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Mere Brow Village News

27th August 2010
'BEST EVER' GCSE RESULTS FOR TARLETON HIGH SCHOOL
Source: Southport Visitor

Tarleton High School is celebrating their best ever GCSE results.

Students and staff at the school celebrated their record breaking year when the results were announced this week. The number of pupils gaining A* and A grades has risen to a high of 29 per cent this year and Year 11 pupils equalled the schools best ever results with 80 per cent achieving five or more A* to C grades.

Some of the students at the school achieved particularly outstanding results, most notably Tom Cowin who gained 11 A*s and three As, Sian Butler who achieved 10 A*s and six As and Aiden Hipwell who got seven A* and seven A grades. More...


23rd August 2010
MP WARNS OF POSTAL SCAMS
Source: Press Release

Local MP for Tarleton, Banks, Hesketh Bank and Rufford, Lorraine Fullbrook is this month highlighting the issue of Postal Scams, that are increasingly trapping local people.

Commenting on her concerns, Lorraine who lives in Tarleton said… “I was recently visited at my one of my local surgeries by a local Crime Prevention Officer and an independent member of the South Ribble Older People’s Partnership. The issue they discussed with me is an extremely serious one which has been raised on many occasions over the years by both the local and national newspapers and news – but as these unscrupulous people become more inventive in how to steal money from people, we must all continually make people aware of this horrendous practise. The Crime Prevention Officer presented me with a 6-inch high pile of mail which contained many different examples of letters delivered by post, personally addressed local people. In one individual case, there must be over 250 letters to just one elderly lady. Many of the letters are repetitive but here are some examples:

  1. "The visions I have had of you will radically change your near future...In total over 50 million pounds destined for your bank account in less than 3 months" This one is telling the woman that she is going to win the Euro Millions lottery draw three times in three months – the letter concludes by asking for a payment of £45 via cheque or postal order.
  2. Another type of letter - again supposing to predict the future - attaches little fake coins or "amulets" advertising their “power” to bring "immense wealth". This one asks for credit card details with number-security code, date of birth and a signature. Many of the letters are headed with photographs of supposed "famous/celebrity" psychics with daft names such as Ircan Mage or Jackie Stallone.
  3. The scare-tactic letters: "We know your life lines. We know what can happen. This is also why we have to warn you...we are very concerned. We see you in big danger" This particular letter vaguely requests a sum of £27= as a contribution to save a person from harm or danger.
  4. Then there are some of the more standard ones: "High End Prize Agency of Western Europe Match-Up...we have located the owner of £1,280,856.00". This particular type of letter says that "you are under no obligation" but ask the recipient to sign and return the form. Please be aware that this can be used as a signal of intent and gauges how persuadable or vulnerable the recipient is in order to send further letters which do ask for money OR to call a telephone number at an exorbitant charge per minute of the call.
  5. A further example is a letter or postcard advising the recipient that they have a parcel awaiting delivery – which the recipient has never ordered – and requests that a telephone call be made to arrange delivery. There is no parcel; there is no delivery waiting but the telephone charge can be in the region of £6.00 per minute.

Some of these letters are of very poor quality print, but one can only imagine these being very frightening to receive. All in all there are so many different variants of these bogus and scam letters. They range from correspondence by fake "psychics" to fake firms assigning "cash prizes" amounting from thousands to several million pounds - often, if not always, asking for the person's credit card details at the most extreme level.

What is particularly concerning is that all of these letters affected just one of my constituents. Many of us receive the odd one of these letters and we just throw them away. However, for some of our more vulnerable people, they can escalate devastatingly. They become frightening to receive, and they are far easier to be taken in by than many of us realise.

It is important to remember therefore that if the contents of these letters appear too good to be true, they almost certainly are.” Please help me to raise awareness of this despicable practise. Please talk to your family, friends and neighbours.

This is beyond a disgrace and together we can all play our part and do our bit to do all we can to make life as difficult as possible for these thieves and help stop this al together.

I will be raising this issue with my parliamentary colleagues for them to spread the word to their constituents – and I will be raising this matter in the House of Commons to try and stop it”.


12th August 2010
Free FIRE SAFETY CHECK
Source: Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service Promote Free Home Fire Safety Checks Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service offer free Home Fire Safety Checks to every householder in the county.

These checks involve a crew visiting your home and giving fire safety advice, as well as fitting smoke alarms where necessary. Any resident within Lancashire can request one and they are completely free of charge.

The Home Fire Safety Checks include:

• Providing and install FREE 10-year smoke alarms where necessary.
• Giving life saving advice in the event of a fire in your home.
• How to make a fire escape plan for you and your family.
• Practical advice on identifying fire hazards in the home.

All Home Fire Safety Checks are carried out by employees of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service who will show identification when they arrive.

To book a free Home Fire Safety Check, please contact us by calling Freephone 0800 169 1125 quoting SA003


11th August 2010
Free Learner Drivers support scheme
Source: Lancashire County Council

Do you take a learner driver out for extra practice sessions or know someone who does? Have you heard about Lancashire County Council’s FREE Pre Pass Support Scheme?

What is it? The FREE award-winning course is designed to help anyone who takes a Learner driver out for extra practice sessions. It will help mentors understand how they can provide the best support and advice for the Learner alongside their professional driving lessons.

When and where is it? The course is held on a Saturday at our Road Safety Training Centre in Leyland. We are running the course on the 14th August, 11th September and 9th October 2010.

How much does it cost? Nothing! The course is totally FREE and we will also provide you with a FREE lunch and refreshments.

What happens on the course? There is a theory and practical session which both the Learner and Accompanying Driver can attend. The course gives friendly support and advice so you both get more out of extra practice sessions. There is also an interactive workshop for the Learner which will provide lots of useful tips to help them prepare for their test.

Contact us now to book your place on a course Call Chris Dunderdale on 01772 534593 Email chris.dunderdale (at) lancashire.gov.uk


2nd August 2010
TRADING STANDARDS UPDATE
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards Service

JOB-HUNTERS are being warned that some adverts for mystery shoppers, offering earnings of £300 per week, which have recently appeared in newspapers, are likely to be a sophisticated way to acquire bank details. When responding to an advertisement consumers are then asked for personal details and up-front payment.

This is yet another home-working scheme designed to part job-hunters from their money while offering very little in return. We are strongly advising people not to get involved with anything involving the words "Mystery Shopper".

When applying for any home-working job, the moment there is any mention of asking for up-front payment people should walk away.

Trading standards officers are also warning residents to beware scams involving tickets for the 2012 Olympic Games. Be aware that tickets will not be available until 2011 and will only be sold through the official website and authorised ticket resellers.

Residents may pre-register for tickets free of charge from the official 2012 Olympic website although pre-registering does not guarantee tickets. You will not be asked to pay money or sign a contract till 2011. If any website offers bargain tickets before 2011 it will be fraudulent.

Please refer any complaints and further information to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 56-58 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506


7th July 2010
HOSEPIPE BAN ANNOUNCED
Source: United Utilities

We have announced that we will impose a hosepipe ban following the driest start to a year since its records began. It is the first hosepipe ban in the North West for 14 years.

The ban will come into force on Friday July 9 at 6am.

More...


11th June 2010
APPEAL FOR WITNESSES AFTER FATAL CRASH
Source: Ormskirk Advertiser

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a motorcyclist died following a collision. The man was pronounced dead at the scene at around 5.45am on Blackgate Lane, Tarleton.

The collision also involved a red Ford Fiesta and a transit van. Both drivers were uninjured but treated for shock. The Fiesta driver - a 79-year-old from Leyland - and the van driver - a 26-year-old from Bolton - were both arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

The road was closed for six hours whilst accident investigators carried out their work. Sergeant David Tonge, Senior Investigating Officer from Lancashire Road Policing, said: "I appreciate that this incident happened very early in the morning but people would have been around commuting to and from work at that time. "I am keen to speak to anyone who saw what happened, or who saw any of the vehicles before the collision to come forward. "We know the red Fiesta left Huntapac and we know the blue Yamaha motorcycle had travelled from Tarleton in the direction of Southport. "We are in the process of informing the victim's next-of-kin and we have specially trained officers on stand by to support the family. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 01772-614444. More...


9th June 2010
Rufford Tip To Close
Source: BBC

Lancashire County Council has announced the closure of Rufford recycling centre.

A total of four recycling centres are set to close; Langho, Padiham, Rufford and at Everest Road in St Annes in a bid to save £1m every year.

Councillor Geoff Driver said it should not lead to rubbish being dumped illegally as several other recycling sites are nearby. He said: "The average person goes to one of these centres between one and three times a year. "The fact that they might have to go an extra three, four or even five miles to a site is not going to lead them to fly-tip." More...


21st May 2010
SCHOOL ANNOUNCES SWIMMING POOL REFURBISHMENT PLANS
Source: Tarleton High School Press Release

Tarleton High School’s popular swimming pool will be given a much needed refurbishment this summer.

A major water leak had threatened the closure of the pool due to the cost of the repairs needed. The school has worked closely with Lancashire County Council’s Property Group to jointly fund the refurbishment that will cost over £250,000.

The Hesketh Lane school pool closes on Sunday 30th May with the works continuing through the summer. The pool has a target reopening date in early September if everything goes to plan. Most of the work will be underground and so will not be obvious to swimmers.

The refurbishment includes; excavating the existing pipe work on the pool side and replacing it, replacing the filters, pumps and pipe work in the plant room and retiling the pool itself. This will stop the water leak, increase the water quality for bathers and reduce the energy costs by making use of available technologies. The swimming pool is used for swimming lessons by hundreds of children from the surrounding areas and is a valuable local resource in an area surrounded by waterways and canals.

In addition, local swimming clubs and groups use the facility for training. The pool is also popular with locals who can hire the pool for swimming parties or use the pool during the public access sessions.


14th May 2010
ORMSKIRK MARKET DAY BUS SERVICE TRIAL
Source: Hubmaker Media

It has been decided to introduce a Thursdays Only bus service to for a trial period of three months starting Thursday 3rd June:

BANKS Hoole Lane 0930
HESKETH BANK Shore/Chapel Roads 0938
TARLETON Cock & Bottle 0945
MERE BROW Legh Arms 0951
HOLMESWOOD Methodist Church 0956
RUFFORD Hesketh Arms 0959
BURSCOUGH War Memorial 1005
ORMSKIRK Bus Station 1015

The return journey will leave Ormskirk around 1300-1330 allowing for approximately 3 hours in Ormskirk.

The service is a trial and the uptake will be assessed. The continued operation of the service is estimated to need a minimum of 15-20 passengers on the service.


12th May 2010
TRADING STANDARDS WARNING - INTERCOM SALES
Source: Lancashire County Council Trading Standards Service

Please be advised that a number of complaints are being received relating to cold calling by men selling intercoms systems to residents of sheltered accommodation and local authority housing throughout the Leyland, Preston, Lancaster and Burnley/ Pendle areas.

Various reports have been received and there are believed to be two companies currently operating in this way. One company, which gives a Blackpool address, advises residents that the cost of the intercoms is usually £80 but will cost £40 if purchased through the Council. Sometimes residents believe the intercoms are linked to police schemes, or to their housing provider, none of which is true.

A second set of two salesmen, sometimes giving Lancaster addresses, are operating in the east of the county and appear to be charging around £250 for intercoms systems. Residents are led to believe the company is connected with the housing provider and are shocked at then having to pay. Please be aware these companies have no official links, the products may not work, and damage may be caused to doors etc when a drill is used during the fitting.

We would be grateful to receive any further intelligence on these salemen, especially if they are currently trading in an area. Please refer any complaints to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 55 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs PR1 3NU via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506 and ask them to pass the information to trading standards straight away. If there is any fraud or criminal damage the matter should also be referred to the police.


21st April 2010
SUNDAY SCHOOL TAKE ON SNOWDON
Source: Southport Visitor

A group of 15 women are taking on Mount Snowdon to raise money for much needed improvements at Mere Brow Methodist Sunday School.

The women came up with the idea at last year’s harvest tea after deciding they wanted to do a challenging sponsored event. Since then they have been regularly pounding the countryside in preparation for the climb.

The money raised will fund new railings at the Sunday school, which celebrates its 150th anniversary next year. More...


24th March 2010
BNP TO STAND FOR ELECTION
Source: Champion News

The British National Party has announced that BNP activisit Rosalind Gauci will be fighting for the South Ribble seat, which covers the Banks, Hesketh Bank and Tarleton areas, at this year's election. More...


18th March 2010
CRAB & LOBSTER TO RE-OPEN
Source: Ormskirk Advertiser

A RESTAURANT which was once a popular haunt of the rich and famous is to re-open nearly 15 years after it closed. Football and television stars were among the people who frequented the Crab and Lobster in Mere Brow during its heyday. Proprietor Kay Flood was extremely popular with the clientele and there was uproar when the venue closed in October 1995.

Now former policeman Gerald Consett and his wife Pat are re-opening the eaterie and are hoping to bring back those glory days. The couple took over the Legh Arms next door three years ago and have spent 18 months and more than £150,000 on refurbishing the Crab and Lobster. More...


25th February 2010
GREENFIELD HOUSING ProposAL
Source: Ormskirk Advertiser

West Lancashire Council is looking to allow more housing in rural settlements and provide more affordable homes. The new policy aims to maintain a five year supply of housing land as required by the Government.

It proposes that housing development will be allowed on brownfield sites of any size, and on greenfield sites for up to 10 units in the following villages: Tarleton, Up Holland, Parbold, Hesketh Bank, Banks, Appley Bridge, Halsall Village, Haskayne, Newburgh, Rufford, on New Cut Lane and Segars Lane (Halsall), Brown Edge (Scarisbrick) and Tontine.

Other plan policies will remain the same, for example the very tight restrictions on new development in the Green Belt. The greenfield sites are sites that have not been built on previously but are within or adjacent to exisiting developments. More...


15th February 2010
SCAM UPDATE
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards

Residents are advised that there are several scams and possible unfair practices hitting Lancashire at the moment.  

South Ribble- consumers have complained about a cold caller who phones, saying that he is from British Telecom, and that he is offering a new service called "Do Not Call".  For a one off payment of £9.95 the consumer can take advantage of a life-long service banning cold calls.   Financial information to pay for this service is then requested over the telephone.  Consumers are warned that these phone calls are not made on behalf of BT, and asked not to give personal information to companies they do not know over the phone.

South Ribble, West Lancs- "Supporting Arms" bags have been left for collection at various locations, asking for unwanted goods.  These are not left on behalf of a registered charity, and unfortunately the collections sometimes coincide the collection of other bags left by properly registered charities.  Please be aware that the profits from sales of goods given to such companies as Supporting Arms are likely to go to support private businesses rather than charitable enterprises. 

Throughout Lancashire- consumers selling goods on ebay are warned that after notification by ebay that a sale has been successful, you may receive a fake email, very official in appearance and purporting to be from Paypal, requesting that you post the item and send them the tracking number.  The email states that payment has been received but is in a holding account till paypal receives the requested information, at which point they will release the money.  Believing that the email is genuine, the seller then posts the item abroad, only to find later that the paypal email is fake when no payment is received.   Please be very careful when sending any goods abroad, especially to Africa where many of these scams originate.

Throughout Lancashire- Businesses, schools and nursing homes across the county are being warned to watch out for bogus invoices that claim to be from directory publisher Yell in relation to its products and services.  The warning comes after a number of complaints, including one from an Accrington primary school that recently received a bogus £500 invoice. The scammers seek to mislead Yell customers into signing up to fake advertising contracts which sometimes result in repeated requests for payment by phone. Some people may be duped into thinking they are taking out Yell advertising or renewing existing advertising programmes. Bogus order forms are sent by e-mail or fax and contain look-alike "Yellow Pages" branding. Customers who return the form subsequently receive invoices and requests for payment. Some have even received threatening telephone calls. In one instance, scammers set up copycat websites resembling Yell.com. Yell customers should be particularly alert to any correspondence they receive containing contact or bank account details in Holland or Germany. Some of the names to beware of are:
Yellow Page UK or Yellow Page AG, which displays an inverted "walking fingers" logo.
Yellow Pages 24.
UK Yellow Guide.
Anyone receiving contact from these traders or anyone similar should ignore any order forms and should not pay any invoices.

Throughout Lancashire-  Another lottery scam apparently based in Italy- the name given is Chic Express, giving an address in Piemonte- the unsolicited letters claim the consumer has won £66,000 but needs to send a £20 administration fee in the envelope provided.  The letters purport to come from Collins & Partners Practice, so-called experts in security & financial transfers.

Residents are strongly advised never to give out personal bank details in response to an unsolicited call or mailing.

Please refer any complaints to Lancashire Trading Standards Service, 55 Guildhall Street, Preston, Lancs PR1 3NU via Consumer Direct tel 08454 040506. If there is any loss of money the matter should also be referred to the police.

Warning issued by Dawn Robinson, Lancashire County Council Trading Standards Service, please call 01772 532763 for further information.


20th January 2010
BAN ON ADULT FOOTBALL CONTINUES AT LEISURE LAKES
Source: Southport Visitor

PROPOSALS to allow adult footballers to start playing again at Leisure Lakes in Mere Brow have been blocked by planning councillors – because their shouting and bad language upset nearby residents.

People over 16 have been banned from playing at the site near Tarleton since October 2008 by West Lancashire Council after residents' complaints about foul language and players urinating on the site.

An application for junior football training there was approved last March, but the council limited the age of players so adults couldn’t play. More....


17th January 2010
COMMUNITY OVERCOME GRITTING CHALLENGE IN BANKS
Source: Hubmaker Media

North Meols Parish Council teamed up with community spirited local businesses and residents to solve the snow clearance problem in Banks.

Whilst the residents and parish council are aware that snow clearance is the responsibility of Lancashire County Council they also recognised that the County Council would not have the resources to clear the roads of Banks let alone the footpaths.

The parish council sourced the grit and ordered 20 tonnes for immediate delivery and also passed a motion to authorise the purchase of 10 grit bins that will be sited conveniently around the parish. The £3,697 + Vat bill for the grit and the bins was taken from the Parish Council ‘environmental projects’ budget.

Mr Godfrey Crook offered the use of a spreader, small tractor and driver and facilities to store the grit. Mr Bill Abram, chairman of the resident’s group, then came up with two more spreaders, one from Baxters, and several volunteers to spread the grit.

Dr David Vickers, Chairman of North Meols Parish Council, said "We recognise that as there is a high proportion of more mature people in the village and we have a responsibility to ensure their safety when out and about. It was for this reason we took the decision to source the grit and do the job ourselves."

"The whole exercise is a joint partnership between local business, the resident’s group and the parish council all working together for the benefit of the village."

"We hope that LCC will supply us with more grit through the summer months so we can be ready if we have another winter like this one. We also need details of anyone else who is willing to help with the spreading should the need arise".


10th January 2010
SCHOOL CLOSURES UPDATE
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton High School will open on Monday 11th January for ALL PUPILS. Parents are asked to ensure the conditions of opening are observed.


8th January 2010
SCHOOL CLOSURES UPDATE
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton High School will open on Monday 11th January for year 11 pupils.

The suituation regarding school opening for years 7, 8, 9 and 10 TBA


7th January 2010
SCHOOL CLOSURES UPDATE
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton High School will be closed on Friday and a decision on opening next Monday will be advised as soon as possible.


7th January 2010
BORROW ATTACKS HOON IN LEADERSHIP ROW
Source: Hubmaker Media

Two former Cabinet ministers, Mr Hoon and Ms Hewitt, have called for a Labour leadership contest claiming that unless the issue of the leadership was resolved, it could undermine Labour's general election campaign.

In a reply to the email David Borrow responded:

"Dear Geoff,

Thank you for your e-mail. I am very disappointed and I disagree with you in every detail. I do not believe that the Parliamentary Labour Party is divided over the question of leadership, other than by a very few malcontents. I did not expect you to have become one of them.

Any leadership ballot (whatever the result) would be seized upon with glee by our political enemies and be immensely damaging to the Labour Party and our prospects at the forthcoming election. I believe you and Patricia have misjudged the mood in the PLP and I feel there is no pressure for a ballet only months before the General Election.

I would suggest, for the best interests of the Labour Party and your Parliamentary colleagues, that you now provide us all with a period of silence until after the next election."


6th January 2010
FURTHER SCHOOL CLOSURE ANNOUNCED
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton High School have announced they will remain closed tomorrow, Thursday the 7th January.


5th January 2010
SNOW JOKE FOR BRETHERTON SKIER
Source: Mirror.co.uk

Bretherton's Dave Ryding might be one of our big skiing hopes for this year's Winter Olympics in Vancouver - but he isn't happy when the snow began to fall in Britain.

He grumbled: "I wanted a break from my normal routine - I did not want to see any snow."

"I'm sick of the stuff. I was slipping all over the place. Transport was carnage.

Dave, 23, spends several months of the year training in Austria and is now rated as the British No.1 for slalom. More....


2nd January 2010
TARLETON DANCER IN BBC SHOW FINAL
Source: Lancashire Evening Post

Dancer Alistair makes move for TV crown

A Tarleton farmer's son turned ballet dancer is to star in a new BBC TV talent search to find Britain's best dancer.

Former Tarleton schoolboy Alastair Postlethwaite, now 28, who won a place at the Royal Ballet School at the age of 11, is a finalist on new primetime BBC1 show, So You Think You Can Dance.

Alastair, who grew up on Longlands Farm, in Tarleton, and still stays with his parents between jobs, mucked out, herded cattle and worked on the family stall in Chorley Market in between working on his dance moves as a child. More....


9th December 2009
TRACING OLD HOLMESWOODIANS
Source: Hubmaker Media

Is there anyone out there from Holmeswood Primary School during the years 1945 - 1951?

Holmeswood Primary School 1945-1951

The photograph is of those classmates and beofre I try to recall ALL of their names, I offer my apologies to those who I either forget or slightly get their names wrong. Back row (L to R) Henry Sephton, N/K, Nicholas Taylor, David Magill, David Marsden Next row (L to R) Billy Williams, ---- Midgely, Ken Tunks, Gilbert Holden Brian Bolton Next row (L to R) Irene Fell - -----, Kathleen Magill, -------- ,' Lena Caunce(I think) Front row (L to R) myself, Robert Sutton, Frank Marsden

It would be great to hear from anyone who may recall the brunt of Miss Dandy's cane or the whimsical tones of Miss Williams.

DO get in touch either by email at swingtail44 (at) aol.com or by letter to:
Malcolm Porter
Elm Cottage
East Waterside
Upton Upon Severn
Worcs
WR8 OPB


3rd December 2009
Council Tax Rebate SCAM
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards

Lancashire residents are warned that they may receive a telephone call from someone claiming to be from The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) or The Local Council. Consumers are informed that they have been identified as being eligible for a rebate on their council tax and are asked for credit card or bank details so that an "admin fee" can be taken to process the refund or so the refund can be put into their account.These calls are bogus and residents should not provide any details to the caller.

Trading Standards have had reports of these calls being received in West Lancashire but believe residents throughout the county may be at risk. A spokesmen for VOA has confirmed that they would never ask for financial details.


17th October 2009
Maurice BOND WINS GIANT PUMPKIN CONTEST
Source: Hubmaker Media

Maurice Bond wins the 2009 Mere Brow Giant Pumpkin Competition

Maurice Bond grew the biggest pumpkin at the Mere Brow Giant Pumpkin contest which was held at Gravel Farm, Banks.

The 785 lb giant pumpkin won both the NFU All England Shield and the Mere Brow & District Shield. Hedley Roberts from NFU Mutual Insurance presented Maurice with his trophy. The Dickinson Family pumpkin came second and last year's winner Gerrard Wright came third.

Click Here for the full list of pumpkin weights at the 2009 Mere Brow Giant Pumpkin Show


25th August 2009
SPEED CAMERA DAMAGE 'NOT SUSPICIOUS'
Source: Champion Newspapers

Officers from Lancashire Constabulary have said this week that they are not treating damage to a speed camera near Holmeswood as suspicious.

Insp David Robinson told The Champion on Monday (August 23) that police officer's covering the force's Southern Division had inspected the damaged camera, on the B5246 between Rufford and Mere Brow, but believed a passing vehicle may have caused the damage.


"The police attended just before 3pm on August 23 to investigate a damaged speed camera but the circumstances surrounding the incident are still being investigated," he said.

Read the complete Champion article


15th July 2009
SWINE FLU UPDATE - THS AUTHORISED ABSCENCE
Source: Tarleton High School

Dear Parents,

Following indications that a small number of pupils and staff were displaying swine flu-like symptoms yesterday, we liaised with the North West Health Protection Agency. We were asked to send you a letter from Dr John Astbury, who is the Consultant in Health Protection. As you will see in that letter, the advice from the Health Protection Agency is that the school should not be closed because such action would fail to reduce the spread of the virus within the community or to pupils and staff.

A number of parents have contacted the school to inform us that they would prefer not to send their children to school during the current time. Clearly, such a decision is only for parents to make, however, if you should take that decision then we will authorise the absence. I would be grateful if you could inform us when you take the decision to keep your child at home so that we can amend our attendance records.

Our ability to keep Tarleton High open is pre-dominantly dependent upon the effects of the virus upon the staff. As of today, four members of staff have reported illnesses which suggest swine flu-like symptoms though only two have been definitely diagnosed as having the virus. We are monitoring closely the effects of the virus on both the pupils and staff. If we reach a critical point at which we have insufficient staff to safeguard the children’s welfare then I may have to close the school either partially or in full. If that occurs then I will inform you immediately of the consequences of that decision.
May I remind you of the advice from the Health Protection Agency that, providing they are well, pupils should continue to attend the school as normal.  If, however, pupils show fever or flu-like symptoms they should stay at home and you should contact NHS Direct on 08454647 or their GP by phone for advice.

Thank you for your help in this matter.

Yours sincerely,

Anthony D Hardiker
Headteacher


13th July 2009
HIGH SCHOOL CONFIRM SWINE FLU
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton High School have today confirmed that a member of staff has been clinically diagnosed as suffering from swine flu.

The Health Protection Agency has concluded that as swine flu is now present and spreading locally it recommends that the school should not be closed as this would fail to reduce the spread within the community.

Children who are suffering flu-like illness should stay off school for a minimum of seven days from the beginning of their flu symptoms and not be sent back to school until they are fully well.

Health Protection Agency - Swine Influenza (influenza A H1N1v)


4th July 2009
HIGH SCHOOL MEMORABILIA SOUGHT
Source: Tarleton High School

We are a small group of staff and pupils at Tarleton High School who would like to find out about its history. Do you have any photos or memorabilia (old exercise books or items of uniform maybe?) from days gone by at the school? What was the uniform like? What subjects did you study? What buildings were there? What rules do you remember? What happened when rules were broken? What were lessons like? What were the highlights?

We are especially interested in the first decade of the school, when it opened at Tarleton County Secondary School in the 1960’s. Were you among the first pupils? We are also interested in memories from the 1970’s and 1980’s.

If you can help in any way, possibly even be willing to visit the school and talk to pupils sometime, then please get in touch.

Any photos can be sent to Ms Lund, Tarleton High School, Hesketh Lane, Tarleton, PR4 6AQ. We can be e-mailed on d.lund@tarletonhigh.lancs.sch.uk or telephoned on 01772 812644. We hope to begin our project on Tuesday 14th July.


3rd July 2009
LEISURE LAKES WIN MOTORBIKE ROW
Source: Ormskirk Advertiser

Leisure Lakes has won its appeal to allow motorbikes to be used on the site in Mere Brow.

The enforcement notice has been quashed and the permission from the council comes with various conditions including the provision of car parking at the site and specific times when the bikes will be able to race.

The site should be used only for motorbikes, quad bikes, 4x4 buggies, 4x4 road vehicles and motorcross training bikes.

However, Leisure Lakes lost their appeal to allow land to be used for storage and caravans for war games and re-enactments by the Phoenix Rebels Western group.

Click here for the complete artilce from the Ormskirk Advertiser


11th June 2009
FOOTBALL FRACTURE
Source: Ormskirk Advertiser

A man suffered a fractured cheek bone following a scuffle during a football match on Sunday, June 7. The fight broke out at Leisure Lakes between two members of opposing teams and the fracture was caused when the man received a punch to the side of his head. Police are making enquiries to try and trace the offender.


22nd May 2009
WEST LANCASHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL MEMBERS EXPENSES
Source: Hubmaker Media

The total sums paid by the District Council to each Councillor in the financial year 2008/2009 are as follows:

NAME OF
BASIC 
SPECIAL 
DEPENDENT
TRAVEL AND 
TOTAL
COUNCILLOR
ALLOWANCE
RESPONSIBILITY
CARERS
SUBSISTENCE
 
ALLOWANCE
ALLOWANCE
ALLOWANCE
 
£
£
£
£
£
AINSCOUGH, C S
4725.00
36.38
4,761.38
ALDRIDGE, T
4725.00
4,725.00
ASHCROFT, C I
4725.00
4,725.00
9,450.00
ATHERLEY, U
4725.00
66.93
4,791.93
BAILEY, R M
4725.00
2,692.27
38.32
7,455.59
BALDOCK, J T
4725.00
449.11
5,174.11
BLAKE, M D
4725.00
834.34
5,559.34
BULLEN, A
457.26
457.26
CARSON, P
4725.00
4,725.00
COLLING, J
4725.00
4,725.00
COLLINSON, R J
4725.00
69.84
4,794.84
COTTERILL, P
4725.00
4,725.00
CROPPER, W J
4725.00
471.71
5,196.71
DERELI, C
457.26
457.26
DUFFY, D M
457.26
457.26
DUFFY, I
4725.00
4,725.00
EVANS, R
4725.00
4,725.00
FORSHAW, M H
4725.00
4,725.00
1,753.54
11,203.54
FOWLER, A P
4725.00
435.94
5,160.94
FUREY, N S
4280.44
4,280.44
GARTSIDE, P H
4725.00
373.46
5,098.46
GRANT, I D
4725.00
11,151.48
65.30
15,941.78
GREENALL, P V
4725.00
4,064.52
8,789.52
GRICE, S J
4280.44
4,280.44
GRIFFITHS, D J
4725.00
4,725.00
HAMMOND, R G
4725.00
3,958.75
8,683.75
HANLON, S J
457.26
457.26
HENNESSY, N J
4280.44
4,280.44
HOPLEY, V
4725.00
4,725.00
9,450.00
JONES, S J
4725.00
315.77
5,040.77
KAY, J J
4725.00
2,361.96
739.99
7,826.95
LEA, P N
4725.00
4,725.00
MAWDSLEY, C
4,280.44
1,421.94
5,702.38
MCKAY, D I
4725.00
4,725.00
MEADOWS, D J
4725.00
4,725.00
MEE, J
4725.00
4,725.00
MELLING, R
4725.00
4,725.00
NOLAN, R B
4725.00
4,725.00
O'TOOLE, D M
4725.00
5,670.00
349.70
10,744.70
OWENS, A E
4725.00
6,756.79
11,481.79
PENDLETON, M
4725.00
4,725.00
PENDLETON, R A
4725.00
231.06
177.04
5,133.10
PHYTHIAN, D
4725.00
4,725.00
POLLOCK, R
4280.44
187.23
4,467.67
POPE, E G
4725.00
4,725.00
PRATT, G E
4280.44
42.43
4,322.87
RICE, A T
4725.00
3,306.96
630.00
8,661.96
ROBERTS, G M
4725.00
1,651.13
412.75
6,788.88
ROBERTS, J A
4725.00
4,725.00
ROBERTS, W G
4280.44
4,280.44
SAXON, D
4725.00
50.24
4,775.24
SKILLING, M
457.26
228.58
155.21
841.05
STEPHENSON, D J
4725.00
644.03
5,369.03
SWIFFEN, D
4725.00
2,361.96
7,086.96
TATTERSALL, M H
4725.00
4,725.00
VICKERS, A D
4725.00
4,725.00
WEST, D M E
4725.00
4,725.00
WESTLEY, D A
4725.00
4,725.00
9,450.00
WESTLEY, F M
457.26
457.26
WHITBY, M
4725.00
4,725.00
TOTAL
254,781.64
65,193.34
630.00
7,233.32
327,838.30

16th May 2009
LANCASHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS EXPENSES
Source: Hubmaker Media

Members' Allowance Scheme 2008/09 - payments

Member Name

Basic Allowance

Special Allowance

Travel & Subsistence

N  ABRAM               

10,039.00

2,420.39

0.00

N  AHMED               

10,039.00

1,398.90

209.58

T  ALDRIDGE            

10,039.00

3,544.00

1,865.26

T  ASHTON              

10,039.00

3,615.61

3,612.00

A  ATKINSON            

10,039.00

17,418.00

6,444.93

M R BARRON             

10,039.00

428.25

862.26

J  BATTLE              

10,039.00

2,321.66

1,102.05

A  BROWN               

10,039.00

16,205.00

1,641.28

T E BURNS              

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

T W BURNS              

10,039.00

13,930.00

2,523.04

M C CALVERT            

10,039.00

3,994.18

4,325.86

M P CASE               

10,039.00

8,473.24

2,112.24

J  CAVANAGH            

10,039.00

15,452.00

9,722.76

S  CHARLES             

10,039.00

0.00

1,077.38

C W CHEETHAM           

10,039.00

2,636.20

2,242.10

C  COATES              

10,039.00

0.00

6.40

W J CROPPER            

10,039.00

0.00

1,542.35

G  DAVIES              

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

F  DEMOLFETTA          

10,039.00

2,910.70

161.97

S  DERWENT             

10,039.00

0.00

1,400.15

G  DRIVER              

10,039.00

17,374.95

0.00

W B DWYER              

10,039.00

0.00

2,171.38

J  EATON               

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

K R ELLARD             

10,039.00

8,269.00

0.00

P R ELLIOTT            

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

S  FISHWICK            

10,039.00

0.00

1,177.82

E  FORSHAW             

10,039.00

3,544.00

1,747.04

H W GORE               

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

C  GRUNSHAW            

10,039.00

2,673.45

1,617.20

J  HANSON              

10,039.00

12,334.22

2,662.40

H  HARDING             

10,039.00

30,119.00

8,404.87

F  HEYWORTH            

10,039.00

7,176.11

234.05

C J HOLTOM             

10,039.00

4,864.00

2,872.88

A W JEALOUS            

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

M  JOHNSTONE           

10,039.00

14,309.14

13,575.55

A P JONES              

10,039.00

0.00

1,622.29

S J LARGE              

10,039.00

4,485.60

5,899.44

R J LAWRENSON          

10,039.00

0.00

437.71

M E LIVESEY            

10,039.00

0.00

420.08

A  MARTIN              

10,039.00

16,205.00

11,800.51

M  MARTIN              

10,039.00

7,527.00

388.55

P  MARTIN              

10,039.00

6,904.85

4,969.00

J D MEIN               

10,039.00

14,254.70

3,717.31

R  MUTCH               

10,039.00

0.00

1,197.85

D M O'TOOLE            

10,039.00

5,790.00

4,561.34

E A OADES              

10,039.00

0.00

576.45

L T ORMROD             

10,039.00

7,527.00

5,718.79

M  PARKINSON           

10,039.00

0.00

3,522.01

V A PATEL              

10,039.00

13,930.00

5,055.74

Y  PATEL               

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

R A PENDLETON          

10,039.00

9,469.95

4,411.14

N D PENNEY             

10,039.00

8,269.00

5,560.95

M  PERKS               

10,039.00

3,459.85

205.10

A E PIMBLETT           

10,039.00

6,228.85

636.71

D  POLLITT             

10,039.00

21,084.00

2,150.97

K V RILEY              

10,039.00

3,544.00

4,406.06

S  ROBINSON            

10,039.00

2,768.00

809.79

G W ROPER              

10,039.00

0.00

557.04

D  RUDDICK             

10,039.00

0.00

642.55

E  SCOTT               

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

S J SERRIDGE           

10,039.00

8,565.00

6,988.99

T E SHARRATT           

10,039.00

0.00

48.78

J S SHEDWICK           

10,039.00

4,487.57

1,128.13

R H SHEPHERD           

10,039.00

0.00

1,077.66

S A SHORROCK           

10,039.00

1,817.57

2,175.22

J  STUART              

10,039.00

0.00

995.83

J S SUTCLIFFE          

10,039.00

4,633.00

1,813.39

A  THORNTON            

10,039.00

0.00

1,649.33

M  TOMLINSON           

10,039.00

15,488.93

3,176.71

C  WALTON              

10,039.00

0.00

1,055.15

M J WELSH              

10,039.00

1,981.32

285.71

D  WESTELL             

10,039.00

5,310.00

2,457.22

D M WHIPP              

10,039.00

12,108.00

0.00

A  WHITTAKER           

10,039.00

0.00

4,627.13

B J WHITTLE            

10,039.00

770.75

893.29

G A WILKINS            

10,039.00

0.00

260.98

R A WILKINSON          

10,039.00

0.00

1,057.96

F J WILLIAMS           

10,039.00

5,310.00

580.03

M  WILSON              

10,039.00

747.86

3,366.49

P  WILSON              

10,039.00

0.00

0.00

V M WILSON             

10,039.00

5,622.00

3,005.88

D  YATES               

10,039.00

8,896.00

7,438.45

J E YATES              

10,039.00

15,550.00

10,125.66

K A YOUNG              

10,039.00

4,091.71

1,097.56


15th May 2009
LEISURE LAKES WIN FOOTBALL APPEAL
Source: Southport Visitor

ADULT football will return to Leisure Lakes after campaigners won a legal battle with West Lancashire District Council.

Football was banned from the site last October after West Lancashire District Council planning officers received complaints from a number of local residents. No planning consent had ever been granted for adults to play football on the Tarleton site but permission was granted for children to play football there earlier this year.

Leisure Lakes appealed against the planners’ enforcement notice regarding adult football and learned this week they had been successful. However, a government planning inspector has ordered that if Leisure Lakes does not carry out works to re-locate the pitch then adult football should cease once again.

Click here to view the full article from the Southport Visitor


7th May 2009
West Lancs 'Poor Relation' on bus pass scheme
Source: Hubmaker Media

Rosie Cooper, MP for West Lancashire, yesterday raised the matter of concessionary bus travel schemes and the potential for fraudulent issuing of tickets by bus companies in Westminster.

She said "My aim is for pensioners to get a fair deal on concessionary transport. Older people in West Lancashire look on with envy as their neighbours in Wigan and Southport travel for free on buses and trains, often into West Lancashire. They, too, would like the chance—and the choice—to hop on a train and visit their friends and relatives and to take full advantage of the social and leisure opportunities in Liverpool, Southport and Wigan.

I have taken to the streets alongside local pensioners, and our petition has collected more than 2,500 names, which shows clearly the strength of local feeling. We have met council officials to discuss the issue, and pensioners have protested at the district council’s budget meeting, holding posters saying, “We don’t want to be Merseyside’s poor relations”, but all to no avail."

On the claims of fraudulent bus tickets being issued she said "I am aware that bus companies are issuing tickets to concessionary passengers that do not reflect their journey. In a more reprehensible practice, bus drivers issue tickets from a pre-printed roll.

I often joke that, as a new MP, I was not issued with the two things that I would have found most valuable: tarot cards and a crystal ball. However, it seems that that is not so for some bus operators. Are they telling me that they are able to predict each customer’s journey in advance, thus allowing them to pre-print their tickets? I would be surprised if that were so. I have complained to local bus operators about these practices and their response has been to change their ticketing policy so that the ticket states the destination. They no longer issue tickets from pre-printed rolls. I have made statements in the local press to raise awareness of such practice and encouraged people to complain if it happens to them."

She continued "Lancashire county council’s internal audit report on the matter was supposed to go to committee on 30 March, many months after the matter was brought to its attention, but there is still no news, no understanding of the scale of the problem, and no idea of the action to be taken or how quickly. The council must act soon to ensure that it gets real value for every pound that it pays, especially if it is underfunded, as it claims. There is no question but that those practices must be stopped."

For a complete transcript of the debate click here


1st May 2009
POLICE SEIZE STOLEN CARAVANS AT LEISURE LAKES
Source: Southport Visitor

POLICE officers have recovered eight stolen caravans worth a total of £100,000 from the Leisure Lakes in Mere Brow.

Officers seized a stolen caravan located at Leisure Lakes Caravan Park at Mere Brow. Following a search of the site a further seven were discovered.

The caravans have been stolen from various locations in the UK. Officers believe sold on by the thieves to innocent members of the public who have been duped into buying them.

Click here to view the full article from the Southport Visitor


19th March 2009
APPEAL FOR 'PINK TIE & TIARA' SPONSORS
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton Young Farmers are desperately seeking Table Sponsors, Raffle Prizes and donations for the auction for the annual "Pink Tie and Tiara" Dinner Dance.

The Dinner Dance will be held at Waterfront Suite in the new conference centre attached to Southport Theatre with this years chosen charity being Derian House Children's Hospice.

The dinner dance held last year raised almost £3500 for Tarleton Young Farmers which included a £800 donation to the North West Air Ambulance. The Young Farmers organisation is solely financed through the clubs fundraising activities such as fetes, shows and social events. 

Organiser, Amy Foster said "Business’s that sponsored us last year, said it was great advertisement and thought it was well worth it.  We would really appreciate both previous and new business’s to get involved and help us to reach our target this year.

If you can help with any sponsorship, prizes or donations or require any further information please contact Amy on 07872 998892


17th March 2009
AWARD FOR TARLETON HIGH SCHOOL PROGRESS
Source: Hubmaker Media

Tarleton High School, a Community Technology College, received a prestigious award last week in London. The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust  held a celebration dinner to recognise schools that have achieved high performance in their 2008 GCSE results. The Specialist Schools and Academy Trust recognised Tarleton High School as one of the top 21 schools which had made most progress between 2007 and 2008. The pupils at the school had achieved 70% five or more A*-C including English and Mathematics representing an increase of 18% over twelve months

The dinner was held at The Royal College of Physicians on Tuesday 10th March and the guest speaker was Dylan Wiliam, Deputy Director at the Institute of Education, University of London.

Elizabeth Reid, Chief Executive of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, said:

“High performing schools are playing a major role to ensure that every young person receives an education fit for the challenges of the 21st century.  I congratulate these schools, their teachers and students for this significant achievement and the contribution they make to their local communities.  By partnering with other schools and sharing best practice through the SSAT’s networks, they are also helping to deliver improvements across the country.”

Anthony Hardiker, Headteacher, said: “This award recognises the consistent hard work by the staff and young people who deserve this accolade. We believe that helping young people to achieve this benchmark enables them to safeguard their future in an increasingly challenging world.  I would like to thank the young people, their parents, staff and governors for their immense contribution in making the school so special.

I was very proud to represent our school and it was a great privilege to receive the award on behalf of everyone at Tarleton”


18th February 2009
Great British Fish and Chip Supper – Friday 15th May
Source: Press Release

Want to do something different? Want to raise money where you live or work? Want to eat Fish and Chips, while raising money for charity? Hold a fish and chip supper on Friday 15th May 2009 whilst raising awareness of spinal cord injury and supporting SIA’s information and support services.

You can hold a fish and chip supper in your own home, at work or hold a larger supper at your local community centre.

SIA will provide a fundraising pack containing hints and tips, recipes, invitations and donation envelopes. By inviting 7 friends and asking them to donate an additional £5.00 means you will raise at least £35.00 from your supper but we will also give you additional fundraising ideas to raise even more money for SIA.

In 2009 SIA will celebrate its 35th Anniversary and being that Friday 15th May 2009 is Spinal Cord Injury awareness day and what a better way to raise funds than eating Fish and Chips and raising money for SIA.

The money raised from the suppers will help the Spinal Injuries Association offer support to individuals who become paralysed and their families, from the moment a spinal injury occurs, and for the rest of their lives by providing services and publications which enable and encourage paralysed people to lead independent lives.

Every year in the UK over 1,000 people experience a spinal cord injury and there are an estimated 40,000 spinal cord injured people in the UK alone.

Donor Development Officer, Elizabeth Wright, says, “The Fish and Chip Supper is a wonderful opportunity for a great evening with friends and family. We are also encouraging people who work to hold a Fish and Chip Lunch in their work places to raise even more funds. You may be even a local community group wanting to run a fun evening with your group.

2009 is the first year that SIA are running the suppers but we already envisage this to be one of our top fundraising initiatives in the SIA calendar over the coming years. Be a part of something special and make a real difference to help spinal cord injured people gain access to the information and support they need to enable them to live full and independent lives.”

For more information or request a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright on 0845 678 6633 xtn 229 or email fishandchips@spinal.co.uk or visit www.spinal.co.uk

DON'T FORGET TO ADVERTISE ALL YOUR LOCAL EVENTS FOR FREE!!!!


13th February 2009
ADDITIONAL SITE VISIT LEISURE LAKES FOOTBALL PITCHES
Source: Ormskirk Advertiser

FOOTBALLERS are still no closer to finding out if they can return to Leisure Lakes pitches in Mere Brow, after councillors voted to conduct a second site visit.

The application to have five junior football pitches, complete with four temporary buildings for use as changing rooms, was discussed by West Lancashire District Council Planning Committee last night.

Councillors agreed to the additional site visit after observations were made about the safety of the site and the potential impact of noise on neighbours.

Click Here for the complete Ormskirk Advertiser Article


15th January 2009
DAVID BORROW RAISES LOCAL Flooding ISSUES
Source: Hansard

Following on from the local public meetings, South Ribble MP David Borrow has raised the issue of flooding and drainage in Westminster.

The Adjournment Debate covered many of the issues perceived as contributing to the problem (sewer capacity planning and maintenance, watercourse maintenance, the planning process) and the agencies who have responsibility for aspects of the problem (United Utilities, Environment Agency, Lancashire County Council, South Ribble Council, West Lancashire Council).

A full transcript of the debate can be accessed by clicking here


8th January 2009
TAX REFUND SCAM
Source: Lancashire Trading Standards Service

Fraudsters are targeting taxpayers with thousands of scam emails in the run up to the 31 January Self Assessment tax deadline HM Revenue & Customs said today.

HMRC also warned the public to be aware of further fraudulent attempts to obtain personal information after the 31 January deadline has passed when many people will be waiting to hear about genuine tax refunds. The scams tell the recipient they are due a tax refund and ask for bank or credit card details so that the fictitious tax refund can be paid out. HMRC is also aware of a growing number of telephone scams with fraudsters posing as tax officials arranging rebate payments. All customers who provide their details to the fraudsters risk their accounts being emptied and credit cards used to their limit. The victim also risks having their personal details sold on to other organised criminal gangs.
HMRC strongly advises:

  • that any email appearing to originate from HMRC and which offers a tax refund should be forwarded unopened to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk
  • Do not click on websites links contained in suspicious emails or open attachments.
    If in doubt, please check it out with HMRC at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk /security/fraud-attempts.htm



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