http://www.champnews.com All the latest Skelmersdale news from Champion Newspapers en-uk Copyright 2007 Champion Media Group. All Rights Reserved http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7631 Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc gang are back by popular demand in Scooby Doo and the Pirate Ghost, a brand-new, all singing and dancing “spook-tastic” show which runs at Liverpool Empire Theatre from 23-26 July. In this exciting production, written and directed by the acclaimed Jim Millan, the beloved Hanna-Barbera characters Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Daphne and Fred are bought to life, bringing their unique, comical brand of detective work and super scary fun to theatres across the country. A tropical island is the scene for Scooby’s newest live adventure, but it’s far from peaceful and idyllic when The Mystery Inc gang land on the island! Ghostly goings-on and supernatural scenarios mixed with hilarious physical comedy, groovy music and magical effects will be keeping audiences happily spooked and on the edge of their seats for the entire 90 minutes of this exciting production! Tickets £16.50 - £18.50 – all tickets £10 for opening performance.  Call the box office 0844 847 2525* or visit www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk*   02/07/2009 07:46:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7622 A reasonable start of 56-2 by Dalton 1st XI’s John Stockley (18) and Matt Charman (26) was followed by a dramatic tumble to 60-6, but a belligerent Robin Woods (33), Tony Tonge (22) and Rob Galligan (12) produced a final score of 140 all out. With Halsall West End 1st XI attacking from the beginning, but also losing wickets, the balance of the game changed constantly, but Hasan Qamruddin (5-23), Matt Davies (3-28) and Barry Fletcher (1-6) managed to swing the result in Dalton’s favour producing an exciting climax, ended with Tonge’s catch that ensured the visitors were dismissed for 91 with five overs left. An impressive Dalton 2nd XI shot out hosts Newburgh 2nd XI for 67 thanks to the superb bowling of Harvey Tonge (5-20) and Steve Myers (4-18) backed up by Danny Thomas (1-26), excellent fielding and two fine keeper dismissals by Albert Bain. With an outstanding 45 no from skipper Craig Youngman, Dave Halsey finished the game with consecutive boundaries as the visitors comfortably reached 70-1 in overs. At Abbey Lane, Dalton 3rd XI batted first and made 90 with contributions from Lal Jain (10), Peter Hale (10) and a defiant 29 in 40 overs by Kenny Gossage. In reply, wickets came from Lewis Abbott (2-27), Lain (1-13) and Chris Comerford (1-17), but they couldn’t prevent Bretherton 2nd XI reaching a winning 91-4. In their Hampson Cup semi-final Dalton 2nd XI never recovered from a bad start against tight Aughton 2nd XI bowling and only posted 77 with 5 overs still remaining (Craig Youngman 24, Paul Bain 24). Urged on by a large following, the visitors easily reached their target in 20 overs, losing only one wicket (Steve Myers 1-15). 30/06/2009 11:16:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7620 Skem pulled off an outrageous Houdini act at Liverpool on Saturday to steal the game from right under the noses of their illustrious hosts. With only one wicket left and 43 runs needed to overhaul their 220-5, Liverpool could be forgiven for thinking they had the game in the bag. Mark Adams (39) and Greg Wadsworth (31) had earlier given Skem hope, but they were well gone and Skem looked finished. But Liverpool were stunned to find that Skem's last man was none other than skipper Andy Molyneux, a centurion at the same ground last year and a very capable foe - whatever position he chooses to bat. Together with Kyle Till (21 not out), Molyneux (24 not out) inched his team towards their target, clinching an incredible victory with a boundary off the final ball. The win cements Skem's mid-table position as the league campaign reaches half-way - a position achieved without a single home win, but with five successes on the road. Skem seconds were held at home by bottom side Prestatyn who, despite their lowly position and need for points, declined to chase a game that was potentially their's for the taking. Mike Moss (33) and Chris Hudson (34) gave Skem a great platform, only to see the middle order throw it away by collapsing to 80-6. Phil Wright (44) and Lee Williams (37) came to the rescue, helping Skem post a creditable 173. Just as Skem's openers had laid solid foundations, so too did Prestatyn's before Matt Fenney rocked them with a double blow. Conor Joel-Welsh and Lee Williams also grabbed a couple of wickets each - and that was enough to persuade the Welshmen to shut up shop at 143-7. Skem thirds enjoyed league and cup successes at the weekend, defeating Earlestown by four wickets to keep up the pressure on leaders Tarleton, then cruising to victory at Tarleton the following day to secure a place in the Hampson Cup Final. Jonny Hudson and Peter Davies took three wickets apiece as Earlestown collapsed from 93-3 to 115 all out, before Davies (40) and Barry Hudson (22) saw Skem safely home. Andrew Griffiths and Ian Morris were superb with the new ball at Tarleton, but the home team still threatened a big score before Jonny Hudson, Danny Maddocks and Peter Davies wreaked havoc in the high-flyer's ranks, their fine bowling restricting them to just 135. Skem lost wickets at regular intervals as they struggled to 50-4 but, crucially, Peter Blakey's was not one of them. With great support from Hudson (41), the old master was still there at the end, undefeated on 44 as Skem coasted to a five wicket win. 30/06/2009 11:05:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7619 The borough council has won an award from English Heritage for its outstanding work in conserving and protecting the area’s historic buildings and landscapes. The council’s cabinet member for planning, cllr Martin Forshaw, will receive the English Heritage North West regional award at a special ceremony on July 14. This accolade is one of nine regional awards given across the country to local authorities judged to have made the biggest contribution to management of conservation areas over the last three years. Cllr Martin Forshaw, cabinet member for planning, said: “It is a tremendous achievement to win this award from English Heritage and underlines the efforts the council has made in conserving, protecting and enhancing the heritage of West Lancashire which has many beautiful historic buildings and places.” Some of the key areas highlighted by English Heritage are: * All 28 conservation areas in West Lancs had an appraisal and the appraisals are beginning to be updated. In this, West Lancs is an example of good practice in the management of conservation areas. * English Heritage advises that the public should be consulted as part of the appraisal process and this is something that West Lancs has done, again following the best practice advice.   The information on the West Lancs website about heritage and conservation www.westlancs.gov.uk/heritage was also praised by English Heritage. Karl Creaser, English Heritage NW Regional Policy adviser, said: “West Lancashire’s website is well laid out, easy to use and provides the sort of information that users want to find. “The information is up-to-date and helpful. This enables it to be of use to those wishing to get involved in managing and enjoying their heritage – something that English Heritage actively encourages.” 30/06/2009 10:48:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7618 Police have released the name of a man wanted on prison recall who they think could be in Skelmersdale. Christopher Darren Doyle, 35, originally from the Manchester area was jailed in October 2007 for an offence of wounding. He has failed to comply with conditions that formed part of his early release and he was recalled to prison in May 2009 to serve the remainder of his sentence but is still outstanding. It is believed that he could be in either the Skelmersdale area or Merseyside. Doyle is described as 6ft tall, of medium build, and has blue eyes and a 3 '' visible scar on the left cheek of his face. Inspector John Clucas said: "As always, I'd like to reassure the public that as a force we have a high success rate of returning people to prison and use all methods to catch these people who are wanted. “I would also ask the public to be vigilant and report any sightings to the police." PIC SHOWS: Christopher Doyle 30/06/2009 10:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7614 Dreamboats and Petticoats - Liverpool Empire Set in 1961 and featuring more than forty rock ‘n’ roll classic hits of the era Dreamboats and Petticoats is swinging at the Liverpool Empire. Inspired by albums of the same name it is brought to the stage by Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield in conjunction with legendary television scriptwriters Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran. The sixties really did swing.  I know – I was there!  Ours was the first generation of teenagers who knew they wanted something different from life.  A germ of an idea could be turned into a reality overnight.  We’d hatch plans to make a name for ourselves.  “Yeah … let’s do it!” we would say.  And we did! Ben Freeman (Emmerdale) and Scott Bruton (2008 X Factor finalist) lead an outstanding and energetic cast in this jumpin’, twistin’, rockin’ show which also stars Jennifer Biddall (Hollyoaks), David Cardy (Birds of a Feather) and newcomers Daisy Wood-Davis and AJ Dean. The story weaves around London’s St Mungo’s youth club song-writing competition as the characters dream of fame.  A day trip to Southend funfair with real dodgems and flashing lights sows the seeds for Dreamboats and Petticoats to become the winning song (of course).  This leads into a fast, wild and vibrant finale featuring At the Hop with the audience twisting in the aisles and reliving memories. It’s guaranteed to send you smiling and dancing down Lime Street! Score: 5/5 - O’ill give it foive!  (If you were part of the 60s you’ll remember!) Review by Jenny Robson   25/06/2009 06:40:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7612 A West End scale musical pulls into Liverpool’s Royal Court in September which is packed with fun, laughter and soul-stirring songs. Willy Russell’s Our Day Out – The Musical is the Royal Court Liverpool’s biggest project to date and is set to be the smash hit show of 2009. Our Day Out was a massive TV hit when it was originally written in 1976 and was later turned into a popular stage play. Now, for 2009, Willy Russell has reworked the script and added some fantastic songs (the songs and music co-written with Director Bob Eaton) to create a brand new Musical which will have you laughing and singing all the way home! A very funny and heartwarming story, Mrs Kay’s Progress Class are all on board and bound for Alton Towers... until Mr Briggs gets on board! The destination changes to a zoo in North Wales but there is no stopping the fun on a trip for the class that always gets left behind. Big dance numbers, instantly recognisable characters and songs so catchy you’ll be singing them for weeks make Our Day Out –The Musical the hottest ticket in town. The cast will include Michael Starke (Brookside, Coronation Street), Andrew Schofield (Misery, Brick Up The Mersey Tunnel), Holly Quin-Ankrah (Grange Hill, Rock Rivals), Bradley Clarkson (Grease Is The Word) and Gillian Hardie (Stags and Hens, On The Ledge). Our Day Out – The Musical will run from Friday 11 September to Saturday 17 October. Tickets and information are available from www.royalcourtliverpool.com or on 0870 787 1866.   25/06/2009 06:35:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7606 Athletics The Northern Senior and Junior Championships at Sport City, Manchester saw no fewer that 3 LPS members reach the final of the U20 400m. Harry Doran secured the silver medal in a brilliant personal best time of 48.15 with Danny Higham(4th in 49.40) and Wayne Ashall(6th in 50.37). Also in the U20 1500m David Forrester was a somewhat disappointed 7th in 4.08.27 after running a highly promising heat time of 4.02.07. Other U20 finalists were Rhea Ellis(9th 1500m in 4.52.20) and Chris Hesketh(9th 1500m Steeplechase in 6.30.97). Also present were Harry Boyd(1500m in 4.18.23) and senior Adam Clansey(1500m in 4.20.79). The club`s Young Athletes were at Litherland for the fourth match of the Northern Premier League. This is a competition heavily weighted to numerically strong clubs who can cover the multiplicity of events. It was not surprising, therefore, that the Liverpool Pembroke Sefton more slim-line squad struggled against the might of Blackpool and Chesterfield finishing third and teetering on the edge of overall relegation. Nevertheless, there were some stunning individual performances with the club`s class sprinters Adam Thomson(first U17 400m in 51.10) and rising star, Andrew Williams(first U15 400m in 53.50).Not to be outshone the girls produced a Grade 1 performer in the shape of Amelia McLaughlin(first U13 High Jump with 1.42m). There were some interesting `double acts' as in the U17s where Mike Bride and Ed Rimmer took the 1500m with 4.19.4 and 4.46.0 respectively. The 3000m pair of Jai-Vernon McGuigan(9.31.7) and Toby Loveridge(10.08.1), 1500m Steeplechasers, Sean Kirkbride(5.05.7) and Adam Goldfarb(5.08.4) and Hammer Throwers Mike Carmona-Jones(43.24m) and Tom Johnson(36.69m) did likewise. Other individual winners included Kevin Carmona-Jones (Discus 26.62m) and Billy Williams (High Jump 1.75m). At U15 Andrew Williams added the 100m(12.10) to his 400m win and Danny Holloran took the Discus with 27.03m. Brett Adamson`s 200m victory in 24.70 also attracted some attention. At U13 there is yet another emerging sprint talent, Alex Higham, who took both the 100m(13.70) and 200m(28.60). Equally successful team mates were Ben Haines(Shot 7.51m) and Daniel McComb(High Jump 1.30m). Among the girls U13 Amelia McLaughlin showed she could hurdle as well as jump, taking the 70m race in 12.9 with Holly Moran(14.1) in B winning support. The afternoon concluded with three relay wins the U17 4 x 400m 3.38.30(Mike Stam, Adam Thomson, Jesse Roberts, Stuart Dolman), U15 4 x 100m in 50.30(Joel Hutchinson, Andrew Freeman, Andrew Williams, Brett Adamson) and the same four combining to take the 4 x 400m in 3.57.90 23/06/2009 10:43:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7605 DALTON 1st XI were put in at Tarleton, but only U18 player Barry Fletcher (17) made any real contribution in their score of 97, a target easily passed by the home side's 1st XI in losing only two wickets. Even though Dalton 2nd XI dropped Aughton 2nd XI's top-scorer four times, a superb bowling spell by Danny Thomas (3-17 off 18 overs) was largely responsible for restricting the visitors to 108-9 in 50 overs with Craig Youngman (4-21), Steve Myers (1-17) and Harvey Tonge (1-36). In reply skipper Youngman (54) provided Dalton's foundation as Ken Whiteside, Ken Gossage and Paul Bain (34 no) helped him to carefully inch towards a win which Tonge achieved with two overs left by hitting a six as the Beaconites won with 113-3 for another Dalton 'team' victory in a game played in the true spirit of cricket. At Abbey Lane, Winstanley Park 2nd XI shot out Dalton 3rd XI for 67 (Mark Parry 16) and lost only one wicket themselves in surpassing it. 23/06/2009 10:33:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7603 Skelmersdale are still searching for that first home league win of the season after a disappointing performance at home to Leigh. It was yet another game Skem could - and should - have won. There were four wickets for Tony Manley as the visitors laboured 65 overs to post 198-9 declared but, with half a dozen catches going begging, Andy Molyneux's men ought to have been chasing a lot less than almost 200. Molyneux (32), Azam (33), Baker (27) and Platt (21) all got themselves in and if just one of them had gone past 50, Skem might have got very close to their target. As it was, Lancashire's Karl Brown had the final say, finishing with four wickets as Skem fell 38 runs shy. Skem seconds also came a cropper at Norley Hall. Skipper Steve Maddocks stroked a wonderful unbeaten 120, sharing a century stand with a resurgent Barry Leadbetter (76) along the way. But a generous declaration at 253-4 opened the way for Norley to take full advantage of a flat track and a fast outfield to romp home with plenty of wickets and time to spare. Skem's 3XI remain well in contention as the Southport League nears half way. They skittled Earlestown for just 21 at Abbey Lane and, despite a helpful wicket for the bowlers, eased to a five wicket win. The Twenty20 World Cup may be over, but fans still wanting more should head for Scott Rees Park this Thursday evening, as Skem entertain Sefton Park in an eagerly anticipated Echo Knock-out clash. 23/06/2009 10:25:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7602 For many years she has said she is a Lady, but now she really is after her step son bought her land in Scotland. Alan Scott, 62, purchased the gift as a surprise birthday present for her step mum Joan Watts, who was 79 last Friday. And by owning the land Joan will automatically be able to call herself a Lady. Alan told The Champion why he spent the money on the land for Joan, who is from Firbeck in Birch Green: “I bought the land because it has always been Joan's lifetime dream to be a Lady. For many years she had the catchphrase, 'I'm a Lady.' Well now I have made that dream come true and made her one. “She is well educated and very well spoken and sounds like a lady when you speak to her. She has also travelled most of the world.” Alan was not willing to disclose how much he had paid for the land, or what the size of it was. He did say though that the land is south of Ben Nevis and Joan has a certificate from the land registry to prove that she owns it. Joan said: “I am a lucky lady. I'm not just Joan Watts now, but Lady Joan Watts. Although some people in the past have written to me as Lady Joan Watts. “I was charmed and over the moon to receive this present. We both had a cry on Friday, but it was tears of joy.” Pic shows: Lady Joan Watts with her official title document. Code 1027034 23/06/2009 10:12:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7601 The family of the British hostage who was found dead in Iraq have been describing the shock on hearing of the death of the 38-year-old from Skelmersdale. Jason Swindlehurst, whose family home was Marlborough Gardens, Ashurst, had been abducted in May 2007 along with four other men as they took part in a raid of Baghdad's Iraq's Finance Ministry. Mr Swindlehurst was identified along with Jason Creswell, from Scotland, and they were part of a team of four working to guard IT consultant Peter Moore. About 40 gunmen in police uniforms had taken the men hostage. Jan Beattie spoke on behalf of the five families and said: “We are deeply stunned and saddened by the tragic and upsetting news of the deaths of Jason Creswell and Jason Swindlehurst.” A spokesman for the Foreign Office, said: “It is with deep regret that we have today informed the families of the hostages that, based on very strong indications, the two bodies recovered are highly likely to be those of Jason Cresswell, originally from Glasgow, and Jason Swindlehurst, originally from Skelmersdale. “Foreign office officials are in close contact with all the families, our thoughts are with them at this sad time. “We continue to do everything we can towards the safe release of the other hostages.” The parents of Mr Swindlehurst, Russell and Marie, it has been reported now live in Malta. It is believed that Lizzette, Jason's sister lives in the family home and that Mr Swindlehurst was not married, and had a daughter. His brother, Clint, is thought to be working in Germany as a soldier. Mr Swindlehurst was known to go to The Polo and The Highwayman. Mr Swindlehurst has been described by residents of Skelmersdale as a “lovely fellow”. The two dead hostages had been working for the security company GardaWorld. A spokesman for the company said: “These two professionals were outstanding individuals and experts who commended the respect of all those who knew and worked with them.” Prime Minister Gordon Brown commented: “Today (last Sunday) the families of Jason Swindlehurst and Jason Cresswell have had the worst possible news after years of very anxious waiting. I think the whole country will want to send them our sincere condolences.” 23/06/2009 09:41:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7595 Athletics After an opening European mini-tour starting in Montreuil-sous-Bois, Paris, where Michael Rimmer recorded 1.47.04 in third place, he was off to the Golden League match in Berlin where he stepped up both his time 1.46.31 and position, second. He and his coach, Norman Pooler, will be mightly pleased with such an auspicious start to the season that could well end up again in Berlin for the World Championships. County Schools Championships Club members, all representing Sefton, were very much in evidence at the County Schools Championships. There was a good turn out in The Merseysides at the Oval, Bromborough where Senior Dean Matthews achieved what he has threatened all season leaping to a 13m triple jump victory. His 13.44m was so convincing his sights immediately turned to 14m. At Inter level Adam Thomson again showed his 400m class with a 50.4 win paralleled in the Junior 400m by Andy Williams with 53.9. Perhaps the afternoon`s most interesting result came in the Junior 200m where the club`s new acquisition from Australia Brett Adamson won in 24.3 to add to a third placed 100m(12.3). Other prominently placed athletes from the Senior ranks included Dave Forrester(2nd 800m in 1.57.7), Chris Hesketh(third 800m in 1.58.8 and Sean Dignam(fourth 800m with 2.02.5). Harry Boyd took the 1,500m(4.12.1), Simon Birch (double first Shot 9.09m High Jump 1.60m) and Rhea Ellis(second 1,500m 4.54.5). The Inters also provided winners at High Jump(Billy Williams 1.85m), Discus(Mike Carmona-Jones 35.41m), Hammer(Tom Johnson 37.03m) with second placers, Toby Loveridge (1,500m 4.10.5) and Olivia Fell(Triple Jump 9.96m). A third slot went to Mike Bride(1,500m 4.13.6). Junior success came from long jumper Emily Canning(4.14m). Year 7 provided Amelia McLoughlin(second 75m Hurdles 12.6 and first High Jump 1.45m) with Ben Haines similarly successful at the High Jump with 1.25m. The Lancashire championships at Blackpool witnessed a very spirited run from Junior Alistair Nelson who chopped a huge seven seconds off his personal best in the 1,500m to race away from the opposition in 4.24.9. Sprinters were also prominent with 200m winners in the shape of Stuart Dolman in 23.3 and Joel Hutchinson with 24.5. Inter Annie McLaughlin was second with 27.0. Also in this age group Sean Kirkbride and Adam Goldfarb were on their own in the Steeplechase with 5.15.4 and 5.17.2 respectively. National Junior League(Merseyside) In a crowded weekend the Junior League match at Wigan was a sufferer in terms of attendance. A fairly routine encounter was enlivened by some unexpected hurdling from Chris Hesketh(400m in 59.60), Billy Williams first in the High Jump with 1.85m, still teetering on 1.90m, double victors Nathan Hilton(52.10) and Wayne Ashall(51.80) at 400m and Tom Hanlon(2.01.40) and Sean Dignam(2.04.40) at 800m. The men`s sprint relay quartets mopped up as usual. With only three women enthusiasts Toria Swift, Nicole Garner, Grace Stewart available the club expected a hammering but were pleasantly surprised to finish fifth out of eight teams..A full strength squad could easily capture third spot. Kirsty cruises on There are not enough superlatives in the book to describe Kirsty Longley. She took the long trip to Watford to compete in the BMC meeting and came away with a personal best in the 1,500m of 4.41.63. A fantastic example of commitment. 16/06/2009 11:29:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7594 Dalton 1st XI hosted Chorley St James’ 1st XI who batted first, but couldn’t cope with the excellent spells of Peter Barton (5-40) and Barry Fletcher (3-7) as they were all out for 111. After an early collapse, Matt Davies (12), the in-form Robin Woods (47) and Hasan Qamruddin (32 not out) enabled Dalton to reach 114-5 and a welcome five wicket win. It was double success for Dalton 2nds winning both games in the last over. Earlestown’s 2nd XI had an express start until pegged back to 74-5, when (apart from Jeff Roberts' 3-55) some inconsistent bowling allowed the home side to terminate on 162 off 39 overs with Craig Youngman 2-29, Ian Niblock 2-18, Danny Thomas 2-26 plus Will Rooney’s brace of catches. Facing David Richards’ clever bowling, Dalton’s early batsmen struggled to score regularly, but after Ken Whitesides’ (19) departure, Paul Bain’s arrival signalled a change, and a 81 stand with coach Dave Halsey (39) put the visitors in the driving seat at 134-3 leaving speedy Steve Rimmer to help Bain (69 no) in the last over to score the winning run and a six wicket victory at 163-4. In Sunday’s Hampson Cup match, Dalton 2nd XI faced favourites Goose Green who batted first and made 142-8 in their 40 overs, with an Albert Bain ‘quick-stumping’ and good performances from bowlers Barry Fletcher (3-25), Danny Thomas (2-22), Ben Thomas (1-23), Craig Youngman (1-35) and especially Steve Myers (1-12). Dalton’s Matt Charman (29) and Youngman (13) started steadily against some very tight Goose Green bowling, and were followed by no.3 Dave Halsey (30 no) who was well supported by Paul Bain, Barry Fletcher (18) and Ben Thomas (26) in bringing the target closer until the last over when Myers and Halsey scrambled a single for a four wicket win on 143-6 and a home semi-final place against Aughton 2nds on 28 June. Both games were played in an excellent spirit. Halsall West End 3rd XI scored 138 (B. Norbury 3 wkts), but Dalton 3rds could only muster 58 ao with Lal Jain contributing the top score. 16/06/2009 11:20:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7592 It was a wonderful weekend for Skelmersdale's 1XI, with inspirational team and individual efforts earning them magnificent league and cup victories. Evergreen all-rounder Jonas Smith was the star at St Helens on Saturday, taking six wickets and stroking 54 as Skem romped to an astonishing five wicket win. Saints won the toss and decided to bat first - a decision they immediately regretted when Smith bowled opener David Moore with the very first ball of the match. Three more wickets quickly followed - all courtesy of Smith - as St Helens crumbled to 30-4, and when Dave Platt struck in consecutive overs Saints looked doomed at 50-6. But not for the first time this season, Skem failed to press home their advantage. The home side rallied superbly in the shape of Adam Friar (82) Darren Tyms (57), the pair adding 110 for the seventh wicket to get their side up to a creditable 194 all out. Smith's brilliant half-century kept Skem in contention despite wickets falling regularly at the other end, but his demise - fifth man out with the score on just 92 - suggested the beginning of the end for Skem. St Helens sensed it too, but Mohammad Azam (73 not out) and skipper Andy Molyneux (41 not out) hadn't read the script. They smashed the St Helens bowlers to all corners in a bewildering display of strokeplay that would not have been out of place in the Twenty20 World Cup, their unbroken century stand taking Skem to victory in just 31 incredible overs. It was a scratch Skem side that took the field for Sunday's high noon showdown with Hightown - and they played like champions. Shorn of the likes of Jonas Smith, Mark Baker, Mark Adams and Greg Wadsworth, the pundits didn't give Skem a chance. But youngster Ben Maddocks turned in the performance of his life to bring Hightown crashing down. Maddocks hit an attractive half-century, with Azam (66) and another youngster, Pete Wylie (47) helping Skem post an unlikely total of 255. Azam struck early, but the visitors hit back in style to reach 80-1 before Maddocks joined the attack and destroyed Hightown's middle-order. The off-spinner took 4-29 and Gary Cassidy grabbed the last three wickets as Hightown were dismissed for just 146. "It's been an amazing weekend" said skipper Andy Molyneux, "and we can go into the next two big games - against Leigh and Liverpool – with plenty of confidence." Skem seconds turned in one of their worst performances for a long time at home to St Helens - but still showed enough fighting spirit to deny the visitors victory. Lee Williams (4-34) and Conor Joel-Welsh (2-13) stood out with the ball as St Helens reached 207, but Skem never really got going in reply. Mike Moss, Dave Moss, Matt Fenney and Joel-Welsh all got themselves in but couldn't quite find the big, match-winning innings. In the end, it was left to Dave Farrell and Lee Willams to keep St Helens at bay. Danny Maddocks, Andrew Griffiths and Luke Manley turned in similar backs-to-the-wall efforts for Skem's 3XI, who held on at 88-8 in reply to Goose Green's 161-7. It was much easier the following day at Hesketh Bank, where the Hampson Cup holders romped to a four wicket win. Andrew Griffiths, Ian Morris and Danny Maddocks bowled well with the new ball, but Hesketh Bank still reached 155 in 40 overs. Mick Forster (61) and Peter Blakey (42) made light work of the chase, which was finished with a flourish by Maddocks, Griffiths and Conor Joel-Welsh. 16/06/2009 10:52:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7590 A BEAUTICIAN from Skelmersdale who falsely claimed over £32,000 in benefits while running her own business has been sentenced to nine months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and 150 hours unpaid work – all in addition to having to repay every last penny. Corrin Armstrong of Elmridge, Skelmerdale pleaded guilty to three offences in relation to Housing and Council Tax Benefits and Income Support at Preston Crown Court on April 22. The court learnt that while the 38-year-old mother of three was claiming lone parent benefits she was in fact living with her husband and running her own beauty salon in Ormskirk called U R Unique. Council benefit investigators were first alerted to the benefit cheat through an anonymous call and after making extensive enquiries discovered her double life. The business premises she was using were originally let to Jose Jorge (trading as U R Unique) and Ms Armstrong claimed that she had been working voluntarily for him at the beauty parlour. However, it was discovered that the man was actually her husband posing under a false name. West Lancashire Borough Council successfully proved that Ms Armstrong was not entitled to any benefits from May 2004 to December 2007 because she was living with her husband and working. Over this time she had falsely claimed £9,584.68 in Housing Benefit, £2,320.92 in Council Tax Benefit and £20,552.02 in Income Support. She was sentenced on June 4 2009 and as a result she has been sentenced to nine months imprisonment, suspended for two years, 150 hours unpaid work, and has to pay back all of the money falsely claimed. Councillor David Westley, cabinet member for finance, said: “This woman has clearly conned the council out of thousands of pounds whilst living with her husband and running a business. “We take a zero tolerance approach to this sort of fraudulent behaviour because it’s essentially stealing from the taxpayers of West Lancashire who work hard to pay their bills. “We hope this send out a clear message that if you commit benefit fraud, sooner or later you can expect to be caught by the council's Benefit Investigation Team – so be warned.” Anyone wishing to report a person they suspect is wrongly claiming benefits can ring the council’s free phone hotline on 08000 56 56 03 or visit the website www.westlancs.gov.uk/benefits. 16/06/2009 10:03:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7584 Athletics It was a somewhat miserable day at Litherland for the Northern Senior Track and Field Match (Division 2W). The poor weather reflected the Liverpool Pembroke Sefton overall performance as the club slumped to fifth place mainly due to a poor turn out. However, there were some bright moments principally that of international, Phil Taylor, taking both the 100m(11.6) and 200m(22.4) as part of his season`s preparation. One had to look hard for other individual winners but down in the field events the indefatigable Mark Line racked up useful wins and points for the club in the Discus(34.42m) and Pole Vault(3.00m) and the maturing Dean Matthews was the Triple Jump victor(12.68m). Among the women only Charlotte Christian`s second placed Hammer Throw (37.10m) stood out. Although the afternoon was rounded off pleasantly with predictable relay wins in the 4 x 100m(Danny Higham, Phil Taylor, Nathan Hilton, Ian Milsom) in 44.9 and the same quartet doubling up in the 4 x 400(3.32.5), it was far from one of the club's best days. A more united effort will be required at the next two matches if relegation is not to be stared in the face. 09/06/2009 11:39:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7583 After three wins on the road, Skelmersdale are still searching for that elusive first home league success of the season. Several times against league leaders Wigan on Saturday Skem threatened to give the Scott Rees Park faithful something to cheer, but just couldn't close the deal. A wonderful bowling performance from Jonas Smith (7-25) had the visitors in dire straits, first at 35-6 and then at 71-7. But Wigan's last two wickets managed to double the score to a more challenging 143. Mark Adams (38) took up that challenge and, at 70-3, Skem were once again on course for victory. But his dismissal sparked yet another extraordinary collapse, Skem losing their last seven wickets for just 23 to go down by 50 runs. 24 hours earlier, Skem did finally break their home duck with a sensational Twenty20 knock-out victory over Southport & Birkdale. At 40-1 from just six overs, the visitors looked set for a big score until Andy Birks (2-23) and Kyle Till (2-26), supported by some wonderful ground fielding, pegged them back to just 114-6. Mohammad Azam (29) gave Skem the perfect platform and man-of-the-match Birks finished the job, smashing 42 to steer Skem home with two wickets to spare. With the second team's game at Newton-le-Willows a victim of the weather, all eyes turned to Tarleton and Skem thirds' top of the table clash. New ball bowlers Ian Morris and Andy Griffiths threw everything but the kitchen sink at the home side, but the hosts weathered the storm to reach 179-6 from 50 overs. It looked a tall order, even more so after the loss of Michael Forster and Pete Davies in quick succession left Skem reeling at 63-5. But veteran pair Andy Donnelly and Steve Griffiths gradually wrestled control away from Tarleton with a sparkling century stand for the sixth wicket. With the finishing line in sight, Donnelly was bowled for 32 and a flurry of wickets left last pair Griffiths and Carl Welsh needing six from two overs. But Griffiths, with a magnificent half-century already under his belt, held his nerve to get Skem home with just one wicket and one ball to spare. Skem's Sunday team were on the losing end of a thriller with Charnock Richard, the visitors squeezing home with just one wicket to spare after Andy Birks (41) had helped Skem reach 141 all out. 09/06/2009 11:27:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7582 Dalton 1st XI won the toss at Rufford and deciding to bat were all out for 135. All Rufford's 1st XI initial batsmen chipped in and although Peter Barton took 4-53, the home side ran out six wicket winners by scoring 136-4 in 29 overs. In a stark contrast to last weekend the constant rain ensured Dalton's 2nd XI home fixture against Hesketh Bank 2nd XI never even started, thus sparing the players the bitterly cold conditions as well. On a dull day on a damp Abbey Lane pitch, Dalton 3rd XI lost the toss and bowled tightly against New Victoria 2nd XI restricting them to 128-7 declared off 46 overs, with Tony Barton (4-41) skipper Chris Comerford (2-31), both backed up by Lal Jain, Connor Burton, David Norbury and Michael Bain. Also of note was Peter Hale’s wicket-keeping. Dalton's shackled batsmen started very slowly before wickets fell quickly and it was only the defiance of Barton (9) and Hale plus U15’s Bain and Mark Norbury that enabled the Beaconites to escape and hang on for a draw at 45-9. The games were sponsored by 'The Sandwich Bar', of Ormskirk. More match details can be viewed at the club’s websites, www.daltoncc.co.uk and www.daltoncc.play-cricket.com 09/06/2009 11:16:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7580 Skelmersdale Labour county councillor Bob Pendleton was one of the casualties as the Labour party lost overall control of Lancashire County Council last week. As well as councillor Pendleton's Skelmersdale East seat, in West Lancashire Labour also lost Ormskirk West. In Skelmersdale East the Conservatives overturned a 1,300 vote majority with Carolyn Evans picking up 1,678 of the vote, Bob Pendleton having 1,513 votes and Margaret Radcliffe of UKIP 885. Councillor Pendleton blamed the MPs expenses scandal for his loss and said: “It annoys me that when we have a local election we have to fend off national issues. “When we went round the houses people were very annoyed about the MP's expenses issue and residents also mentioned they were angry with some of our MP's claims.” The Conservative's Robert Bailey also took Ormskirk West where Labour's Francis Williams had stood down. Robert Bailey had 1,465 votes and Steve Hanlon of Labour 968. But in Skelmersdale West where Chris Cheetham had stood down, Labour's Maggie Skilling retained the seat. Labour also held on to Skelmersdale Central. While the Tories retained West Lancashire East, West Lancashire North, which had been contested by the former leader of the West Lancashire Labour group Alan Bullen, and West Lancashire West. The Conservatives also held onto West Lancashire South where the leader of the West Lancashire Labour group Paul Cotterill came third. Second place in that seat went to UKIP's Jim Bevan. The Conservatives now have overall control of Lancashire County Council for the first time in 28 years. In the West Lancashire Borough Council by-election for Digmoor Labour retained the seat vacated by Mary Whitby. Labour's Jackie Coyle picked up 515, Helen Daniels of UKIP 236 and Sarah Ainscough Conservative 110. There were eight seats available in the European elections and the Conservatives won three, Labour two and Liberal Democrats, UKIP and BNP one each. Adrian Owens, the Conservative General Election candidate for West Lancashire said: “These elections are another solid step forward to the General Election. We gained both our target seats in the county council elections and to overturn a 1,300 vote majority in Skelmersdale East to elect the first local Conservative in Skelmersdale for 30 years was a dramatic result. “Voters are rightly angry about our national politics and politicians and that was reflected in both sets of election results.” 09/06/2009 10:09:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7579 A man from Skelmersdale has been arrested and charged for drugs offences following a police stop and search. Alan Birchall, 27, from Windrows, Skelmersdale was arrested on Thursday, June 4. He was subsequently charged with possession with intent to supply class A drugs. He appeared at Ormskirk Magistrates Court on Friday, June 5 and was given strict bail conditions. He is due for committal on August 3. Alan Birchall was the passenger in a car when police conducted a stop and search on Windrows in Skelmersdale. He was found to be in possession of a large quantity of cocaine and heroin with a street value of approximately £1,600 to £3,200. The driver, a 53-year-old man from Banksbarn, Skelmersdale was also arrested. He has been released on bail until September 3. Inspector Sue Swift at Skelmersdale Police said: "We will continue to do all we can to arrest people who deal drugs and bring them to justice. "We would like to reassure the local communities that we are actively tacking drugs. Following these arrests officers from the local Neighbourhood Police Team spoke to local residents to explain to them what had been happening and received a lot of positive feedback. "Members of the public can help us keeping drugs out of their local communities. “If anyone has any information about where drug dealing is taking place or who is involved in drug supply or use, they are urged to contact Lancashire Constabulary on 0845 1 25 35 45. “All calls are treated in the strictest confidence and you do not have to give your name. Alternatively ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.” 09/06/2009 09:47:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7578 Diversity and all nine of the Britain’s Got Talent finalists will perform alongside George Sampson on the ‘Britain’s Got Talent Live Tour’ 2009! Dance troupe Diversity were voted by the British public as the winners of Britain’s Got Talent 2009 and will now headline the Britain’s Got Talent Live UK Tour, which comes to Liverpool’s Echo Arena on 18 June. They will be joined on tour by all nine other finalists; Susan Boyle, Julian Smith, Shaheen Jafargholi, Aidan Davis, Stavros Flatley, Hollie Steel, Shaun Smith, Flawless and 2 Grand. The arena tour, which will travel across the UK until the end of June, will be hosted for the second year running by ITV2’s Britain’s Got More Talent presenter Stephen Mulhern. Tickets are on sale from the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400 / online at www.echoarena.com, priced at £32.50 subject to booking / handling fees.   04/06/2009 07:01:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7572 A West Lancashire councillor has defended claiming more than double any of his other colleagues’ travel and subsistence allowance. Cllr Martin Forshaw, the Conservative cabinet member for planning and transport, claimed £1753.54. The next largest claim, by fellow Tory councillor May Blake, was £834.34. Cllr Forshaw, who represents Hesketh with Becconsall, said the size of his claim was a result of the numerous meetings he attends in his role as a cabinet member. “The claims are for travel expenses submitted monthly in a detailed form to member services,” he said. “I am comfortable with my claim. I think it is appropriate. It is all on council business. “I have special responsibilities for planning and transport and attend meetings in various parts of the country. “For example I travelled to London for a meeting last year in September or October and booked a hotel on my credit card which I claimed back. “I could have booked the hotel through member services and then it becomes a council expense but I find it easier to do it myself.” Cllr Forshaw said that of the £1753.54 only a small sum had been for non-travel expenses. “Of that around £20 to £25 will be for meals but no more,” he said. He added that he has been to meetings in Leeds, Manchester and London as well as Blackpool and Burnley in the last year but said he couldn’t remember precise details of all his trips. The total of all councillor expenses claims for 2008/09 was £7279.52, of which Cllr Forshaw’s made up a significant amount. Last year Cllr Forshaw claimed £710.53 in his role as cabinet member for planning and transport. Other councillors claiming large amounts in travel and subsistence were Tarleton Tory councillor James Kay, who claimed £739.99, and Halsall Tory councillor Doreen Stephenson, who claimed £644.03. By Peter Swift 04/06/2009 06:38:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7565 Athletics Kirsty Longley is having a dream season and a fantastic run of success. In the unusual Tunnel 10K she took complete control of the women`s race and coasted home comfortably in 37.49. She now rates as possibly the most feared competitor on the district.  Her Liverpool Pembroke Sefton colleague Lisa Gawthorn was 11th female in 44.54 while John Bebbington took second in the Over 60 event with a respectable 44.26. Another class sprinter emerges from the LPS 400m stable It was a glorious day at Wavertree as LPS hosted the third of the Northern Premier Young Athletes matches. As expected Liverpool Harriers dominated but an intriguing battle ensued between the powerful Leeds City and LPS, the latter losing out eventually but not without a dogged fight. There were numerous individual performances to relish but none more so than that of Under 15 Andrew Williams in his first season and turning in a grade 1 performance at 400m in 54.30, to add to a useful 200m win in 24.60. Another class addition to the club`s already very powerful one-lap squad. At Under 17 Adam Thomson continued his good season with a sharp 100m(11.40) second place and 200m win(23.00). Toby Loveridge was untroubled in taking the 1,500m(4.16.1) and other victors in this age group included Mike Carmona-Jones(Hammer 41.44m), Drew Atherrton(Javelin 39.93m) and Billy Williams(1.85m), the elusive 1.90m just escaping him once more. At U15 Alistair Nelson was well clear in the 1,500m in a good 4.31.8. The only winner at U13 was Ben Haines with a Shot Putt of 7.66m. Winners were in short supply among the girls but there were excellent graded performances from U17 Jessica Broady 2nd in both Discus (24.10m) and Hammer(30.24m). U15 Twanda Lungu ran third twice but with excellent times in the 100m(13.2) and 200m(27.6). Buried in the U13 results Amelia McLaughlin leapt 1.40m in the High Jump for a top grade performance. The afternoon finished with the usual strong showing of the host club in the relays with U17 wins at 4 x 100m(47.10) and 4 x 400m from Adam Thomson, Mike Stam, Jesse Roberts, and Stuart Dolman. Emma Givens, Annie McLoughlin, Sarah More and Aimee Hall were likewise successful in the 4 x 100m(52.60). 02/06/2009 10:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7564 What a wonderful weekend for Skem CC as all three senior Saturday sides pulled off excellent victories. The 1st XI made it a hat trick of victories on the road this season with an emphatic seven wicket win at Sefton Park. Tony Manley was the hero for Skem with 5/29, ably assisted by highly rated 15-year-old Ben Maddocks 2/49 and Mohammed Azam 3/26. The trio helped reduce the home side from 102/2 to 132 all out. That was never going to be enough and Skem wasted no time in dispatching the ball to all parts. Mark Baker (32) and Jonas Smith (54) put on 81 for the first wicket and Greg Wadsworth (33 not out off 18 balls) finished the match in style. The 2nd XI had a excellent victory at home to Colwyn Bay. The away team won the toss and elected to bat, amassing 170/8 with Michael Moss the pick of the bowlers with 4/23. Then the second team started well with Moss (29) and Phil Wright (47) putting on 70 for the first wicket before a middle order collapse threatened to derail the victory bid. However former Newburgh favourites Mike Houghton (31 not out) and Andy Birks (11 not out) put on a crucial stand of 40 to see Skem to a 3 wicket win. The 3XI handed out a 156 run thrashing to Newburgh at Abbey Lane. Skem batting first rattled up 183/4 in 45 overs with Peter Driscoll smashing 70 ably assisted by Peter Blakey with a refined 55 not out. In reply Newburgh were shot out for just 27 with former first team favourite Ian Morris devastating the opposition with 5/4 off nine overs. Connor Welsh bagged 2/1. 02/06/2009 10:39:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7563 MP Rosie Cooper has welcomed new measures to protect tenants from unscrupulous landlords. Recently announced Government proposals aim to improve the quality of life of people in the rented sector. West Lancashire's MP Ms Cooper said: “This new legislation will plug a gap in protection for tenants in West Lancs who may be at risk of eviction because their landlord has defaulted on their mortgage and the property is being repossessed. This will ensure that tenants have a minimum of two months’ notice, not just the one or two weeks they currently get, if they have to leave their home. “The proposals for a national register of private landlords and a better complaints system mean that local people will have more redress against bad landlords, who could be removed from the register if they fail to do repairs, don’t do them properly or don’t protect tenants’ deposits. “We need to ensure tenants have the protection they deserve, that decent landlords receive the support they need and that bad landlords are driven out.” Proposed measures include a national register of private landlords and Better regulation of letting and managing agents including an independent regulator. 02/06/2009 10:30:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7561 The district council are clamping down on dog owners who allow their pets to stray by increasing fees for persistent offenders. They are hopeful that the rise to £100 for owners who are repeatedly negligent will deter them from allowing it to happen again. The one off cost has also risen, to £50, in a bid to recoup the cost of controlling stray dogs. There was previously a four-band fee structure with charges ranging from £25 to £90. David Tilleray, Executive Manager for Community Services, said: “The council recognises that the majority of dog owners act responsibly, but some people repeatedly allow their pets to stray. From now on, people whose dogs are picked up repeatedly will have to pay more to get their pet back. “The new fee structure is firm but fair and should help prevent stray dogs from causing fouling, nuisance and road traffic accidents. “All dog owners should make sure they don’t let their pet stray. Simply providing your dog with identification such as a tag, microchip or tattoo isn’t enough. If you let it stray it may be seized.” Strays are currently taken to Leigh Dogs and Cats Home, where they are kept for seven days. After that time they are offered for re-homing. 29/05/2009 05:28:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7559 Skelmersdale Police have responded after Councillor Neil Furey blasted PCSOs for allegedly not working on Bank Holidays. Cllr Furey was angry after attempting to contact Old Skelmersdale’s Neighbourhood team on May 25 when a mini-motorbike rider was causing a nuisance. However, Inspector Sue Swift said the area was well staffed at the time. “The Neighbourhood Team was not rostered for duty on May 25, however response was fully staffed and two patrols attended very quickly in response to this particular call,” she commented “I would like to reassure the local communities in Skelmersdale that the issue of nuisance motorbikes is a priority for us and something we are proactively dealing with. "We have changed the shifts of Community Beat Managers on Sundays (when we usually get this sort of problem) and we also run Operation Click which specifically targets anti-social behaviour and off road bikes in hot-spot areas at key times. “Through this operation we have had some good arrests and confiscated bikes and we will continue to target and arrest people involved in this sort of anti-social behaviour.” Cllr Furey had claimed that he was told the PCSOs didn’t work on Bank Holidays because the funding wasn’t available to pay them double-time. “I was shocked to find that the council funded PCSOs don’t work on Bank Holidays,” he said. “I shall be writing to the Conservative leader of the council to ask why funding has not been made available to support this vital community resource.” 29/05/2009 05:15:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7547 Greg Wadsworth was the star as Skelmersdale earned a much-needed win at fellow Liverpool Competition strugglers Ainsdale. The new boy hit a determined 37 to help his side chase down 135 after Skem had struggled to 63-5 on a lively seaside track. Jonas Smith bowled superbly without reward for Skem, but Tony Manley (4-39) and Mohammad Azam (3-22) were not to be denied as Ainsdale collapsed to 134 all out. In reply, Skem once again lost early wickets and Azam's quickfire 25 did little to lift the gloom as the visitors found themselves all at sea at 61-5. But a defiant stand of 40 for the seventh wicket between Wadsworth and the dependable Kyle Til (18 not out) eventually helped Skem reach their target with just two wickets to spare. "It's been a difficult last few weeks" admitted skipper Andy Molyneux, "but hopefully we've turned the corner. "Too many of us have been struggling for form at the same time, but Greg showed his quality today and Andy Birks weighed in with two wickets and a couple of excellent catches to show that he's now ready to deliver at this level." The reverse fixture back at Scott Rees Park was another tense, low scoring affair - and this one also went Skem second's way. Put into bat, Ainsdale managed only 90 as Mike Moss (4-11), ably supported by Phil Wright, Ben Maddocks, Adam Manley and Lee Williams, ran amok. Only Maddocks (19), Barry Leadbetter (16) and Phil Wright (15) reached double figures for Skem, but was enough - just - to see the home side to a precious win, Mike Houghton and Dave Farrell getting their side over the finishing line and into the top half of the table. Lou Welsh was on song for high-flying Skem thirds in their draw at Dalton. His brilliant 93 was the highlight of Skem's 175-6, Dalton replying with 92-6 to save the game. 26/05/2009 11:05:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7545 Youngsters from the Skelmersdale Junior Football League were presented with awards at the Annual Presentation Day. The new mayor of West Lancashire, councillor Geoff Roberts, attended the event which was held on Saturday and Sunday, May 23-24 at Up Holland Labour Club. About 4,000 people were present at the ceremony and 1,500 medals were given out. Those children who don't win a prize were given The Seldon's Award. On the Saturday former Everton and England player Derek Temple was present with former Liverpool player John Durnin. While on the Sunday former Everton players Graham Stuart and Tony Kay made an appearance. Joe Nelson, chairman of Skelmersdale Junior League, said: “Over the season 1,300 games were played at Liverpool Road and Blaguegate. “I would like to thank the managers, the players, the committee men, the Up Holland Labour Club, and the Polaris. “I would also like to thank Skem United for letting us use their ground for the finals and Gary Peters from the council for keeping the pitches in good condition.” PIC show captains from under 9s teams who were among the trophy winners at last weekend's Skelmersdale Junior Football League presentations at Up Holland Labour Club. Guests included mayor and mayoress of West Lancs, councillor Geoff and Eileen Roberts along with Derek Temple and John Durnin. Code 1026760, 1026761 26/05/2009 10:24:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7543 Unemployment in West Lancashire has almost doubled in the last year. Office of National Statistics figures show that the number of people claiming Jobseekers Allowance rose from 1,595 in April last year to 3,060 this month. As a proportion of the population of the district this is 4.6 per cent, compared to 2.4 per cent last year. Both current Labour MP Rosie Cooper and Tory Parliamentary hopeful Adrian Owens said their parties have the answer to the crisis. Ms Cooper even attempted to pre-empt criticism of the current Government by taking a swipe at Tory policies of over 15 years ago. “ I know from personal experience what a tragedy it is to lose your job and in this difficult time for local families,” she said. “I am committed to offering the help and support people need at this time. I recently invited Government Minister John Healey to meet with local employers to discuss the types of support they need to keep people in work. I am also working with employers, trade unions, regional agencies and Government Ministers to give people they help they need to get back to work. “In 1993 under a Tory Government, unemployment stood at 8% and people were shoved into the benefits system with no support to get them back to work. This Government has invested £5 billion over the last few months creating 250,000 jobs, providing training and skills opportunities and offering financial incentives to employers to recruit unemployed people. “It is absolutely vital there is real action and help available and that people are not just written off.” Mr Owens called the figures ‘bad news’ and said a Conservative government would try and restore access to short term credit. “A Conservative Government would act quickly setting up a National Loan Guarantee Scheme – to underwrite up to £50 billion in lending from the banks to British businesses,” he said. “The focus would be on short-term credit lines, overdrafts and trade credit – the lifelines that all businesses need to stay afloat. “We would also cut taxes on jobs and businesses. We would cut corporation tax on all businesses - funded by scrapping complex business allowances and reliefs. This would also fund a short term reduction of 1% in national insurance for the smallest companies who provide so much of new job growth. "By contrast, Labour plans to increase national insurance, which is a tax on jobs, right in the middle of a recession. We have said it is our priority to halt this damaging prospect. “Finally, we should be using this period when talented people find themselves without work and with time on their hands, to re-skill the British workforce. We have identified new funding to boost apprenticeships and community learning.” 22/05/2009 07:09:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7542 The number of Eastern Europeans registering to work in West Lancashire has been steadily falling since June 2007. A council spokeswoman said: “Figures are compiled quarterly and during April to June 2007 the total was 235. After then there has been a gradual fall each quarter to the third quarter of 2008, July to September, when there were only 90 registrations. This was the lowest quarterly total since early 2004. This was followed by a small increase to 115 during the last quarter from October to December 2008. “We cannot say why the numbers have dropped although it appears that we had noticed a downturn before the recession took hold. Whatever the situation may be, the council and its partners will continue to value the contribution that migrant workers make to the economy and will try to balance the needs of newcomers to the area with those of existing communities.” The West Lancashire figures reflect a national decline in Eastern Europeans registering to work. The number of migrants applying fell 50 per cent in the first three months of this year compared to last. Although the council does not have figures for the number of migrant workers leaving West Lancashire, the UK as a whole has seen an increase. Office of National Statistics data shows that the number of foreign-born workers leaving rose by 30 per cent last year.   22/05/2009 07:04:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7541 Members of a drug dealing gang who supplied heroine, cocaine and amphetamine to West Lancashire have been convicted for their crimes. The conviction of the five members on Tuesday, May 18 followed an extensive intelligence operation mounted by police in West Lancashire which netted one of the biggest drug seizures made by South Lancashire Police worth an approximate street value of between £150,000 and £250,000. Mark Powell, 30, of Alderley, Skelmersdale was convicted of being concerned in the supply of 2.93kg of heroin, 943g of amphetamine and 21g of cocaine. William Dennison, 51, of Elphin Street, Glasgow has been convicted of possession with intent to supply 2.93kg of heroin, 943g of amphetamine and 21g of cocaine. James Dennison, 55, of Glenavon Road, Glasgow has been convicted of possession with intent to supply 2.93kg of heroin, 943g of amphetamine and 21g of cocaine. Paul Hill, 30, of Bankers Brey, Balfore was convicted for being concerned in the supply of 2.93 kg of heroin and 943g of amphetamine. Alan Smith,40, of Heversham, Skelmersdale was convicted of possession with intent to supply 943g of amphetamine. A sixth man Peter Powell, 23, of Alderley, Skelmersdale, is also charged with offences of possession with intent to supply 2.5kg of amphetamine is currently remanded in custody following his guilty plea. They are due for sentencing on July 31 at Preston Sessions Court Detective Inspector Gary Brooks from Lancashire Police said: "We are pleased with the results of the trial which was the culmination of a long and complex police operation into an Organised Crime Group made up of people from Skelmersdale and Scotland. “These drugs would have caused significant harm and suffering to the local communities. Drug dealing fuels further crime at a local level such as burglary, vehicle crime and robberies which would have further impacted on the quality of lives of these communities. "Lancashire Police are committed to disrupting organised crime groups who are supplying Class A and B drugs within our communities. "The second arrest of Peter Powell in December 2008 when he was in possession of 1.5kg of amphetamine demonstrates the contempt he held for the Criminal Justice System." £10,010 has also been seized from this organised crime group which the police will now apply for confiscation or forfeiture. By Henry James 21/05/2009 10:07:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7537 Open auditions are to be held at the Liverpool Empire Theatre on 29th May to find a new Young Helen Forrester, one of the starring roles in the hit musical play Twopence to Cross the Mersey, which returns to the Empire later this year for a two week run. The role, previously played by Jamie Clarke, is central in Helen Forrester's true story of how she and her formerly wealthy family had to leave behind the nannies and servants and survive in the slums of  Liverpool during the depression of the 1930s. Writer and producer of the show Rob Fennah said: "The last time we held open auditions in 2004, Jamie, a relatively inexperienced actress at the time, beat hundreds of other hopefuls and clinched a part with her fantastic singing and acting abilities. As a direct result of her appearing in Twopence she was spotted by a leading West End agent and was signed up immediately." Co-producer Alan Fennah added: "Finding home grown talent is important to us and, providing they can sing and act to a high standard, everyone who comes to the audition is in with a chance. We are also delighted to announce that the show will again be starring actress Pauline Daniels in the role of Helen Forrester Senior." Pauline, whose theatre credits include Misery, Shirley Valentine and Breezeblock Park said: "I have always been a fan of Twopence to Cross the Mersey and am so thrilled to be coming back. I am confident it will be the best production to date." Returning also is Mark Moraghan, formerly of Holby City. Together with his numerous TV and theatre credits, Mark is making a name for himself as a singer and is about to release his first album. He's not a bad cook either, making it to the final of last year's Celebrity Masterchef. Mark will play the role of Helen's father, John Forrester. Auditions take place on Friday May 29 at the Empire Theatre's Atrium bar (please queue at the main glass doors of the new part of the building at the side of the theatre). Auditions will begin at 10am. Auditionees must be aged between 16 and 21. For more information about the auditions please see www.pulse-records.co.uk or www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk For more information on Twopence to Cross the Mersey please contact Rob Fennah on 0151 649 0427 or info@pulse-records.co.uk 21/05/2009 09:38:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7533 With over 40,000 tickets already sold for this year’s Liverpool Summer Pops Festival, organisers CMP have today announced further shows across the city, declaring it the biggest and best Pops ever. The month-long music extravaganza takes place across venues in the Liverpool this July, at the Echo Arena, 02 Academy, The Bluecoat and The Philharmonic. The Echo Arena plays host to Pops favourites Deacon Blue on Friday, July 31 and Simply Red bring their greatest hits farewell tour to the Pops on Saturday, July 25. The UK’s most popular pianist and bandleader, Jools Holland, makes a welcome return to the City this summer. Other top acts include legendary singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, the hottest girl group around the Pussycat Dolls, America R&B superstar Ne-Yo, Latino songstress Gloria Estefan and Irish folk stars The Pogues, all making their Pops debut. The MOBO Award winning hip hop trio N-Dubz are joined by special guests Chipmunk, Stevie Hoang and Liverpool rapper Young Kof. For tickets call 0844 847 1616. 21/05/2009 09:28:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7528 A teenager has been charged with the murder of a six week old baby girl in Skelmersdale. The 17 year old will appear at Chorley Magistrates Court this morning (May 20). He is accused of killing the baby girl, who died of a brain injury. She was taken to Ormskirk Hospital on January 9 before being transferred to Alder Hey, where she died on January 16. A 16-year-old girl who was also arrested on suspicion of murder has been released without charge. 20/05/2009 04:18:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7527 Athletics The Liverpool Pembroke Sefton Young Athletes were at Doncaster for their Premier League match. It was always going to be a tough occasion up against the powerful Sale, Doncaster and Gateshead teams and so it turned out. In spite of trailing in last though there were some scintillating individual performances especially Adam Thomson`s 400m win in the Under 17 400m in 50.70 followed by the 1.80m high jumpof the fast improving Billy Williams. There were other single winners at U17 including Toby Loveridge(800m in 2.06.3), Mike Bride(1500m in 4.22.1), Mike Carmona-Jones(Hammer 38.97m) and a neat A and B double success in the 1500m Steeplechase for Jai Vernon-McGuigan(5.03.4) and Sean Kirkbride(5.04.9). The star for the women in this age group was Jessica Broady with an impressive Hammer Throw of 29.79m but Emma Givens(12.9) and Annie McLoughlin(13.3) combined well to take the 80m hurdle races. At Under 15 Andrew Williams(55.90) and Joel Hutchinson(56.40) posted eye-catching 400m times. Under 13 Ben Haines stood out winning the Shot with 7.05m and usefully doubled up to win the 800m B event in 2.44.5. But it was more a day for honest endeavour, characterised by Kevin Carmona-Jones, George Curran, Zoe Rafferty, Tawanda Lunghu and a host of others who battled for every point.This difficult encounter was best illustrated when LPS came away with one relay win, the Mens 4 x 400m(Mike Stam, Adam Thomson, Jesse Roberts and Toby Loveridge). There will be better results in the next three matches. 19/05/2009 11:10:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7525 Cricket Dalton 2nd (90-7) lost to Earlestown 2nd (91-3) Dalton 2nd Xl lost another vital toss and not surprisingly were inserted by Earlestown 2nd XI on a green, damp pitch which the visitor's bowlers exploited superbly by bowling tightly with seaming and popping deliveries. Captain James Capstick (11) and Dave Halsey struggled to reach 20-0, and Dalton were soon 36-4, including the run out of Paul Bain by partner Halsey, ironically via Bain's son who was generously loaned to Earlestown for a fielder injured the previous day. A bright John Forshaw innings (16) injected a badly needed run rate increase, and Ben Thomas battled well before Halsey was out for 44 in Dalton's 90-7. With batting still being difficult, Dalton's fielding was excellent (especially Ken Gossage, Mike Bain and Tony Barton) with the latter completing a direct throw run out to put Earlestown on the back foot at 36-3, but Dalton's fair play was thrown back in their face with a 'non-walking' batsman which soured the mood and changed the course of what was turning out to be a good contest. With Charlson (16no) and Ashton (a good 33 no) remaining at the wicket, Earlestown won the game at 91-3 with Dan Thomas (1-34) and Ian Niblock (1-30) having no luck. 19/05/2009 11:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7524 Cricket Skelmersdale's first and second teams were involved in fascinating Liverpool Competition encounters with Orrell at the weekend. At Scott Rees Park, the 1XI had Orrell in trouble at 38-3, only to see Richard Smith (80) and Jon Cooper (44) lift them to a very respectable 196-6 declared. A superb partnership of 88 between Jonas Smith (74) and Joe Till (29) put Skem in the box seat at 120-2 going into the last 20 overs, but when they fell in quick succession it was the visitors surged back into contention. Skem didn't help their own cause, losing three batsmen to run-outs as they were finally forced to hang on for the draw at 176-9. It was a draw too for Skem seconds in the reverse fixture - but only just. Mike Moss grabbed four wickets but couldn't prevent the home side running up a daunting 214-7. But when Moss (76) and Pete Wylie responded with a century stand for Skem's first wicket, it was Orrell who were forced on to the defensive. Wylie went on the hit a personal best 87 not out and Chris Hudson weighed in with 23 as Skem fell agonisingly short at 203-3. 19/05/2009 11:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7523 THE county council have decided against lowering the speed limit on Glenburn Road despite repeated lobbying by MP Rosie Cooper. Labour MP Ms Cooper had called for restrictions outside Lathom High School following the death of a pupil in October last year and raised the issue with Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick last week. In response Mr Fitzpatrick said the Government will issue stronger guidance on the use of 20mph speed limits. Ms Cooper said: “I am baffled by the decision of the police and the county council on this issue. I know it is a main road but children dying on our roads is not acceptable and we should be taking all possible action to prevent it from happening again. “I am pleased that the Government will be introducing stronger guidance on speed limits for local authorities and I will continue to fight for improved safety on the roads around the school.” “There had been a number of meetings with police and county council officials last year, but the authority decided against lowering the speed limit.” 19/05/2009 10:49:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7521 Residents in Skelmersdale may not have to wait till November to find out about the future of the town's regeneration plans after Government officials said they hoped to have a decision on the Everton FC Kirkby Inquiry “well before November 27”. The regeneration plan for Skelmersdale – the £350m Vision – has been put on hold until an announcement is made on the inquiry into Everton FC's proposed move to a new stadium in Kirkby. St Modwen, the developer behind the regeneration project for Skelmersdale, has said it would pull out of the Vision if the Everton FC Kirkby plan gets the green light. A decision on the Kirkby Inquiry had expected to be made on November 27, but a letter to Labour MP for Knowsley North George Howarth from the Planning Inspectorate said: “We will collectively do all we can to issue the Everton Kirkby decision as quickly as possible. I hope that this will be well before November 27, although I cannot give you any firm assurance of that.” But a spokeswoman for West Lancs District Council commented that they had previously been informed that a decision on the Kirkby proposals will be announced by the Secretary of State on or before November 27, and added they have heard nothing to indicate that this timetable has been changed. She said: “While we would welcome an early decision, the matter is in the hands of the Planning Inspectorate and the Secretary of State.” 15/05/2009 04:54:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7519 MP Rosie Cooper has said she will release her expenses receipts for public scrutiny as the furore over MPs’ claims intensifies. The Daily Telegraph, who have been publishing details of outrageous claims, have already said they will eventually reveal all receipts on their website. Ms Cooper said she will go through her receipts in the next few weeks ‘to ensure they are correct for full disclosure at the earliest practicable opportunity.’ The Labour MP continued: “MPs should be subject to proper scrutiny when it comes to Parliamentary Allowances. There needs to be root and branch reform of the expenses system. “I make my summary allowance expenditure available on my website. “As all my time is directed at representing the people of West Lancashire I do not have a second job nor do I employ any family members.” Ms Cooper pointed out that her decision to keep a fully staffed constituency office in West Lancashire meant the cost came out of her allowance rather than being paid for by Parliament. “If I had all my staff in London as many MPs do the majority of these costs would still cost the same but would be paid for directly by Parliament rather than being counted against my personal account as an MP,” she said. She added that she had never changed the designation of her main home, and kept a flat in Westminster.   15/05/2009 04:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7512 Cricket An astonishing collapse at Rainford condemned Skem to their third defeat of what's proving to be a difficult second season in the Liverpool Competition. Jonas Smith (48) and Mark Baker (29) had put Skem in command at 100-2, but a sudden deluge transformed the fortunes of both sides. Home leg-spinner Pravin Tambe (5-17) took full advantage of the wet wicket to send Skem tumbling to 116 all out, the last eight wickets adding a paltry 16 runs. But, just as they did at Highfield last weekend, Skem hit back hard. Mohammad Azam and Jonas Smith reduced Rainford to 33-5 before that man Tambe came to the rescue, his superb 70 helping his home with four wickets to spare. Skem seconds bounced straight back from Monday's home defeat to Highfield to win a thriller at Scott Rees Park. Visitors Wavertree struggled for 56 overs against the elements, and the bowling of Ben Maddocks (4-29) and Mike Moss (4-41) to post 116 - a total that looked well within Skem's reach as Pete Wylie (22) joined Moss (43) in a 50 partnership for the first wicket. Chris Hudson's 20 brought Skem even nearer, but a collapse that mirrored the first team's troubles at Rainford saw five wickets fall for just 17 runs before Steve Maddocks saw his side home in the final over. Skem's third team entertained Dalton in another rain-affected game. Put into bat on a pudding pitch, Skem were floundering at 16-4 before a half-century stand between Peter Davies (32) and Andy Donnelly (22) helped them declare at 90-9. With 26 overs to reach their target, Dalton crawled to 19-4 to take a share of the spoils. 12/05/2009 10:31:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7511 Tommy Rogers Skelmersdale & District Sunday Football League Sunday, May 11 2009. Tommy Rogers Trophy Final At Skelmersdale United Polo 3 Hare & Hounds 2 (after extra-time) Polo made it a Cup double with this extra time victory over local rivals Hare & Hounds reports Kevin Mulholland. Hare & Hounds started this game very well and the first real chance fell their way after 18 minutes but a fine point blank save by Ged Gandy kept the scoreline blank. There was little he could do five minutes later as Mark King blasted into the top corner to make it 1-0 after a goal mouth scramble. Polo had a good chance on the 25 minute mark but it produced a fine save from Mark Nickson in the Hare & Hounds goal, and minutes later Hare & Hounds made it 2-0 as Daley Connolly rose to score with a fine header. Hare & Hounds were clearly the better side in the opening 45 minutes, but right from the start of the second period Polo took a grip on the game making more of their possession. Polo finally pulled a goal back after 81 minutes when a looping cross went just over the line for Steve Edwards and it was really game on. Two minutes later and the scores were level as Paul Moores hit a superb 25 yard effort into the bottom corner to take this game into extra time. Both teams looked tired in the extra period and the game really opened up with half chances falling to both sides, and it was Polo who took their opportunity to finally seal the win. A goalbound shot was cleared off the line by Hare & Hounds' Anthony Powis but from the resulting throw in Steve Edwards turned the ball in with a fantastic overhead kick – a goal deserving of winning a Cup Final. All in all a fine game between two very evenly matched teams, with the Man of the Match going to Brad Wilkie of Polo. The game was also well marshalled again by Mark Hickey and his assistant referees – a good way to end the season. The Skelmersdale Sunday League is now accepting teams for the 2009/2010 season – anyone wishing to enter a team for the coming season should contact Jim Wilson on 01695 725971. The Skelmersdale Sunday League is also now accepting referees for the 2009/2010 season – anyone wishing to apply for the coming season should contact Jim Wilson on 01695 725971.   12/05/2009 10:27:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7509 Two boys were attacked as they walked along Ormskirk Road, Up Holland. The two 12-year-old boys had been approached at 8.20pm on Friday, May 8 by a group of six or seven youngsters who were aged around 16-years-old. The group accused the boys of causing some damage to a pedal cycle and one of the boys was punched to the head and one headbutted to the face, causing some bruising and swelling, before they were able to run away. Police said the only description of one of the youths was that he had a top with a “McKenzie” log on it. Anyone with information should contact the officer in the case PC Greg Franzoni on 08451 253545 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 12/05/2009 10:11:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7504 The record breaking touring show We’ll Meet Again clocks up an amazing ninth year on the road in 2009, calling at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Wednesday June 3 at 2.30pm. With the fabulous music of The Martyn St James Sound here is an afternoon show with a recollection of the days when the spirit of Britain was at it’s highest, and an era to be proud of. It’s great fun and damp-eyed nostalgia that leaves you with a warm and sentimental glow. The show features a range of talent, including singers Sheley James and Tony Leyton, musical entertainer Andy Eastwood, comedy star Steve Barclay and host Mervyn Francis. This matinee performance will bring back classic memories of Gracie Fields, Vera Lynn, Al Jolson, Max Miller, George Formby and many more. Tickets are £11 (concessions £20 off; Groups 10+: 1 in 10 go free). To book Call Ticketmaster 0844 847 2380*, book online at www.southporttheatre.org.uk* or call into the Box Office open Monday-Saturday, 9.30am-5.30pm (*subject to booking fee). 07/05/2009 09:53:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7503 The Songs Of Sister Act come to Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Thursday May 28, 7.30pm. This high energy concert is the must see show this season, starring The London Community Gospel Choir and Rowetta (X Factor and Happy Mondays). The Theatre will fill with the sound of those famous Gospel hits from the smash hit movie Sister Act. This unforgettable show will have the audience dancing in the aisles to songs that include: Oh Happy Day, Joyful Joyful, Shout, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Hail Holy Queen and many more! So get those habits on, dig out your dancing shoes and prepare for the night of your life - fancy dress encouraged! Tickets are £18.50 (concessions £1.50 off; Live Card £1.50 off). 07/05/2009 09:52:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7495 Little Shop of Horrors Liverpool Empire Little Shop of Horrors is my favourite musical - and probably it will be yours too after seeing this fantastic production. From the first bars of music right through to the end, the action was slick and fast-paced and the audience was captivated. The show tells the story of Mushnik’s Skid Row florist, that is destined for closure until nerdy shop assistant Seymour discovers a “strange and interesting” new plant - Audrey II - that brings fame and fortune… but at a price. The cast is magnificent and features some big names, such as 2point4 Children’s Clare Buckfield who shone as ditzy florist Audrey, former Doctor Who Sylvester McCoy as Mushnik and Alex Ferns (formerly Trevor Morgan in Eastenders) who had everyone in stitches as Audrey’s psychotic boyfriend, the insane dentist Orin Scrivello. Seymour is played by Damian Humbley, who is perfect in the role and has a fantastic voice. His duet with Audrey was one of the highlights for me. Street urchins Crystal, Ronette and Chiffon (played by Nadia Di Mambro, Donna Hines and Lara Martin in this performance) cleverly help move the story along and belt out some fantastic tunes. Some spectacular puppetry really brings Audrey II to life, from when she is a small sapling to a fully grown monster. The score by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken will leave you humming the song for days to come. This brilliant show by Chocolate Factory Productions is a credit to everyone involved. Go and see it! Little Shop of Horrors runs until Saturday May 9 at the Liverpool Empire. Tickets are £10.50 - £29.50. Call Ticketmaster on 0844 8472525. Review by Natasha Robson 06/05/2009 05:12:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7494 The Kirsty kick It was a weekend when Liverpool Pembroke Sefton`s runners, jumpers and throwers all excelled. Top slot must go to Kirsty Longley who is developing a fearsome reputation for a finishing kick. She took the Women`s prize in the Waterloo 15K Road Race with a devastating sprint to the line leaving ostensibly quicker opponents gasping. Some 48 hours previous she had done something similar in the Northern Senior League(Div 2) match at Warrington. Opting for the 1500m she appeared well adrift of the leader but produced an astonishing sustained charge over the last lap to surge to the front and record 4.43.0, chopping a massive ten seconds off her personal best. She is now arguably queen of the local distance running scene. Also at Victoria Park Charlotte Christian continued her inexorable advance towards 40m with another personal best throw in the hammer of 38.99m. She seems determined to keep the tension alive as she edges upwards week after week.Michael Zaim recorded a useful 100m/200m double in 11.5 and 23.2 and Paul Milburn made a welcome return with a 400m hurdles win of 61.0 and excellent performances elsewhere.The field event enthusiasts will be following with interest the quiet advance of Dean Matthews winner of the long jump with 5.42m but an even better 12.71m triple jump victory. He has star quality. Super-vets Dave Brown and Mark Line were everywhere in the throws department piling up massive points for the club but not enough to raise them above fourth on the day. The club`s Under 17`s were at Sheffield and up against giant clubs Sheffield and Hull. Third spot would have been good but events turned out rather better. At U17 Adam Thompson took the 100m in 11.5 but even though pipped in the 200m recorded a Grade1 performance of 22.6. Quality efforts also came from Toby Loveridge,1500m in 4.11.1, and Jessica Broady with a 32.96 hammer throw. Tom Johnson(hammer 33.08m) and Billy Williams(high jump 1.75m) were additionally good winners.Under 15 middle distance runners Alistair Nelson(800m in 2.15.2) and Kyle Nicholls(1500m in 5.02.0) were victors and in Kyle`s case closely marked by David Reece(5.03.4). In the U13`s Alex Higham starred with a 100/200 double of 14.0 and 27.9 but hidden away in the results Amelia McLaughlin racked up a fine Grade 1 high jump of 1.44m. The meeting closed with a run of excellent relay results that included three wins, U17 men 4 x 100m and 4 x 400m and U17 Women 4 x 300m. Up to that point the host club Sheffield were well away winners but Hull were clearly struggling. Spirits soared in the LPS camp and as they boarded the coach home came the news that they had edged past Hull to claim second spot 326 to 323 points. The bus `erupted'. The club will have a good season in this age group. 05/05/2009 11:50:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7493 TOMMY ROGERS SKELMERSDALE & DISTRICT SUNDAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE Sunday, May 3 2009. Report by Kevin Mulholland PREMIER LEAGUE GAMES POLO 3 HARE AND HOUNDS 3 This was effectively a cup final with the top two sides in the League playing to decide the Title. It also proved to be the game of the season – one which drew comparisons to the 2005 Champions League Final! Polo took the lead in the first minute through Paul Moores and kept up a high tempo in the match to take a 2-0 lead after 12 minutes when Paul Moores again found the net. Polo never sat back on their lead and kept on pressing forward, keeping Hare & Hounds on the back foot, and in the 26th minute it was 3-0 as Steve Edwards rifled home to give Polo what looked like an unassailable lead at half time. The second half proved to be a totally different story as Hare & Hounds finally woke up and decided to give Polo a game. John Carroll pulled a goal back for Hare & Hounds in the 56th minute, and in the 67th minute Adam Hallam gave them real hope with a second. The game was frenetic for the last 15 minutes as Polo tried to hold on for the win which would give them the title, but it was talismanic substitute Mark King who snatched a late equaliser in the 84th minute to level the scores and hand the League Title to Hare & Hounds in a superb end of season finale. Full credit should be given to both sides for a fantastic game of football and also a special mention to the referee Mark Hickey who controlled the game quietly but efficiently. SHEVINGTON PARK 5 PINGWOOD 8 The other game of the day also provided some great entertainment, with goals aplenty and a game that swung from end to end. S.Blackburn grabbed the opening two goals after 8 and 15 minutes for Shevvy with C. Brown pulling one back for Pingwood after 17. S. Maynes then levelled things up after 22 minutes with S. Rood putting Pingwood ahead after 24 minutes. S. Blackburn then ensured things would be all square at the break as he made it 3-3 on the stroke of half time. The second period saw another glut of goals as S. Rood grabbed his second on 53 minutes, only to see Jay Stuart level things up for Shevvy in the 59th minute. Rood then completed his hat trick after 62 minutes with M. Pryce adding another after 68. M. Stuart pulled another goal back for Shevvy in the 70th minute but S. Maynes rounded off a fine performance with the final goal of the game in the last minute to give Pingwood a deserved victory. THE TOMMY ROGERS SKELMERSDALE SUNDAY LEAGUE IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR TEAMS TO ENTER THE LEAGUE FOR THE 2009/2010 SEASON CONTACT JIM WILSON ON 01695 725971. THE TOMMY ROGERS SKELMERSDALE SUNDAY LEAGUE IS ALSO NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR REFEREES TO JOIN THE LEAGUE FOR THE 2009/2010 SEASON CONTACT JIM WILSON ON 01695 725971. 05/05/2009 11:47:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7492 Skelmersdale's bright start to the new season is beginning to look a distant memory after a disappointing defeat at high-flying Highfield. Predictably put into bat following a succession of low scores, Skem once again found themselves struggling for runs. Andy Molyneux's men had little answer to leading league wicket-taker Chris Liptrot (7-45), with only Mohammed Azam(46) offering real resistance. Azam was soon back in action with the ball, grabbing three wickets as the home side wobbled at 46-4. But that was as good as it got for Skem, as Hughes (42) and Mollitt (39), saw their side home with six wickets to spare. "It's a bit of a worry" admits skipper Molyneux, "but there's plenty of ability in the batting and we'll turn things around. Once we start getting runs on the board our bowlers will reap the rewards." In the reverse fixture at Scott Rees Park, Skem seconds suffered defeat for the first time this season. David Platt took four wickets but the visitors nevertheless posted an impressive 184-5 in 50 overs. In reply, Skem found themselves in dire straits at 13-4 before Mitch Clarke (48), James Edgar (20) and Dave Farrell (25 not out) helped Skem reach respectability at 144 all out. Skelmersdale's 3XI lead the Southport League's Division Three after toppling Dalton. Peter Davies, with five victims, was the pick of a fine Skem bowling performance as Dalton struggled to 72 all out, before Steve Griffiths and Peter Driscoll led Skem home with six wickets to spare. 05/05/2009 11:41:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7490 Mindless yobs could cause the closure of a children’s play area in Digmoor. The district council has recently received a number of complaints from the community about youths causing trouble on Abbeystead Park. Residents have highlighted the play area and teenage shelter as a cause of the problems and some have even demanded they be removed. The council are now asking others in the area whether this would be the right move and letters have been sent out. Dave Tilleray, executive manager for community services, said: “The initial idea for the play area came from local residents and children, who were closely involved in choosing designs and helping the project come to fruition. They were delighted with the results and it has been a popular park within the community, which is why it’s such a shame that a minority who are abusing the park could force its closure. We have received a number of complaints in recent months and think the only solution would be to close the park. “We always work closely with the police and will continue to work with them to try to curb anti social behaviour but we’re trying to find out what the best solution would be for this area. This is why it is important that residents give their views so that we can make a decision that will benefit the community. Obviously we would like to keep these facilities for the community but if the residents prefer it to be removed we will act accordingly.” Residents have until Friday, May 15 to give their views to the council by contacting Paula Campbell on 01695 585144 or emailing paula.campbell@westlancsdc.gov.uk   05/05/2009 11:09:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7489 West Lancashire’s top policeman has promised to make criminals’ lives “misery” with the launch of a new operation. Operation Catchpole was launched on April 23 to tackle serious crime in the district and Chief Inspector Dean Holden said it is already reaping rewards. Police are targeting serious thefts and burglaries, organised crime, cross border crime and street level drug dealers. “So far 11 warrants have been executed under the Misuse of Drugs Act and 23 people have been arrested for drug possession, vehicle crime and burglary,” said Chief Insp Holden. “Six of these prisoners were travelling criminals.” He added that property seized includes ‘drugs of various classes, stolen property and a firearm’ and said this is only the start of the campaign. “This activity is the beginning of sustained activity in West Lancashire aimed at reducing crime levels and improving the quality of life of residents,” he commented. “Much of this activity is due to information received from members of the community and for that we are grateful. We need the support of local communities and partner agencies to achieve these sort of results. “I am committed to utilising all possible tactics at my disposal to put criminals on the back foot and make their life a misery instead of them inflicting harm to West Lancashire Communities. I would encourage members of the public to continue to support us by providing information to their local Neighbourhood Policing Teams or via Crimestoppers.” Chief Insp Holden is the first borough commander to be based in the district. 05/05/2009 11:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7487 The acclaimed musical Little Shop of Horrors stops at the Liverpool Empire Theatre this week. The affectionate spoof of a 1950s sci-fi film stars Clare Buckfield (Audrey), Alex Ferns (Dentist) and Sylvester McCoy (Mushnik). Alex, who shot to fame as Eastenders’ evil Trevor Morgan,  is delighted to be starring in one of his favourite shows. “It’s a bit of a dream come true for me,” Alex said. “I’ve been a huge fan of the movie ever since it came out and I love being in the show. “The dentist was a favourite character and it’s great being able to play someone completely insane and funny at the same time.” The show tells the story of down-and-out Skid Row floral assistant Seymour, who becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon “Audrey II” grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore offering him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite… but as Audrey II’s hungry demands increase, all that Seymour holds dear is threatened. This is Alex’s second musical role, after appearing in Guys and Dolls in 2007, and he says he loves singing.  The show’s score is by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, who wrote the stunning scores to Disney’s Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin. “That is what I am enjoying most.  It’s fantastic to be able to let rip and hold my own.” As well as the sadistic dentist, Alex plays seven other small roles including a woman. This is his first visit to Liverpool and he is looking forward to experiencing the city. Little Shop of Horrors runs until Saturday May 9 at the Liverpool Empire. Tickets are £10.50 - £29.50.  Call Ticketmaster on 0844 8472525. 05/05/2009 05:27:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7486 A documentary featuring an Up Holland woman’s struggle to raise her grandchildren was nominated for a Bafta award. My Mum Loves Drugs More Than Me followed Jan Patterson, who was forced to take care of the two girls after their mum became an addict. The Dispatches program was shown on Channel 4 in November last year. “My family and three others were involved,” she said. “They covered four families in 40 minutes so we didn’t get a lot of time and they didn’t manage to cover all the issues but there was a lot in there. “Kate the producer rang me to say that it was nominated which will mean more publicity for grandparents caring for their grandchildren. “It was about the impact of drug addiction on families who are left to pick up the pieces.” Jan told The Champion it is difficult for grandparents because of the stigma attached to their children being drug addicts. However, she said her daughter is now doing well. “She is clean now and has been for nearly two years,” she said. “She has actually turned the corner and now we are looking to return the girls to live with her. “She is one of the success stories.” Jan was slightly upset the documentary didn’t win. “I’m disappointed for the cause and for the thousands of grandparents not getting any help because any publicity is better than none,” she said. Jan campaigns hard for more support for grandparent carers as part of CLASP and believes they deserve the same status as foster parents. “Local authorities think that because grandparents are family they shouldn’t be eligible for any help or payments, unlike foster carers who get all the benefits like payments, counselling services, respite care and help for the kids if they go on to university,” she said. “The list is endless.” She also believes the recent budget was a missed opportunity for the Government to help out carers such as herself. Under new plans grandparents who gave up work to look after their grandchildren will receive National Insurance credits. However, Jan thinks more should have been done. “What are they supposed to do in the meantime until they draw their pension,” she said. “They still need money to live on. “The Government knows it needs addressing but they drag their feet hoping that it goes away.” 01/05/2009 09:19:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7485 Unions representing district council workers have blasted the offer of a 0.5% pay increase. UNISON, GMB and UNITE are united in condemning the proposal. Heather Wakefield, UNISON Head of Local Government, said: “I am bitterly disappointed and surprised at the offer, we know that most Local authorities have budgeted for an increase of between 1.5 and 2%. “Times are tough, but this offer of 0.5% will make it even harder for local government workers, who are already struggling to make ends meet. “Even though times are tough the Employers should look closely at other pay rates in the public sector, or they risk losing essential staff and jeopardising services.” Peter Allenson, Unite National Officer added: “The employers appear to be trying to take advantage of the economic circumstances, which in our view is deplorable. This will do nothing to improve the recruitment and retention of local government staff.” Unless it is formally accepted by June 1, the employers have threatened to withdraw the offer. A district council spokeswoman said: “The process for annual pay awards that affect this council are handled at a national level. “The offer made of 0.5% has been based on regional feedback from all councils and is determined by affordability in council budgets for 2009/10. The response from the trade unions is an integral part of the negotiation process as it develops. “The council has made provision in the budget for this settlement.” In March 2009 the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service awarded an additional 0.3% to the 2008/2009 pay award bringing it to a total of 2.75% on all pay points. An extra £100 had already been agreed for the lowest paid. Negotiations are ongoing.   01/05/2009 09:14:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7480 Singin’ In the Rain - Liverpool Empire The atmosphere was electric as the overture began and I knew this show was special. With handsome good looks and dazzling white smile Olivier award-winning West End and Broadway star Tim Flavin shines as Don Lockwood in this slick and mesmerising stage version of the 1952 MGM film.      He wows the audience in ‘real’ rain with the show’s iconic puddle-splashing tap routine (immortalised by Gene Kelly as probably the most famous musical sequence ever).  Gene Kelly took a day and a half to shoot it on film.  Tim Flavin dances through one take every night! The show tells the story of the making of one of Hollywood’s first musicals. Silent screen star Lina Lamont (Amy Griffiths) is struggling to get into talkies with her excruciating voice.  To get the film released on time, studio bosses dub newcomer Kathy Seldon’s (Jessica Punch) angelic voice over Lina’s and trouble begins.  Both girls are also in love with Don Lockwood – and who can blame them? Lockwood’s sidekick, Cosmo Brown, is perfectly played by multi-talented Graeme Henderson who is also responsible for the incredibly inventive, witty and perfectly executed creative choreography.  The show is littered with sharp one-liners, colourful costumes and surely some of the best lyrics and show tunes ever written.  I must mention the immaculate split-second timing, especially in Make ‘em Laugh – nothing short of brilliant! With a superb cast and outstanding direction by Alison Pollard this show is a winner.  All the splendour of Hollywood with a rousing umbrella-twirling finale! A top class show from UK Productions! Score 5/5 Review by Jenny Robson   30/04/2009 12:10:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7475 Comedian Eddie Izzard has added a second Liverpool Echo Arena date to his UK tour ‘Stripped’. Due to popular demand, Eddie will now bring his surreal stand-up to the city on November 1, as well as October 31. Tickets for the new date are now on sale priced £30, subject to a handling/booking fee. Maximum of six tickets per person. Visit www.echoarena.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400 to book. The show is recommended for viewers aged 15 and over. 30/04/2009 12:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7469 Cricket Maghull visited Scott Rees Park for the first time on Saturday and brought Skelmersdale - victors at St Helens Recs the previous week - crashing back down to earth. Mohammad Azam and Phil Wright had Maghull floundering at 61 for 5, only for the visitors to escape to 185, despite Tony Manley's 3-54. Skem made a confident reply thanks to a rapid 27 from Jonas Smith and Mark Baker also posted 27, but the rest of the side had no answer to paceman Ryan Swiers (8-25) who shot Skem down for just 77. Skem seconds fared much better in the return fixture. Mike Moss and Ben Maddocks grabbed four wickets apiece as Maghull were skittled for 116, and an accomplished unbeaten half-century from Pete Wylie led Skem home with plenty of time and wickets in hand. And Carl Welsh's third team continued their promising start with a six wicket win over Hesketh Bank. Peter Davies and James Edgar starred with bat and ball, and Conor Welsh picked up four wickets, while an undefeated half-century from the evergreen Peter Blakey saw Skem home. 28/04/2009 11:40:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7467 TOMMY ROGERS SKELMERSDALE & DISTRICT SUNDAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE Sunday, 26 April 2009 Report by Kevin Mulholland FOUNDER CUP FINAL Played at SKELMERSDALE UNITED HARE & HOUNDS 2 POLO 4 This Cup Final was the proverbial ‘game of two halves’ with two totally different 45 minute periods. After an early clash between Steve Edwards and Mark Nickson in the Hare & Hounds goal, an early free kick at the other end saw a free kick rebound off the defensive wall and John Carroll drove home from 18 yards to give Hare & Hounds the lead after three minutes. For the ensuing 20 minutes John Carroll was involved in almost all of Hare & Hounds creative play and he was involved as Mark King slotted home the second at the near post in the 18th minute. Hare & Hounds were now firmly in control with Dale Sealey excellent at the back and the aforementioned John Carroll and Ryan Wallace bossing the midfield. A rare defensive lapse in the 33rd minute saw Steve Edwards thump a header home from a corner and Polo were back in the match at 2-1. The half closed with a chance at both ends as a superb effort from Ryan Wallace was thwarted by a great save from Ged Gandy and Steve Edwards, through one-on-one, saw Mark Nickson pull off an excellent save to preserve Hare & Hounds lead at the break. The second half saw Polo make a double substitution as Michael Cole and Danny McQuire came on, with McQuire in particular making a big impact. After just two minutes of the second half, Polo were level as the excellent Steve Brogan headed home from a corner – and a minute later they were ahead after a lightning quick break from Steve Dee and a fantastic finish into the bottom corner. Now it was Polo controlling the game and most of the chances were now in the Hare & Hounds area, and after 53 minutes Andy Mawdslay made it 4-2 with another fine finish into the bottom corner. A tricky moment in the 58th minute saw a clash between Mike Moores and Mark Nickson on the edge of the box, but common sense prevailed with the Hare & Hounds keeper receiving a booking. Ryan Wallace almost put Hare & Hounds back in the game in the 65th minute but his free kick hit the post, while at the other end a great save from Nickson denied Moores for Polo. The final 20 minutes of the game was played out without any real spark or passion as Polo went through the motions, while fully deserving of the win. Man of the Match in an entertaining game on the whole was Polo’s Steve Brogan who didn’t put a foot wrong throughout the game. These two teams will do it all again next week in a League decider and again a week later in the Tommy Rogers Trophy. 28/04/2009 11:31:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7466 DALTON CRICKET CLUB The first team were at home and played Mawdesley. Dalton made 113 all out, which was reached by Mawdesley who made 114 with six wickets to spare. There was a good innings from 18-year-old Barrie Fletcher who made 26 not out, coupled with one wicket taken for two overs bowled. Also Peter Barton took three wickets. This was a disappointing second defeat of the season. The third team were well beaten by New Victoria's 2nd team at home. New Victoria scored 188 for 3 wickets. They then bowled out Dalton for 65 runs in 38 overs. A good innings by Dalton's Danny Thomas, of 26 hard fought runs, lessened the humiliation. Dalton dropped seven catches-is this a record. The second team won away to Newburgh. 28/04/2009 11:23:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7462 Saturday, April 25 2009 Curzon Ashton 0 Skelmersdale United 4 United were hoping for Woodley to do them a favour and beat Durham City and hand them the title, and with Skem 2-0 ahead and Woodley leading against City at half time, the dream looked like a possibility, writes Frank Hughes. United did their job, but a second half fight back by Durham means that Skem are destined for the lottery of the play-offs for the second year running. Ironically Skem will host Curzon in the play-off semi-final on Tuesday night at the Skelmersdale & Ormskirk College Stadium, as indeed they did last season. Skem took the lead as early as the fourth minute. Mark Houghton made a magnificent run into the danger area; beating three players in the process, and was brought down just as he played a through ball to Adam Birchall. The referee allowed play to go on and thankfully Adam managed to slot the ball home from close range. United were two up in the 12th minute when Steve Akrigg headed home Kyle Armstrong’s cross at the far post, and a minute later news came through that Woodley were leading 1-0. There wasn’t a great deal of action worthy of note in the first half, but the score at Lambeth Grove was keeping the Skem faithful entertained. Durham had levelled the score but within five minutes, Woodley had got their noses in front again, and the Skem supporters were once again dreaming of the impossible. As Michael Duffy departed the pitch with an injury, the news was that Durham were 3-1, and that’s the way the scores remained at the end of the first half. United came out in the second half believing the unlikely might just turn into reality. Mark Houghton had a trio of efforts in the opening stages. Meanwhile Durham managed to reduce Woodley’s lead in the 54th minute, and went on to level matters in the 66th minute. Mark Houghton scored his 29th goal of the season in the 69th minute. Kyle Armstrong’s long clearance found Kevin Towey who in turn squared the ball to Houghton who only had the keeper to beat. Once he spotted Carnell advancing towards him he simply lifted the ball over him and the ball sailed into the back of the net. Paul Prescott scored with his first touch of the game in the 80th minute, but the celebrations were muted as news came through that Durham had taken the lead at Woodley for the first time. Seconds after United strolled to their 26th win of the season, news came through on the tannoy that Durham had done enough at Woodley to secure the Championship title. United hung around for the runners-up trophy, but as much as they’ve earned the right to be recognised as the second best team in the league with a 13-point advantage over their nearest rivals Newcastle Blue Star, it will count for nothing if they fail to do the business in the play-offs. MoM Mark Houghton Team: McMahon, Duffy (12. Morrison 43) Crowder, Akrigg, White, Turner, Wade (17. Walker 78) Birchall, Houghton (15. Prescott 75) Armstrong. Subs Not Used: 14. Moore. 16. Robinson. Att: 237. 28/04/2009 10:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7461 Despite the current economic climate the super-rich tycoons in the district have managed to keep onto their fortunes, according to this year's Rich List. The report is compiled by The Sunday Times, and features the top 1,000 British and Irish millionaires. At the top of the list from West Lancashire are members of the Moores family. The Moores family's fortune has not changed and they are said to be still worth £1,200m, and have climbed from 60th last year to joint 32nd. They include David Moores, who lives in Halsall. In February 2007 he sold his majority stake in Liverpool Football Club to the American US tycoons George Gillett and Tom Hicks and received £90m in the process. The move has since proved to be controversial. Sir Peter Moores, 77, the son of the late Sir John Moores who founded the Littlewoods Football Pools empire, lives in Parbold and is head of the Peter Moores Foundation, a charitable organisation connected to the arts. John Hargreaves, 65, founder of Skelmersdale-based Matalan, and former resident of the district, can be found just outside this year's top 150 most wealthy people. He was worth £430m in 2008 and ranked joint 199th. This year he has risen to joint 156th, and is worth £330m. The company's 200 stores had a good Christmas and saw sales up 4%. In 2008 the company had sales of £1 billion and a profit of £53.2m. Other millionaires with links to West Lancashire include Dave Whelan, 72, who lives in Parbold, and owns Wigan Athletic and founded JJB Sports. Last year Whelan was joint 397th and said to be worth £200m, while this year he is joint 297th in the list with a fortune of £190m. Alan Murphy who made his money from producing toilet rolls at his factory in Skelmersdale and is known as the “bog roll king”, also appears. Murphy, 60, was behind the AM paper group, which made toilet rolls. When Murphy sold his stake in the group he made £150m. He is joint 309th and valued at £180m. Last year he had been joint 397th and worth £200m. 28/04/2009 10:33:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7460 People returning from holiday with flu like symptoms are being urged to stay at home as concern rises over swine flu. NHS Central Lancashire released the warning in a bid to contain the virus, which has already claimed more than 150 lives in Mexico. Cases have also been reported in the USA.   Director of public health Maggi Morris said: “Anyone who has recently travelled to an affected area and is experiencing a flu-like illness should stay at home to limit contact with others. Please seek advice by phone from a local health professional, such as your GP, or by contacting NHS Direct on 0845 4647. “You should make sure that you tell the person you speak to about your recent travel. “Depending on your symptoms, you may be advised that further investigations are necessary. “It is too early to make a complete assessment of the implications of this new virus or if it could represent the appearance of a potential pandemic strain of influenza. “However, alongside local and national NHS colleagues, we are monitoring the situation closely and we have stepped up our surveillance arrangements “There are also simple steps that everyone can take to help prevent catching colds, flu and other viruses. Always use a tissue to catch your sneezes and coughs, throw away used tissues where germs can linger and wash your hands afterwards. “It’s important to maintain good basic hygiene as well, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water will reduce the spread of viruses.” More advice and information is available at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.   28/04/2009 10:26:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7459 Road campaigners in West Lancashire have lost a way they can lobby their views with the closure of the district's Road Issues Group. The Road Issues Group was created in 2000 and was one of eight transport related groups formed as part of the district council's Local Agenda 21 initiative. Throughout these eight years the Road Issues Group has had a number of successes through lobbying for highways improvements and safer roads in the district. But the council said the number of people attending the group had dropped considerably. A council spokeswoman said: “Given this dwindling support for the group the district council took the decision to withdraw it’s secretarial support, although the Group themselves are free to continue meeting if they so wished. “The future of the group was put to the vote and it was unanimously decided that the group should cease to exist.” However Ormskirk resident Margaret Heslegrave said: “I would have to question the council when they said there was a lack of interest in the group. “We are told we can now give our views to the parish council, but because Ormskirk has not got a parish council we have not got as much as a voice than places such as Bickerstaffe.” By Henry James   24/04/2009 06:55:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7458 Drinkers in West Lancashire are being warned to watch their waistlines. The Government’s Know Your Limits Campaign says that excessive alcohol consumption means piling on the pounds. A spokesperson for the campaign said: “The average wine drinker now consumes around 2,000 calories from booze alone each month. Over a year this is equivalent to 38 extra roast beef dinners or almost 184 bags of crisps. “In Lancashire, two fifths of drinkers surveyed admitted they didn’t know that a glass of white wine has the same calorie content as a bag of crisps. Two large glasses of white wine not only puts a woman over the recommended daily limit for alcohol consumption but - at approximately 370kcals - also provides her with nearly a fifth of her daily calorie allowance. “Similarly, almost a half of Lancashire drinkers aren’t aware that a pint of lager has as many calories as a sausage roll. A beer-drinker knocking back just fiv