THEIR names don't mean anything until you know their stories. From 1914 to 1918 more than 1,000 men from Widnes were killed in the First World War - over 800 of these are commemorated at the town's cenotaph. Some of them were judged heroes. Sapper William
SHERBET dabs, penny mixes and cough sweets nestle beside eggs, steradent and firelighters. An old fashioned shop in Appleton Village reached the end of an era this week as newsagent Elsie Ratcliffe retired, after 35 years. "I'll miss the people," said
SUPER fit school kid Jono Roberts from Ss Peter and Paul's school has raised more than £200 for a breast cancer charity after biking to Spike Island from Penketh with his dad, Keith. The sporty 13-year-old thought of the idea himself after two family
A LOVING husband took an apparently accidental overdose of painkillers as he struggled with chronic back pain. Retired welder Simon Culley was found dead on the sofa the morning after a family barbecue in May. The 39-year-old had suffered with back pain
He said: "I'm pleased for everyone connected with the club and the way we went about getting the first win was pleasing. "To be honest we've been playing reasonably well for a few weeks now without getting the breaks we deserve. "The big difference was
SUCCULENT roast pork loin with white wine jus, apple sauce and crackling was served to 50 guests at Kelly and Matt's wedding. Leek and potato soup with rarebit crouton started the sumptuous meal. Chocolate tart with crme fraiche and orange syrup was dessert
A BBC programme Who Do You Think You Are? seems to be inspiring the nation to explore its roots. One man who has been searching for clues to his ancestry is retired English teacher Martin Bates. He is now calling on the people of Knutsford to help MAJOR
DRIVERS faced misery after roadworks began on the A530 King Street on Monday. Problems have been compounded because of the closure at Hayhurst Bridge in the centre of Northwich. King Street runs from Rudheath right the way through to Middlewich. Vern
I AM one of the 2,200 people at risk of losing my doctor as a result of the outrageous decision to close the surgery opposite the Hillcrest Hotel. Along with many of my friends and neighbours I attended a meeting at the Ford Social Club on Monday, October
I SEE from the blue police signs appealing for witnesses to an accident that the busway has claimed yet another life at one of its hazardous junctions. One way to make them safer would be to remove the 8ft high hedges from either side of the busway for
THE Upton Rocks surgery fiasco is a direct result of this greedy council allowing ever more houses to be built in the north of Widnes without ever providing the local amenities to go with them. The extra council tax that the council must be gaining from
TEACHING assistants are to lobby councillors at Cheshire County Council's full council meeting on Thursday next week - despite being offered an improved 'single status' package. They say the improved package does not mean more money for the assistants
IN response to letter from Kimba in the Netherlands last week. I have friends who follow the hunt and to my knowledge it is most unusual for the hounds to catch the fox, they track it down and shoot it. Foxes are vermin and need to be controlled. This
RUNCORN FC Halton have sacked manager Chris Lightfoot and assistant Eddie Bishop after a string of poor results. Despite winning their third home game on the trot last week, the 16th-placed Linnets have bowed out of both money-generating cup competions
CONCERNS have been raised about the closed circuit television cameras situated at the Wych Centre, on Civic Way. The issue was raised at Middlewich Town Council on Monday night when councillors discussed a recent break-in at the youth centre. Some time
A MAN who set fire to a pile of newspapers in a drunken 'prank' has been sentenced to 120 hours' community service. Daniel Michael Kearns, 22, of Byron Close, Middlewich, appeared in Chester Crown Court yesterday, Tuesday, after admitting arson. Prosecuting
REAL ale fans will have a reason to cheer this weekend as the second Middlewich Beer Festival takes place at the Royal British Legion. And preparations are brewing nicely, according to members of Middlewich and District Round Table, which has organised
COUNCILLORS are throwing their weight behind objections for a proposed second toll road alongside the M6 to ease traffic congestion. On Monday night, Middlewich Town Council supported a proposal put forward by Clr Simon McGrory, which highlighted a number
A MIDDLEWICH teenager walked free from court on Thursday when he was found not guilty of stabbing a man in the back. The jury at Knutsford Crown Court took less than two-and-a-half hours to find Russell James Barclay, of Moss Drive, not guilty of wounding
SIXTY years on from the Allied victories in Europe and Japan which brought the Second World War to its end, the Northwich, Winsford and Middlewich Guardians will be publishing a special souvenir book to mark the anniversary. Part of the book will feature
CHESHIRE County Council is looking for the region's MPs to support a campaign to improve Royal Mail deliveries. The deputy leader of the council, Clr David Rowlands, said he was not alone in thinking that erratic deliveries were annoying and having a
EDUCATION chiefs for mid Cheshire have welcomed the findings of a rigorous Government inspection into how well pupils aged from 14 to 19 are being taught. The comprehensive review found the majority of young people are well served by the colleges, schools
TEACHING assistants are to lobby councillors at Cheshire County Council's full council meeting on Thursday next week - despite being offered an improved 'single status' package. They say the improved package does not mean more money for the assistants
A COMPANY that specialises in automatic doors is expecting an increase in demand for its services following the Disability Discrimination Act. The act came into force on October 1 and means all businesses must provide suitable facilities for all customers
A MOTHER who has not worked for nine years has set up her own business in Winsford and is confident she will be able to make it a success. Jillian Boyd has opened Winsford Beds and Furnishing, on High Street, but she is disappointed that she did not receive
THE green light on the second Mersey crossing could be given early in the New Year, it was revealed this week. On a flying visit to Halton, Transport Minister Tony McNulty, said: "We're looking forward to making an announcement in the New Year. "The new
Moorfield U7s 16 Newton Storm U7s 20 FOR the second week in succession the Moorfield side put in a tremendous effort, despite coming away without a point. The game remained close throughout, Adam Quirke and Sam Brady made some excellent one off tackles
Widnes RUFC U14s 17 Waterloo U14s 5 WIDNES came from behind to overcome Waterloo in the second phase of the new Enterprise Finance Europe junior challenge. Despite conceding an early try by the visitors' powerful number eight, the home side gradually
Tarleton RUFC U8s 20 Widnes RUFC U8s 30 Tarleton RUFC U8s 20 Widnes RUFC U8s 35 WIDNES won two matches at Tarleton in fine style. Their success was built on strong defence with Cooke and Roskell leading the way. When in possession Cassidy and Jones always
Wids U9s 20 Tarleton U9s 0 Wids U9s 30 Tarleton U9s 0 THE Wids played two games against a previously undefeated Tarleton. In the first, the superior forward power of Smith, Underwood, Andrews and Humphries got the Wids on top. This gave the backs a chance
Winnington Park 10 Widnes Vets 12 A LAST minute try from Brian Gill gave the Wids the lead for the first time and victory. Defences were on top from the start but Winnington Park led 7-0 at half time after a sustained period of attack was rewarded with
RADIANT fairytale bride Kelly Hudson beamed with joy as guests caught their first glimpse of her stunning wedding dress. Arriving in a 1933 Vintage Rolls Royce, she waved and smiled as cameras flashed and onlookers cheered. "I feel fantastic!" she cried
Helsby 1 Mond Rangers 5 West Cheshire Division Two ERIKSON hit the post twice in the opening five minutes then the home keeper denied Ellams and Ingham as Mond threatened. Gary Lunt put Mond ahead in the eighth minute after a cross by Moore. Helsby came
Halton Farnworth Hornets U11s 54 New Spring Lions U11s 20 THE Hornets kept their 100 per cent record intact with a convincing win at Wilmere Lane scoring 10 tries without reply. Dean Ainsworth took the man of the match award for an excellent defensive
CARS can be lethal weapons, is the short, sharp message given to teenagers. Road safety event Mega Drive warned 300 Halton 15 and 16-year-olds of the dangers of driving. "Students will not only find out about the practical elements of driving, they will
LAST season's finalists and competition favourites Daten were dumped out by Beeches after a nine goal epic. Premier champions St Michael's scraped through 5-4 against first division Monks Sports. RJM grabbed the day's highest score, 9-0 at Lomax CC. Craig
THE Northwich Vision project is under way with the launch of its first initiative - the redevelopment of Northwich Railway Station. The dilapidated Victorian station will be transformed into a state-of-the-art community learning centre, offering people
SS Peter & Paul girls U16s football team beat Blacon 4-2 at home with goals from Lauren Johnson (2), Sophia Riccio and Liz Charnock. In the Cheshire Cup, the Y11s beat William Beaumont 3-0. There were a number of new faces in the team and they gelled
A NUISANCE Hallowe'en prank will be stopped if a leading Winsford supermarket has its way. Asda branches across the country will be refusing to sell eggs to children under 16 during the Hallowe'en period if a new policy is implemented, but Neil Eccles
Widnes RUFC 1st XV 18 Wilmslow RUFC 1st XV 24 THE Wids slumped to their third consecutive defeat and out of the Powergen Intermediate cup against highflying Wilmslow. The visitors are unbeaten and top of the league, which the Wids were promoted from last
HEARTLESS thieves have stolen six signs publicising a charity event, which is taking place in Gorstage to raise money for a hospice. Fundraisers at St Luke's Hospice in Winsford have appealed for those responsible for stealing the boards, worth £60, to
Widnes Schools U11s Town Team 12 Wigan Schools U11s Town Team 8 THIS was a solid, patient display from the Widnes boys without ever reaching the heights displayed in the recent festival. Both teams scored two tries, so the conversions of Matthew Fozard
A SPECIAL guest joined parents, pupils and staff of Verdin High School to celebrate the achievements of pupils over the past school year. Paul Crone, a television reporter from Granada Reports, was the guest speaker at the presentation evening, which
Runcorn 2 Altrincham 1 TWO goals from Nicky Young were enough to give Runcorn FC Halton their third consecutive home win in the league, writes Wendy Osborne. The first attack of the game fell to the visitors, but Colin Potts' 20-yard shot went just wide
DRIVERS faced misery after roadworks began on the A530 King Street on Monday. Problems have been compounded because of the closure at Hayhurst Bridge in the centre of Northwich. King Street runs from Rudheath right the way through to Middlewich. Vern
A WINSFORD man has escaped jail 'by the skin of his teeth' after he was caught drink driving just two months after he was disqualified for three years. James Cooper, 18, of Maidwell Close, was given a three year ban in April but was stopped by police
A STRETCH of road has been described as a 'disastrous area' by a coroner at an inquest into the death of a 30-year-old Winsford man. Jason Baker, of Bedford Rise, was killed on April 11 as he walked home along the A533 Davenham bypass after a night out
Mill Brow 2 Beechwood 3 IN a hard fought contest Beechwood won 3-2. The first half saw Beechwood denied by the Brow keeper to keep things level at the break. Mill Brow started the second half in determined fashion scoring within minutes and having a second
INCENSED telephonists at Halton Hospital blasted health chiefs for moving their jobs to Warrington. Transferring the switchboard in January, they fear, will hit patients. "We were completely shellshocked," said one angry telephonist. "We provide an excellent
EMERGENCY services were called to two separate car crashes that took place within an hour of each other on Sunday. The first accident occurred when a 21-year-old Middlewich man driving a Mitsubishi Galant along the A530 King Street was in collision with
THE FREE bus between Halton and Warrington hospitals is being axed as part of a £2m cost cutting exercise. The vital link for patients who do not have a car will cease on October 29. Finance director John Doyle, said: "It is not feasible or cost effective
FEARS about the effects of a rendering plant operating at an Antrobus farm have been raised by the headteacher of a neighbouring school. Residents in both Antrobus and Comberbach have campaigned against the plant at Senna Green Farm, which cooks up animal
GUNS and stetsons fired the imagination of teenagers to stage their own interpretation of a classic Shakespeare play. They transformed the Bard's 16th century tale of love and treachery in Twelfth Night into a 2004 dynamic drama. Wearing big hats and
THE family of a seriously ill nine-month-old baby are awaiting the outcome of a High Court hearing which will decide his fate. Doctors are asking for permission to stop treating Luke Winston-Jones, who has heart problems and suffers from a rare condition
A FRODSHAM man accused of starting a fight that led to another man being shot and paralysed has walked free from court. Alan George Edwards, 35, of St Hilda's Drive, denied violent disorder and affray and was acquitted after Judge Merfyn Hughes said prosecution
FORTHCOMING shows at the Carling Apollo, Manchester: Friday, October 22, Sarah McLachlan, 7.30pm, £25 (fully seated); Saturday, October 23, Scissor Sisters, 7.30pm, £16.50 (standing downstairs); Monday, October 25 & Tuesday, October 26, Franz Ferdinand
Although Rudheath Parish Council had no objections to the proposals, submitted by Watkin Jones and Son, four letters of objection were sent to the borough council stating access onto Middlewich Road was already problematic and dangerous and that adding
A MOTHER is being forced to sell her house after an allowance she receives for her disabled son was suddenly withdrawn. The Northwich woman, who does not wish to be identified, has received a Living Disability Allowance for the past 10 years. It gives
AN extension being built at Comberbach Methodist Church is on schedule to finish at the end of November. Between £40,000 and £50,000 was raised for the work, which will see two new rooms built over the existing Sunday School room. Most of the money was
MIKE Hall MP has backed new laws coming into force this week that mean youths misusing fireworks will face £80 on the spot fines as new police powers come into force. Mike urges local police forces to use these new powers in the run up to Guy Fawkes night
RESIDENTS in Arley are leading the fight to prevent a new power line being put up across the Cheshire countryside. Manweb is looking to put up the 132kV line from Lostock to Carrington, describing it as 'essential' to meet increased demand for electricity
TRIBUTES have been flooding in after the death of a much-loved councillor, former mayor and family man who will be sadly missed by the people of Winsford. The funeral of Clr Arnie Ford, who died on Wednesday, October 13, aged 73, was held at St John's
AN INQUEST has heard that a warning sign was facing the wrong way at a point on a road where a Winsford man died in a car crash. Matthew Whittle, 18, of Denton Close, died following an incident on the A533 Bostock Road on March 19. Chloe Kozyra, 16, of
MEMBERS, in the words of Paul Simon's song, had 'diamonds on the soles of their shoes' at their October meeting, or, as they learned, some 95 miles below their soles! Mining engineer turned jeweller, John Pass, took members on a journey through time and
Some 1,800 students at Sir John Deane's Sixth Form College and St Nicholas High School in Hartford have been offered the MMR vaccine as a precaution. The measure has been taken after five students at the college and two students at the school developed
WITH the increasing levels of climate change gases in the news it is important to look at how our waste is transported to its final destination. Recent discussion in your paper has been centred on where and how waste is to be processed. It is just as
AT the end of May this year I started to feel generally unwell. Then my lip and chin went numb. I was treated for a virus. I was then given the devastating news that I had leukaemia - Burkett's Lymphoma. Today is October 7 and I have been on Ward 27 at
DEAR concerned parent. Could you explain why you had to come out with such a heartless comment about why you thought it so wrong for Dean Hassell to have a collection by his school friends for a laptop so in time he would be able to carry on with his
THERE seems to be a belief that those of us opposed to hunting are opposed to the control of foxes. I understand fully the need to control an animal that would otherwise be a pest but what I will never understand is how people can justify turning it into
A SHOOTING victim left paralysed by a mystery gunman during a pub fight has described 'the most frightening experience in my life' to a court. Father-of-two, Paul Crook, from Castlefields, Runcorn, is unlikely to ever walk again after being shot in the
IT would appear that the people at our councils do not know the meaning of the word hypocritical. We are being constantly bombarded with propaganda for waste incineration as we cannot cope with the quantity of refuse being produced, yet planning permission
A SCIENTIST was injured in an explosion at a laboratory at Runcorn's Heath Business and Technical Park. Anxious residents raised the alarm after hearing a loud bang at 10am on Sunday morning. A man carrying out experiments at Hixia Customs Synthesis was
A DUTCH lorry driver who killed two Runcorn motorcyclists and injured a third when he drove on the wrong side of the road was jailed for six years at Chester Crown Court on Friday. Mario Westerman, 43, who admitted two charges of causing death by dangerous
THE meeting began with everyone pausing for a few moments to remember past member Kathleen Percival, who died recently at her home in South Wales. Final arrangements were made for the fashion show to be held at the Edinburgh Wool Shop, and the visit to
PUPILS taking part in Young Enterprise schemes across the north west are being shown the ropes by one of the region's biggest businesses, United Utilities. Around 60 United Utilities employees are helping pupils to maintain a tradition of support that
THE man at the centre of a collapsed trial into alleged child cruelty and deception at Warrington care homes has branded the investigation a 'farce'. Iain Stead, aged 44, of Ollershaw Lane, Marston, was one of the people behind the Winterley Project,
RESIDENTS were woken from their sleep as part of a mass evacuation in Wilderspool following an explosion this morning. People are being urged to stay away from the area as emergency services tackle a fire involving gas cylinders at a unit on Palatine
LOSTOCK councillor Stuart Russell is hoping to send a clear message to the Government with a 500-signature petition opposing the building of an incinerator in the area. Vale Royal Borough Clr Russell handed over the petition, which he collected over the
THE long-running debate about the junction at Birches Lane and the A556 is set to continue as Lostock Gralam Parish Council considers a new solution to the problems there. The gap at the junction is currently closed, preventing right turns into and out
A NEW gardeners' group has been launched in Weaverham following the success of the village's annual horticultural show. The Weaverham and District Gardeners' Group holds its first meeting at Wallerscote School on Tuesday, October 26. It is currently drawing
Here we introduce the players who will be representing England in the second European Nations Cup competition. They play their first game away to Russia on Sunday. SHAUN BRISCOE (Hull FC) Full back Has had a wonderful season after being a victim of Wigan
A TOP six finish for Widnes could be on the cards next season now Frank Endacott is at the helm, says Vikings chairman Tony Chambers. The Kiwi ended weeks of speculation by finally putting pen to paper on a two-year deal after saving them from relegation
THE redeveloped Ashton's and Neumann's Flashes site could open in spring, but a keen Northwich walker is concerned that it could stop people from enjoying the countryside. The 60-year-old, who has enjoyed walking in the area since he moved to Comberbach
LEFTWICH residents have been flocking to sign a petition against the removal of a much-loved paddling pool from a play area. Although people agree that the play area, on Old Hall Road, needs modernising and redeveloping after years of vandalism, more
MIDDLEWICH Town manager Terry Murphy wants his team to become the Arsenal of mid Cheshire. Town, by their own admission, have had an indifferent start to the season, losing twice in their opening 11 matches. And now Murphy wants his team to go on a long
TWO married couples helped Kelly and Matt's dream come true. Photographer Martin Leitch and his wife, Julie of The Snap Shop, Langdale Road, Runcorn captured the day in spectacular pictures, in a package worth £595. Maureen and David Kerry Lewis, of All
ECSTATIC bride Kelly Hudson fell in love with her wedding dress - minutes before she discovered she'd won our dream wedding competition. She spotted the beautiful gown at the bridal fair in Lawson House Hotel in February. "She'd seen in at the show and
EXCITED bride Kelly, her sister and bridesmaid, Helen and mum, Margaret were pampered in style - on the morning of the wedding. Yvonne Richards of Taylor Richards Hair & Beauty at Runcorn's Heath Business Park, sponsored a hair and beauty package
SOPHISTICATED Ivory Cala lilies and scented burgundy roses formed Kelly's graceful wedding bouquet. "Kelly didn't want anything fussy or frilly," said florist Barbara Monks, of Flower & Plant Works, Church Street, Runcorn, who sponsored a full flower
COURAGEOUS Kelly has fought a determined battle against illness ever since she was born, said her proud mum, Margaret. Yet she never complains or lets her Spina Bifida condition beat her. "Doctors told me after her first spinal operation, she'd never
A PLAY about life before death, two kids nearly getting 'married' under the oak tree on the edge of town at the age of six. But the child-groom's big brother, Tanner, stole the Hula Hoop ring and messed it all up. The nearly-weds are still trying to get
VISITORS of all ages from the youngest to the oldest enthusiasts will enjoy Beatrix Potter's Garden at Liverpool Museum from October 23 to January 9. The exhibition provides a unique insight into the life and works of this enchanting author, artist and
VISITORS of all ages from the youngest to the oldest enthusiasts will enjoy Beatrix Potter's Garden at Liverpool Museum from October 23 to January 9. The exhibition provides a unique insight into the life and works of this enchanting author, artist and
TATTON'S tremendous all-round display ensured they pulled off a remarkable upset against their undefeated opponents as two first-half strikes ensured they advanced safely through to the second round of the League Cup. Gareth Williams got Tatton off to
The club, who finished third last season, appealed against the result of a match between Ashley and Trafford which went past the official end time set down by the league. Ashley won the match and claimed the runners up spot in division three and the subsequent
Knutsford Sub Aqua Club is offering residents a chance to discover a world of weightlessness and freedom. The British Sub Aqua Club, acknowledged across the world for their thoroughness and safety, offer a full training programme through the club at Knutsford
ONLY a couple of weeks ago a visitor at The Heritage Centre asked to be directed to Trumpet Major Smith's grave in St John's churchyard. Perhaps the 150th anniversary of The Charge of the Light Brigade brought this old soldier to mind. There would have
WINSFORD United manager Dave Twite has blasted his players after their 4-3 league cup defeat at the hands of Blackpool Mechanics. Twite has questioned his players' commitment and ambition after a display he described as hugely disappointing. Speaking
HELSBY councillors are still deciding on the best way to change the colour of the two welcome signs that appeared in the village last month. They agreed in a September council meeting that the signs produced were not what they expected and it was very
AUDIENCE members will be waving their own flags and singing from the same hymm sheet when a musical extravaganza takes place. A Night at the Proms is being held at Frodsham Community Centre this Saturday, October 23, featuring Manchester-based Sweet Rhythm
A FRODSHAM bowling club has been doing its bit for charity. Castle Park Bowling Club has been running weekend bowling competitions every week since 2001 and they have proved to be very popular. By putting enjoyment above money and organising the competitions
TWO women have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Agnes Hanrahan. Denise Davies, aged 53 and of Houghton Street, and a 17-year-old, who cannot be named, both pleaded not guilty to murder and not guilty to a further charge of conspiracy to pervert the
VANDALS are risking being electrocuted according to members of the rugby club they have targeted. Thugs have ripped down heavy goal posts and scaled towering floodlights before smashing them at West Bank Bears, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage
A BODY found in a country lane close to Hale Village, Widnes, last Monday morning has been identified as Leon Colin Small from Liverpool. Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the 21-year-old's body was found in Oglet Lane, Speke, close
HEALTH chiefs have bowed to public pressure with a plan to keep Upton Rocks doctors surgery open. Locum doctors will provide cover until a permanent GP can be found. The practice will move to a new portakabin, probably on Heath Road. The changes were
FORTHCOMING shows at the Carling Apollo, Manchester: Friday, October 22, Sarah McLachlan, 7.30pm, £25 (fully seated); Saturday, October 23, Scissor Sisters, 7.30pm, £16.50 (standing downstairs); Monday, October 25 & Tuesday, October 26, Franz Ferdinand
SIXTY years on from the Allied victories in Europe and Japan which brought the Second World War to its end, the Northwich, Winsford and Middlewich Guardians will be publishing a special souvenir book to mark the anniversary. Part of the book will feature
CHESHIRE County Council is looking for the region's MPs to support a campaign to improve Royal Mail deliveries. The deputy leader of the council, Clr David Rowlands, said he was not alone in thinking that erratic deliveries were annoying and having a
I AM disgusted in reading about the possible closure of the switchboard within Halton's hospital and I am beginning to wonder if they are slowly closing down the hospital completely - but doing it on a stage by stage bias so that we, who live near the
BEAUTIFULLY refurbished, light, airy, spacious, disabled friendly, brilliant staff, great coffee bar. Where am I? Widnes library - get down there and join now. B Hancock, Belvoir Road, Widnes
EDUCATION chiefs for mid Cheshire have welcomed the findings of a rigorous Government inspection into how well pupils aged from 14 to 19 are being taught. The comprehensive review found the majority of young people are well served by the colleges, schools
AT last, other people are voicing the need for a cinema in Widnes. Pat Kinsley and myself have been trying to get this much-needed facility for years. In January 1999 we collected more than 4,000 signatures but all to no avail. There is talk about getting
AS a child I was taught that the local councillors were just like our parents, and were there to look after the interests of the most vulnerable members of society. When did this change? The latest example of their uncaring attitude is the extension to
IN reply to a concerned and afraid reader regarding travelling on the buses, she could not have seen a 110 Arriva going to Warrington at 6.45pm. The last Warrington bus comes through Widnes at 6pm and even then that bus returns from Warrington at 6.30pm
PARENTS of schoolchildren are being given the chance to brush up on their three Rs thanks to a new initiative from Cheshire County Council Family Learning. Two Northwich schools, Leftwich Community Primary School and Lostock Gralam CE School, as well
KATY Green never dreamed she would live any kind of normal life after suffering from a rare allergy to sunlight. She didn't go to school until she was 11 and lived life in a darkened room, away from windows and doors. Exposure to sunlight left her skin
DRAMATIC changes pencilled in for an artistically gifted college are set to further enhance its performance on the regional stage. A £1.5million state-of-the-art facility for art and design is planned for Mid-Cheshire College's Hartford campus, as the
A COMPANY that has secured a multi-million-pound contract with the Ministry of Defence is remaining tight lipped about how many jobs will be created in Middlewich. German truck maker MAN ERF, which has a base in Middlewich in ERF Way, has been chosen
MIDDLEWICH MP Anne Winterton has come under fire from a Labour opponent for not holding a constituency surgery for more than two decades. Now the Conservative member for Congleton is to be investigated by the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner Sir Philip
A MIDDLEWICH woman was not wearing a seatbelt when she was killed in a horrific car accident, an inquest has heard. Shirley Sheeran, 45, of Nantwich Road, died following the crash just minutes from her home on April 9. Mrs Sheeran was travelling along
DRIVERS faced misery after roadworks began on the A530 King Street on Monday. Problems have been compounded because of the closure at Hayhurst Bridge in the centre of Northwich. King Street runs from Rudheath right the way through to Middlewich. Vern
A MAN whose partner died when he lost control of his sports car on a bend has narrowly escaped being disqualified from driving. Shirley Sheeran, 45, of Nantwich Road, died when her partner, David Anthony Park, crashed his Lotus Elise through a fence on
A SPECIAL guest joined parents, pupils and staff of Verdin High School to celebrate the achievements of pupils over the past school year. Paul Crone, a television reporter from Granada Reports, was the guest speaker at the presentation evening, which
Find out who won what at the Winsford school's celebration of its pupils' achievements over the last academic year. Special Prizes - Head Girl: Rebecca Hitchin. Head Boy: David Ellison-Smith. Sports Captains: Elizabeth and Scott Bennett. Sporting Excellence
SURPRISED tenants opened their front door to find housing chief Diana Terris on their doorstep. She was pounding the streets of Ditton to talk about Halton Council's proposed transfer of homes to Halton Housing Trust. "The council firmly believes that
Haydock U9s 20 Widnes Moorfield U9s 0 MOORFIELD were well beaten by the best side they have played this season. Although they tackled fairly gamely, the home side punished Moorfield for any tackles they did miss, allowing them to build a comfortable 12
Blackpool Scorpions U12s 6 Widnes Moorfield U12s 0 THE transfer of two of Moorfield's top players to St Maries followed by the resignation of the coach upset the rhythm on the pitch and Moorfield failed to register a point against the newcomers from Blackpool
Widnes RUFC u10s 10 Tarleton RUFC u10s 10 THIS was a tough encounter for the Heath Road youngsters with top tackling needed from wingers Simm and Fonterigo to prevent Tarleton scoring in the first half. Good maul work from centre Duggan allowed standoff
THE Wids U7s visited Tarleton with a strong squad of 14 players. In the first match they were narrowly beaten 35-30 while the second and third games were both drawn 25 points apiece. Despite strong attacking play the visitors were unlucky the final results
FALCONS still top group one with two wins, 1-0 against Crows and 4-0 against Vultures. Top player this week was Adam Edgar who scored seven goals for Robins in their two wins, 4-1 against Gulls and 4-0 against Magpies. New team Vultures lost to Falcons
Halton Hornets U8s 40 West Houghton Lions U8s 40 IN a pulsating match both teams ran in 10 tries. Early exchanges saw good yardage from Andrew Mason, Rhys Fletcher and Tom Johnson. The Hornets took an early lead through Nathan Lyon, only to be pinned
Ince Rose Bridge U11s 26 West Bank Bears U11s 24 THE Bears went behind in the first five minutes but they responded with a good try by Jordan Campbell, converted by Ellis Soens. Ince scored two tries from two yards out but tries came from Thomas Maher
Blackbrook U13s 6 Halton Farnworth Hornets U13s 28 THIS was a superb team performance especially as an injury to Jordan Barr prior to the game resulted in a re-shuffle. Hornets drew first blood when Andrew Stevens Davies, who continually caused havoc
Runcorn FC Halton Youths 4 Masonic 4 (Masonic winning 4-3 on penalties) STARTING their first game under the new management team of Gerry Cunningham and Paul Cummins, Runcorn FC Halton almost pulled off an unlikely win against their over age rivals. Down
A CRIME audit has identified Witton in Northwich and Wharton and Over in Winsford as the crime hotspots of Vale Royal. But the conclusion of the survey is that the region is getting safer, although violent crime and shoplifting remain areas for concern
Ruskin Park 41 Halton RUFC 22 HALTON travelled to Ruskin Park from the league above and lost 41-22. Against the run of play Ruskin were given a penalty. This was followed by good work from Halton's forwards to put them in a good position for McIntosh
Croft 1 Cronton Villa 5 CRONTON started slowly in the Guardian Cup second round tie at Croft. Paul Tillett opened the scoring after a clever Gaz Jones step-over. Goals from Jeff Bell and Steve Quirk gave Cronton a 3-0 half-time lead. A fourth early in
THE POLICE are lobbying Halton's MPs for more money to stop frontline services being cut. Derek Twigg and Mike Hall will be asked to try and squeeze more money from the Home Office. Cheshire Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: "The last thing we want is
A SPATE of vandalism at Knights Grange Sports Complex has left members of the cricket club angry and frustrated. The latest incident happened between 4pm on October 13 and 7.30am the following day when vandals ripped out fencing and used it as a ramming
Lane Ends 0 Moore Rangers 1 MOORE Rangers returned to winning ways with victory over league leaders Lane Ends in the Warrington youth league. The only goal came from a free kick in the 56th minute by Cumpper, finished off by Baines. A well-disciplined
SIXTY years on from the Allied victories in Europe and Japan which brought the Second World War to its end, the Northwich, Winsford and Middlewich Guardians will be publishing a special souvenir book to mark the anniversary. Part of the book will feature
Widnes Moorfield U8s 32 West Bank Bears U8s 16 MOORFIELD worked hard in the first half to set themselves up for a strong second half. Konnagh Hill, Jack Connor, Lewis Whitfield, Ross Simpson, Edward Connor (2), Elliott Dennett and Mike Smith all crossed
IBO CHAMPION Robin Reid is set to go head-to-head with American IBF king Jeff Lacy next year in a battle to become the number one super-middleweight. The Runcorn Reaperman and his coach Brian Hughes met with promoter Jess Harding last week to mastermind
A SPECTACULAR fireworks display is planned this year and organisers hope to make it a real community event. Pupils from several schools are getting involved in a guy competition and businesses in the town are showing their support through sponsorship,
St Cuthbert's 28 Widnes Albion 28 WIDNES Albion finally got their season up and running with a draw at Wigan St Cuthbert's. They took an early lead with a try direct from a scrum by Danny Houghton, who also added the extras, then a try by new signing
MAYOR Cllr Pay Tyrrell's police bail has been extended after Cheshire police arrested him in an investigation into alleged voter fraud. Cllr Tyrrell's bail was extended into November on Monday night. No charges have been brought against the 73-year-old
DEVASTATED neighbours have described the death of a popular Winsford pensioner as an 'horrific shock'. Norman Clark, 74, was killed and his wife Mary, 71, was injured when their car collided with an HGV outside Leighton Hospital on Thursday, October 7
EDUCATION officers are investigating the possibility of relocating Tarporley Primary School to the vacant Brook Farm site, which housed a residential home. Plans have now reached the point where the council wants to employ consultants to look at both
CHESHIRE County Council is looking for the region's MPs to support a campaign to improve Royal Mail deliveries. The deputy leader of the council, Clr David Rowlands, said he was not alone in thinking that erratic deliveries were annoying and having a
VICTORIA Park in Widnes will remain open for longer for the second year running thanks to funding from Halton Council and the Halton Strategic Partnership. This additional funding will secure lighting for the park and means that the skate park, multi-use
A ROBBER armed with a claw hammer grabbed a woman by the neck and shouted "give me the money or I will kill you" in raid on a betting shop. The man attacked Stanley Racing by the Cricketers Arms pub on Lowerhouse Lane in Widnes at 5.25pm last Wednesday
A RUDHEATH woman says she has been physically and verbally abused by people, who are parking across her driveway before collecting their children from school. Hazel Stephens had to climb over a neighbour's fence to get out of her house in East Avenue.
A MAN was robbed in Northwich by a conman who held an object to his throat and stole a quantity of cash from him after luring him out of the town centre. The robber had gone into two premises in High Street on Tuesday, October 12, between 1pm and 1.30pm
A £15,000 pay out is being handed to council chiefs to stop them quitting their £70,000 jobs, councillors unanimously decided, behind closed doors. Independent consultants have discovered that the borough's five executive directors are underpaid by £15,000
CHESHIRE Police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) have hit back after the man at the centre of an investigation into child cruelty and deception branded it 'a farce'. Iain Stead, 44, and his wife Jean, 43, of Ollershaw Lane, Marston, appeared at
A WINSFORD teenager has been disqualified from driving after two of his friends died when he lost control of his car on a bend. David James Atkinson, 19, of Woodford Lane, admitted driving without due care and attention at Northwich Magistrates' Court
THE family of a Northwich teenager who died in a car accident said they were 'disappointed' about the punishment given to the driver of the car. Mark Fryers, 22, of Castle Court, Northwich, was disqualified from driving for 12 months and given a £200
EDUCATION chiefs for mid Cheshire have welcomed the findings of a rigorous Government inspection into how well pupils aged from 14 to 19 are being taught. The comprehensive review found the majority of young people are well served by the colleges, schools
TEACHING assistants are to lobby councillors at Cheshire County Council's full council meeting on Thursday next week - despite being offered an improved 'single status' package. They say the improved package does not mean more money for the assistants
SHOPKEEPERS on a Winsford estate say they will be forced out of business if yobs continue to terrorise them and make their lives a misery. Surekha and Donny Nayee have run Geeta Supermarket, the only shop on the Greenfield estate, for five years but -
THOUSANDS of children from across the world are perfecting their football skills in Knutsford. Youngsters from India, Korea and Japan have all signed up for the Bobby Charlton Soccer School. "They are seeing a lot of the Premiership and want to come to
A FORMER borough councillor has been put on the sex offenders' list for five years after admitting having indecent images of children on his computer. But Michael Fellows, of Lostock Green, will not have to make a court appearance after receiving a caution
THE speaker at the October meeting was Margaret Clephan, whose talk was entitled Staying Young While Growing Old - not as you might imagine something to do with beauty treatments or plastic surgery, but just keeping young at heart. Margaret based her
VICE president Diana Jones welcomed members and one new member to the October meeting. After singing Jerusalem the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Guest speaker was Lyn Blackburn, a farmer's wife who gave a lively and humorous
THE meeting began with everyone pausing for a few moments to remember past member Kathleen Percival, who died recently at her home in South Wales. Final arrangements were made for the fashion show to be held at the Edinburgh Wool Shop, and the visit to
IN recent weeks, the debate around Vale Royal Borough Council's kerbside recycling scheme seems to have gone quiet. Like everybody else, I think my view is we are just stuck with it as it is - our voice will not be heard. This scheme was put into operation
PLAYTIME is full of fun at a Runcorn school, thanks to chemical giant Ineos Fluor. The company donated £500 to buy new playground equipment for 199 pupils at The Brow. Headteacher Mr White, said: "We were really pleased. We bought a fantastic wooden model
TWO would-be robbers assaulted a man after he got out of a taxi in Festival Way, Runcorn. The 28-year-old victim was beckoned over by two men who demanded money and jewellery from him, some time between 11.45pm and 12.30am on Saturday night. One of them
RUNCORN FC Halton have sacked manager Chris Lightfoot and assistant Eddie Bishop after a string of poor results. Despite winning their third home game on the trot last week, the 16th-placed Linnets have bowed out of both money-generating cup competions
VICE president Diana Jones welcomed members and one new member to the October meeting. After singing Jerusalem the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Guest speaker was Lyn Blackburn, a farmer's wife who gave a lively and humorous
TRADERS were bracing themselves for disruption this week as excavation work began at the Royal George. Developer Philip Hughes said lorries would soon remove piles of rubble prior to pile-driving work scheduled for the first week in November. "There will
TATTON'S MP has vowed to help Dave Edwards' family secure an apology from his former bosses. George Osborne said the company owed it to Dave's widow Jan who believes her husband was murdered 10 years ago by the Russian mafia while working for then British
A WOMAN was killed at the weekend at a notorious accident blackspot. Firemen took almost an hour to cut the 49-year-old's body from the wreckage after two cars crashed on the A556 near Tabley Parish Church. The other driver escaped virtually unscathed
A DRIVER last week told how his teenage passengers remained silent when he called to them after a car crash. David Atkinson, who was slumped over the steering wheel, said he listened for signs of life but got no response. "I shouted to see if everyone
A LYMM woman who has dedicated the past 33 years to working with children received a special invitation from the Prime Minister to celebrate childcare services. Early years teacher 55-year-old Margaret King, was invited to 10 Downing Street for a special
RESIDENTS who use Bank Park are being asked to join a new group in a bid to improve its dilapidated appearance. Former Great Sankey councillor Jan Davidson has met with Clr Jeff Richards to discuss what could be done to improve the park. It was decided
HEAVY congestion is expected to last all day in the Wilderspool area following an explosion at the Palantine Industrial Estate. As a result of the ongoing incident in the area of Wilderspool Causeway, the Causeway between Brian Bevan Island and Gainsborough
HARTFORD'S Parish Plan is well on target for publication and councillors are delighted with the progress its steering committee has made. The final document will be the result of months of hard work that has been spearheaded by Hartford parish councillors
REFUSE collection may still be causing a headache for Hartford residents, but it appears the load will be lightened during the festive season. Hartford Parish Council has been told there will be no change to the frequency of rubbish collections in the
Cuddington 2 HOLMES CHAPEL FC 1 MID-CHESHIRE Sunday League Division Two leaders Holmes Chapel were involved in district cup action on Sunday as they travelled to First Division outfit Cuddington. The game started with a goal almost immediately from the
The Knutsford Guardian has secured some fantastic prizes to give away to celebrate the release of Robbie Williams' greatest hits CD. One lucky reader will win a copy of his Greatest Hits album and merchandise worth almost £200. The first prize includes
A TOP six finish for Widnes could be on the cards next season now Frank Endacott is at the helm, says Vikings chairman Tony Chambers. The Kiwi ended weeks of speculation by finally putting pen to paper on a two-year deal after saving them from relegation
A PLAY about life before death, two kids nearly getting 'married' under the oak tree on the edge of town at the age of six. But the child-groom's big brother, Tanner, stole the Hula Hoop ring and messed it all up. The nearly-weds are still trying to get
