Twenty libraries and children’s centres across East Lancashire are set to face the axe.
The bombshell recommendation was made by Lancashire County Council officials shortly before 8 pm on the Friday before a Bank Holiday Weekend.
Libraries set to close include Rosegrove, Briercliffe, Barrowford, Trawden, Oswaldtwistle, Rishton, Whalley and Read.
The move has been slammed by campaigners who submitted petitions and fought for months to keep the crucial services open.
Mr Neil Martin, a spokesman for the Save Whalley Library campaign, said: “This is very disappointing news, and a great blow to the community, along with the other cuts the residents of the Ribble Valley have experienced such as bus services. I feel that the process of the consultation has not been fairly carried out and I feel our voices over saving our community asset has been left unheard officially.”
Ribble Valley resident and campaigner, Mr Ged Mirfin, was equally disappointed. He said: “Despite the tremendous/valiant efforts of our enthusiastic team of volunteers, Lancashire County Council’s officers very late on Friday night took the decision to recommend the closure of Whalley Library and Spring Wood Children’s Centre - a decision that will be ratified at Cabinet on Tuesday, September 6th - the day after children go back to school.
“Be under no illusion that this is a political decision which was taken some time in advance. Concerns raised about rural isolation, service centre provision, the impact on elderly residents and the need to service the demand created by new housing have simply been ignored.”
Under the plans, Brierfield Library has been saved from closure.

Several libraries in East Lancs set to close


Twenty libraries and children’s centres across East Lancashire are set to face the axe.


The English Beat - starring original songwriter and lead-singer of The Beat, Dave Wakeling - have announced their UK tour heading to 53 Degrees in Preston on Thursday September 22nd.
Dave Wakeling – the songwriter and lead-singer of The Beat - returns to the UK this September for a full UK tour, where he will be showcasing new material due for release in 2017.
The singer, songwriter and guitarist behind the biggest 1980’s 2-Tone Band, The Beat, known in the US as The English Beat, Dave Wakeling is the consummate showman, touring the world with an all-star line-up, performing all the hits of The Beat, General Public and a host of new songs.
The English Beat will play an extensive run of UK dates including shows in Liverpool, Newcastle, Cardiff, and London, and Dave’s hometown and the birthplace of many Beat lyrics and classics, Birmingham.
The band has been busy in the studio working on their first new album in 30 years, due for release in February 2017, titled ‘Here We Go Love’.
With a unique energy, pure melody, passion and politics, it’s impossible to forget the genius of UK Top 10 singles, ‘Mirror in the Bathroom’, ‘Hands Off She’s Mine’ and ‘Too Nice To Talk To’, before The Beat disbanded in 1983.
“I am very excited to be coming back to the UK to play shows and to get to introduce the songs from our upcoming new album. We have been in summer training, with shows with ub40, b52’s, culture club and train, and the band is in tip top form and ready to rock, steady!” Dave Wakeling.
SEPTEMBER TOUR DATES:
Friday 16th September – Concorde 2, Brighton
Saturday 17th September – Skabour Festival, Folkstone
Sunday 18th September – The Forum, Tunbridge Wells www.twforum.co.uk
Tuesday 20th September – Fibbers, York
Wednesday 21st September – The Magnet, Liverpool
Thursday 22nd September – 53 Degrees, Preston
Friday 23rd September – Robin 2, Wolverhampton
Saturday 24th September – The Windsor, Fife
Sunday 25th September – Volunteer Hall, Galashiels
Tuesday 27th September – Think Tank, Newcastle
Wednesday 28th September – Trades Club, Hebden Bridge http://thetradesclub.com
Thursday 29th September – Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff
Friday 30th September – Crauford Arms, Milton Keynes
OCTOBER TOUR DATES:
Saturday 1st October – Birmingham O2 Institute, Birmingham
Monday 3rd October – Ruby Lounge, Manchester
Tuesday 4th October – Komedia, Bath
Wednesday 5th October – Rescue Room, Nottingham
Friday 7th October – The Zone Night Club, Redruth http://broadbeat.co.uk
Saturday 8th October – The Garage, London

Dave Wakeling’s The English Beat skanking their way to 53 Degrees


The English Beat - starring original songwriter and lead-singer of The Beat, Dave Wakeling - have announced their UK tour heading to 53 Degrees in Preston on Thursday September 22nd.


A new online tool has been launched to help report power cuts in Lancashire.
The region’s network operator, Electricity North West, has launched a log a fault’ tool on its website. The information provided will automatically log the fault and engineers will be dispatched to site to restore the power as quickly as possible.
Stephanie Trubshaw of Electricity North West, said: “Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for our five million customers across the North West to contact us if they experience a power outage in their home or business.
“Thankfully for most people power cuts are very rare, but they can have a big impact. We invest millions in upgrading and maintaining the power network to prevent any unexpected outages, but it’s important for our customers to be able to easily contact us if they do experience any issues and the new online tool will help make that possible.”
Visit: www.enwl.co.uk/contact/log-a-fault or search for any faults in your area here. Alternatively call on 0800 195 4141.
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A new online tool has been launched to help report power cuts in Lancashire.


Hardship in the fells of 1930s County Durham and intrigue at a Second World War munitions factory are just two compelling new books from Quercus this September.
Nobody’s Child by Elizabeth Gill
Two traveller sisters from the wild countryside of County Durham face hardship, hunger and an uncertain future when they lose their parents and their home.
Consumed with grief and surrounded by hostility, can the teenagers survive the tough times ahead in 1930s England and hold tight to the family ties that bind them together?
Elizabeth Gill, author of over 30 books set in and around her native Tyneside, works her storytelling magic in a moving and gritty family saga of adversity and hope and love and loyalty that will delight her army of devoted fans.
On Christmas Day in 1930, Kath and Ella Watson are living with their parents in an empty house close to Castle Bank Colliery on snow-covered Durham Fell tops. They have been forced to take shelter there from their travellers’ wagon because their mother is gravely ill.
Kath is seventeen and her father believes she should have married long ago, particularly as she has been courted by the likes of rich traveller Will Hern. But Kath has seen the chaotic life of traveller women with babies, forced to raise their youngsters inside a cramped wagon.
Their mother Rose wants a better life for her two daughters but when she dies on Christmas Day morning, their father is overcome by grief and sets fire to the family’s wooden wagon, reducing it to a heap of ashes.
When the police arrive to tell them that not only has their father died in an accident after riding off on his horse but also that they must leave the house where they have been sheltering, the two sisters are left bereft and virtually penniless.
With winter closing in around them, and facing the hostility of locals who are suspicious of Gypsies, the girls strike out to find their way in a harsh landscape which sets them on a collision course with the wealthy Banks family of nearby Golden Hill Hall, local farmer Jake Sutherland and Will Hern, the man who would still have Kath as his wife.
Using her trademark warmth, experience and wisdom, Gill captures the essence of the hardy folk of the north-east in a story brimming with drama, romance, rich period detail and vivid characters.
Written from the heart and with a seductive sense of time and place, Nobody’s Child is the perfect read for autumn nights…
(Quercus, hardback, £19.99)
The Factory Girls by Rosie Archer
Friends in need, flying bombs and explosive revelations… it’s time to head back to the adventures and misadventures of Gosport’s ‘canary girls.’
The real-life munitions workers at Priddy’s Hard, the Royal Navy Armament Depot in Hampshire, who helped to arm the Allies’ D-Day invasion fleet, are the inspiration behind this compelling series from Gosport author Rosie Archer.
In the follow-up to The Munitions Girls and The Canary Girls, Archer sweeps us away again to England in 1944 and into the hearts and minds of the women who packed shells and bullets with sulphurous chemicals that made their skin and hair turn yellow.
Archer pays tribute to the dangerous and dirty work undertaken by the 2,500 women at the factory during the Second World War in stories that prove no matter how hard the times, despite bombing, short rations, cruel men and unwanted pregnancy, friendship will pull you through.
In autumn of 1944, V-1 flying bombs, known as doodlebugs, are the latest threat to war-battered Gosport. And at Priddy’s Hard munitions factory, Em Earle is about to suffer a threat to her livelihood that comes from much nearer home.
Meanwhile, local crook and black marketeer Samuel Golden is back and up to his old tricks as he tries to find ways to exploit the hardships of local people for his own gain.
As well as Samuel’s unwanted attentions, Em has to deal with some huge revelations from within her own family. Her daughter Lizzie is pregnant, and a strange woman has turned up on Em’s doorstep claiming to be her sister.
Em is excited but cannot help feeling wary. Could this woman be too good to be true? Once again it will be up to the girls from the bomb factory to rally round and support one of their own.
The triumphs and disasters of this entertaining, close-knit group of friends spring to life in a nostalgic story packed with drama, tension, passion and the grim realities of life in wartime England.
Archer has her finger firmly on the pulse of the munitions workers… their hardships, their struggles and the determination to win wars in both their personal lives and on the bigger stage.
Romance with a gritty edge…
(Quercus, paperback, £6.99)

Book reviews: Cosy up with two family sagas from Quercus Books


Hardship in the fells of 1930s County Durham and intrigue at a Second World War munitions factory are just two compelling new books from Quercus this September.


Burnley Leisure is celebrating Britain’s Olympic sporting success by hosting an open day at St Peter’s Leisure Centre on Saturday.
The free event forms part of the nationwide I Am Team GB campaign, which aims to get more people out and about and active in their communities.
From free swimming, health checks, netball and rounders sessions to the free use of squash courts and racquet sports, there will be lots to try at St Peter’s Leisure Centre with places being offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
The activities on offer will include personal training sessions, gym inductions and a 90-minute high intensity fitness class. Fantastic savings on memberships are also available on the day.
The fun day will also feature a kickboxing and sambo session delivered by the local Black Knights club.
Padiham Leisure Centre will be also joining in the fun with the pool inflatable for children between 2pm and 3pm.
Scott Bryce, operations manager at Burnley Leisure, said: “The Rio Olympics have gripped the nation and Team GB has done an amazing job, making us all proud.
“ We’re especially proud of our Girls Up and Active ambassador Sophie Hitchon for winning bronze in the hammer in Rio and representing the whole of the borough.
“We’re delighted to be joining leisure centres and sports clubs up and down the country in putting on a range of free activities to celebrate Team GB’s amazing successes.
“You can book on the day or just pop in to our leisure centres and decide what you want to do from all of the free activities on offer, including netball, fitness classes and swimming.
“It’s a great way to try something new and to be a part of I Am Team GB.”
I Am Team GB is organised by The National Lottery and ITV and supported by the British Olympic Association and Join In.
It aims to be Britain’s largest ever sporting event, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to take part.
To find out more about the event, go to the I Am Team GB website www.iamteamgb.com.
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Burnley Leisure is celebrating Britain’s Olympic sporting success by hosting an open day at St Peter’s Leisure Centre on Saturday.


Burnley have been warned off midfielder Dale Stephens after having a fifth offer, in excess of £7m, rejected.
The Clarets' latest package, which, with add ons, was more than £7m - close to a record deal for the club, has again not had the desired effect, a day before the transfer window closes.
And the Seagulls have told Burnley he is not for sale, as they look to follow the Clarets into the Premier League, having fallen just short last season.
Stephens is out of contract at the end of the season, but, after a summer-long pursuit, it looks like the Bolton-born 26-year-old is staying put for the time being.
Brighton have resisted offers for a number of their stars this summer, with Newcastle United interested in Anthony Knockaert, and Crystal Palace keen on Lewis Dunk, but they are determined to strengthen their squad for a promotion push.
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Burnley have been warned off midfielder Dale Stephens after having a fifth offer, in excess of £7m, rejected.


American rapper RZA elegantly sums up the fleeting nature of fame during his cameo appearance in Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone’s musical mockumentary.
“The higher you get, the harder you fall. Ask any coconut,” sermonizes the hip-hop superstar.
These words of wisdom are aimed at sweet, yet corruptible, Conner Friel (Andy Samberg), who sells out his childhood pals to land a solo record deal and secure his moment in the social media spotlight.
Part cautionary tale, part buddy comedy, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping gleefully lampoons music documentaries, including Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, by offering a fly-on-the-wall glimpse into the life of an icon as he prepares to launch his second album.
Schaffer and Taccone festoon their tongue-in-cheek expose with real-life music industry figures, plus colourful supporting performances including Justin Timberlake as a singing chef, who juliennes carrots with pride.
Thus Simon Cowell offers his glowing assessment of Conner - “I think he’s incredible. He’s the real deal!” - and the likes of Mariah Carey, Usher, Carrie Underwood and 50 Cent wax lyrical about his impact on their careers.
Andy Samberg as Conner4Real
For the first 40 minutes, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is hysterical, but then like the preened and polished subject, the film loses its way.
Conner and childhood buddies Lawrence Dunn (Schaffer) and Owen Bouchard (Taccone) achieved considerable success as the trio The Style Boyz.
However, it was clear to everyone in the cutthroat music business that Conner was the glittering star in the firmament.
He went solo and The Style Boyz disbanded.
Lawrence turned his back on celebrity to settle on a farm in Big Timber, Colorado, while Owen remained in the background as Conner’s DJ.
Following the rousing success of Conner’s debut LP entitled Thriller, Also, a documentary film crew shadows the pop icon in the days leading up to the release of the follow-up album, ConnQuest.
Flanked by an entourage including his manager Harry Duggins (Tim Meadows), acid-tongued publicist Paula Klein (Sarah Silverman) and “a guy who kicks him in the nuts so he remembers where he came from”, Conner feebly shoulders the mounting pressure flanked by actress girlfriend, Ashley Wednesday (Imogen Poots).
Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is half of one of the best comedies of the year.
Opening scenes are a hoot.
“It’s like a tricycle. When you take away one of the wheels, what have you got?” scoffs Lawrence when someone suggests The Style Boyz could fracture.
Note-perfect music videos include Equal Rights featuring P!nk, which promotes same sex relationships, while Conner punctuates each line of the chorus with a defiant, “I’m not gay”.
Sadly, the filmmakers run out of ideas for a lacklustre second half and introduce outlandish new characters to sustain our interest.
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American rapper RZA elegantly sums up the fleeting nature of fame during his cameo appearance in Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone’s musical mockumentary.


Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping - Half of one of the best comedies of the year


Clarets record signing Steven Defour believes his move to Burnley helped him win his place back in the Belgium squad.
Defour was not with the Red Devils at Euro 2016, but was selected by new boss Roberto Martinez for the games with Spain and Cyprus this week.
The former Anderlecht man met Martinez at Turf Moor after the recent 2-0 win over Liverpool, as he made his debut for the club, and Defour said to HLN: "I've been playing in the Premier League, it has certainly played a part in my selection. The English league has more respect. Therefore Burnley was the right step.
"We play a different kind of football.
"It was a tough first week, with the transfer worries, then some typical English training and then immediately the match against Liverpool. But the transition went smoothly. I adapted quickly."


Clarets record signing Steven Defour believes his move to Burnley helped him win his place back in the Belgium squad.


With GCSE Results Day finally upon us, hundreds of thousands of teenagers across the country will be weighing up their options for the future.
Although A-levels remain the traditional educational route after GCSEs, they are not the only option. More and more students are turning towards apprenticeships and further education as real alternatives.
Many of the teenagers picking up their results have already been in education for the best part of 12 years.
But, these days teenagers, up to the age of 18, are legally required to stay in education, training or get a job with accredited training, something the government calls 'raising the age of participation'.
Being in further education or training doesn’t mean teenagers have to stay in the same school. There are lots of options.
So, for those students who didn’t do so well in their GCSEs, or don’t find the prospect of another two years at school studying A-levels appealing, here are our top three options for life after GCSEs.
Do an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships have had some mixed press. The quality and rates of pay have been in the news, but there are lots fabulous apprenticeship opportunities out there and lots of organisations who can help, and offer you the right information; checkout The Student Room’s new Apprenticeship Hub it’s full of accurate and up-to-date information and it can even help to dispel some of those apprenticeship myths.
We found a fabulous apprenticeship scheme with national company, Be Wiser Insurance - they offer a starting salary of £14,000. There are other companies doing similar, so do your homework.
Do a traineeship
Not quite ready for an apprenticeship? Need to work on your skills? Don’t worry there are lots of opportunities for you to complete a traineeship – Have a look at what a company like EDF Energy can offer you.
Go to your local college
There are two types of college – 6th Form college and Further Education college. 6th Form Colleges are mostly geared up for students between 16 and 18 years old, and tend to concentrate on academic education. Further Education colleges are generally much bigger than 6th Form colleges and offer a wider range of subjects, including vocational education (Btecs and NVQs), and they’re not just for teenagers. Further Education colleges offer adult education and higher education too.
The GOV.UK website can help you find more information about courses offered by schools and colleges in your area if you’re between 14-19.
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With GCSE Results Day finally upon us, hundreds of thousands of teenagers across the country will be weighing up their options for the future.


A teaching assistant from Padiham is taking social media by storm, after using the modern trend for taking “selfies” to raise awareness of a serious issue which claims thousands of lives a year.
Shocking statistics show 76% of suicides in the UK are male and is the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45.
Padiham Fire Station crews support the ItsOKToTalk campaign (s)
That spurred Jordan Taylor into backing a nationwide campaign to promote awareness of men’s mental health issues.
And poignantly the campaign, It’sOKToTalk, launched this month, the month which marks the second anniversary of the death of Jordan’s uncle, Andrew Giles. Known locally as “Nipper,” the community was left in shock after his suicide as he was such a lively, popular and outgoing character who was well loved in Padiham.
A groundsman for Lancashire County Council he doted on his two children, three stepchildren and loved spending time on the farm where he grew up and also the local allotments.
Jordan said: “My uncle was cheeky, happy and loved by everyone. He was a real outdoors person, always helping someone or cutting someone’s grass and he was always smiling. In fact he was famous for his dimples.
Jordan Taylor who is backing the It'sOKToTalk to combat suicide in young men (s)
“That’s why the shock of what happened was a huge blow to our family.”
So far around 200 people from Padiham, Burnley and all over the UK have backed the #ItsOKtoTalk campaign by posting a series of Facebook “selfies”.
Jordan (22) said: “I never expected such a huge response when I started this.
“I thought that maybe 20 or so, mainly friends and family, would take it on board but the reaction I have received has been phenomenal with selfies coming in from all around the country.
Andrew Giles, suiciide victim whose nephew Jordan Taylor is launcing an ItsOKToTalk campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues (s)
“And each person who has posted a picture has their own story to tell about themselves and how they have been affected by this issue.”
Mums and their children, work colleagues, people out socialising, pensioners and even a group of climbers who scaled Ben Nevis have posted selfies on Jordan’s page supporting CALM (Campaign for Living Miserably) which started the trend.
And Jordan was thrilled when Burnley player Dean Marney got on board with his campaign.
Each person is posing with the “It’s ok” hand gesture and all the images are being added to a collage which Jordan, who works at St Leonard’s Primary School in Padiham, plans to send to CALM.
Mayor of Padiham Coun. James Kirk supports the ItsOKToTalk campaign (s)
Jordan added: “The aim of the campaign is to get more men talking about their feelings and what they may be going through and to lift the stigma attached to it.
“I am chuffed that the people of Padiham have taken this on board and started the ball rolling here in our town.
“We need to raise awareness of this issue so that people do start talking about mental health issues so that no-one has to suffer or worry in silence.
“Anything that can be done to save a life is worth doing.”
Padiham Fire Station has thrown its weight behind the campaign and Jordan is contacting companies and organisations across the country for their support.
He is even asking people to come up with different ideas for selfies, including trying to set a record for the selfie featuring the largest number of people. Famed for being a “doer” Jordan was responsible for organising groups of volunteers to help out with a clear up operation after Padiham was devastated by floods on Boxing Day.
Mum and baby support ItsOKToTalk (s)
Anyone who wants to back Jordan’s campaign with a selfie can do so on his Facebook page tagging #ItsOKToTalk or #JTsOKSelfieAppeal.
Or you can send them directly to Jordan via Facebook messenger.
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A teaching assistant from Padiham is taking social media by storm, after using the modern trend for taking “selfies” to raise awareness of a serious issue which claims thousands of lives a year.


Jordan’s selfie campaign helps raise suicide awareness


Sean Dyche has confirmed a deal for Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford is close.
Burnley are set to take the 22-year-old on loan, to add to their striking options ahead of deadline day on Wednesday.
Bamford has yet to make an appearance for the Blues, but was Championship player of the year on loan with Middlesbrough in 2014/15.
Dyche said, asked whether he was taking the player: "It's looking that way, it's not quite done but it's looking that way."
As regards further incomings, he mused: "I keep hearing all these stories, it would be nice if one of them comes true, I'd take one at the minute, it would be helpful if it was three or four."


Sean Dyche has confirmed a deal for Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford is close.


Michael Keane believes that thoughts of international inclusion are slightly premature after the Clarets defender was overlooked by Sam Allardyce in his first England squad selection.
Despite being championed by his idol Rio Ferdinand, who won 81 caps for his country, the 23-year-old is looking to gain more experience on the domestic scene before making the step up.
The former Manchester United man, who has represented his nation at Under-21 level, made only his 22nd start in the Premier League when Chelsea ran out 3-0 victors at Stamford Bridge.
And it’s that raw unworldliness that has formed part of the reason why the Stockport-born centre back had little expectation of making the grade at this point.
With Gary Cahill, Nathaniel Clyne, Phil Jagielka, Danny Rose, Luke Shaw, Chris Smalling, John Stones and Kyle Walker providing the make-up of England’s rearguard, Keane said: “It’s flattering (to hear those comments from Rio Ferdinand).
“He was my idol going up with his playing style and being at Manchester United as well. For him to say something like that is a real bonus for me and hopefully I can prove him right.
“Obviously recognition doesn’t come without playing well so I think I’ve started the season well.”
Keane added: “I wasn’t expecting anything at all because I think it’s a bit too soon for me but when it happens it will be an unbelievable moment in my life. Hopefully it will be sooner rather than later.
“It’s my aim to get in that squad as soon as I can. I do feel like I could do well in that squad but it could be a bit too soon at the minute. Hopefully if I keep putting good performances in I’ll be in with a shout.
“I think I’ve started the season well. I’ve come back really fit and confident after last season so hopefully I can keep playing like I have been doing and kick on. I’ve got a lot of learning to do still so I can help the team out.”
Meanwhile, Keane insists that defeat to Antonio Conte’s Blues will help the Clarets grow wiser to the challe nges of the top flight.
Eden Hazard, Willian and Victor Moses netted as Chelsea made it three wins from three this term.
“The 3-0 scoreline makes it sound like we didn’t really do too well but I didn’t think we were that bad,” he said.
“We’ll learn from games like today and move on. These are the days you learn from and they help you improve.
“You tend to have done more things wrong when you lose a game so you look back at the performance and analyse what you could’ve done better. We’ll learn from today and come back stronger.
“We can’t dwell on it too much. We’re disappointed but we’ve got to put it behind us and look forward to the next game.”

England talk is too premature says Keane


Michael Keane believes that thoughts of international inclusion are slightly premature after the Clarets defender was overlooked by Sam Allardyce in his first England squad selection.


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Which of these TV game shows would you most like to see return?


The Crystal Maze is set to return to our TV screens and that got us thinking - which other game show would you like to see back on TV?


Clarets striker Lukas Jutkiewicz has joined Championship side Birmingham City on loan until January 2nd.
The 27-year-old frontman arrived at Turf Moor two years ago for an initial £1.25m from Middlesbrough, but has made only 14 starts in all competitions, and failed to find the net.
He has made two appearances off the bench this season in the Premier League, against Swansea City and Liverpool, and started in the EFL Cup fixture against Accrington Stanley.
He made six appearances last season before suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury in the 2-1 victory over Bristol City.


Clarets striker Lukas Jutkiewicz has joined Championship side Birmingham City on loan until January 2nd.


Clarets striker Andre Gray has apologised after homophobic tweets sent four years ago were brought to prominence on social media.
Gray has put out a statement asking "for forgiveness" following a number of derogatory messages on his Twitter account.
The 25-year-old said: "I would like to respond to media reports with regards to previous tweets posted from my Twitter account.
"Firstly, I want to offer a sincere and unreserved apology to anybody I may have offended in relation to these tweets. The tweets were posted four years ago when I was a completely different person to the man I am now. I was at a very different point in my life back then - one that I've worked hard to move on from.
"Thankfully a lot has changed in my life since then. I have experienced a lot over the past four years and have had to take responsibility for a number of things in my life which has enabled me to mature and grow as a person since that time.
"I have a lot of regrets regarding a number of things I've done in the past and realise I have made some big mistakes, none more so than these tweets, but I would like to stress that I've worked incredibly hard to completely transform my life since that time.
"To clarify, I do not hold the beliefs written in those tweets whatsoever. I can assure everybody that I am absolutely not homophobic and as said previously I can only apologise and ask for forgiveness to anyone I offended.
"Thankfully I am not the guy I was back then and will continue to work hard both on and off the pitch to become a better person."
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Clarets striker Andre Gray has apologised after homophobic tweets sent four years ago were brought to prominence on social media.


Clarets striker apologises for historic homophobic tweets


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The M6 southbound was blocked in Lancashire this afternoon after a “serious” traffic accident in which a person was hit by a vehicle.
The North West air ambulance was called to the scene between junction 28 at Leyland and junction 27 at Standish
Picture and video supplied by Jack
Police have closed all three lanes.
The road was blocked and queuing traffic was reported at 2pm.
Motorists have been warned to expect delays on the M6 and on surrounding routes.
Police said this afternoon the motorway would remain closed for “several hours”.
The northbound carriageway was briefly closed but was reopened about 2.30pm.
Police said: “The M6 has been closed southbound at J28 following an incident.
“We are advising motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes.”

UPDATED: M6 blocked in Lancashire after person hit by vehicle


The M6 southbound was blocked in Lancashire this afternoon after a “serious” traffic accident in which a person was hit by a vehicle.


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The Clarets can't grumble with the start that they've made to their third campaign in the Premier League.
Most fans and so-called experts would have had Sean Dyche's side languishing in the depths of the top flight following defeat to Swansea City on the opening day.
Andre Gray tries to find a way through
The second tier champions were without a win in their first 10 top flight outings last time out but, following a calculatingly clinical win over Liverpool at Turf Moor, the Clarets head in to the first international break having got off the mark.
The visitors weren't as effective at Stamford Bridge as they had been against Jurgen Klopp's Reds but Chelsea were in imperious form to make it three wins from three.
Eden Hazard had lit up the European Championships in France over the summer prior to Belgium's shock exit to Wales in the quarter-final and the winger has carried those standards through to his domestic programme.
The Blues' number 10, along with Willian and Oscar, stretched the play beautifully to severely test the Clarets but it was wehn the 25-year-old cut infield that he looked the most threatening.
One misplaced pass by Andre Gray, which was cut out by Nemanja Matic, sent the former Lille man on his way and, after cutting inside past Michael Keane with the ball glued to his foot, he shaped a scintillating shot in to the bottom corner in the ninth minute.
Hazard had Tom Heaton beaten for a second time moments later when the ball landed at his feet at the far post but Ben Mee found himself in the right place at the right time to clear the effort off the line.
With the visitors penned in, and getting men behind the ball, they often struggled for an out ball which gave the hosts licence to continue applying the pressure.
And it was a former Claret that almost did the damage when Oscar's corner, headed clear by Keane, was steered goalwards by Gary Cahill only for his volley to take a nick on the way through and drop just wide of the upright.
Antonio Conte's side again threatened from a set-piece as skipper John Terry stole a yard from his marker to meet Oscar's corner but Heaton was well positioned to make a comfortable save.
The waves of attack kept on crashing against Burnley's defensive wall and it seemed just a matter of time before the home side broke through.
Diego Costa was denied by Heaton after Brazilian pair Willian and Oscar combined down the right hand side but, five minutes before the break, they finally had their reward.
Hazard and Costa were once again involved, working the ball from left to right, and it was Willian who worked the shooting space to lash the ball across Heaton and in to the far corner.
The away side did have the opportunity to half the arrears just before the interval but Scott Arfield, with just Terry for company, dragged a right-footed attempt wide of the far post after being fed by Gray.
Burnley's press was more intense in the second half, though the hosts dropped off slightly from their earlier energetic showing.
Willian bent a free-kick over the bar once Keane was booked for upending Costa on the edge of the box before Terry missed a guilt-edged opportunity from close range after Heaton palmed Hazard's stunning volley in to the defender's path.
There was no stopping Hazard and he went close again when shifting the ball on to his left boot on the edge of the box before fizzing an attempt just over the bar.
Mee took the ball off the toe of Costa as the Spaniard threatened to poke home once Heaton had made a stunning save to foil Hazard, who was imply unplayable at times.
The Blues, who moved top of the Premier League with victory, did make it three in the final minute when two substitutes combined. Pedro found space down the left and Moses turned his cross home at the far post after moving goal side of Aiden O'Neill.
Cesar Azpilicueta almost added another in stoppage time but Heaton produced an outstanding save low to his left to claw the ball off the line.
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Here is a list of five popular bookshops in the county
Ebb & Flo, Chorley
Broadhurst's in Southport
Ebb & Flo bookshop is an independent bookshop in Gillibrand Street, Chorley.
Alongside more recognisable titles, its book selection offers something quirky to customers. With a children’s den area, there are activities and sessions for young learners.
The store stocks a wide range of French Djeco crafts, as well as handmade crafts by Darcey Fleur.
The shop also boasts an upstairs gallery, where local artists and photographers can exhibit their work. Prints and artwork are often for sale. The room is also available for hire.
Broadhurst’s Bookshop, Southport
Broadhurst’s Bookshop in Market Street, Southport has four floors of hidden treasures.
The ground floor houses the new bookshop, with fiction and non-fiction. Other floors include an extensive new children’s book department, two rare book rooms specialising in 19th and 20th century literature, modern first editions, private press books and a wide and interesting selection of antiquarian titles. There is also eight second-hand book rooms containing upwards of 50,000 titles on all subjects and a varied selection of 18th, 19th and 20th century prints and maps.
Halewood and Sons, Preston
Halewood and Sons is a family business established in 1867 by William Halewood. It has a vast stock of rare, interesting and collectable books, maps and prints in all subject areas.
Located in 37 Friargate, there is ample choice to browse around for the perfect second hand and antiquarian book. The five-generational store is particularly strong in travel, exploration, local history, Arthur Conan Doyle, and natural history.
For more information and a book search, email dhalewood@aol.com
Book, Bean and Ice Cream, Kirkham
Book, Bean and Ice Cream, run by Elaine Silverwood, is at the site of the former SilverDell bookshop, in Poulton Street, Kirkham. The shop relaunched with a new name, linking with Silverwood Events, to provide cultural and literary activities in a cafe and book shop setting.
Carnforth Bookshop, Carnforth
Carnforth Bookshop, in Market Street, is an independent, family run bookshop, established in 1977.
Situated over three floors, it stocks a wide variety of products, including new, second hand and antiquarian books, as well as a large selection of maps, gifts, cards, toys, stationery and art materials.


Here is a list of five popular bookshops in the county


We’ve teamed up with Nickelodeon to give you the chance to attend the first-ever UK SLIMEFEST in Blackpool on Saturday September 3rd.
Featuring performances from Alesha Dixon, Conor Maynard, Diversity, The Tide and appearances from Nickelodeon stars Jack Griffo and Kira Kosarin, it’s set to be the slimiest music concert of the Summer.
Slimefest 2016
We’re giving away a VIP family prize package which includes:
4 x General Admission Switch On wristbands on Friday 2nd September 2016
4 x Tickets for the 11am SLIMEFEST concert on Saturday 3rd September 2016
4 x Wristbands for Blackpool Pleasure Beach for Saturday 3rd September 2016
2 x Exclusive official SLIMEFEST Hype® Bag (kids only)
1 x Apple iPad mini 2 7.9” 16gb
Or if you want to guarantee your ticket to the coolest kids’ event of the year, we have an exclusive 2for1 SLIMEFEST ticket offer for you. Just visit nick.co.uk/slimefest and enter FEST02 to get your exclusive 2for1 discount.
All you have to do to have the chance to win this fantastic prize is answer the following question:
Q: Which Britain’s Got Talent judge is performing at Nickelodeon’s SLIMEFEST?
Email your answer with Slimefest in the subject field, adding your name, address and daytime telephone number to competitions@lep.co.uk to arrive by midnight August 31st. Standard competition rules apply, entries merged across JP north west titles.
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We’ve teamed up with Nickelodeon to give you the chance to attend the first-ever UK SLIMEFEST in Blackpool on Saturday  September 3rd.


Win tickets to Nickelodeon's Slimefest and Illuminations Switch On


A drink driver being followed by police leapt from a Mercedes while it was still going and fled, leaving it to smash into a wall, a court heard.
Christian Paul Baldwin(41) ran into a side street and was arrested nearby in a bush behind a fence. He was said to have blown 50 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - the legal limit is 35, Burnley magistrates were told.
Baldwin, of Cole Street, Burnley, had denied driving with excess alcohol, driving without due care and attention, no insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, on Albion Street, in the town, and failing to stop for a constable on Piccadilly Road, all on April 30th.
He did not attend court for his trial, was convicted in his absence and the bench issued a warrant for his arrest.
Mrs Hilary Rees, prosecuting, told the trial hearing that police noticed the Mercedes as a brake light was out.
They followed the vehicle round a number of streets and the car eventually turned onto Albion Street. As it got towards the bottom of the road, the driver, who the police said was the defendant, left the car from the driver’s side while it was still going down the hill. The vehicle crashed into a wall.
Another man also ran down the side street, in the opposite direction. The defendant was arrested and police recognised him as the driver of the vehicle.
Mrs Rees said: “The defendant accepted he was in the car when he was interviewed. He wouldn’t say he was driving and he made no comment to the rest of the questions that were put to him.”
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A drink driver being followed by police leapt from a Mercedes while it was still going and fled, leaving it to smash into a wall, a court heard.


Here is a list of fun events coming up this weekend.
FREE AND PAID: Blackpool Illuminations Switch On and Slimefest, September 2 to 4
Dame Barbara Windsor will switch the lights on at the Tower Festival Headland on Friday, following a party led by Ashley Banjo, and dance group Diversity. Other stars include The Vamps, Fleur East, Fatman Scoop and Club MTV. Free entry by wristband only. Celebrations continue across the weekend, as Jordan Banjo and Perri Kiely host Nickelodeon’s first UK Slimfest at the Empress Ballroom. Tickets, at £27.50, available from http://www.visitblackpool.com/slime. Slimfest also features a free outdoor experience including character appearances and family activities on the Tower Festival Headland.
PAID: Survival Skills and Crafty Creative, Preston, September 2 to 4
As part of Brockholes Nature Reserve’s Wild Families series, it hosts Survival Skills on Friday September 2, from 2pm until 4pm. Participants will camouflage up before heading out to follow a tracking trail and have a go at shelter building, fire lighting and cooking. Tickets are from £5. Family ticket is £18. On Saturday and Sunday, there are drop-in craft sessions from 10am until 4pm. Entry is £3.Located off M6, junction 31.
FREE AND PAID: Morecambe Vintage By the Sea Festival, September 3 and 4
A celebration of 20th century design, fashion, vehicles and entertainment on the Prom, with a flypast by a Lancaster Bomber; a Spitfire; and a Hurricane as part of an RAF Battle of Britain Memorial. There will be a Routemaster Bus Bar and vintage car show, a Vintage Roadshow, live music, wandering street performance, and workshops. Visit http://www.vintagefestival.co.uk.
FREE AND PAID: Tractor Road Run, Chipping, Sunday September 4
Families are invited to gather around Chipping to watch as an entourage of tractors drive around the village.
Tractors will set off from Green Lane Showground at 10am.
It costs £15 to enter a tractor, including a two-course lunch.
Spectators can stand and watch for free.
All money raised will go towards Rosemere Cancer Foundation.
PAID: Blackburn and East Lancs Model Railway Exhibition, September 3 and 4
A Model Railway Exhibition will be held at Hyndburn Leisure Centre, Henry Street, Accrington, from 10am until 5pm.
There will be layouts in various scales, specialist traders and demonstrators from across the UK and refreshments are available. Adult entry is £7, with children free. Parking is also free. The exhibition is organised by Blackburn and East Lancs Model Railway Society.
FREE AND PAID: Wigan 10k, September 4
Wigan’s annual 10k race, organised by charity Joining Jack, starts at 10am at the town centre. There will be live entertainment, a European Market, and a fun fair. Starsailor frontman James Walsh will close the music festival. Meanwhile, the day before, there is a Fun Run for children at Robin Park, from 11am until 5pm. Free entry. For registration times visit http://www.wiganeventsguide.com/event/wigan-fun-runs/
PAID: Proms in the Park, Wigan, Saturday September 3
Families are invited to bring a picnic and something to sit on whilst enjoying an evening with music at Mesnes Park, Wigan.
Gates open at 6pm and the musical concert starts at 7.45pm.
The event ends at 10pm.
Tickets are £10 for adults, £7 for children and concessions.
A family ticket is £28.
PAID: HAPPA Grand Open Day, Saturday September 3
Families are invited to Horse and Pony Protection Association’s annual open day extravaganza at Shores Hey Farm, off Halifax Road, Briercliffe, Burnley, from noon until 4pm.
There will be stalls, games, cake, scarecrow and produce competitions, horse riding displays and live music. There will also be handling sessions from Cooper’s Critters. Admission is £1 per person.
FREE: Parbold Street Festival, September 3 to 4
A total of 14 venues throughout the village offer a showcase in arts, education, entertainment and music, from noon on Saturday. There will be music from local bands and singers on the Big Stage by the Railway pub; a market place with more than 40 stalls; barges dressed in lights for the Festival of Light; a duck race; theatre; fairground; Kids Zone; workshops; horse demonstrations; and family fun.
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Here is a list of fun events coming up this weekend.


Top 10 things to do in Lancashire at the weekend


Heavy metal group Metallica have announced they are releasing their first album in eight years.
The veteran US rockers, who have won multiple Grammys and sold tens of millions of records around the world, revealed details of Hardwired ... To Self-Destruct, the long-awaited follow-up to 2008’s Death Magnetic.
In a statement on their website, the group said their 11th studio album - which will contain two discs and nearly 80 minutes of music - was “a long time coming” and is set for release on November 18.
The music video for the album’s first track, Hardwired, was also posted on YouTube.
It is the longest period fans have had to wait for a new Metallica album since the group formed in 1981.
The band’s current line-up includes singer-guitarist James Hetfield, drummer Lars Ulrich, lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo.

Re-Enter sandman - Metallica return with new album


Heavy metal group Metallica have announced they are releasing their first album in eight years.


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Quiz: How well do you know Chelsea v Burnley


Burnley head to Stamford Bridge hoping to be the first team to beat Antonio Conte’s Blues side.


Clarets teenager Aiden O’Neill described the last week of his life as “spectacular” and “surreal” after being handed his professional bow by boss Sean Dyche.
The 18-year-old followed in the footsteps of Jay Rodriguez, Chris McCann and Richard Chaplow having climbed through the ranks at Turf Moor to feature for the first team.
The Australian midfielder, who arrived at the club from Brisbane Athletic two years ago, replaced Andre Gray as a late substitute as Burnley beat Liverpool 2-0 in the Premier League.
A full debut against Accrington Stanley in the EFL Cup was next and then came an appearance at Stamford Bridge versus Chelsea, the team he supported back home.
With the Clarets trailing by two goals in the country’s capital, O’Neill replaced record signing Steven Defour and locked horns with internationals N’Golo Kante, Nemanja Matic and Oscar in the middle of the park.
“It’s been a very big week for me with Liverpool, playing in the cup and then Chelsea,” he said. “It’s what you dream of.
“My debut happened so quickly. When I was on the bench I was buzzing and then when the gaffer told me to get my shirt on I was like ‘oh my God, I’m coming on here’. I just forgot about it when I got on to the pitch and it was alright.
“It was incredible. The lads were excellent and we really stuck to what we believe in and got the result.”
Speaking after the weekend defeat, he added: “This (Chelsea) was my team back home so it’s a very big day for me. It’s unbelievable.
“It was nice to play, they’ve got some world class players in their team. To play against a team like that at 18 is spectacular. It’s very surreal.”
O’Neill, who signed professional terms in January, is a firm believer that age is just a number and he feels that he’s got the ability to help the Clarets prosper in the top flight.
“It’s great but I try not to think about my age because when you’re out there playing it doesn’t matter,” he said. “It’s all about your ability.
“I’m getting in to the group and I think I’m fitting in really well. I’ve got a lot of energy, I’m really fit, I keep it nice and simple and I can pick a pass when it needs to be picked. I just feel that I can really help the team.”
He added: “On a personal note I just want to help the team stay up and I think that’s all we can try to achieve. I want to keep getting games but it’s not all about me; it’s about helping the team.”


Clarets teenager Aiden O’Neill described the last week of his life as “spectacular” and “surreal” after being handed his professional bow by boss Sean Dyche.


Tributes have been paid to a former Pendle woman who was killed in a car crash in Blackpool.
Marjorie Greenalgh (60), originally from Colne, died after the collision in Midgeland Road on Saturday.
Road accident on Midgeland Road in Blackpool
Marjorie moved to Blackpool in her teens, studied at Highfield High School and after her graduation worked at Burton’s Biscuits (Tangerine Confectionary) with her best friend Audrey.
In a statement, the family, represented by Marjorie’s daughter Jo, said: “We are all absolutely devastated to lose our wonderful mum who always put others before herself; Mum always had a smile and kind word for people.
“She was well liked because of her genuine and kind heart.
“She played a huge part in looking after her grandchildren while I worked.
“We have all realised how fragile life is and how we now have a huge hole in our lives that can never be filled.
“We are so grateful to all the emergency teams and the police family liaison officer (PC Mark Park) for their compassion in a difficult time.
“We would also like to thank the staff and doctors at Royal Preston Hospital Intensive care unit for their outstanding care and support.
“We have also been informed that a number of local residents provided mum with exceptional care and support while awaiting the emergency services. The kindness offered by total strangers who came to mum’s aid in her hour of need was so comforting I cannot thank them enough.”
Marjorie loved spending time with her family. She leaves two sisters Carol and Susan, her two children James and Jo, and her three grandchildren Joseph, William and Isabella.
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Tributes have been paid to a former Pendle woman who was killed in a car crash in Blackpool.


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Matt Lalor has shared this photo he took looking down into Cliviger with the windmills poking through a cloud inversion.


Can you match these stars to the year they switched on the Blackpool Illuminations?


Showbiz royalty Dame Barbara Windsor has been announced as this year’s guest of honour at the Illuminations Switch-On ceremony.


Motorists experienced greater delays on the roads as journey times increased during the second quarter of 2016, according to data from the Department For Transport.
An average delay of nine seconds per mile on the strategic road network (SRN) was a 1.3 per cent increase on the figures for the year up to the end of March 2016.
Average speed on the SRN - the motorways and ‘A’ roads managed by Highways England - also fell. Between July 2015 and June 2016, the average speed was 59.2mph, a 0.2 per cent decrease on the previous figures.
The reliability of travel times on the SRN also fell, with 68 per cent more time needed to ensure on time arrival - a 2 per cent increase on the previous quarter.
The average delay on local ‘A’ roads in England in the year ending June 2016 saw a year-on-year increase of 3.8 per cent to 45.2 seconds per vehicle per mile, with average speed consequently down 1.5 per cent on the year ending June 2015.

Average road journey delay time increases


Motorists experienced greater delays on the roads as journey times increased during the second quarter of 2016, according to data from the Department For Transport.


Sobering political reality trumps blood-saturated fiction in the third instalment of James DeMonaco’s horror series, set in a dystopian America which has legalised murder for 12 hours every March to sate the population’s bloodlust and reduce crime levels for the rest of the year.
The original film, released in 2013, was a guilty pleasure fusing nail-biting tension with explosions of shocking violence.
A gruesome follow-up, The Purge Anarchy, fell short of expectations and now The Purge: Election Year polls a similarly lukewarm response by attempting to skewer the American political establishment.
Unfortunately, the real-life horror show of the 2016 race for the White House - a contest dripping with bile and intolerance - is far more disturbing than anything writer-director DeMonaco can conjure on screen for his beleaguered characters as they attempt to survive another night of wanton slaughter.
A potentially delicious subplot - the influx of murder tourists, who travel to America on Purge night to commit unspeakable crimes that are forbidden in their own countries - is undernourished and goes nowhere.
Eighteen years after her entire family was slaughtered on Purge night, Senator Charlie Roan (Elizabeth Mitchell) is poised to narrowly win the 2022 Presidential election by campaigning on a promise to end the annual cull.
Her rival, Minister Edwidge Owens (Kyle Secor), is a firm believer in the Purge and has the full backing of the New Founding Fathers (NFF), the shadowy political hierarchy led by Caleb Warrens (Raymond J Barry).
These men and women in tailored suits are distressed by the possibility of Roan winning over the electorate and they plot to eliminate her.
“We are going to use this year’s Purge to do some spring cleaning gentlemen!” snarls Warrens, who masterminds a scheme to undermine the security measures put in place by the Senator’s trusted bodyguard and protector, Leo Barnes (Frank Grillo).
Meanwhile, as the 7pm siren to signal the start of the Purge approaches, hard-working shop owner Joe Dickson (Mykelti Williamson) and his assistant Marcos (Joseph Julian Soria) have an ill-fated run-in with two thieving schoolgirls (Brittany Mirabile, Juani Feliz) that they might regret when the blood-letting begins in earnest.
The Purge: Election Year is one hack ‘n’ slash too far for DeMonaco’s neat premise.
Plotting is flimsy and characters are thinly sketched, so we don’t have a strong emotional attachment to them.
Williamson provides comic relief to dissipate tension, almost putting a bullet in the head of one friend, who creeps up on him.
“Good Lord! It’s Purge night. You don’t sneak up on black people!” he shrieks.
Fans of earlier films will get their kicks from the gory set pieces but the lack of new ideas and directorial verve is palpable.
It’s time for a complete reshuffle behind the cameras.
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Sobering political reality trumps blood-saturated fiction in the third instalment of James DeMonaco’s horror series, set in a dystopian America which has legalised murder for 12 hours every March to sate the population’s bloodlust and reduce crime levels for the rest of the year.


The Purge: Election Year - One hack ‘n’ slash too far


Parents are being reminded that it is not too early to start thinking about school travel arrangements for the next academic year.
Any parent who has received a letter and application form about transport for pupils transferring to secondary school in September 2016, who may be entitled to help, should return their completed application as soon as possible.
As soon as the completed form is received, Lancashire County Council will try to issue a new pass so that it is received in time for the start of the new school term.
Anyone who thinks their child may be entitled to help with travel costs when they start secondary school, and who has not received an application form, should contact the School Transport Line on 0300 123 6738.
Any sixth form pupil who has previously travelled on a school bus contracted by the county council may be able to continue to do this, as long as there are seats available, by purchasing a travel season ticket.
Primary school pupils in years 1 to 6 and secondary school students in years 8 to 11, who received help with transport last year and whose circumstances have not changed, will receive their passes shortly in August.
Pupils attending secondary schools and moving into the sixth form are not entitled to transport assistance.
Children who use taxi transport provided by the county council to primary and secondary schools will no longer receive a pass for these journeys. Parents will be informed of new transport arrangements by letter.
Transport costs on school buses funded by the county council have increased from September 2016. The revised costs are:
Journeys up to 3 miles – Single fare £1.40; return fare £2.70; annual season ticket £410. Journeys between 3 and 8 miles – Single fare £2; return fare £3.70; annual season ticket £562. Journeys over 8 miles – Single fare £2.50; return fare £4.70; annual season ticket £714.
Parents are reminded to make sure that their children have sufficient money to cover the cost of the return journey from home to school.
More information is available at www.lancashire.gov.uk/schools or by calling 0300 123 6738.
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Parents are being reminded that it is not too early to start thinking about school travel arrangements for the next academic year.


Reminder about school travel arrangements


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Ticketing arrangements for Clarets’ Premier League fixture against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium have today been confirmed.


Burnley Football Club has this evening been made aware of historical social media posts by Andre Gray, made prior to the player joining the club.
The Club would like to make it clear we do not condone any discriminatory behaviour by any employee.
The club also fully supports the FA’s Football v Homophobia campaign.
However, as Andre has made clear in a statement on his personal account, these are social posts from four years ago, and in this time he has completely transformed his life.
The player has also apologised and denied he is, in any way, shape or form homophobic.
Burnley Football Club will make no further statement on this matter.

Burnley release statement following historical tweets made by Andre Gray


Burnley Football Club has this evening been made aware of historical social media posts by Andre Gray, made prior to the player joining the club.


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Clarets striker Hennings returns to Germany


Rouwen Clarets striker Rouwen Hennings has joined Bundesliga 2 side Fortuna Dusseldorf on loan until the end of the season.


An exotic island lying in the glittering Arabian Sea, spotless white beaches and acres of lush coconut groves…
Sounds like the perfect place for a getaway, but gorgeous Lace Island is awash with dark secrets and lies that bind together two women from two generations, destined to meet on a dramatic and emotional collision course.
Make room in your holiday luggage this summer for Joanna Rees’ sizzling tale of romance, adventure, intrigue and betrayal inspired by a family holiday to Kerala, a state on India’s tropical Malabar Coast, famed for its stunning palm-lined beaches and abundant wildlife.
Brimming with glitz, glamour and some hard-hitting grit, The Girl from Lace Island sweeps readers away to some of the world’s most seductive locations whilst delivering a captivating story about two lives mysteriously linked to a faraway island.
In 1989, fun-loving fourteen-year-old Leila could not be happier. She has grown up on Lace Island, an exotic location which was inherited by her mother Bibi. Leila lives in the old plantation house with her mother and stepfather Chan, and spends her days in the company of local boy Rasa.
Near the beach are Bibi’s luxury bungalows where super-rich, and often famous, guests fly in to spend relaxing, private holidays away from intrusive camera lenses and where no behaviour or demand is deemed too outrageous.
But Leila’s idyllic life comes to an abrupt end when her mother is persuaded by one of her guests to send her daughter away for an education at a cold English boarding school. The teenager feels friendless, bullied and too foreign to ever fit in and soon she’s desperate to get back to her family and her beloved island.
But in her absence, Leila’s paradise has changed beyond all recognition and the life she once adored is now just a memory. Worse still, everyone and everything she loves is in terrible danger.
In 2016, Jess has spent her childhood in orphanages and lives in a depressing tower block in south London. She does kickboxing to channel her inner anger and dreams of far-off places, of white sandy beaches and warm tropical seas.
When Jess gets her longed-for job as airline cabin crew, all those dreams suddenly appear to be coming true, especially when she is swept off her feet by the handsome and charismatic millionaire Blaise who is a first class passenger on a long-haul flight to Miami.
But Jess has a troubled past, and her present is about to become complicated and dangerous when Blaise asks her to marry him.
These two women, both of their lives scarred by disaster and betrayal, will set out on a mission to discover the truth about Lace Island, but will their search for paradise be a price too high to pay?
Rees, a bestselling author who teaches creative writing in schools and libraries, works her trademark escapist magic in this addictive, fast-paced story which is perfectly formed and carefully crafted for sun loungers everywhere.
Sit back and enjoy…
(Pan, paperback, £7.99)

Book review: The Girl from Lace Island by Joanna Rees


An exotic island lying in the glittering Arabian Sea, spotless white beaches and acres of lush coconut groves…


The first major highway scheme of improvements to boost access to employment areas and future housing sites along the M65 corridor between Blackburn and Colne has been completed.
The £12.1m. programme of work to junctions and nearby local roads from Junction 7 at Accrington to Junction 13 at Barrowford is known as the Hyndburn-Burnley-Pendle Growth Corridor.
The programme is part of the £250m. Growth Deal secured from government by the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership.
Lancashire County Council has now completed the first road scheme to reduce congestion and improve access to employment areas near Junction 12 at Brierfield.
The £900,000 scheme supports the expansion of the Lomeshaye site, as well as Riverside Business Park and the £32m. transformation of Brierfield Mill into Northlight.
Graham Cowley, chairman of the LEP’s Growth Deal Management Board, said: “As part of our strategic vision for the Hyndburn-Burnley-Pendle Growth Corridor, the LEP is investing in improving connectivity along the M65 and surrounding roads along with the creation of new employment sites and a number of housing schemes. I’m pleased to see this part of the plan completed.
“The growth corridor project is one of a series of major, strategic investments in infrastructure that are a key part of the LEP’s ambitious programme to transform Lancashire’s economy, drive growth and create thousands of jobs and homes over the next decade.”
Similar improvements are currently underway at M65 Junctions 7 and 13, with all work due for completion during 2018.
Schemes to improve facilities at Burnley’s Rosegrove and Manchester Road railway stations have also been part of the Growth Corridor programme.
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The first major highway scheme of improvements to boost access to employment areas and future housing sites along the M65 corridor between Blackburn and Colne has been completed.


Drive to boost business links on right road


Trapped in a marriage to an abusive, violent police officer, battered wife Joanna West has no one to turn to… until a stranger offering help walks into her life.
For the first time in years, Joanna and her young daughter have the chance to flee, but can you ever really escape from a brutal, vengeful husband?
Moved and inspired by the testaments of abused wives, former journalist Tamara Dietrich tackles the scourge of domestic violence head on in a highly original and powerfully imagined debut novel which melds menace with paranormal magic.
The Hummingbird’s Cage, a hard-hitting, page-turning thriller with an intriguingly soft middle, almost defies genre as Dietrich weaves seamlessly between gut-wrenching cruelty and spiritual sublimity in a tale of hope, despair and redemption.
Everyone in Wheeler, New Mexico, thinks that Joanna West leads the perfect life. She is married to Jim, the dashing deputy sheriff of McGill County, and has a beautiful seven-year-old daughter, Laurel.
But the truth is that Joanna is married to a monster who regularly beats her, subjects her to verbal and mental abuse and has isolated her from the people who live around her. Once upon a time she would have challenged him but now every time Joanna cries, ‘more of me washes away.’
Ten years ago, Joanna was swept off her feet by handsome Jim, her head turned by his uniform and ‘bad-boy grin’ but now she is trapped in a violent marriage and, with a young child to care for, escape seems impossible.
But then Bernadette, Jim’s feisty biker chick ex-girlfriend, turns up with an escape route. On the run, Joanna and Laurel stumble upon Morro, a charming and magical village that seems to exist out of time and place.
Farmer Olin Farnsworth and his wife Jessie offer her sanctuary and soon, between the comfort of her new home and blossoming friendships, Joanna’s soul begins to heal, easing the wounds of a decade of abuse.
But her past – and her husband – aren’t so easy to escape. Unwilling to live in fear any longer, Joanna must summon a strength she never knew she had to fight back and forge a new life for her daughter and herself....
Dietrich delivers a clever and compelling first novel, conjuring up a mysterious but idyllic town suspended somewhere between reality and fantasy, and juxtaposing this haven of peace with the terrifying threats that lie behind and beyond.
To read The Hummingbird’s Cage is to experience high emotion and high drama and to understand the visceral realities of domestic violence, but there is also the opportunity to marvel at the power of love and hope, and to rejoice at the human capacity to reach out and find redemption.
A heartbreaking tale written with insight, beauty and honesty…
(Orion, paperback, £7.99)

Book review: The Hummingbird’s Cage by Tamara Dietrich


Trapped in a marriage to an abusive, violent police officer, battered wife Joanna West has no one to turn to… until a stranger offering help walks into her life.


Here is a list of highly rated coffee shops in the county.
Dahlia's Kitchen, Blackpool
Woodchats
Dahlia’s Kitchen, in Cropper Road, is a coffee shop, ice cream parlour, licenced restaurant and farm shop all rolled into one.
It has a big range of home made cakes, snacks and local produce. It also provides outside catering for weddings, birthdays and corporate events.
Dahlia’s is renowned for its themed entertainment evenings, where diners can enjoy a three-course meal.
There is outdoor seating and a small play area for the children.
Open seven days a week.
Woodchats Coffee Shop, Chorley
Located in Clifford Street, Woodchats Coffee Shop is a popular haunt, with a large selection of home made cakes, soups, sandwiches and snacks.
It also sells unique home made gifts and provides outside catering for parties and events.
Exchange Coffee Company, Clitheroe and Blackburn
Exchange Coffee Company is a coffee roaster and tea merchant, with branches in Clitheroe and Blackburn, in Lancashire, as well as Skipton and Todmorden in Yorkshire.
It has a wholesale roasting warehouse in Blackburn, supplying coffees, teas and all associated products across the country.
The coffee shops also have a daily specials menu, serving hot and cold food. Other drinks on offer include milkshakes and juices.
The company also sells homewares and quirky gifts.
The View, Morecambe
The View, in Marine Road Central, is a cafe with a musical twist. It has a cult following for music enthusiasts, as diners can enjoy a cup of coffee and snacks, whilst browsing through its eclectic range of vintage records, CDs and vinyls.
It also stocks a variety of memorabilia, including clothes, retro gifts and souvenirs.
Not forgetting its status as a cafe and coffee shop, it also has a changing daily specials menu, as well as hot drinks and soft beverages.
How The Other Half Live, Preston
Moved from its original location in Blackpool Road to Winckley Street, Preston, How the Other Half Live is a small coffee shop with a boutique gift store.
The shop has a small selection of coffee and cakes on offer whilst customers browse around the shop.


Here is a list of highly rated coffee shops in the county.


A LANCASHIRE car dealership is leading the way in the industry by switching staff to a four-day working week.
After a three-month trial, the after-sales department at the Chorley Group in Preston has changed its shift patterns.
It is understood this is the first dealer group to implement such radical changes and address the work-life balance.
The firm also says it improves the service for customers.
Managing director Pauline Turner said: “I believe we are the first dealer group to do this.
“Preston started a three-month trial at the beginning of June. Although staff were initially apprehensive, after one month they requested we made it permanent.”
The new shift patterns mean staff work an extra two hours a day – equating to an additional 46.5 days less a year – and benefit from a three-day break.
The shift changes will now be rolled out at Wigan with a view to rolling it out to the other dealerships in Burnley, Blackpool, and Chorley by the end of the year.
Pauline said: “This change offers a range of benefits to both the business, the staff and the customers. The longer opening hours mean it is more convenient for customers to book in their vehicles. For staff, they spend less time travelling to and from work and the reduced number of days mean they have more family time at home.”
Pauline said the changes also meant that technicians could be more productive, provide a quicker turnaround of vehicles for customers, and provide better holiday cover. There was also less congestion on site.
The change in shift patterns also enables the master technicians to be able to spend more time coaching Level 3 apprentices at the Preston dealership.
The award-winning family-run Chorley Group is one of the biggest volume Nissan dealers in Europe. Pauline was promoted to the role of Managing Director last year.
She now heads up day-to-day operations at the group, which employs 230 people across its five sites in Burnley, Preston, Chorley, Wigan and Blackpool.

Driving change at top Lancashire car group


A LANCASHIRE car dealership is leading the way in the industry by switching staff to a four-day working week.


Sean Dyche is eagerly anticipating Sam Allardyce's first England squad announcement on Sunday.
The Clarets boss is hoping Tom Heaton retains his place with the group after his involvement at Euro 2016, where he was third-choice keeper.
Rival Jack Butland, who was unavailable through injury in France, is again out with scar tissue damage following a fractured ankle, and likely to be unavailable for weeks, and Dyche said on his captain's hopes: "I don't know Sam's thinking on the situation, I'll be as interested to see his squad as everyone else will."
Asked whether Michael Keane and others may have a chance of breaking into the squad at some point this season, he added: "I don't know, I really don't, I haven't spoke to Sam about it, I know him generally, our paths have crossed, but we'll see the way he goes, old, new, I don't know.
"I think the Premier League enhances your chances, by handling it, doing well, games like the other day make people sit up and take notice, as a club and a team.
"I think it's a bit early for all that to be honest, our players will be showing people what they can do, rather than people knowing."
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Sean Dyche is eagerly anticipating Sam Allardyce


Heaton to retain place in England squad?


Three bus drivers from Burnley and Pendle have picked up special long service awards having been behind the wheel for a combined 120 years.
Munir Hussain and M. Z. Hussain, from Burnley, and Alex Pomponi, from Barrowford, have clocked up 40 years service each for Transdev and its predecessors.
The trio were joined by colleagues, family and friends at a celebration of service awards, which recognise the dedication of Transdev staff based at depots across east Lancashire.
Others collecting accolades on the night included Frank Atkinson, from Accrington, one of Northern England’s longest serving bus drivers at 45 years, and Michael Boyes, from Blackburn, who has also reached the 40 year milestone.
Transdev chief executive Alex Hornby, who presented the awards, said: “I’m extremely humbled by the remarkable passion and dedication shown by all of those who received their awards, both to our company and our customers, the people of Lancashire.
“Between all of those who received awards on the night, we calculated that in total they had achieved over 600 years of sterling service.
“That’s an incredible achievement, and we at Transdev are sincerely grateful for all they have done and continue to do for us and for Lancashire.”
Transdev operates buses based in Blackburn and Burnley across East Lancashire and beyond, including the X43 WitchWay Express between Skipton, Burnley and Manchester, and the X41 Red Express linking Blackburn, Accrington and Haslingden with Manchester.


Three bus drivers from Burnley and Pendle have picked up special long service awards having been behind the wheel for a combined 120 years.


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Clarets boss Sean Dyche admitted his side were as poor as they had been in a year in the first half of their 3-0 defeat at Chelsea.
Burnley went in at the break 2-0 down to goals from Eden Hazard and Willian, having failed to lay a glove on the hosts.
Sean Dyche
Asked whether Chelsea were too good, or his side weren't just at it, he said: "Both. First half was probably as poor as we've been in a year, I think, but against a very strong group.
"You don't have to look much behind the subs they brought on to realise how strong they are.
"Theres a huge gulf between where we are as a club and this club, but when the whistle blows, you want to be ready to perform, and we weren't.
"We didn't perform well at all in the first half, and you simply can't do that.
"Add in some really poor decisions against a really strong side, and you're going to be in trouble, and we were.
"Second half marginally better, the changes were good - I was pleased to see Aiden O'Neill, an 18-year-old on a football pitch in the Premier League, fantastic, and he held his own.
"Johann did really well when he came on, Tarky coming on in midfield is an interesting one, but that's where we are at the minute.
"They kept going, but nowhere near in the bigger picture, they were too strong."
Ending the game with an 18-year-old, albeit a talented one, and a centre back in the heart of midfield, was a stark reminder of the lack of central midfield options, ahead of deadline day, but Dyche said: "It's not a message to the board, it's a reality of where we are at as a club, in a tough market.
"Its not just us saying it's a tough market, I'm hearing managers across the board say that, but clubs like this can work beyond the tough market and keep paying.
"We're simply in a position where it's just not that easy to do."
He was disappointed with his players' use of the ball and decision making: "We gave the ball away awfully - there were too many poor decisions, for the second goal, Tom Heaton rolls the ball out when there's no need, we'd just been under pressure, keep the ball, calm down, the shape is off, kick it up the pitch.
"They counter, and score.
"You can't make bad decisions like that against teams like this, they have too much quality.
"You can go a goal down at places like this, so you have to keep your mentality. First half we didn't, second we got a bit stronger. That's not like us by the way, whether the result last week kind of tainted that in a bad way, it happens. But we were almost waiting to see what they did, which you can't do, you have to get about them, get amongst them, but we didn't.
"I think they've changed their gameplan, the full backs tuck in more, the widemen are asked to do a bit more work.
"We thought we were going to have more of the ball but we just didn't use it well, it looked like the one where you almost get too much time - players want it to be fast, so they can play through situations, but it almost looked like there was too much thinking time, and that gave us the wrong decisions.
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Clarets boss Sean Dyche admitted his side were as poor as they had been in a year in the first half of their 3-0 defeat at Chelsea.


Visitors to the annual Heritage Open Day at Gawthorpe Hall will get a behind the scenes look at what life was like at the “Downton of the North”.
Entry will be free to the Grade I listed hall at Padiham, near Burnley, on Saturday September 10th from noon to 4-30pm.
Redesigned in the 1850s by Sir Charles Barry, who designed the Houses of Parliament and the real Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle, the stately home holds the North West’s largest collection of portraits and collections of intricate lace, embroidery and needle work.
Visitors will be able to follow the spiral staircase, which is usually closed, down to the basement Victorian kitchen, just as the servants would have done in bygone days.
A ‘Meet the Housekeeper’ event will show what life was like, both upstairs and downstairs.
Here, the housekeeper will be on hand to offer fascinating insights into life at Gawthorpe Hall during this period – what the servants did, what the house guests ate, and how the cooks prepared it.
As well as the special events, people will be able to enjoy all of the hall’s regular attractions, such as the fabulous seventeenth-century plasterwork and panelling, the Victorian tiles, luxurious textiles and the stunning Long Gallery.
The Literary Lions exhibition celebrating the 200th anniversary of Charlotte Bronte’s birth will be available for visitors to enjoy for free.
The display showcases the effect that Charlotte’s friendships, especially with Elizabeth Gaskell, and her visits to Gawthorpe Hall staying with the Kay-Shuttleworth family, had on her literary legacy.
Some of the objects featured in the exhibition have been loaned from the Bronte Parsonage Museum. These include items belonging to Charlotte Bronte.
An original letter written by Charlotte to Janet Kay-Shuttleworth, after her first stay at Gawthorpe Hall, will also be on display. This has rarely been on public display previously.
Other items include period costume dress from the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection. The exhibition also looks at what Padiham would have been like when Charlotte visited. A pharmacy book from the 1830s, with prescriptions for the Kay-Shuttleworth family, is also on display. This has never been on public display previously.
Outside, visitors will be able to wander the tranquil grounds, including the small ornamental garden overlooking the River Calder.
County Coun. Marcus Johnstone, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for environment, planning and cultural services, said: “There will be something to suit people of all ages, with new things to see even if you are one of our regular visitors.
“On a personal level, as I’m the county councillor for Padiham and I also live close to Gawthorpe Hall, I’m pleased that it is involved in Heritage Open Days.”
For more information telephone 01282 771004 or email gawthorpehall@lancashire.gov.uk
Gawthorpe Hall is run by Lancashire County Council’s museum service on behalf of the National Trust.
Normal opening times are 12pm to 5pm Wednesdays to Sundays, with last entry to the hall at 4-30pm. The museum is open on Bank Holidays.
Admission for all visitors is free for the Heritage Open Day only. Normal admission costs are £4 for adults and £3 for concessions. National Trust members and children go free.
To find out more about Gawthorpe Hall and other Lancashire County Council museums visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums

Gawthorpe Hall opens its grand old doors for free


Visitors to the annual Heritage Open Day at Gawthorpe Hall will get a behind the scenes look at what life was like at the “Downton of the North”.


A Burnley FC worker who attacked his pregnant partner and both her parents was said to have been arrested at the club on match day, a court was told.
Ashley Michael Bryan (27) abused Natalie Greenhough by pushing her, punched her father Trevor Wolstenhome and shoved her mother Adele Wolstenholme.
Bryan, who struck in front of young children, was alleged by the prosecution to have “exerted power” over Ms Greenhough by assaulting her family.
The hearing was told Bryan and Ms Greenhough, who was sitting in the public gallery, may reconcile and she had written a letter to the court in his support.
Bryan, who has a previous domestic- related conviction, has been spared jail, but a district judge, who said the violence would have had an emotional impact upon both the victims and the children, warned him if he flouted the sentence, he would end up behind bars.
Bryan, of Springfield Road, Burnley, admitted assaulting the Wolstenholmes by beating on April 9th and assaulting Ms Greenhough by beating on or between last December 15th and December 31st.
The defendant, who had pleaded guilty on the day he was due to face trial, received 24 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, with a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement. He was ordered to pay Mr and Mrs Wolstenholme £100 compensation each and must hand over an £80 victim surcharge and £180 costs to the court.
Sentencing him, District Judge James Clarke said any assault was serious. He said he had read the letter from Ms Greenhough, but it was his decision alone over what would happen to the defendant and not for the complainant or witnesses in a case to ask for any particular sentence.
The district judge told Bryan: “I take a particularly dim view of people who assault their partners or other people in the presence of young children.”
Prosecutor Mrs Alex Mann told the hearing the latter incident was due to a disagreement, as Natalie Greenhough, who had recently split up with Bryan at the time, wasn’t happy to let him in. He was saying “unpleasant things”and she had already rung her parents, who said they would come round.
Her mother was pushed and her father was punched. Mrs Mann continued : “Her father describes being disgusted at the incident. It happened when other family members were present. There was just shock and dismay this had happened. Nothing like that had ever happened before. All parties had said that. They describe behaviour throughout the relationship of making her feel uncomfortable if she was going out or socialising with her family.”
Mr Nick Cassidy (defending) said: “He accepts all the problems in the relationship are his responsibility. He fully accepts he has an issue in relation to his temper. He is very remorseful. He is well aware he has to be punished in relation to these offences. He is aware that all sentencing options are open.”
The solicitor continued :” My instructions are that long term, if he can resolve the issues in the relationship with his temper, there is a chance they could reconcile. In the short term, he has to continue living at his mother’s address.”
Mr Cassidy told the hearing Bryan worked at Burnley Football Club on match days. He added: “They are aware of things because he was arrested at the football club or shortly before he was due to start work.”
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A Burnley FC worker who attacked his pregnant partner and both her parents was said to have been arrested at the club on match day, a court was told.