warner, of St Anne's Avenue, in
A MIDDLEWICH teenager has been sharpening up his learning skills after swapping his school books for an office desk. James Fowles, of Benbridge Drive, has been working with the Learning and Skills Council Cheshire and Warrington as part of a two-week
ORGANISERS of the Middlewich Folk and Boat Festival are looking for volunteers to help make sure the annual event runs like clockwork. Ian Norbury, stewards organiser for the festival which runs from June 17 to 19, is looking for people in the town to
MIDDLEWICH Post Office is on the move this month and plans have been put in place to bridge the week-long gap between the relocation. Post Office staff will serve their last customer in the One Stop store, in Wheelock Street, at 12.30pm on Wednesday,
A MIDDLEWICH narrow boat firm is set to make its mark in the world of television politics. Middlewich Narrowboats, in Canal Terrace, has hired two of its vessels to the BBC's Politics Show for the next five weeks as presenters trail politicians the length
COUNCILLORS have questioned a delay in completing work on a long awaited safety crossing on a dangerous stretch of road in Middlewich. As reported in the Guardian in February, Cheshire County Council began work on a safety crossing on the A54 Holmes Chapel
POLICE are determined to clamp down on bikers who are damaging a piece of Middlewich's history. Congleton Community Action Team has received numerous reports of bikers riding mini moped and motor cross bikes across the site of a Roman fort at Harbutt's
TATTON Park has been awarded £515,000 to restore a greenhouse so that staff can grow fruits enjoyed by its ancestors. The Heritage Lottery Fund grant - announced last week - will mean gardeners can rebuild the vinery and pinery and finally complete the
ROSTHERNE witnessed human nature at its very best at the weekend as volunteers began to transform the rundown cricket clubhouse into a building of which the whole community could be proud. Although it wasn't without drama, reporter SHELLEY SMITH discovered
ORGANISERS of the Round Winsford fun run are appealing for competitors to make this year's event a huge success. The event, organised by Leighton Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group, will take place on Sunday, June 26, with courses for people of all
WORK is set to begin on a major redevelopment project in Moulton that will give teenagers a place of their own by summer. Plans to transform the playing fields, off Main Road, have been in the pipeline for almost three years but work on the first phase
A CYCLIST was knocked off his bike and injured in a road traffic collision on the A54 Oakmere Road at its junction with Well Street. The incident happened at around 6am when a car turned right out of Well Street and was in collision with the cyclist who
SECURITY is to be stepped up at Knights Grange Sports Complex following incidents of vandalism and anti-social behaviour. The complex is again being targeted by vandals and police are now going to step up patrols in the area. Sgt Ian Wood of Winsford
THE future is looking bright for shop owners on the Grange Estate following a project to improve security in the area. Work was completed on Friday to install security lights at the back of shops on Abbotts Way and also fit gates and locks on the premises
PUBLIC fears have been eased following the arrest of a teenager after a number of street lights were 'snapped' in Winsford. Concerns were raised that 13 concrete lampposts were destroyed by youths but there have been no further incidents since a youth
TRIBUTES have been made for Helen Watson, chairman of Tarporley Parish Council, who died on Saturday following a period of illness. Helen, 65, served on the council for 20 years and was currently in her second term as chairman. She lived in the Tarporley
ALTHOUGH it is Mark Patton's first pub, the new landlord of the Beech Tree is no stranger to the licensing and catering trade. The 39-year-old, who moved into the pub with his wife Carolyn and sons David and Jonathon, has been involved in both trades
AN employee who stole more than £10,000 from a bookmakers in Blacon where he worked is to be sentenced next month. Mark Edward Williams admitted stealing the money while employed as a manager at M Cook bookmakers, but magistrates deemed the breach of
A YOUNG Northwich hair stylist has won a place in the national final of a prestigious hairdressing competition. Jennie Birch, 17, who works at Wilsons Hairdressing on Witton Street, stormed through the regional heats of the L'Oreal Colour Trophy last
A DISPLAY showing what happened at Northwich Ladies Circle's 'Forget-me-not' luncheon held last November has been put up in Northwich Library. The board, which is in the foyer of the library, shows photos, messages of thanks and press coverage received
WORKERS fearing job losses at a Denton Drive bathroom furniture company are facing an agonising wait after administrators extended the deadline for selling the firm. Northwich-based Choice Interiors - who have showrooms on Manchester Road, as well as
A RUNCORN man has pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and a burglary. Craig Owen stole from two teenage boys on January 3. Owen, 17, held down a 13-year-old near to St Chad's Catholic high and stole his ring - another attacker is believed to have
A BURST water main in Northwich brought rush hour traffic to a halt on Friday morning and left many homes without a supply. Both carriageways of the busy A556, near its junction with Birches Lane, flooded when a 10-inch main in the grass verge sprang
COMPLICATIONS with the planned Thundersprint route have been debated in Parliament. Weaver Vale MP Mike Hall appealed in the House of Commons for the Thundersprint to include a main road, pointing out that Formula One cars used Regent Street in London
JAMES May is best known for his attachment to four-wheeled vehicles but nothing could keep the Top Gear presenter away from the Thundersprint next month. The small screen star appeared at the event last year and is looking forward to returning. He said
A NORTHWICH mum will sue the Child Support Agency after she claims it miscalculated the amount she was owed in maintenance payments from her ex-husband. But mother-of-three Alison Davies is trying to extend the grounds on which she can sue the CSA. Judge
A NEW equestrian cross-country course at Arley Hall is becoming a reality. With more than 40 fences to construct, the Arley team has been creating a series of exhilarating and interesting obstacles. The course is more than two kilometres long and designer
American youth loves English culture classes A TEACHER from Northwich has been named Cultural Educator of the Year in the United States after introducing Pancake Day and Cadbury's chocolate to his class. Stephen Billington, former student of Sir John
A LETTER has been sent out to invite more than 50 Leftwich residents to a meeting about the Leftwich leukaemia cases, including the environmental studies that are being carried out on land near to their homes. The invitation-only event will be held at
FOR those wishing to learn how to tap dance, or even to belly dance, Sir John Deane's College, Northwich, has a range of courses starting next week. Middle Eastern and belly dancing for beginners gets under way from Tuesday April 12, and runs for 10 weeks
NORTHWICH town councillors approved the following planning applications subject to no loss of amenity to neighbouring residents: A loft conversion at 37 Church Road, for Mr and Mrs Sproston; a two-storey rear extension with room in roof space at 32 Danebank
TRIBUTES have been paid to former Northwich Town Mayor Harold Fletcher who died on March 1 at the age of 91. Mr Fletcher moved to Park Street in Castle, in 1954 and he quickly become a well-known face in the area. He lived there until his death. He ran
GOING down to Northwich town centre on March 23 was like a breath of fresh air. My husband said he could hear music and on walking further, we discovered it was the singing friar, Father Francis. We stopped and bought a CD from him and went and sat outside
AFTER reading the article in the March 23 edition about the boy aged just 13 who violently kicked and attacked the pet rabbit belonging to Hobson's Nursery, I find it amazing that for so-called legal reasons he cannot be named. I was also shocked to read
THE March meeting of Pickmere and District WI was opened by president Joan Webb. Members were informed of the sudden death of Mrs Mack. A minute's silence was held in her memory. The speaker was Mrs Lea. She demonstrated how to make cards, pictures and
THE latest venue for Vale Royal and Knutsford Ramblers was Ruthin in North Wales on March 27. Stuart Gardiner led the A party on a demanding 15-mile walk, starting from Llanferres, taking in the heights of Moel Plas, Moel Llanfair and Moel Gwy, some 2,800ft
JUST imagine, more than 1,100 miles of ice and snow, temperatures down to 50 degrees below zero, raging blizzards, howling wolves and 16 huskies pulling you ever onward, night and day. That is the Iditarod Race. At the March meeting members and visitors
Yvonne Crookall is one of them. She says: "I am a middle-aged woman and I work at Asda Runcorn and a lot of people have been coming in thinking it's us in your piece." She's referring to last week's column in which I censured two women behind the counter
THE director of a motor finance company will not be a manager for the next four-and-a-half years after his company failed with debts of more than £250,000. Martin Heaps, of Ackers Road in Stockton Heath, agreed to the undertaking following his work as
BIRCHWOOD'S most famous landmark was brought to the ground last week. The chimney at the Birchwood Shopping Centre was taken down in stages. For more pictures on the lowering of the tower, see this Thursday's Warrington Guardian.
A STAR of the future helped Hartford Tennis Club to the victory in the winter cup competition. Jarrod Wood, 15, had already helped the A team through to the final and a strong showing in the winter league. He linked up again with captain Gareth Eaton
Residents in Oldham, the Lake District and Crewe want to register with an NHS dentist in Knutsford. Dr Roger Klein, who opens Regent Cosmetic Practice in Bexton Lane on Friday, said he had been inundated with calls over the past week from people desperate
THE award-winning Watermill Theatre's touring production of The Comedian comes to Plumley Village Hall on Saturday April 16 for one night only. Ade Morris' latest work is a bitter-sweet play, brimming with sparkling old gags that will touch the hearts
POLICE have made an appeal after poison was stolen from Lymm. The theft took place at a commercial premises in the village between 6pm on Tuesday and 9am today, Wednesday. A stock check earlier today has revealed that two small, plastic containers of
FOUNDATIONS are being laid for a new shop that will front King Street. Workmen started the work in March and are expected to take another five weeks to complete the job. It will pave the way for a new building that will be sandwiched between Hallmark
PUPILS in schools and colleges across Warrington will be offered vaccinations to protect them against mumps following a rise in the illness among 16-25 year olds. The open access sessions this month are for pupils in years 11, 12 and 13, as well as students
MIDDLEWICH Town FC's hopes of retaining their Mid Cheshire League Division One title were dealt a crushing blow on Saturday. Terry Muphy's men lost 3-2 at home to title rivals Barnton who now have the upper hand as the season draws to a close. Barnton
Hello James. NICE TO BE ABLE TO EMAIL SOMEONE WHO LIVES SO CLOSE. I HAVE BEEN PSYCHIC FOR ABOUT TWENTY YEARS. I USED TO HAVE A FRIEND WHO WAS A PROFESSIONAL PSYCHIC AND SHE TAUGHT ME A FEW THINGS ABOUT MY SPRIRIT GUIDES (I HAVE TWO). I AM INTERESTED IN
Hi James. Just wondering if you could help me. I've been to many psychics, looking for a message from my brother. He was 20 when he died and I was just eleven. I have never spoken to anyone about it. Because I was only a child, I thought I couldn't grieve
Myself and my husband have both lost grandparents who meant a great deal to us and have very little to remember them by. I had a small toy rabbit, which was my grandmas but I have lost it. If you have any clue where it could be I would be grateful, and
Hi James. I'm wondering whether you know of a local spiritual / psychic discussion or development group? I'm following a solitary path at the moment and would love to be able to meet and talk with others who share similar beliefs and experiences. Louise
Is it possible that something I did in a previous life could affect the one I am living today? Since leaving school over 18 years ago nothing seems to have gone right. I am currently now living on my own, in a job I hate and can't see any light at the
James, should I go for voluntary redundancy? My holistic reflexology course doesn't finish until September and I'm worried about the money. Will we manage financially? I feel so scared! Thanks for your advice. Janet x Janet Robinson, Sale Hi Janet, You
Hello James. My wife and myself have a daughter and son. We live in a council house and have done for the past eight years. We have been told by several people that the house is haunted by an old lady who had a Labrador dog. The only place in the house
Please can you help me. My husband took his own life and I don't know why as he had everything to live for. I feel I cant move on with my life. If you can help me find out why and will I ever move on and meet someone else? I don't think I can ever trust
WHEN I was asked to take part in a debate that you are organising between the General Election candidates, I of course agreed. But I do have some misgivings about it, because in many ways I don't regard myself as a fit and proper candidate. I have at
KNUTSFORD Rugby Club played hosts to Congleton in their final league fixture of the season on Saturday. A win was essential for Knutsford, not only to gain revenge for the defeat at Congleton in November but also to ensure that the club have a realistic
KNUTSFORD A Team conceded defeat to an impressive Radcliffe Borough side in the spring sunshine at Manchester Road on Saturday. The Reds were well below their best and against one of the best young teams in the league this was a bad time to have an off
NORTHWICH RUFC entertained high flying Wilmslow at Moss Farm on Saturday and came away on the wrong end of a 62-0 defeat. Northwich continued to suffer from absenteeism and injury with five senior players unavailable for the match and the problems were
WINNINGTON Park RUFC rediscovered their early season form in spectacular style with a 63-0 win over already relegated Blackburn. Park opened the scoring after 11 minutes when Rick Smith broke a couple of tackles and Johnny Evans and Sam Barton combined
WEAVERHAM Wolves U11s avenged their early season defeat at Burtonwood Bulldogs with an 18-14 win in the return fixture. Things started well when Dom Jones charged over from 20 yards out and carried over several defenders in one of his typical blockbusting
as tribute AN HISTORIC signal box at Helsby train station was the undisputed guest of honour at a national award ceremony held last week. The box, on platform two, was restored to its original 1900 condition following a National Railway Heritage Trust
A SURVEY into the availability of affordable housing in Frodsham was top of the agenda at the latest meeting of the town council. Toni Burke, Vale Royal housing strategy and regeneration manager, and her colleague Emma Kitson addressed fellow councillors
FROM the banks of the Mersey to the banks of the Seine, Halton college students enjoyed a four-day trip to Paris. Kristen Atkins, Christina Holroyd, Jenni Robinson, Lucy Burgess, Jacob Royle and Anthony Nash went as part of the travel and tourism course
RUNCORN isn't the first place springing to mind as a design hot spot. Only The Brindley has caught the attention of style gurus, with a nomination for a Civic Trust design award But experts have praised another building for its intelligent design. Runcorn
CAN you help Valerie find Mr Wright of Runcorn? Or maybe you're the real John Smith she wants to have a drink and a catch up with? These surnames sum up the difficulty of the task facing the Brookvale teacher trying to track down a long lost half brother
I am writing on behalf of the Green Party about your article dealing with our report on the Runcorn Docks gas leak. It's really good news that EVC and Manchester Ship Canal have taken on board the issue of a gas-sensing warning klaxon and provision of
A HIGH tech company has been born out of the world-leading Daresbury laboratory. It will design and make equipment to work in ultra-high vacuum experiments. The vacuua created are a millionth of a millionth as thick as the air around us. These vacuua
A VALUED voluntary group that works with the poorest people in society has not been given its annual council grant. Justice and Peace has spent 17 years redistributing furniture, food and other essentials to the destitute. But Halton council didn't grant
WARRINGTON loose-forward Jon Clarke ran in a first-ever hat trick of tries as Widnes Vikings went down 44-12 at Halliwell Jones Stadium. It was a dispiriting night for Vikings' fans that saw their side pull the game back to 18-12 early in the second half
Widnes Vikings 32 Swinton Lions 18 INJURY-hit Widnes made heavy weather of it before finally getting the better of Swinton Lions at Halton Stadium. The National League Two side weren't given much hope before kick-off but produced a spirited display, which
VIKINGS boss Frank Endacott has set his side a Super League survival target of eight more wins ahead of this Sunday's visit to high-flying Hull. The Kiwi believes 20 points will see his injury-ravaged squad safe for another year and, boosted by three
YOU may be the only person they see all day. Big-hearted volunteers who deliver meals on wheels are often the only visitors to Halton's elderly and housebound. "These people don't see anybody from one day to another," said Sue Knapman, WRVS regional operations
A NEW evening group is being launched to offer practical help and support to cancer patients and their families. The inaugural meeting will be held at 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 13 at the old police station, Mersey Road, Runcorn. "For some time now, we
A WOMAN was left 'devastated' after vandals smashed a family headstone to pieces in a graveyard. Margaret Richards discovered the damage at Halton Village cemetery last week. Her grandparents 'gravestone had been broken over a cross shaped grave. "I couldn't
BUSINESS as usual was the trend in this week's Leisure League competition. Those at the top recorded valuable wins whilst those at the bottom would have been less grateful of their losses. This trend was outlined in The Boys game with Random Allstars.
One death dominated the thoughts of many over the past weekend - the death of Pope John Paul II. He was a world and religious leader whose influence had been great. A man of faith, but open to other people of faith. A man who served his Lord and God through
HUNDREDS of people from across the regions gathered to run the Silver Jubilee Bridge in Runcorn on Easter Sunday. James Boardman from Liverpool Pembroke was the first to make it across the finish line in a time of 24 minutes 45 seconds, closely followed
Results for April 3: First Division: Todd Dynamoes 4 Weston Village 1; Cholmondeley 3 Last Orders 2. Harry Tabb Memorial Trophy: Halfway Vets 2 Brewer 3. P Heffernan/D Benson Memorial Trophy: Roosters 0 Travellers 6; Union Tavern 5 Dray 2 (aet). Fixtures
Results for April 3: Premier Division: Lowton Borough FC 1 Wanderers 1; Ryder FC 1 Cheshire Hawthorne 4; Watchy FC 2 Carrs Hotel 3. Division One: Culcheth FC 2 FC Lion 3; Stocks 0 Real Gate 0; Wilkies Tavern 3 P&S Eagle 1. Division Two: Brooklands
WIDNES are now one victory away from securing their position in the Powergen North Two West league following this impressive performance against mid table Bowdon. With two games left and already relegated Aspull visiting Heath Road this week coach Paul
Results: U16s Cup: Semi Final: Crosby Stuart 2 East Leigh 1; Widnes Bayer 1 Prescot Cables 2. April 3: U16s League: Runcorn BC 1 Penlake 4; Crosfields 0 Avon Valencia 6; Eagle Sports 2 Penketh Utd 3; Brookvale 4 Culcheth 4; Norton J 3 Lane Ends 8; Rope
THERE is a generation gap today when it comes to nature and bird spotting. Many adults have a passion for wildlife as a result of being inspired as children, yet many youngsters today have little contact with nature. As a youngster at Wharton schools,
Performers of all ages and abilities are needed to fill a range of male and female roles in the production that is based on real life accounts of people living and working in the salt industry, on the canal and river boats in Cheshire. A casting for the
I WAS disappointed when I found out that the council did not intend to provide a decent public convenience in Runcorn when they were planning the new market. Now that the market is open I can see why, small is not an adequate word to describe the size
So Cllr Harris, what is your response to the state of the facilities at Leigh Rec if, as you say, the council's spending such a large amount of ratepayers' money on sport? Tell us why this facility is in such a bad state? I was playing on this ground
WITTON Albion's troops came through their fifth match in 10 days, shrugging off any possible tiredness to register their best away league victory since Fleetwood Town were beaten 6-1 back in October 1989. And the 5-1 away win at Lincoln means Albion are
IT'S hard to believe that council tax needs to increase by 4.9 per cent, or even at all. Over the last few years, thousands of expensive new homes have been built around Widnes, the increased revenue from which should have more than covered any necessary
I HAVE just checked back 12 years on council tax bills: 1993 £573.37; 1999 £603.39. An increase over six years of £30.02. Year 2000 (Unitarian council) £654.88; 2005 £997.67. An increase in five years of £342.79. Need I say more? Also, bus shelters all
IN reply to the letter 'Disgraceful policy' (Your views, March 23), I would like to assure D Cooke that I or anyone else in the Lib Dem party are not against special needs in any way at all. I myself as a Lib Dem councillor have been around special needs
