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2009
NEWS ARCHIVE |
| What
happened in and around Hoole & Walmer Bridge in 2009 |
9th December 2009
WINTER FUEL BONUS SCAM
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards
Please be aware that there have been complaints from older residents about a caller who telephones to inform them that they are entitled to an extra amount on their Winter Fuel Payment or an extra Christmas Bonus.
The caller then asks for personal details such as date of birth claiming that they need to confirm they are talking to the right person. They then ask for bank account details.
These calls are not genuine and no official service would contact a customer and ask for bank details in this way.
Please refer any complaints and further information to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 56-58 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506. |
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3rd December 2009
COUNCIL TAX REBATE SCAM
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards
Lancashire residents are warned that they may receive a telephone call from someone claiming to be from The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) or The Local Council. Consumers are informed that they have been identified as being eligible for a rebate on their council tax and are asked for credit card or bank details so that an "admin fee" can be taken to process the refund or so the refund can be put into their account.These calls are bogus and residents should not provide any details to the caller.
Trading Standards have had reports of these calls being received in West Lancashire but believe residents throughout the county may be at risk. A spokesmen for VOA has confirmed that they would never ask for financial details. |
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26th November 2009
VANDAL ATTACK - ChURCH WINDOW APPEAL
Source: Hubmaker Media
St Michael's Church Hoole Window Protection Appeal - Target 10000
A recent attack by missile throwing vandals damaged 37 panes of glass in fourteen of the windows in St Michael's Church.
The repair of the stained glass windows will cost in the region of £5,000. This fortunately is covered by insurance.
To prevent a recurrence of this unfortunate incident, protection of all the windows with clear poly-carbonate (Plastic) sheets will cost a further £10,000 which is not covered by insurance.
If you feel that you wish to make a monetary contribution toward this expense please send a cheque made payable to the Friends of St. Michael's Church C/o Mr. Clive Elphick, Carr House, Carr House Lane, Bretherton, PR26 9AR.
If you enclose your details you will receive a personalised certificate to recognise your generosity.
View the St Michael's Church Guide |
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www.buy.at/StMichaelsChurchHoole
Christmas is coming and everyone is thinking of buying presents for friends and family. If you buy online then please consider using our brand new online shopping link which could earn the church up to 12.5 % on every order placed. This money will go directly to the “Friends of St. Michael’s” to support the church.
There is no catch – basically it is an online marketing tool for companies like the ones below, and they give a contribution to organizations helping to create sales for them through online links.
Once you have entered the site via St. Michael’s website, then you are into exactly the same website as you would have been from typing into M & S or any other company through Google and you continue to make your purchases as normal.
It does not cost you a penny and it helps the church.
So if you order your books from Amazon or Waterstones, buy clothes from M & S or Next, or maybe chocolates from Thorntons, then please use the church link and help us to raise additional funds.
Remember, it doesn’t cost you any more, security is not compromised in any way, and it helps the church.
These are but a few of the companies involved:-
NEXT, MARKS AND SPENCERS, THORNTONS, ASDA, EBAY, AMAZON, EXPEDIA, WATERSTONES, BT TOTAL BROADBAND AND MANY MORE.
REMEMBER
www.buy.at/StMichaelsChurchHoole. |
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30th September 2009
GANG 'RESTRAIN' BRETHERTON WOMAN
Source: Lancashire Evening Post
A gang of men burst into a Lancashire home and stole £300 in a terrifying night-time robbery. Detectives are appealing for information after a woman at the home, at Plocks Farm, Liverpool Road, Bretherton was "restrained" by the raiders as they stole the cash.
Click Here for the full Lancashire Evening Post |
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4th August 2009
LOCAL BUSINESS NETWORKING MEETINGS LAUNCHED
Source: Hubmaker Media
Weekly networking events have been launched for local business people to meet up and share opportunities.
BNI, a worldwide referral organisation, is hoping to attract enough members to make the weekly forum at Tarleton an ongoing concern.
The meetings are being held every Tuesday morning, 7:00am - 8:30am at Dunscar Garden Centre, Tarleton.
Interested parties should contact Ed Mawdsley on 07720 099517 or email edmawdsley(at)boodirect.com
More Local Events | BNI Lancashire |
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15th July 2009
SWINE FLU UPDATE - THS AUTHORISED ABSCENCE
Source: Tarleton High School
Dear Parents,
Following indications that a small number of pupils and staff were displaying swine flu-like symptoms yesterday, we liaised with the North West Health Protection Agency. We were asked to send you a letter from Dr John Astbury, who is the Consultant in Health Protection. As you will see in that letter, the advice from the Health Protection Agency is that the school should not be closed because such action would fail to reduce the spread of the virus within the community or to pupils and staff.
A number of parents have contacted the school to inform us that they would prefer not to send their children to school during the current time. Clearly, such a decision is only for parents to make, however, if you should take that decision then we will authorise the absence. I would be grateful if you could inform us when you take the decision to keep your child at home so that we can amend our attendance records.
Our ability to keep Tarleton High open is pre-dominantly dependent upon the effects of the virus upon the staff. As of today, four members of staff have reported illnesses which suggest swine flu-like symptoms though only two have been definitely diagnosed as having the virus. We are monitoring closely the effects of the virus on both the pupils and staff. If we reach a critical point at which we have insufficient staff to safeguard the children’s welfare then I may have to close the school either partially or in full. If that occurs then I will inform you immediately of the consequences of that decision.
May I remind you of the advice from the Health Protection Agency that, providing they are well, pupils should continue to attend the school as normal. If, however, pupils show fever or flu-like symptoms they should stay at home and you should contact NHS Direct on 08454647 or their GP by phone for advice.
Thank you for your help in this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Anthony D Hardiker
Headteacher |
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13th July 2009
HIGH SCHOOL CONFIRM SWINE FLU
Source: Hubmaker Media
Tarleton High School have today confirmed that a member of staff has been clinically diagnosed as suffering from swine flu.
The Health Protection Agency has concluded that as swine flu is now present and spreading locally it recommends that the school should not be closed as this would fail to reduce the spread within the community.
Children who are suffering flu-like illness should stay off school for a minimum of seven days from the beginning of their flu symptoms and not be sent back to school until they are fully well.
Health Protection Agency - Swine Influenza (influenza A H1N1v) |
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4th July 2009
HIGH SCHOOL MEMORABILIA SOUGHT
Source: Tarleton High School
We are a small group of staff and pupils at Tarleton High School who would like to find out about its history. Do you have any photos or memorabilia (old exercise books or items of uniform maybe?) from days gone by at the school? What was the uniform like? What subjects did you study? What buildings were there? What rules do you remember? What happened when rules were broken? What were lessons like? What were the highlights?
We are especially interested in the first decade of the school, when it opened at Tarleton County Secondary School in the 1960’s. Were you among the first pupils? We are also interested in memories from the 1970’s and 1980’s.
If you can help in any way, possibly even be willing to visit the school and talk to pupils sometime, then please get in touch.
Any photos can be sent to Ms Lund, Tarleton High School, Hesketh Lane, Tarleton, PR4 6AQ. We can be e-mailed on d.lund@tarletonhigh.lancs.sch.uk or telephoned on 01772 812644. We hope to begin our project on Tuesday 14th July. |
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16th May 2009
LANCASHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS EXPENSES
Source: Hubmaker Media
Members' Allowance Scheme 2008/09 - payments |
Member Name |
Basic Allowance |
Special Allowance |
Travel & Subsistence |
N ABRAM |
10,039.00 |
2,420.39 |
0.00 |
N AHMED |
10,039.00 |
1,398.90 |
209.58 |
T ALDRIDGE |
10,039.00 |
3,544.00 |
1,865.26 |
T ASHTON |
10,039.00 |
3,615.61 |
3,612.00 |
A ATKINSON |
10,039.00 |
17,418.00 |
6,444.93 |
M R BARRON |
10,039.00 |
428.25 |
862.26 |
J BATTLE |
10,039.00 |
2,321.66 |
1,102.05 |
A BROWN |
10,039.00 |
16,205.00 |
1,641.28 |
T E BURNS |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
T W BURNS |
10,039.00 |
13,930.00 |
2,523.04 |
M C CALVERT |
10,039.00 |
3,994.18 |
4,325.86 |
M P CASE |
10,039.00 |
8,473.24 |
2,112.24 |
J CAVANAGH |
10,039.00 |
15,452.00 |
9,722.76 |
S CHARLES |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,077.38 |
C W CHEETHAM |
10,039.00 |
2,636.20 |
2,242.10 |
C COATES |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
6.40 |
W J CROPPER |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,542.35 |
G DAVIES |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
F DEMOLFETTA |
10,039.00 |
2,910.70 |
161.97 |
S DERWENT |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,400.15 |
G DRIVER |
10,039.00 |
17,374.95 |
0.00 |
W B DWYER |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
2,171.38 |
J EATON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
K R ELLARD |
10,039.00 |
8,269.00 |
0.00 |
P R ELLIOTT |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
S FISHWICK |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,177.82 |
E FORSHAW |
10,039.00 |
3,544.00 |
1,747.04 |
H W GORE |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
C GRUNSHAW |
10,039.00 |
2,673.45 |
1,617.20 |
J HANSON |
10,039.00 |
12,334.22 |
2,662.40 |
H HARDING |
10,039.00 |
30,119.00 |
8,404.87 |
F HEYWORTH |
10,039.00 |
7,176.11 |
234.05 |
C J HOLTOM |
10,039.00 |
4,864.00 |
2,872.88 |
A W JEALOUS |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
M JOHNSTONE |
10,039.00 |
14,309.14 |
13,575.55 |
A P JONES |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,622.29 |
S J LARGE |
10,039.00 |
4,485.60 |
5,899.44 |
R J LAWRENSON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
437.71 |
M E LIVESEY |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
420.08 |
A MARTIN |
10,039.00 |
16,205.00 |
11,800.51 |
M MARTIN |
10,039.00 |
7,527.00 |
388.55 |
P MARTIN |
10,039.00 |
6,904.85 |
4,969.00 |
J D MEIN |
10,039.00 |
14,254.70 |
3,717.31 |
R MUTCH |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,197.85 |
D M O'TOOLE |
10,039.00 |
5,790.00 |
4,561.34 |
E A OADES |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
576.45 |
L T ORMROD |
10,039.00 |
7,527.00 |
5,718.79 |
M PARKINSON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
3,522.01 |
V A PATEL |
10,039.00 |
13,930.00 |
5,055.74 |
Y PATEL |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
R A PENDLETON |
10,039.00 |
9,469.95 |
4,411.14 |
N D PENNEY |
10,039.00 |
8,269.00 |
5,560.95 |
M PERKS |
10,039.00 |
3,459.85 |
205.10 |
A E PIMBLETT |
10,039.00 |
6,228.85 |
636.71 |
D POLLITT |
10,039.00 |
21,084.00 |
2,150.97 |
K V RILEY |
10,039.00 |
3,544.00 |
4,406.06 |
S ROBINSON |
10,039.00 |
2,768.00 |
809.79 |
G W ROPER |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
557.04 |
D RUDDICK |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
642.55 |
E SCOTT |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
S J SERRIDGE |
10,039.00 |
8,565.00 |
6,988.99 |
T E SHARRATT |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
48.78 |
J S SHEDWICK |
10,039.00 |
4,487.57 |
1,128.13 |
R H SHEPHERD |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,077.66 |
S A SHORROCK |
10,039.00 |
1,817.57 |
2,175.22 |
J STUART |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
995.83 |
J S SUTCLIFFE |
10,039.00 |
4,633.00 |
1,813.39 |
A THORNTON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,649.33 |
M TOMLINSON |
10,039.00 |
15,488.93 |
3,176.71 |
C WALTON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,055.15 |
M J WELSH |
10,039.00 |
1,981.32 |
285.71 |
D WESTELL |
10,039.00 |
5,310.00 |
2,457.22 |
D M WHIPP |
10,039.00 |
12,108.00 |
0.00 |
A WHITTAKER |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
4,627.13 |
B J WHITTLE |
10,039.00 |
770.75 |
893.29 |
G A WILKINS |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
260.98 |
R A WILKINSON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
1,057.96 |
F J WILLIAMS |
10,039.00 |
5,310.00 |
580.03 |
M WILSON |
10,039.00 |
747.86 |
3,366.49 |
P WILSON |
10,039.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
V M WILSON |
10,039.00 |
5,622.00 |
3,005.88 |
D YATES |
10,039.00 |
8,896.00 |
7,438.45 |
J E YATES |
10,039.00 |
15,550.00 |
10,125.66 |
K A YOUNG |
10,039.00 |
4,091.71 |
1,097.56 |
|
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29th April 2009
WALMER BRIDGE CANNABIS FARM
Source: Lancashire Evening Post
Cannabis growers got busted by their own smoke alarm after plugs powering lights overheated.
Neighbours on Liverpool Old Road in Walmer Bridge called the fire brigade after hearing the alarm going off in the empty house at around 10pm on Monday. When firefighters arrived they found plugs for powerful ultra-violet lights used to boost the plants growth had been "overloaded".
Police, who found two bedrooms filled with plants, have now launched an investigation and are hunting the growers, who were not in the house at the time.
Click Here for the full Lancashire Evening Post report. |
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30th March 2009
DOORSTEP CRIME UPDATE - CCTV INSTALLATIONS
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards
Residents are asked to be wary about a CCTV installer currently operating in the Preston area and believed to be targeting sheltered accommodation.
Three men have been knocking on doors with a view to selling and installing a CCTV camera which they claim will allow residents to view who is at the door via a link to their TV set. They all wear ID badges on yellow neck-straps, leading residents to believe the men were from the Council.
Elderly residents are told lots of people are having the installations in their area, and are pressurised into having the work done even if they say they are not interested. A camera is then installed in the porch and a wire is sent through the UPVC doorframe, along the carpet, into the lounge and then connected to the TV.
The charge is £300 cash and only basic, handwritten receipts are issued.
Before leaving one resident's house they said they would be back the following day to finish off, but they did not return. The system does not appear to be working at the moment and the workmanship is of an extremely poor standard. No Cancellation Notice was issued to the resident- a criminal offence.
Descriptions of the men are as follows
- The “Electrician” – 40’s , 5 ft 8,slim build, short dark hair, fawn coloured jacket
- The “boss” – 40’s ,shorter, medium build , leather jacket (shaded brown) , dark hair
- 3rd man – taller 5ft 9 – 6ft , thick set, fair skin, fair hair, navy blue suit, brief case
We advise residents never to deal with cold-callers, to ensure you obtain full name, address and landline details from all workmen, and to double-check identification and references from other customers- do not assume credentials are genuine. Also ensure any price you are quoted is fair and genuine by obtaining estimates from other traders, and by ensuring the work agreed and the price to be charged is written down on a quotation before you agree to the work starting.
Consumers agreeing to deal with traders where the contract is agreed at the consumer’s home should be aware that they will have a seven-day cooling off period to cancel any work agreed to, or any purchases made over £35, although in certain circumstances the customer may have to pay for any goods installed or work carried out so far. Also be aware that the contract will not be enforceable against the customer unless information about your right to cancel is given in writing.
Please refer any complaints and further information to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 56-58 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506. If there is any threat or fear of burglary contact the police at once. |
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27th March 2009
POST OFFICE RAID SUSPECT CAPTURED
Source: Lytham St Annes Express
A man from Merseyside accused of raiding a security van in Walmer Bridge has been snared in Spain after spending three years on the run.
Ian Jones, 24, from Clubmoor, Liverpool was arrested after the raid at Walmer Bridge Post Office in Preston on February 17th, 2006. Several robbers were involved, threatening staff before getting away with around £1,500. Police searched the area and arrested Ashley Cowell and Wayne McNicholl, both from Merseyside. They were later sentenced to seven years and five years imprisonment, respectively, for their part in the robbery. Jones was also arrested in Preston the same day. He was bailed but failed to turn up to report to police and then fled the country.
Earlier this month he was arrested in Spain under a European arrest warrant and returned from Madrid to Lancashire. He has now been charged with robbery, failing to surrender and the aggravated taking of two vehicles used in the raid. Jones was remanded into custody by Chorley Magistrates` Court and will appear at Preston Crown Court on June 15.
Click Here for more from the Lytham St Annes Express |
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19th March 2009
APPEAL FOR 'PINK TIE & TIARA' SPONSORS
Source: Hubmaker Media
Tarleton Young Farmers are desperately seeking Table Sponsors, Raffle Prizes and donations for the auction for the annual "Pink Tie and Tiara" Dinner Dance.
The Dinner Dance will be held at Waterfront Suite in the new conference centre attached to Southport Theatre with this years chosen charity being Derian House Children's Hospice.
The dinner dance held last year raised almost £3500 for Tarleton Young Farmers which included a £800 donation to the North West Air Ambulance. The Young Farmers organisation is solely financed through the clubs fundraising activities such as fetes, shows and social events.
Organiser, Amy Foster said "Business’s that sponsored us last year, said it was great advertisement and thought it was well worth it. We would really appreciate both previous and new business’s to get involved and help us to reach our target this year.
If you can help with any sponsorship, prizes or donations or require any further information please contact Amy on 07872 998892 |
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17th March 2009
AWARD FOR TARLETON HIGH SCHOOL PROGRESS
Source: Hubmaker Media
Tarleton High School, a Community Technology College, received a prestigious award last week in London. The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust held a celebration dinner to recognise schools that have achieved high performance in their 2008 GCSE results. The Specialist Schools and Academy Trust recognised Tarleton High School as one of the top 21 schools which had made most progress between 2007 and 2008. The pupils at the school had achieved 70% five or more A*-C including English and Mathematics representing an increase of 18% over twelve months
The dinner was held at The Royal College of Physicians on Tuesday 10th March and the guest speaker was Dylan Wiliam, Deputy Director at the Institute of Education, University of London.
Elizabeth Reid, Chief Executive of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, said:
“High performing schools are playing a major role to ensure that every young person receives an education fit for the challenges of the 21st century. I congratulate these schools, their teachers and students for this significant achievement and the contribution they make to their local communities. By partnering with other schools and sharing best practice through the SSAT’s networks, they are also helping to deliver improvements across the country.”
Anthony Hardiker, Headteacher, said: “This award recognises the consistent hard work by the staff and young people who deserve this accolade. We believe that helping young people to achieve this benchmark enables them to safeguard their future in an increasingly challenging world. I would like to thank the young people, their parents, staff and governors for their immense contribution in making the school so special.
I was very proud to represent our school and it was a great privilege to receive the award on behalf of everyone at Tarleton” |
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18th February 2009
Great British Fish and Chip Supper – Friday 15th May
Source: Press Release
Want to do something different? Want to raise money where you live or work? Want to eat Fish and Chips, while raising money for charity? Hold a fish and chip supper on Friday 15th May 2009 whilst raising awareness of spinal cord injury and supporting SIA’s information and support services.
You can hold a fish and chip supper in your own home, at work or hold a larger supper at your local community centre.
SIA will provide a fundraising pack containing hints and tips, recipes, invitations and donation envelopes. By inviting 7 friends and asking them to donate an additional £5.00 means you will raise at least £35.00 from your supper but we will also give you additional fundraising ideas to raise even more money for SIA.
In 2009 SIA will celebrate its 35th Anniversary and being that Friday 15th May 2009 is Spinal Cord Injury awareness day and what a better way to raise funds than eating Fish and Chips and raising money for SIA.
The money raised from the suppers will help the Spinal Injuries Association offer support to individuals who become paralysed and their families, from the moment a spinal injury occurs, and for the rest of their lives by providing services and publications which enable and encourage paralysed people to lead independent lives.
Every year in the UK over 1,000 people experience a spinal cord injury and there are an estimated 40,000 spinal cord injured people in the UK alone.
Donor Development Officer, Elizabeth Wright, says, “The Fish and Chip Supper is a wonderful opportunity for a great evening with friends and family. We are also encouraging people who work to hold a Fish and Chip Lunch in their work places to raise even more funds. You may be even a local community group wanting to run a fun evening with your group.
2009 is the first year that SIA are running the suppers but we already envisage this to be one of our top fundraising initiatives in the SIA calendar over the coming years. Be a part of something special and make a real difference to help spinal cord injured people gain access to the information and support they need to enable them to live full and independent lives.”
For more information or request a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright on 0845 678 6633 xtn 229 or email fishandchips@spinal.co.uk or visit www.spinal.co.uk
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15th January 2009
DAVID BORROW RAISES LOCAL FLOODING ISSUES
Source: Hansard
Following on from the local public meetings, South Ribble MP David Borrow has raised the issue of flooding and drainage in Westminster.
The Adjournment Debate covered many of the issues perceived as contributing to the problem (sewer capacity planning and maintenance, watercourse maintenance, the planning process) and the agencies who have responsibility for aspects of the problem (United Utilities, Environment Agency, Lancashire County Council, South Ribble Council, West Lancashire Council).
A full transcript of the debate can be accessed by clicking here |
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8th January 2009
TAX REFUND SCAM
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards Service
Fraudsters are targeting taxpayers with thousands of scam emails in the run up to the 31 January Self Assessment tax deadline HM Revenue & Customs said today.
HMRC also warned the public to be aware of further fraudulent attempts to obtain personal information after the 31 January deadline has passed when many people will be waiting to hear about genuine tax refunds. The scams tell the recipient they are due a tax refund and ask for bank or credit card details so that the fictitious tax refund can be paid out.
HMRC is also aware of a growing number of telephone scams with fraudsters posing as tax officials arranging rebate payments. All customers who provide their details to the fraudsters risk their accounts being emptied and credit cards used to their limit. The victim also risks having their personal details sold on to other organised criminal gangs.
HMRC strongly advises:
- that any email appearing to originate from HMRC and which offers a tax refund should be forwarded unopened to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk
- Do not click on websites links contained in suspicious emails or open attachments.
If in doubt, please check it out with HMRC at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk /security/fraud-attempts.htm
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11th December 2008
TEA TOWEL TRADERS WARNING
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards
Residents are advised that canvassers were in the Penwortham area on 9 December selling tea towels and other items door to door, the group consists of several staff being driven around in a White Transit van. They are all believed to be from Mansfield, currently staying in the Blackpool area, and may be in Lancashire for some time.
Please be warned that these people are believed to be targeting the elderly and that they should not be allowed into houses on any pretext.
We strongly advise consumers never to deal with cold callers. However, consumers who do should be aware that they will have a seven-day cooling off period for any purchases made at the door costing over £35. Also be aware that the contract will not be enforceable against the customer unless information about your right to cancel is given in writing. Please refer any complaints or information to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 56-58 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506. If there is any loss of money the matter should also be referred to the police. |
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17th November
IMPORTANCE OF RIBBLE ESTUARY
Source: BBC
The Ribble Estuary has been named as a site of international importance for water birds in winter in a new report.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) report said the Lancashire estuary is a crucial home for 14 species of birds. It is named as the most important site in the UK for the wigeon, a duck whose population has fallen by one-fifth nationally and an important place for wintering birds such as whooper and Bewick's swans, pink-footed geese, knots, dunlins, sanderlings, bar-tailed and black-tailed godwits. |
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10th November
SAN MARCO FIRE
Source: Lancashire Evening Post
San Marco has been left heavily smoke logged after a fire broke out in a stock room at the restaurant. A passer-by raised the alarm after spotting smoke shortly before 5.30 am this morning.
Click here for the full Evening Post Article |
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7th November
DOORSTEP CRIME UPDATE
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards Service
Residents are asked to be wary about three separate traders currently operating in the Preston, and Chorley areas at the moment.
We have reports of a tree service company cold calling and leaving leaflets in the Chorley area (6 November 2008), the trader is believed to use insufficient safety equipment and precautions, and does not give required cancellation rights. He has recently dumped grass cuttings on the consumer’s drive when payment for work was refused.
There is also a trader with an Irish accent driving a plain white 55 registered van, working in the Fulwood, Preston area (6 November 2008) approaching and cold calling consumers and using pushy selling practices to sell allegedly left-over tarmac. He gives out a Liverpool (0151) landline number.
Finally, we have a roofing contractor in a white transit van cold calling elderly residents in the Ribbleton, Preston area, handing out paperwork with a 0800 number and a mobile number, and offering to replace or install plastic guttering and fascias. Again written cancellation rights are not provided and the traders appear to be uncontactable on the numbers we have.
Residents should be aware that several roofing companies are currently using the 131 Friargate address on paperwork, this is simply an accommodation address where mail may be collected from time to time, no roofers are actually based there.
Consumers agreeing to deal with traders where the contract is agreed at the consumer’s home should be aware that they will have a seven-day cooling off period to cancel any work agreed to, or any purchases made over £35, although in certain circumstances the customer may have to pay for any goods installed or work carried out so far. Also be aware that the contract will not be enforceable against the customer unless information about your right to cancel is given in writing.
We advise residents never to deal with cold-callers, to ensure you obtain full name, address and landline details from all workmen, and to double-check identification and references from other customers- do not assume credentials are genuine. Also ensure any price you are quoted is fair and genuine by obtaining estimates from other traders, and by ensuring the work agreed and the price to be charged is written down on a quotation before you agree to the work starting.
Please refer any complaints and further information to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 56-58 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506. If there is any threat or fear of burglary contact the police at once. |
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27th October
RIVER DOUGLAS BRIDGE DESIGN ANNOUNCED
Source: Lancashire Evening Post
 Picked from seven shortlisted designs, the impressive bridge will span the River Douglas at the site of the old railway bridge between Hesketh Bank and Much Hoole.
The winning design, chosen out of hundreds submitted from around the world, is by London-based JDA Architects with consultants Arup.
Cezary Bednarski, RIBA architectural advisor for the competition, said the bridge combined "innovation" and "elegance" and "should become a high quality landmark."
The bridge is intended to provide a link for people wanting to travel and explore West Lancashire and South Ribble and will also be a focal point for access to the Ribble Coast and Wetlands Regional Park and the proposed River Douglas Linear Park.
Click here For the full Lancashire Evening Post Article |
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27th October 2008
ACTION TO HELP LOCAL SMALL SHOPS
Source: Press Release
Lorraine Fullbrook the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Tarleton, Banks, Hesketh Bank and Rufford has launched a campaign to help small shops in the villages save money by claiming Small Business Rate Relief.
Roughly half of eligible local businesses do not claim the relief, according to the Conservative Party. The reason is that many of them simply don't know it exists. Yet it could save local shops up to £1,100 per annum. So the Conservatives have created a simple online tool to help firms check their eligibility and print off the form.
Lorraine urged local small businesses to go to http://www.conservatives.com/smallshops/.
If a business is eligible it can then print out a form, fill it in and send it to their local council.
Lorraine comments,
Our local shops and businesses are facing tough times but they are the life blood of our economy and our community. I want to help them and this new online tool is simple way I and the Conservative Party can help firms survive." |
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25th October 2008
TEENAGE DRIVER ARRESTED AFTER CRASH
Source: Preston Citizen
A 18 year old male driver was arrested earlier today on suspicion of of driving with excess alcohol, aggravated vehicle-taking and driving while disqualified after a car collided with a telegraph pole.
The crash, in which a single vehicle was involved, happened at 1.02am on Moss House Lane, Much Hoole
Click Here for the complete Preston Citizen article |
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13th October 2008
19 YEAR OLD DRINK DRIVER BANNED
Source: Lancashire Evening Post
Robert Atkinson, 19, of Birchfield, Much Hoole, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol at Blackpool Magistrates Court and was disqualified from driving for 14 months.
Click Here for the complete Lancashire Evening Post article |
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5th October 2008
FUTURE OF ST MICHAEL'S
Source: John Clarkson, St Michael's Churchwarden
As a Church Warden there are a couple of matters I would like to write about. Firstly plans for the replacement of the window in the Chancel rolls on. Two provisional designs have been submitted and it is hoped that they will be discussed at the next meeting of the PCC on 22nd September. The congregation, in due course, will have an input to the process. I must stress that any decision will not be rushed. Generations which follow us will have to live with what we choose.
Many of us are thinking about what is to happen to St Michael’s when Steve leaves us. Although he is licensed until 2010 it is always possible he could go sooner if he decides to do so. As you will recall he told us from the pulpit several weeks ago about an opportunity coming up in the Isle of Man. If he takes that course we need to be looking at which road we should be taking. As I personally see it there are four alternatives. We could possibly go in with the Methodists and have an ecumenical minister, that is to say one who is acceptable to our Church of England congregation and to Methodists as well. We could look towards joining with Bretherton, Croston and Mawdsley or perhaps Rufford, Tarleton and Hesketh Bank. The last, and least favoured, is to join with St Andrew’s at Longton.
If we formally joined with the Methodist Chapels which would we be joining with? Steve was thinking along the lines of Walmer Bridge and Much Hoole. With the former closing are we to join with only Much Hoole. In which case what can they do to help ensure our survival. If we go in with them do we also join with Midge Hall and perhaps Marsh Lane, Longton? Then we become a sizeable body but with us well in the minority and having less say.
The fourth alternative, mentioned by no one, is to bring pressure to bear on Blackburn to allow Steve to stay with us. If that is not possible, perhaps they could let us have a part-time clergy man, perhaps semi-retired. We pay our parish share in full every year. Surely this should count for something and Blackburn must give the idea some consideration. We are a thriving and solvent Church in every aspect and have an experienced Licensed Reader who already undertakes many parochial duties.
In a recent letter from our Archdeacon he pointed out that the obvious route for us was to join with St Andrew’s, Longton but he fully appreciated that this was unlikely to happen. He suggested Penwortham, which dates back even further than St Michael’s, as a possibility. At the same time said he could see no problem with us making arrangements which crossed deanery boundaries, as a Croston arrangement would involve. However the problems relating to a merger with Longton do not seem to be general knowledge at Blackburn. Stan was recently told by a member of the clergy at Blackburn that Longton was where we should go.
I have been quietly talking with some of our congregation over the last few months to try to find out their feelings about what we should do. The overwhelming opinion appears to be that we should look towards an amalgamation within the Church of England but at the same time continuing our arrangements with the Methodists as they are at present with which I fully agree. The intentions of the congregation of the Chapel at Walmer Bridge, which closed at the end of August, seem to indicate that they are of a like mind, that is to move within the Methodist Church. To date I believe only one has indicated any intention of making St Michael’s their new place of regular worship. This person will of course be made most welcome as would any others who may choose to come to us.
Someone has to stand up and speak out as to what we should do. I personally think we should look to the Bretherton/Croston/Mawdesley option. After all, in years past Croston was our Mother Church. Tarleton/Hesketh Bank/Rufford is my second choice. When should we start the ball rolling? – now. If we don’t we could be overtaken by circumstances beyond our control and end up with the least palatable option. I hope all goes well and that we can get this sorted out. All I am trying to do is what I hope will be best for our St Michael’s and its congregation.
Since writing the above I have been advised that David Reynolds, the Rector of Mawdesley, cannot entertain the idea of taking St Michael’s into his group of Churches. Also that Bretherton, recently said to be unhappy with the arrangements for sharing clergy with Croston and Mawdesley are now happy with things as they are. I have spoken to one of the Wardens at Hesketh Bank and I am hoping we can arrange to have a chat about possible links with them. Both Rufford and Tarleton are what we would class as High Church whereas Hesketh Bank is on a similar level to ourselves. Also I think we mustn’t rule out the Archdeacon’s Penwortham suggestion!
John Clarkson (Warden) |
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11th September 2008
RIVER DOUGLAS BRIDGE CONSULTATION TO BEGIN
Source: Lancashire County Council
Seven short listed designs for the proposed bridge over the River Douglas have been made available by Lancashire County Council in advance of the public consultation beginning. Please view the following .pdf files:
You will be able to view and comment on the designs at the following venues:
Static Displays between 15th and 26th September at:
- Tarleton Library, Mark Square, Gorse Lane, Tarleton
- Longton Library, Liverpool Old Road, Longton
Consultation drop-in sessions:
- Walmer Bridge Village Hall, Gill Lane, Walmer Bridge, Tuesday 23rd September, 2 - 7pm
- All Saints Church Hall, Station Road, Hesketh Bank, Thursday 25th September, 2 - 7pm
LCC "REMADE" RIVER DOUGLAS CROSSING | ROYAL INSTITUTE OF BRITISH ARCHITECTS |
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6th August 2008
HIGH SCHOOL REUNION - CLASS OF 1998
Source: Nicola Cubbin
A school reunion for the Tarleton High School class of 1998 has been organised.
If you attended Tarleton High School from 1993-1998 then you are invited to the 10 year reunion which will be held at Mere Brow Village Hall on Saturday 27th September.
Tickets cost £5 each, and are available from Sarah Bridge at Chameleon (the printing shop), Church Road, Tarleton or via Nicola Cubbin at nic_noc1 (at) yahoo.com. More details and the latest information can be found on Facebook. |
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A SAD MOMENT
Several weeks ago the Chapel in Walmer Bridge had a quinquennial inspection and several problems were found. So much so that the end result was that it was going to cost thousands of pounds to rectify the problem. As there is now only a handful of worshippers attend Sunday services it was decided by the Methodist Church Council that as from the month of October the Chapel and all it’s buildings will close. This also means that from October the St. Michael’s Sporting and Boxing Club will no longer have a base to work from. This means of course that if an alternative venue cannot be found the club will unfortunately cease to exist.
If anyone has the ability to help out the youth of our villages by providing somewhere to relocate the boxing ring and punch bags etc. at a reasonable rent we would be extremely grateful. If not I have the sad task of informing the lads from Tarleton, Hesketh Bank, Much Hoole, Little Hoole, Walmer Bridge, Longton, Penwortham, and surrounding districts that their club no longer exists.
Yours Faithfully
William G. Carr, 23rd June 2008
Secretary/Treasurer, St Michael's Sporting & Boxing Club |
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LOCAL MEP WEDDING EXPENSES ROW
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Source: Sunday Times Online
The Sunday Times Online today reports that local MEP Sir Robert Atkins used his parliamentary expenses to fly to his son’s wedding in America. Sir Robert Atkins has claimed that the wedding “coincided” with an official invitation, making it possible for the taxpayer to pick up travel and hotel bills.
Atkins has insisted that he has fully complied with parliamentary rules for the wedding trip. He said the event coincided with an invitation from the Republican National Committee and in a statement this weekend emphasised that his expenses were approved by the parliamentary authorities.
For the full article click here
Sir Robert Aikins Website |
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| TARLETON
HIGH MOVES TOWARDS TRUST STATUS |
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Submitted
bt Shirley Rooney, Tarleton High School
On
the 9th April 2008 Tarleton High School’s
Governing Body made the decision to consult
parents, pupils, staff and the community
about their plans to become a Trust School.
Tarleton High is the first Lancashire secondary
school to take this step. The implementation
of these plans will result in Tarleton High
being a pathfinder within the County for
the Government’s flagship education
programme that sees schools harnessing the
energy and experience of external partners
to raise standards.
What does this mean for Tarleton High School?
Trust
Schools are maintained foundation schools
supported by a charitable Trust. They:
• are part of the maintained family
of schools with funding on the same basis
as other local authority maintained schools
and subject to the same accountability regime;
• are similar to Voluntary Aided (VA)
and existing foundation schools with foundations
– the Trust holds the school’s
land and buildings, the Governing Body employs
staff and sets admissions arrangements (in
accordance with the law and the Admissions
Code);
• must adhere to National Curriculum
/ School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions
document.
There
are now 42 Trust Schools up and running.
Tarleton High’s decision brings the
number of schools currently working towards
Trust Status to over 390, exceeding the
Government’s aspirations and proving
the popularity of the scheme with schools
and local authorities.
Representatives
of Runshaw College, the International Aid
Trust, Preston and Lancaster University’s
Department for Educational Research will
form the Trust in partnership with the school.
They will work together to build on the
current successes of the school and develop
further the quality of education within
it.
The
school will also form a Parents Council
to seek the views of parents about important
decisions in relation to school matters.
These may include school uniform, healthy
eating, enabling parents to have realtime
reports about their children’s progress
and further developments in pupils’
learning.
Headteacher
Anthony Hardiker said “This is an
exciting development for our school. Our
Trust partners will offer their encouragement,
expertise and support in helping us to offer
the best education for all our pupils. We
hope that the consultation process will
gather widespread agreement with our proposals
and enable us to build on our past achievements
and fulfil our ambitious vision for the
school.”
The
Reverend Bernard Cocker, CEO and Founder
of International Aid Trust said “Since
the tsunami in December 2004 Tarleton High
School and International Aid Trust have
successfully worked together on various
projects, so we at IAT are both blessed
and excited with this latest initiative.
Indeed,
it is a privilege to be in partnership with
the students, governors and staff, who so
obliviously follow with a passion the lead
and example of their Headmaster.
We
look forward to an exciting and challenging
time of supporting and encouraging Tarleton
High to reach these ambitious but achievable
targets.
Working
alone we are all very limited, but when
we bring our gifts, talents and resources
together we can make a huge difference,
not just to our own particular organisations,
but also to the ever growing needs in the
world around us. May God bless this venture
“
The
school is having an Open Meeting at Tarleton
High School on Wednesday 21st May for discussion
on the school moving to become a Foundation
with Trust School. The meeting will commence
at 7.00pm in the School Hall. All are welcome.
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| RIVER DOUGLAS WEBSITE LAUNCHED |
|
Submitted
by Michelle Holroyd, REMADE Project, Lancasire
County Council
The
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
have now set up a dedicated website for
the River Douglas bridge competition [see
local news 13/05/08}.
Please
also note that the Ribble Coast & Wetlands
Regional Park information can also be accessed
through a link on the new website. See www.riverdouglas.co.uk.
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| RIVER
DOUGLAS BRIDGE COMPETITION LAUNCHED |
|
The
River Douglas at Hesketh Bank is to become
the focus of attention for some of the country’s
best architects as Lancashire County Council
launches a search for an inspirational bridge
design.
The
REMADE in Lancashire land reclamation programme
has commissioned the Royal Institute of
British Architects (RIBA)
to run an architectural design competition
for a new landmark bridge to span the River
Douglas at Hesketh Bank.
Architects
are being invited to submit designs for
a bridge for use by walkers, cyclists and
horse riders which will be located at the
site of the former Preston to Southport
railway bridge.
The original railway bridge
over the River Douglas at Hesketh Bank was
demolished after the 'Beeching Report'
The
design competition, funded by the Northwest
Regional Development Agency, will result
in six designs being short listed by the
judging panel in July 2008 with a final
winner being chosen in October 2008. The
public and key stakeholders will be invited
to express their views on the short listed
entries during the summer.
County
Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Cabinet member
for Environment and Transportation, said:
“We are looking for something really
special that will make a big statement about
the area.
“This
design competition forms the first stage
of a REMADE proposal to create a new linear
greenway linking the villages and communities
of West Lancashire and South Ribble districts.
“However
the designs look, the simple aim of the
river crossing will be to provide a safe
off-road sustainable travel and leisure
route for use by local residents, schoolchildren
and people commuting between Southport and
Preston.
“I
hope to see some inspirational designs that
will help us when it comes to seeking the
necessary funding to turn the ideas into
reality.”
The
Ribble Coast is a popular location for enjoying
the landscape and the important wildlife
of the estuary. The proposed greenway will
provide a key access route to attractions
within the emerging Ribble Coast and Wetlands
Regional Park including Martin Mere Wetland
Centre and the RSPB Hesketh Outmarsh reserve
which is currently under development.
Peter
White, Executive Director of Development
at the NWDA, said: “Building a bridge
at this location would be an important first
step in opening up the area for walkers,
cyclists and riders. This scheme will explore
the potential to create a fantastic new
facility for local people and visitors to
enjoy. It will be a clear signal of our
intent to see the coordination of NWDA funded
land regeneration programmes in implementing
regional park aspirations.”
Bob
Allen, Executive Director of Groundwork
Lancashire West and Wigan and member of
the Ribble Coast and Wetlands Regional Park
Steering Group, said: “The Douglas
Bridge crossing is seen as a flagship project
for the Ribble Coast and Wetlands Regional
Park that will make a substantial contribution
to our access strategy. The design competition
is an exciting opportunity to develop a
high quality structure in keeping with the
natural environment.”
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| DOORSTEP
SALES WARNING - CARPET CLEANER |
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Submitted
by Lancashire Trading Standards Service
Residents
are alerted to concerns about a high pressure
sales team selling carpet cleaners.
The
company is contacting residents and offering
to clean carpets for free in return for
comments on the cleaning performance. However,
once in the house to provide this free service,
the salesmen refuse to leave until they
have sold one of the cleaners. In one house
they stayed for over two hours until the
sale was finally agreed.
They
are believed to be targeting elderly and
vulnerable consumers with hard line sales
techniques.
Be
warned that if you or your neighbours deal
with this company you may end up paying
£2000 for an unwanted vacuum cleaner.
We
advise residents never to deal with cold
callers.
Anyone
who does deal with a tradesman who cold-calls
will have a seven-day cooling off period
to cancel any work agreed to, or any purchases
made over £35, although if the trader
has already begun to carry out any job when
you cancel, you may have to pay for the
work carried out so far.
Also
be aware that the contract will not be enforceable
against the consumer unless information
about this right to cancel is given in writing.
Please
refer any complaints to Lancashire Trading
Standards Service, 56-58 Guildhall Street,
Preston, Lancs via Consumer Direct tel 08454
040506. If there is any threat or fear of
burglary contact the police at once.
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| TARLETON
HIGH SCHOOL UKRAINE CHALLENGE |
|
A
group of six pupils from Tarleton High School
are working with International Aid Trust
to produce a video on the disadvantaged
children in the Ukraine. The aim of the
trip is to produce a video to help promote
the work of International Aid Trust and
inform people of the rescue work they do
in the Ukraine. The video will be shown
to a range of audiences.
International
Aid Trust is a UK Charity, based in Much
Hoole. It has charity shops throughout the
UK and helps underprivileged people, in
Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. Much of
the work International Aid does is in Eastern
Europe; they have created orphanages for
street children and rehabilitation centres
for adults. Tarleton High School’s
student Council decided to adopt International
Aid Trust as one of the two school’s
charities. Previously the school has provided
shoeboxes for the charity, created publicity
material and helped out at the local warehouse.
More
recently there has been a rigorous selection
process from 320 years 9 and 10 pupils.
21 pupils applied for the trip with a letter
addressed to the Head teacher who together
with Mrs Sides (senior at Tarleton High
School), Mr Bernard Cocker (IAT Founder)
and Mr Stringfellow (Chair of Governors)
whittled it down to just 6 members of the
team, and further roles were decided with
an interview process. The six selected members
were:
Joel
Briscoe – selected candidate to go
to the Ukraine
Rachel Goulding – selected candidate
to go to the Ukraine
Chris Meadows – reserve to go to the
Ukraine
Ruth Malcolm – reserve to go to the
Ukraine
Claire Tetlow - press officer
Natalie Firth-Cook – press officer
Tarleton
High School is working with International
Aid Trust to create a video to highlight
the plight of European countries trapped
in extreme poverty. The two pupils will
travel to Kiev to film the footage and talk
to families in desperate need of help, children
living in orphanages and also children living
on the streets.
All
six members will be working as a team to
create the video when the chosen two candidates
return from the trip. The edited video will
then be used by International Aid Trust
to show people of all ages the work International
Aid does helping the children of Ukraine.
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POST
OFFICE CLOSURE VOTE
Dear Editor,
This
week the local press printed my letter calling on
South Ribble ’s current Labour MP David Borrow,
to "do the right thing" and vote to stop
the Post Office closures that are doing so much
damage to our local communities.
Sadly,
last night (Wednesday 19th) both David Borrow and
his colleague Mark Hendrick the MP for Preston decided
to ignore this call. Both have decided to put blind
loyalty to Gordon Brown above loyalty to their constituents.
In
a vote called by the Conservatives, 20 Labour MPs
defied their Party, and if just another 11 had done
the same, the closures would have been halted. Mr
Borrow and Mr Hendrick had the chance to save the
Post Offices that are earmarked for closure in,
Mere Brow, Leyland , Hutton, Much Hoole, Eccleston
and Preston. They decided not to do so!
Having
spent the last six weeks telling local people that
he wanted to save the Post Offices, David Borrow
proved again last night why it is time for a change!
As
both Mr Borrow’s Conservative opponent at
the next General Election, and one of his constituents,
I am sad that he has effectively conned his constituents.
He pretended to support our local Post offices,
but when put on the spot by last nights vote in
Parliament, he totally failed to put his constituent’s
interests first.
I
have no doubt that when the Prime Minister finally
summons up the courage to call a General Election,
the residents of Mere Brow, Leyland, Hutton, Much
Hoole, and Eccleston will remember just who it was
that betrayed their trust last night!
Lorraine Fullbrook, 20th March 2008
Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for South Ribble |
|
Don't
Just Spectate - Participate!
GOT SOMETHING TO SAY - EMAIL
THE EDITOR
Please don't forget
to include your name and subject of your letter.
Anonymous letters will not be published.
Your address
and a contact telephone number are also required
but will not be published.
The editor welcomes all contributions but reserves
the right to ammend and edit as necessary. |
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