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BREAKING: Berlin market terror suspect Anis Amri ‘shot dead’ in Milan

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Berlin truck terrorist Anis Amri has been shot dead in Milan, the Italian Interior Ministry has confirmed.

Amri "immediately" produced a gun when approached by police and shot an officer during a routine patrol in the northern Italian city early on Friday.

The Tunisian was then killed, and there is "absolutely no doubt" that the man was Amri, Italian interior minister Marco Minniti said.

Amri, 24, was suspected of driving a truck into crowds at a Christmas market in Berlin on Monday, killing 12 people and injuring 48.

At a press conference on Friday morning, Mr Minniti said: "One of our police officers on patrol stopped a person who was just walking around looking very suspect. And the moment he was stopped, the man, without hesitating, he immediately took his gun and shot at the police officer who asked him for his identification papers."

He said the officer is recovering in hospital.

Mr Minniti said: "Police officers reacted to the shootout. The person who attacked our police officer was killed."

He added: "There is absolutely no doubt that the person who was killed is Anis Amri, the suspect of the terrorist attack in Berlin."

Although the minister declined to disclose too many operational details, he lauded the moment - which took place at 3am - as demonstrative of the excellence of Italy's security services.

He said: "I would like to thank the whole of the security of our country. Italy should be really proud of our security full stop and I repeat - really proud, full stop."

Mr Minniti added: "As soon as this person entered our country he was the most wanted man in Europe and we immediately identified him and neutralised him and this means our security is working really well."

The minister said: "We are talking about an operation that happened at three in the morning in the middle of a really important city centre and it happened in complete security.

"The only problem was for the police officer who was shot - no-one else was injured."


Police search for missing man with links to Preston and Leyland

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A 25-year-old man from Blackpool with links to Preston and Leyland is missing.

Darryl Holland was last seen at Blackpool Victoria Hospital in Whinney Heys Road around 12.30pm on Wednesday (December 21).

He is described as white, 6ft tall, of thin build, with short ginger hair. He was wearing a grey tracksuit, baseball cap and black hooded jacket.

He has links to Preston and Leyland and officers are appealing to anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact police.

A Lancashire Police spokesman said: “We are growing increasingly concerned following Darryl’s disappearance.

“We would urge anyone with details of his location to contact us. Furthermore, if you have seen him or someone matching his description, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting log reference 0584 of December 21.

Man missing from Blackpool

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A 25-year-old man from Blackpool with links to Preston and Leyland is missing.

Darryl Holland was last seen at Blackpool Victoria Hospital in Whinney Heys Road around 12.30pm on Wednesday (December 21).

He is described as white, 6ft tall, of thin build, with short ginger hair. He was wearing a grey tracksuit, baseball cap and black hooded jacket.

He has links to Preston and Leyland and officers are appealing to anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact police.

A Lancashire Police spokesman said: “We are growing increasingly concerned following Darryl’s disappearance.

“We would urge anyone with details of his location to contact us. Furthermore, if you have seen him or someone matching his description, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting log reference 0584 of December 21.

APPEAL: Young man missing from Blackpool with links to Preston

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Police are appealing for information after a young man from Blackpool with links to Preston went missing.

Samuel Thomas, 20, was last seen around 4.50pm on Wednesday (December 21) in Blackpool Road. He was walking in the direction of Carleton Crematorium.

He is described as white, 6ft tall, of slim build and of pale complexion. He was wearing a grey suit, black shirt and grey tie.

He has links to the Preston area.

A Lancashire Police spokesman said: “Samuel has been missing for several days now and we are concerned for his welfare.

“We would urge anyone who has information leading to his whereabouts to contact police.

“Furthermore, if Samuel sees this appeal, I would ask he calls officers to let us know he is safe.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log reference 0971 of December 21.

The ever-present Gregg Wallace is like an unwanted Christmas gift

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As the old song goes, ‘I wish it could be Christmas every day’, but for TV’s most famous baldie, Gregg Wallace, I think it probably is.

Gregg has been on our screens for ages, co-hosting Masterchef with John Torode – a man who can open his mouth wider than a python swallowing a young deer – popping up on Strictly, or Who Do You Think You Are, and presenting several daytime lifestyle shows masquerading as primetime entertainment.

This week, however, Britain’s most famous greengrocer has reached Santa-levels of ubiquity.

On Monday, he was to be found shouting at assorted nerdy types Time Commanders (BBC4, Mondays, 9pm) in which the geeks attempt to show history’s leading generals where they went wrong in their most famous battles.

On this week’s show, a team of aquarium workers and a trio of archery enthusiasts staged a re-run of the Battle of Waterloo. Frankly, the level of tactical awareness on show would have disgraced a primary school playground, as the two teams essentially charged up and down Belgium, seeing their troops scythed down by cannon fire, and ending up with about two-a-side.

Through it all, Gregg charged about like an over-excited schoolboy, adding absolutely nothing in the way of historical fact, and very little in intelligible English.

Similarly, his gurning boat race turned up to add literally nothing to Masterchef: The Professionals (BBC2, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9pm) as he sat with assorted Michelin-starred chefs to taste the food turned out by this year’s finalists.

A telling moment arrived when Gregg asked renowned chef Sat Bains: “What do chefs like?”

“Great food, great company,” replied Bains, “so you’d better go.”

Quite why he was there is a mystery, he just stands about, shouting whatever comes in to his head, usually some sort of Cockney-ism containing words like “mate”, “cor”, “phwoar”.

Just as he did on his final appearance this week, on Inside the Christmas Factory (BBC2, Tuesday, 9pm), in which he wandered around a Mr Kipling factory finding out how they make mince pies on an epic scale. Even the most banal fact was greeted with an amazed mouthgasm – “oooh!”, “mate, that’s amazing”, even “clever old raisins”. The best bits were whenever Gregg – who wore the most redundant hairnet in Britain at all times – was not screen.

Basically, Gregg has been like that gift set of Lynx toiletries Auntie Mary gives you on Christmas Day – unwanted. I think we should put him away until a more appropriate festival – Easter, perhaps.

Love is the right note for Jessica and Kevin

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Music was the key to their hearts when Kevin Stockdale and Jessica Jenkinson, from Knott End, first fell in love.

They met at their local pub and a mutual love of music in almost every genre brought them closer together in their early days, enjoying each other’s company at various concerts and festivals.

Kevin, 34, a groundworker, proposed to Jessica when they went away for the night at the Yorebridge House, Bainbridge. It was whilst dining on their Michelin Star meal that he popped the question.

Jessica, 26, who is a nurse said: “He was so nervous he could hardly get his words out. We had just had our meal and were in a sitting area where there was no-one else. We asked the waiter to take a picture of us and he didn’t know we had just got engaged. It was perfect for the moment to be just us two and no audience. We just sat for a while with beaming smiles drinking our champagne.

They tied the knot at St Oswald’s Church, Preesall before a reception Beeston Manor in Hoghton.

Jessica said: “The venue for the wedding was so perfect for us. we were looking for a relaxed and friendly feel without sacrificing the quality feel.

“Beeston Manor delivered on every level. reassuring us, always a friendly voice on the other end of the phone and they genuinely care about your day. So many guests commented on how lovely the venue was and how gorgeous the food was.

“Kev gave me a bottle of the same champagne we drank on our engagement - Laurent Perrier - and had it engraved with a special message.

“We also drank that champagne on the top table during the wedding breakfast.”

A particularly moving part of the reception was after the best man’s speech when he asked everyone to look at a screen where a video was played with messages from family and friends. Jessica’s chief bridesmaid made it for them.

Said Jessica: “ This was the first time I had become emotional in the whole day as it included pictures of my grandparents who are no longer with us.

“Kev says that he felt speechless and could never have imagined how amazing the day would be. I felt on cloud 9 all day. I just didn’t want to take my dress off!

“It was so lovely to have both our families and our close friends in one place to celebrate with us.”

Those who helped to make the day special

Bride’s parents: David and Julie Jenkinson

Groom’s mother and partner: Janet Pate and William Thomas

Date and venue: September 3, St Oswald’s Church, Preesall.

Reception: Beeston Manor, Houghton

Honeymoon: Paphos, Cyprus

Best man: Wayne Harrison

Chief bridesmaid: Laura Jenkinson

Bridesmaids: Kellie Morphed, Shelley Jenkinson, Michelle Jenkinson

Pageboy: Mickey Varey

Flower girls:Scarlett Anson, Amelia Stockdale and Edie Jenkinson

Cake: M&S

Flowers: Flower Design Events

We take a look at how communities are finally getting their lives back one year after Boxing Day floods

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One year on from the Boxing Day floods, communities and families are only just starting to see their old lives take shape.

Lancashire was battered by three separate storms across December but the Wyre village of St Michael’s was one of the worst hit areas.

In 2015, Storm Desmond struck on December 9, Storm Eva hit on Christmas Eve and just as families thought the devastation was over, another storm hit on December 26 to complete their misery.

But now the villagers are looking forward to a happier festive period.

Pam and John Nickols spent last Christmas in rented accommodation, meaning no family or friends could visit.

This year they’re back in their fully refurbished home and say “it’s nice to be back from exile”.

Pam said: “We’ve been sat at home thinking how nice it is to be dry again. It’s always nice to be in your space, looking at your garden, sat in your own living room.

“We had a party to celebrate getting back into our home after being away from it for nine months. That went really well and there was lots of people who had either been flooded or had helped us out.

“The weather hasn’t been great really and its trying to be festive but hopefully we’ll be dry going into 2017.”

Sam Collinson saw his home under water and endured a torrid time trying to get him and his wife Antonia back on their feet.

But now the 36-year-old from Blackpool Road, one of the worst affected areas, is hoping the village can move on from the disaster.

He said: “Our home was left under water by the floods and because we had no insurance we just had to try and save our possessions. We just had to live with the damage for quite a while but over the year we’ve slowly worked our way through the house and its beginning to look a bit more normal.

“I think most people in the village are just looking to move on with their lives and hope that the work that has been done is enough to stop it happening again. This Christmas has been very different to last, but obviously in a good way - we’re just hoping that continues.”

The relief effort came from many angles with Wyre Council and the Environment Agency helping people defend as well as refurbish their homes after the disaster.

In the past year, The Environment Agency has spent £121m in Lancashire alone to repair the damage and to better protect the 33,000 affected homes from further flooding.

Prince Harry even visited the village in February to see how the relief effort was progressing and was greeted with a community spirit which locals say has helped them get past the disasters.

Lawrence Turner, chairman of the flooded St Michael’s on Wyre Village Hall, said: “The hall is now looking better than ever and I know many homes throughout the village are getting that way too. It’s been a tough year for lots of us in St Michael’s and I know lots of us are hoping for looking forward to what we hope will be a much drier festive period. Lots of people will be enjoying Christmas but they’ll also be crossing their fingers there’s no repeat of last year.”

And to make sure nothing on that scale happens again, Wyre Council wants everyone in the borough to check their flood risk and to take some simple steps to protect themselves should the worst happen.

Coun Roger Berry, cabinet member with responsibility for flooding at Wyre Council, said: “One in six properties is at risk of flooding and a quick online post code checker can tell you your risk level.

“There are simple steps you can take now that could make all the difference in a flood, such as signing up to receive flood warnings from the Environment Agency, putting together a flood kit and collating emergency contact numbers and essential documents.

“If you live in a flood risk area, flood protection equipment must now be considered as an essential and valued asset for your property. Please don’t wait until flooding is imminent as you simply won’t have time to buy or put the measures in place.”

County Coun Marcus Johnstone, cabinet member for environment, planning and cultural services, added: “The December 2015 floods were the worst not just in living memory, but in the history of Lancashire. They affected more than 200 communities and as well as causing distress and disruption to homeowners and businesses, they also damaged critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges and electricity supply.

“The agencies responsible for managing the risk of flooding have been working very hard together to understand how each individual flooding incident happened and to take action to manage or reduce the risk of it happening again. “This has been a huge task and the agencies involved have had to make decisions around where to prioritise resources, so there is more detail relating to some communities than others.

And the damage even forced the village to create St Michael’s Flood Action Group (FLAG) which manages and inspects the work going on to improve flood defences as well as providing support for those affected.

To find out more, to join the group or to go to the next meeting you can email stmichaelsflag@gmail.com.

To sign up for Flood Warnings, visit www.gov.uk/flood or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

Child seatbelt danger warning

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Shock figures show hundreds of Lancashire parents are struggling to strap their children in cars safely.

In the past three years, there were 534 incidents of mum and dads breaking child seatbelt laws, and research shows that one in five parents never use a car seat - more than any other region in the UK.

Road safety campaigners said the news is “worrying” and parents need help choosing the most suitable seat, especially with new laws coming into force in February.

Currently, under UK law, children under 12 years of age, or 135cm tall, cannot use an adult belt without additional restraints, except under exceptional circumstances.

Children weighing under 15kg (2st 4lbs) must use booster seats with backs – children over this weight are permitted to use backless booster seats.

Under new legislation, the use of booster seats with backs will be extended for use by heavier and taller children up to 125cm and up to 22kg (3st 5lb).

However, the law only applies to new products on the market. It is understood parents who already own and use backless booster seats for their child will still be permitted to use them.

Research by insurance company Confused.com shows three in five North West parents are unaware of the new laws, and of those who are aware, 86 per cent do not know what they are.

Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety, said: “Seat belts do not fit children properly until they are at least 135 cm tall which means they cannot protect children in the same way they protect adults. The safest way for children to travel in cars is in a child seat that is suitable for their weight and size, and is correctly fitted in the car.

“Getting the right child seat for your child can be confusing because there are so many different types, and it depends on their size and weight and whether it is suitable for your car.

“However, it is very surprising and worrying that over 20 per cent of North West parents say they never use a child car seat. This puts their children at serious risk.

“Parents need advice to help them choose the most suitable seat, especially as new standards are developed and laws changed.

“Not to use a child seat is a deliberate decision and puts the child in danger as they are at risk of being ejected from the vehicle. More needs to be done to highlight these dangers, irrespective as to the distance travelled.”

High-backed child seats are safer for children than booster cushions without a back because the high back and side provides additional head protection for the child, especially in side impacts.

During random spot checks, Lancashire Police officers have come across hundreds of cases where parents have failed to adhere to child seat laws in the past three years.

In 2013 there were 328 cases, 89 in 2014 and 117 in 2015. Each breach could mean a fine of up to £500.

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: “It is extremely important children are adequately protected when travelling on the road, and the law makes it clear which seat they should be using for their age, weight or height, and how these seats should be secured. It is also clear on seatbelt use for all motorists, not just children.

“At Lancashire Police we take road safety extremely seriously and our roads policing team is committed to tackling those in breach of the law, which could mean a fine of up to £500.

“Anyone who isn’t sure what the law states can get more information at https://www.gov.uk/seat-belts-law or at http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/choosing-using/.”


MP’s delight at war graves youth scheme

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A Fylde coast MP is delighted that fines from cheating banks will help young people gain life experience.

Blackpool North and Cleveleys, Conservative MP Paul Maynard has been campaigning for paid internships at the Commonwealth war graves in Europe.

Now Dr Andrew Murrison MP, has said the scheme will be set up to allow young people aged between 18 and 25 to act as guides at some of the First World War’s most iconic War Graves sites such as Tyne Cot in Belgium.

After a training and induction period, they will work for four months with the CWGC, initially at Tyne Cot, extending to Thiepval on the Somme, where they will guide and inform visitors. The idea came after a visit by Mr Maynard to the war graves in Autumn of 2012. The Chancellor has said £600,000 of bank Libor rate fixing fines would be used to fund 40 young people.

Mr Maynard said: “For me visiting the War Graves and National Monuments of the Great War in France and Belgium was very poignant and emotional. I am sure anyone lucky enough to be take on will have a life changing and fulfilling experience.”

Details at www.cwgc.org

Raising more than a smile for charities

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A kind-hearted Fylde trio handed over almost £3,000 to charities including a cancer support group at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

Friends Emma Oldfield, Zoe Harrison and Debbie Malings held a fundraising night at Lytham Green Drive Golf Club, with the proceeds being split between the Phoenix Bowel Cancer Support Group and the Colitis UK charity.

The event raised £2,873.50 and the Phoenix group was handed its share at a special party for members.

The group is run by patients and volunteers and meets at 7pm on the first Tuesday of every month in the Macmillan Unit at the hospital.

Zoe, from Kirkham, wanted to support the group after seeing how her mum, who is a member, helps others.

She said: “When I see the way she has helped to change people’s lives, I am so inspired by her.

“Some people who have had bowel cancer lack the confidence to go out. My mum gives them the support they need to get through it.

“My mother-in-law passed away three years ago and I did a similar event for Trinity Hospice. I wanted to give something back.

“We are amazed at the outcome of our recent event and our sincere thanks must go to everyone who helped us make it such a success.”

Emma, also from Kirkham, who has Crohn’s disease, said: “With Crohn’s and colitis it can get to a stage where it can turn into bowel cancer.

“That was why it was important for Zoe and her mum to be part of it.

“Everyone was so supportive of our event. It was a wonderful evening and the quiz was hilarious. We would love to do it all again next year.”

Sandra Peet, chairman of the Phoenix group, said: “The money will be used for activities to help give people their confidence back.

“We are not a medical support group – it’s for people who have gone through the same things to share their experiences.”

Brian Peet, Sandra’s husband and one of the group’s supporters, said: “Nearly everyone at the event had been touched in some way or had family affected by colitis, Crohn’s disease or bowel cancer.”

For information about the Phoenix Bowel Cancer Support Group visit www.phoenixgroupbvh.com. Alternatively, call 01772 683790 or email sandrapeet7@aol.com

This is not a medical helpline. If you have a medical question, contact your doctor or medical advisor.

Extra cash for vintage lifeboat

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A group which is restoring a vintage lifeboat from Fleetwood has enjoyed a fund-raising success.

The Ann Letitia Russell Rescue Group has accrued over £600 from the event, staged at the Royal Oak pub on Lord Street, Fleetwood, and included a raffle.

The group’s activities will slow down a little over the winter but the next job is to give the vessel a protective coat of paint for over winter.

The old lifeboat is currently on Fleetwood docks but there are plans to display it on the seafront.

The 41ft vessel, Ann Letitia Russell, which helped save more than 150 lives with Fleetwood RNLI from 1939 to 1976, was returned to the town last summer from a Lowestoft marina for restoration.

A spokesman said:“She was instrumental in saving more than 150 lives. Many local people come from fishing backgrounds and have memories of the service she provided for the local community. The local response to her return to Fleetwood was amazing. Our aim is to return her to her original condition and put her on display in Fleetwood.”

Resort to host LGBT national conference

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Blackpool is set to host the first national LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) youth conference next year.

The event is open to all 13 to 18-year-olds and will be held at The Village Hotel on East Park Drive, Marton, on February 11.

It is being organised by Blackpool community interest company, URPotential, which is based on Central Drive.

Director Linda Markey said: “The conference is to celebrate LGBT History Month.

“We have 150 places available but they are booking up quickly so people should phone now to secure a place.

“There will be exciting workshops, guest speakers, stalls, question time panel with special guests, networking, entertainment from Skool of Street, refreshments on arrival, lunch and much more.”

The event, which is free of charge, is funded by The Peoples Health Trust. 

Youth groups and organisations, individuals and their friends are being urged to go along.

People can book places by contacting Laura on (1253 344398) or by logging onto www.info@urpotential.co.uk

Double boost for Festival bill

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Two more acts have been announced to join comedian Jason Manford on the bill for Lytham’s St George’s Day Festival.

The King’s Division Band will lead a concert at Lowther Pavilion on St George’s Day itself, April 23, while the previous day, the White Helmet Motorcycle Display team will be perform spectacular feats of balance, death defying crossover rides and outstanding acrobatics in the Festival show ring on The Green.

Phillip Naylor, north west regional director of ABF The Soldier’s Charity, a beneficiary of the event along with Trinity Hospice and the Love Lowther theatre refurbishment campaign, said: “We are delighted to be featuring some of the best displays the British Army has to offer in support of the fantastic fundraising activities of St George’s Day Festival. I personally love the fact that all performers are British Army serving soldiers.”

Tickets for both events are available from Lowther Pavilion, by calling (01253) 794221 or online at www.lowtherpavilion.co.uk

Caution is urged for diabetes patients

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Residents living with diabetes have been urged to be extra careful when managing their condition over the festive period.

They have been told to stock up on insulin, test strips, and medicine, to eat healthily, test their sugar levels at regular intervals, and to exercise.

Christine Elwell, a diabetes education coordinator at Lancashire Care Foundation Trust, said: “It’s important to make sure members of the public with diabetes know what precautions to take during this time of the year to stay healthy and fit.

“If you need advice about any of the above or to talk to someone, contact the local team responsible for your care.”

Call 01772 777620 for more information.

Blackpool: From the courts 26-12-16

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Here is a round-up of some of the cases at Blackpool Magistrates Court.

William Coulter, 51, assault

A chef who repeatedly punched his girlfriend on the nose could remember nothing of the incident.

William Coulter said he was usually teetotal but that night he had drunk about eight bottles of lager and some Jack Daniels at a drinks party with friends in his girlfriend’s garden shed which he had converted into a bar.

Coulter, 51, of Ennerdale Road, Mereside, pleaded guilty to assault.

He was sentenced to a six months community order with up to 15 days rehabilitation to be supervised by the probation service, fined £50 with £15 costs and ordered to pay £85 victims’ surcharge by magistrates.

Prosecutor, Martine Connah, said police were called to Coulter’s girlfriend’s home on December 2, at about 3am.

Officers were told they had had friends round and been drinking. They were sat on the sofa when out of nowhere Coulter grabbed her hair and punched her in the face several times.

The couple had been together 18 months and there had been no previous domestic violence between them.

Coulter told magistrates: “I don’t normally drink. I am teetotal.

“I don’t know what happened and remember nothing of the matter.

“I must have hit her because I had cuts on my hand.”

Oliver Nimmo, 20, drink-driving

A student was just over the alcohol limit when police saw him driving erratically.

Oliver Nimmo, 20, of Clifton Drive, Lytham, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol.

He was disqualified from driving for 12 months and fined £120 with £85 costs plus £30 victims’ surcharge by magistrates.

Prosecutor, Martine Connah, said police saw Nimmo driving a Mini Cooper on Blackpool Promenade on December 4, at about 6am.

He was not driving in a straight line and was braking excessively.

On being searched in custody, cannabis was found on him for which he received a caution.

A breath test showed 40 micrograms of alcohol in his body - 35 is the limit.

Trevor Colebourne, defending, said his client, who had no previous convictions, had been to three licensed premises with friends.

He believed he had calculated that what he had drunk would keep him below the limit. He was of light build and had only eaten a sandwich in 24 hours.

Mr Colebourne, defending, added: “Perhaps one mouthful less and he would have been under the limit. Although the limit is 35 the national policy is only to prosecute at 40 and above.”

Nathan Peacock, 27, assault

A man pushed past a girlfriend causing her to fall and hit her head on the stairs.

Nathan Peacock, a 27-year-old pub worker, of Beatty Close, St Annes, pleaded guilty to assault.

He was sentenced to a 12 months community order with 150 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay £100 compensation with £85 costs plus £85 victims’ surcharge by magistrates.

The court was told on July 28 Peacock went to the complainant’s flat in St Annes to collect a mobile phone.

At that time he believed they were in a relationship.

He heard a noise in the flat and went in to discover she had a new boyfriend.

He then pushed past her causing her to fall and hit her head on the stairs.

Prosecutor, Pam Smith, told magistrates the victim said she felt dizziness and pain and she had a bump on her head for a few days.

Peacock had a previous conviction for assaulting the same victim.

Leisa Splaine, defending, said her client worked in a local pub which the complainant and her new partner had visited since the incident and there had been no suggestion of any problem.

Terry Barlow, 39, James Giles, 39, conspiring to supply cannabis and money laundering

A market trader and another man have made their first appearance at court accused of conspiring to supply cannabis and money laundering involving more than £70,000 from the proceeds of crime.

Terry Barlow, a 39-year-old trader, of Flints Caravan Park, River Road, Thornton, and James Giles, 25, of Platt Street, Blackpool, are also charged with supplying cannabis and possessing a baton as an offensive weapon.

The offences are alleged to have taken place at the resort’s Abingdon Street Market, Flints Caravan Park and George Street, Blackpool, in February this year.

Prosecutor, Malcolm Isherwood, said the case had to be heard at crown court.

The defendants were bailed to appear at Preston Crown Court on January 18 by magistrates.

Ian Miller, 44, perpetrating a bomb hoax

A man accused of saying a suicide bomber was running towards Blackpool Police HQ with a vest containing bombs strapped to his chest has appeared in court.

Ian Miller, a 44-year-old perfume buyer, formerly of Lindsay Avenue, St Annes, now of no fixed address, is charged with perpetrating a bomb hoax on December 8.

He is also alleged to have sent false 999 calls to the police.

Prosecutor, Pam Smith, asked for the case to go to crown court.

Defence lawyer, Patrick Nelligan, said his client would not enter pleas to the offences at that stage and did not ask for bail for Miller.

Miller was remand in custody to appear Preston Crown Court on January 25 by District Judge Timothy Gasgoyne.

Rafal Woszczynski, 41, drunk and disorderly

Ambulance staff were forced to call police for help when a drunken man they were trying to help became violent with them.

Rafal Woszczynski tried to grab medics once he was on the ambulance and he repeatedly swore at a police officer.

Woszczynski, 41, of Chorley New Road, Bolton, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly.

The proceedings were relayed to him in Polish by an interpreter.

He was fined £65 with £85 costs and ordered to pay £30 victims’ surcharge by magistrates.

Prosecutor, Martine Connah, said police were called to the resort’s Lytham Road where the defendant was behaving erratically and shouting at passersby on December 4.

He was aggressive with the ambulance crew and a police officer and was arrested.

Woszczynski told magistrates: “It was probably due to me having too much to drink.

“I’m sorry.”


Was rude Christmas lights show in bad taste or not?

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A joker who became an internet hit after covering his house in obscene fairy lights sparked a major debate on our social media channels.

While some thought Steve McGawley’s prank was hilarious, others described it and the reaction to his video as another example of a breakdown of social morals.

Mr McGawley found himself in trouble with police after he decorated his Grange Park home with lights depicting a penis and a bell accompanied by the word ‘END’.

A video of his conversation with two police officers was viewed more than two million times on The Gazette’s Facebook page.

He was arrested on Monday night after refusing to remove the ‘offensive’ display and was issued a penalty notice for disorder, along with a £90 fine.

He later changed the illuminated sign to say ‘I’m sorry’.

Despite his experience, he has vowed to continue his festive pranks next year.

Here are some of the best comments

Most people seem to think this is funny.

I’m no prude but that just says it all to me about standards today.

They argue that kids see andhear much worse via the media/social media.

That is nothing to be proud of. God help the next generation if this one has no pride or standards.

Ann Blundell

I’ll stick my head up above the parapet here and no doubt be slammed by the many commentators that have posted so far. So be it.

What has happened to common decency?

What has happened to respect for the police?

Can’t you see what is happening to society in this country and especially on our doorstep here in Blackpool?

Bartok

It is unacceptable; children will go past this house and see this and think this is acceptable. It isn’t.

John Madden

What does amaze me is some people find this acceptable.

All it does is show how low morality in this country can go.

A lack of respect for neighbours and people in general.

Peter Allen-Rogers

It’s the sort of thing that a teenager would scrawl in a school book.

So, funny at that age and in that sort of context.

Even at school it’s childish rebellion but to be expected.

For an adult it’s a bit embarrassing to have not moved on.

Wrighty

All Christmas lights are tacky and a sign of the underclasses; you may as well have a flashing light displaying the word ‘chav’ outside your house (the staff at Moss Towers taught me what that word means).

That said, this man is clearly a complete buffoon who has no consideration for his neighbours and his community.

The Moss

Thuggish and childish behaviour

Katie Smith

I think it’s quite creative.

If you have your kids up late enough to see them lit up then you’re a bad parent.

Watershed for decorations should be a thing. After hours then you can’t complain.

Ric Hulme

Is it just me that found this amusing?

Tommyw3

I’m personally offended by every other disgusting display of over indulgent Christmas nonsense....this is well funny...people need to chill

Tom Bola

Just remember when Clive puts the police precept part of your council tax up next April (and be in no doubt it is going up significantly) it is to pay for essential policing such as this...

Then the council will want their lump for social care, it’s a wonder if we will have any of our own money left to spend on ourselves.

Blackpooljourno

Have you ever thought about joining the Illuminations designer? . Now THAT would bring in the crowds

Charley Farley

What a waste of police time and money. Resources could and should have been used elsewhere. Watched the video earlier.

The female police officer was overzealous to say the least. The male officer should have handled it because he was a calmer influence on the situation.

A warning should have sufficed

Carolyn Tyrer

It’s one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen

Mark Taylor

I bet the police had a giggle in the van when they saw this

Chantelle Brittain

I’ve had my house and car vandalised, my garage burgled and they didn’t even have time to send anyone out to see me, let alone do anything about it.

The police need to get their priorities straight and stop messing about with this nonsense.

Streamofconsciousness

Fully understand the concerns but come on, the video clip is priceless ! Can’t stop laughing.

Lytham Seasider

Team work secures the building society

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A Fylde Coast building society has invested in its future by teaming up with one of Lancashire’s leading security companies.

The Marsden Building Society has appointed Alert Fire and Security Ltd to safeguard assets at its eight outlets.

The latest to get the hi-tech treatment is the branch in Poulton-le-Fylde.

Phil Fox, general manager of resources at the Marsden Building Society said: “The opening in Poulton is further evidence of our progression and, as we continue to grow, it is imperative that our security arrangements are as tight as possible.

“We now have full intruder systems across all sites and have also installed the very latest in HD CCTV technology.

“We have asked a lot of Alert, but they have certainly hit the mark both in terms of advice and delivery.

Particularly impressive is the way they have configured the system so that everything can be worked and viewed from our headquarters.

“It means all branches are constantly monitored and offers us great peace of mind.”

Trevor Shanley, managing director at Alert, said: “The Marsden Building Society is one of the foremost building societies in the county and we are delighted to have extended our involvement with them.

“We have designed a be-spoke security package which utilises the very latest software to cover all their specific requirements.”

With a proud heritage dating back some 155 years, the Marsden Building Society opened its newest branch in the Teanlowe Shopping Centre, Poulton, last month.

The society also has branches in Lytham, Garstang, Burnley, Barrowford, Clitheroe, Colne and Nelson.

Child seatbelt safety warning

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Shock figures show hundreds of Lancashire parents are struggling to strap their children in cars safely.

In the past three years, there were 534 incidents of mums and dads breaking child seatbelt laws, and research shows that one in five parents never use a car seat - more than any other region in the UK.

Road safety campaigners said the news is “worrying” and parents need help choosing the most suitable seat, especially with new laws coming into force in February.

Currently, under UK law, children under 12 years of age, or 135cm tall, cannot use an adult belt without additional restraints, except under exceptional circumstances.

Children weighing under 15kg (2st 4lbs) must use booster seats with backs – children over this weight are permitted to use backless booster seats.

Under new legislation, the use of booster seats with backs will be extended for use by heavier and taller children up to 125cm and up to 22kg (3st 5lb).

However, the law only applies to new products on the market. It is understood parents who already own and use backless booster seats for their child will still be permitted to use them.

Research by insurance company Confused.com shows three in five North West parents are unaware of the new laws, and of those who are aware, 86 per cent do not know what they are.

Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety, said: “Seat belts do not fit children properly until they are at least 135 cm tall which means they cannot protect children in the same way they protect adults. The safest way for children to travel in cars is in a child seat that is suitable for their weight and size, and is correctly fitted in the car.

“Getting the right child seat for your child can be confusing because there are so many different types, and it depends on their size and weight and whether it is suitable for your car.

“However, it is very surprising and worrying that over 20 per cent of North West parents say they never use a child car seat. This puts their children at serious risk.

“Parents need advice to help them choose the most suitable seat, especially as new standards are developed and laws changed.

“Not to use a child seat is a deliberate decision and puts the child in danger as they are at risk of being ejected from the vehicle. More needs to be done to highlight these dangers, irrespective as to the distance travelled.”

High-backed child seats are safer for children than booster cushions without a back because the high back and side provides additional head protection for the child, especially in side impacts.

During random spot checks, Lancashire Police officers have come across hundreds of cases where parents have failed to adhere to child seat laws in the past three years.

In 2013, there were 328 cases, 89 in 2014 and 117 in 2015. Each breach could mean a fine of up to £500.

A spokesman for 
Lancashire Police said: “It is extremely important children are adequately protected when travelling on the road, and the law makes it clear which seat they should be using for their age, weight or height, and how these seats should be secured.

“It is also clear on seatbelt use for all motorists, not just children.

“At Lancashire Police we take road safety extremely seriously and our roads policing team is committed to tackling those in breach of the law, which could mean a fine of up to £500.”

Federation calls for clarity

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The way taxpayers’ money is spent by Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) must be much more transparent, according to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

The call comes in response to a report by MPs on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) examining issues around devolution in England, including concerns about the Partnerships.

Commenting on the findings of the PAC’s ‘Devolution in England’ report, Mike Cherry, FSB National Chairman, said:

“It’s encouraging to see the cross-party and influential PAC push for clarity around devolution objectives in England. In particular, the PAC’s call on Government to review the accountability of LEPs marks a welcome step forward.

“FSB has campaigned hard for LEPs to be more transparent in how they work. The need for greater LEP accountability has never been more pressing as the partnerships are set to receive increased funding over the coming years.

“The Government should now insist LEPs publish a register of business interests and fulfil their obligation to appoint a small business champion to their Board, as announced at the last Budget.

“While a number of LEPs up and down the country have proven effective at driving growth, more must be done to ensure partnerships are delivering for their local economies.”

Don’t forget to get your slice of £500k

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Preesall town councillor Pat Greenough is encouraging community groups, schemes and organisations in the FY6 postcode to claim a slice of £500,000 this year - and funds will be up for grabs for the next 25 years.

The cash will come from the Walney Extension Community Benefit Fund, which is part of the community engagement programme for DONG Energy’s Walney Extension offshore wind farm.

The wind farm is being built 9km off the Cumbrian coast.

On completion in 2019, the 660-megawatt wind farm will be the world’s biggest, capable of meeting the electricity needs of more than half a million UK homes.

Around £500,000 will be available in the main fund to support community and environmental projects for each of the 25 years that the Walney Extension will be operating.

An additional £100,000 will be ring-fenced annually for a skills fund that will support educational and training initiatives to equip people for working in engineering industries like offshore wind.

Coun Greenough said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for community organisations to access grants and it is well worth applying.”

DONG Energy has recruited an organisation called GrantScape to manage the fund.

Applications for grants of between £500 and £75,000 from the main fund must be from community and environmental organisations in coastal community areas stretching between Fleetwood and Seascale in Cumbria.

Brent Cheshire, UK country chairman for DONG Energy said: “This fund recognises the long-term relationship which the Walney Extension offshore wind farm has with the region.

“We believe it is important to support local communities in the areas around our developments and this fund gives us an opportunity to make a difference.”

For more details on how to apply for the fund, and information on deadlines and rule visit:http://www.grantscape.org.uk/fund/walney-extension-community-fund/

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