Police investigating the rape of a 13-year-old girl in Wigan have made an arrest. 

A 26-year-old man from Astley was arrested this morning, Wednesday, 19 June 2013, on suspicion of rape. He remains in police custody for questioning. 

Officers were called at around 9.15am today, Tuesday 18 June 2013, following a report that a teenage girl had been raped in the Merlewood Drive area of Astley. 

A man approached the girl as she walked along the path, threatened her and dragged her into an area of nearby wasteland, where he raped her. 

The attack is believed to have taken place sometime between 7.30am and 8.30am. 

The man is described as white, in his 30s, medium build and was wearing a blue vest and three-quarter length khaki shorts. 

Specialist support is being provided to the victim and a comprehensive police investigation has been launched. 

Detective Chief Inspector Howard Millington from GMP's Wigan division, said: "I hope residents are reassured by this quick arrest, but I want to stress that the investigation does not stop hear. 

"We are continuing to look into this most horrendous of crimes and we are continuing to support the victim. 

"We are also continuing to appeal for witnesses.” 

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 1891 / 1812 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

Halton Borough Council is placing life-saving defibrillators in its public buildings and supporting a campaign to raise awareness of their importance.

Council Leader Cllr Rob Polhill and Health portfolio holder Cllr Marie Wright recently met representatives of the Oliver King Foundation, which was set up in memory of a 12-year-old Liverpool boy who died from Sudden Arrythmic Death Syndrome (SADS). Oliver died when his heart stoppedwhen swimming in his school's baths -the Foundation believes a defibrillator would have saved his life.

A defibrillator is a machine that delivers an electric shock to the heart when someone is having a cardiac arrest.

The campaign, led by Oliver’s father, Mark King, raises awareness of SADS and wants defibrillators to be put into schools, sports centres and public buildings.

The Council is putting defibrillators in a number of its buildings used by the public and it is training staff how to use them. This training, from North West Ambulance Service, which hasprovided the equipment, is now underway.

University of Salford archaeologists, alongside community volunteers, are to excavate the Manchester cavalry barracks which housed the troops sent out to disperse protesters in the notorious Peterloo Massacre of 1819.

The dig between 1 and 13 July will investigate Hulme Barracks, which were occupied by the army from approximately 1804 until 1915 and were the base for the Peterloo cavalry of the 15^th King’s Hussars who also fought at Waterloo.

Currently the St Georges Park playing fields and community centre, the archaeologists hope to discover a wide selection of finds on the site, which in 1839, was reported to house 399 men and 20 officers. There has been no building work on the site since it was demolished in 1915, so there are high hopes of recovering soldiers’ equipment and everyday items from over 100 years of continuous occupation, which spanned Manchester’s development from a garrison town into one of the world’s greatest industrial cities.

In 1819 the 15^th King’s Hussars, alongside the part-time Manchester and Salford Yeomanry, mobilised to disperse up to 80,000 protesters who had gathered in St Peter’s Field to demand political reform. The resulting sabre charge left approximately 15 dead and up to 700 injured. The Hussars were responsible for charging in to break up the crowd, but one officer was also heard trying to restrain the Yeomanry who were further in near the hustings.

The event was popularly dubbed the Peterloo Massacre in reference to the 1815 battle of Waterloo.

Several written accounts of the barracks survive, including this from Manchester journal, The Sphinx, written in 1868: "The main approach to the Hulme Barracks...is through a street, which owing to dirt or dinginess, is neither good for the sight or nose. Marine stores, rag and bone shops, public-houses of the lowest class, and tumble-down buildings give the neighbourhood anything but a pleasing appearance.

"But step into the barracks and see the soldier at home. It is literally a step, and a step only, from dirt and wretchedness to the very perfection of cleanliness and order. True, the barrack buildings are old and dingy, but military neatness works wonders, and there is plenty of space for such sun and breeze as can be coaxed into a region so near cottonopolis.”

Hulme Barracks ceased to be used by the cavalry in 1895 and were instead used by infantry battalions. In 1914 the site was bought by Manchester Corporation which demolished almost all of the buildings and converted the site to playing fields.

The main building which had housed the officers’ quarters and mess in the later 19^th Century was retained in 1914-15 as it was being used as a headquarters of the East Lancashire Territorial Division. It was later used as a bowling green clubhouse. In the late 1970s the St George’s Community Association successfully campaigned to have the building saved and converted to a community centre. It is now a Grade II listed building.

The Hulme Barracks dig is part of the Dig Greater Manchester Project, run by the University of Salford and supported by Manchester City Council and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities. During the four year project, each borough of Greater Manchester will host an excavation, with local community members given full training to assist the professional archaeologists.

Councillor Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, said:"Dig Greater Manchester provides a fantastic chance for local residents to help uncover the region’s past and reveal the history hidden beneath all our feet.

"Manchester has a fascinating history and this project will give a glimpse into the lives of the people that took part in the Peterloo Massacre, a defining moments of its age that had reverberations around the world."

Brian Grimsditch, senior archaeologist from the University of Salford, said: "This is an extremely high profile excavation of one of the principal historic sites in Manchester, and one that would not normally feature public participation.

"However, due to the way Dig Greater Manchester is structured, members of the community will be able to find out more about a site that spans over 100 years of the city’s explosive development, and that was part of many of the great events that shaped Manchester throughout the Industrial Revolution.”

Leeds Rhinos centre Joel Moon has been suspended for one match after submitting an Early Guilty Plea to the Grade B charge of making a dangerous lift on Hep Cahill of Widnes Vikings in the 18th minute of the Super League Round 4 fixture played at Headingley Carnegie Stadium on Monday June 17.

Detectives are appealing for information following a burglary at a pub in Widnes.

At around 3.40am on Monday 17 June three offenders gained entry to the Church Green pub in Lunts Heath Road via a first floor window.

They threatened a man, who was inside, with a hammer and the trio then stole a quantity of cash from a safe before fleeing the scene.

The victim − a 21-year-old man − was not injured as a result of the incident but he was left extremely shaken by his ordeal.

The first offender is described as white, around 6′ tall, of athletic build and was wearing a black hooded top with a white logo on the left and dark trousers. He spoke with a local accent.

The second offender is described as white and was also dressed in dark clothing. The third offender was also wearing dark clothing.

DC Jason Heath said: "We are carrying out a number of enquiries in the area including house-to-house enquiries, CCTV enquiries and any relevant forensic enquiries. We would appeal to anyone who has any information in relation to the incident − or was in the area at the time and has seen anything significant or has seen the offenders fleeing the scene − to come forward."

A by election will be held for North ward of Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council on Thursday 20 June.

Polling stations will be open between 7am and 10pm and the polling stations are

Quays Community Centre and Bradshaw Community Primary School.

Please note that polling cards are not being issued at the request of the Parish Council.

Electors can contact the Elections Office to check if they are registered and where to vote on 01925 442184 or elections@warrington.gov.uk

Postal votes must be returned by 10pm on 20 June 2013.

Cameron Phelps has today become the latest Vikings player to commit his future to the Club, having signed a two-year contract extension until the end of the 2015 season.

A former Australia U19's player, Cameron rose through the junior ranks at Canterbury and made his senior debut in 2005,going on to make 39 first grade appearances for the Bulldogs, scoring 12 tries in the process.

A move to Wigan followed in 2008 and Phelps remained there until the end of the 2010 season before moving to East Yorkshire to take up a one-year deal with Hull FC,where he spent the 2011 campaign.

The 28 year-old moved to the Vikings part-way through the Club's first season back in the top-flight in 2012, and he admits that lengthening his stay was an easy decision to reach, commenting:

"Me and my family are very happy here.

"This Club is growing and we're building. They are the two things that are very evident and you can see them immediately. Last year, we were wooden-spooners and this year we're progressing and if all goes according to plan, we could finish in a Top 8 berth.

"Denis has got some good structures in place and the club is very sound from top to bottom. The core is very strong and it's important that we continue to work hard.

"Despite only extending for 2 more years, I still think that I've got another few years ahead of me after this contract expires. In a best case scenario, I'd like nothing more than to still be playing as well as Jon Clarke is, when I get to his age! If I could do that, I'd consider myself blessed.

"The Widnes fans have been great to me, ever since I joined this club. They're always out there in force and are extremely loud and have been there for us, both at home and away, even through the bad times.

"Hopefully there are far more good times on the horizon!"

Vikings Head Coach Denis Betts, added:

"We are looking at creating some stability within the squad and Cameron is a respected, well liked and valued part of the group. His experience and what he's done in the game so far is only going to help and enhance us.

"He's got utility value and has grown into the Centre role, having played predominantly at full back throughout his career.

"Individually, I like working with him and I wanted to keep him here for a couple more years. It's great that he has committed to us, and I'm really pleased that he has taken this step.

"Cameron is an essential part of what we are trying to achieve and that is paramount. Everybody now has a purpose and an understanding of what is required to make this team better, every single day and every single week."

Broadcaster Stuart Hall has been sentenced to 15 months in prison after admitting 14 historic sexual offences against young girls.

Hall, 83, of Prestbury Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire pleaded guilty to the offences of indecent assault when he appeared at Preston Crown Court on Tuesday, April 16^th. The guilty pleas were made public after reporting restrictions were lifted on Thursday, May 2^nd

He appeared at Preston Crown Court today (Monday, June 17^th) for sentence.

Hall was arrested on December 5^th last year and charged with three offences of indecent assault. These offences were committed between 1974 and 1984 and involved three girls aged between 9 and 17 years.

He was subsequently arrested a second time on January 22^nd and also charged with one offence of rape and 14 offences of indecent assault.
These indecent assault offences were committed between 1967/68 and 1986 and involved 10 girls aged between 9 and 17 years.

He denied the offence of rape against a 22 year old woman and in all the circumstances it was decided this would not be proceeded with and it was left to lie on file.

Detective Supt Neil Esseen, of Lancashire Constabulary’s Force Major Investigation Team, said: "I welcome today’s sentence imposed by the court and I hope that it will help the victims in this case move forward with their lives.

"I would like once again to commend the victims in this case for having the courage to come forward. They have lived with what happened for a long period of time and it cannot have been easy for them to come forward, especially as when they did so, they did not know there were others who had also suffered abuse.

"We are committed to investigating any allegations of sexually abuse thoroughly and with sensitivity, no matter how long ago they happened and we will always strive to protect our communities, no matter the status of the alleged perpetrator.

"I would encourage people with any information about sexual abuse or who has been a victim of sexual abuse to come forward and report their concerns confident in the knowledge it will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately and with sensitivity.”

Moors murderer Ian Brady is due to appear at a tribunal later to ask for the right to die.

He's been on hunger strike for ten years and is currently being force fed through a tube - but he wants to be moved to a Scottish Prison.

The hearing will take place at Ashworth Secure Hospital on Merseyside but is being shown via videolink at the Courts in Manchester.

An investigation has begun into why a tourist boat sunk in Liverpool, with more than 30 people onboard.

There were no fatalities, but twenty-two passengers were taken to hospital after the amphibious bus went down on Saturday  afternoon.

In March another tour bus sank in the city dock, but no one was onboard.

A spokesperson for Yellow Duckmarine says the craft has been recovered and it will co-operate fully with any investigation.

Bury v Crewe Alexandra

Shrewsbury Town v Bolton Wanderers

Middlesbrough v Accrington Stanley

Doncaster Rovers v Rochdale

Preston North End v Blackpool

Barnsley v Scunthorpe United

Tranmere Rovers v Mansfield Town

York City v Burnley

Notts County v Fleetwood Town

Sheffield United v Burton Albion

Oldham Athletic v Derby County

Carlisle United v Blackburn Rovers

Morecambe v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Nottingham Forest v Hartlepool United

Leeds United v Chesterfield

Huddersfield Town v Bradford City

Rotherham United v Sheffield Wednesday

Port Vale v Walsall

Gillingham v Bristol City

AFC Bournemouth v Portsmouth

Wycombe Wanderers v Leicester City

Brentford v Dagenham and Redbridge

Exeter City v Queens Park Rangers

Charlton Athletic v Oxford United

Southend United v Yeovil Town

Millwall v AFC Wimbledon

Swindon Town v Torquay United

Birmingham City v Plymouth Argyle

Stevenage v Ipswich Town

Cheltenham Town v Crawley Town

Bristol Rovers v Watford

Northampton Town v Milton Keynes Dons

Leyton Orient v Coventry City

Colchester United v Peterborough United

Brighton and Hove Albion v Newport County

Roddy Snedden, the owner of one of Widnes Vikings' main partners Electrod UK Ltd, is to become a Director of the Club.

The announcement comes just one week after the Vikings announced that Matt Beech, owner of Maltacourt, was to join the Board of Directors.

Vikings CEO James Rule, commented: "Once we announced that we were looking to build a Board of Directors, we were inundated with expressions of interest.

"Roddy stood out as a man that had the business expertise, business network and passion, to really assist us in our evolution.

"He lives and works in the area and is married to a lady who was born and bred in Widnes. Just like Steve (O'Connor), Matt (Beech) and I, he is committed to ensuring that the Widnes Vikings brand is used to drive positive change in the community of Halton.

"The fact that Roddy is willing to invest and become a member of the Board is exciting news for everybody connected with the Club.I look forward to working with him."

Roddy Snedden, added: "As a lifelong sports fan joining the board at Widnes Vikings was an easy decision to make, as the club's spirit and philosophy matches my own ambitions.

"I look forward to being part of the team that will help take the Widnes Vikings back to a position that they are more accustomed to and the fans deserve".

Detectives in St Helens have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to following two robberies in the Newton-le-Willows area last month.

The Co-Op on Park Road South and Heron Frozen Foods, also in Newton, were robbed by a man dressed in a high-viz yellow jacket and bobble hat.

No-one was hurt in either incident but staff in the shops believed the offender was carrying what they thought was a weapon, concealed in a bag.

Det Insp Andy Milligan, said: "We are keen to speak to Lyndon Stein in relation to several robberies in the Newton-le-Willows area recently.

"On May 15, a man went into the Co-Op on Park Road South at half seven in the morning wearing a high-visibility yellow jacket and carrying something in a bag. He approached a cashier, pointed the object at her and ordered her to hand over the money. Staff tried to explain that they did not have access to the safe and luckily, at that moment, a customer walked in and the offender left empty-handed.

"Just over a week later on May 24, a man dressed in a similar jacket walked into Heron Frozen Foods at around half five in the afternoon and asked to speak to the manager. When a member of staff has taken him to the manager's office, the offender has pulled out an object concealed in a plastic bag and again demand cash. The staff believed the object was a weapon and handed over a substantial amount of cash and he left.

"We believe the same man is responsible for both incidents and we are eager to trace Lyndon Stein as part of our investigation.

"I would urge people to take a good look at the CCTV from these two robberies and if they have any information that could help our investigation, they should call us now on 0151 777 6061 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.'

A COMMUNITY day for the whole family – the annual Orford Park Festival is back this year on Sunday 16 June!

The day kicks off at 11am at Orford Jubilee Park, is free of charge, and there’s a wide variety of entertainment and activities on offer.

Highlights include community and charity stalls, fairground rides, face painting, a touch rugby tournament and live music and bands until 6pm.

There will be family friendly entertainment from Batala band, Rixton raptures birds of prey and the Cheshire dog school dog show. There will also be a community walk around the park at 2pm.

Cllr Kate Hannon, executive board member for leisure, community and culture, said: "It’s always brilliant to see the community come together for the Orford Park Festival. I would encourage everyone in the local area to head down there this Sunday for a brilliant family day out.”

There’s also a free prize draw with the chance to win a Warrington Wolves signed shirt, a bicycle, boys and girls scooters, LiveWire membership passes and more!

The Orford Park festival is being held in partnership by Warrington Borough Council’s Stronger Together team, LiveWire Warrington and Renova.

The University of Chester lecturer who cycled across the US four years ago for the Tim Parry Jonathan Ball Foundation is testing his body again for charity this summer – this time by paddling the 2,500 miles of the Mississippi River.

Wayne O’Brien, who's a Senior Lecturer in Television Production having worked at the University for 10 years, will kayak the full length of the river from its source at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to its end in Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico, starting on June 21.

He will pass through and border 10 states and hopes to raise £5,000 for Help for Heroes, the charity for wounded and injured servicemen and women.

Wayne, whose son has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, said: "I’m doing it because I find normal holidays boring, basically. I like pushing myself and it’s for a great cause. The troops are coming home from Afghanistan next year, but the injuries they sustained will take a lot longer to heal. They need our support.”

This is the second time Wayne has raised funds for Help for Heroes. In 2009 he cycled from San Francisco to New York, flew to Gibraltar and continued through Spain and France back to Warrington – a distance of 5,500 miles – to raise £5,000 for that charity and the Tim Parry Jonathan Ball Foundation for Peace.

It was after that particular trip that Wayne got the inspiration for his latest feat of endurance.

He said: "I visited some friends I’d met on my cycle ride across America. We went for a meal at the point where the rivers Mississippi and Illinois meet and the view was majestic. I decided there and then that I’d have to visit the place again.”

A repeat meal, with the same friends, is booked for July.

The dad of two from Padgate, who has been practicing on the Mersey, Weaver and Goyt rivers and the Bridgewater Canal, will be using a NATO-specification folding canvass and wood kayak for his epic solo trip and will be camping in a tent along the route as he goes.

He said: "The worst elements will be the heat – it can reach 140F – the ticks and the mosquitos. But it shouldn’t be dangerous.”

Even the thought of alligators isn’t putting him off.

He said: "They shouldn’t be a problem, they’re more curious than anything else. I’ve been told that if they look threatening I should hit them on the nose with my paddle.”

Wayne is writing a blog on his Facebook page called ‘Kayak the Mighty Mississippi’, and will update daily when the trip begins.

Donations can be made via Just Giving using the link http://www.justgiving.com/Wayne-O-Brienor by texting KTMM99 £5 to 70070.

Warrington theme park Gulliver's is offering kids across the town the chance to get fit with their favourite theme park mascots.

After entertainment teams from Gulliver's Matlock Bath park ran successful physical activity sessions at more than 80 schools in Derbyshire, Gulliver's is eager to roll out the formula in Warrington.

As part of Gulliver's ‘Get Active' campaign, the company encourages children to take part in physical activities and learn about making healthy choices at snack and meal times.

The activity sessions can be incorporated into the curriculum or can work in conjunction with local authority wellness initiatives.

Jenny Bentley, who ran the Derbyshire sessions, said: "We're calling for the schools of Warrington to get in touch to book their fun-packed Gulliver's Get Active session! They're guaranteed to have a great time and it's a really cool way for kids to get their heart rates up and let off some steam."

After each school visit, every pupil will receive a free ticket to visit Gulliver's Warrington.

Gulliver's managing director Julie Dalton said: "As part of our ‘Get Active' campaign we're always looking for ways to encourage kids to increase their activity levels - this is a great opportunity for us to do that.

"We hope the free tickets help families enjoy an affordable, healthy day out!"

To arrange a Gulliver's ‘Get Active' visit for your school, call 01925 444888. For more information, visit www.gulliversfun.co.uk

THAT’S the message for this year’s National Care Home Open Day on Friday 21 June and homes across Warrington are joining in the campaign by opening their doors to the community.

Whether you work in a care home and would like to pledge your support or are a member of the public and interested in finding out more, many care homes in the town are holding special events on the day to welcome and encourage local people to call in.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s going on across the borough, for a full listing of plans for Warrington please visit www.nationalcarehomeopenday.org.uk/

Woodleigh Care Home in Callands will be holding a drop-in session between 1.30 – 4pm where staff and residents will be available to show people around. The Mayor and Cllr Pat Wright will be calling in for a cup of tea.

Brookfield Care Home in Lymm is holding a Victorian themed tea party for residents including piano playing and a craft session.

Applecourt is marking the day with a book sale, raffle and tombola.

Green Park Care Home is holding a coffee morning.

Brampton Lodge – Pupils from Cobbs School are singing and in the afternoon the staff and residents are holding a 'Bake Off' with all proceeds going to Breast Cancer Care.

Birch Court Nursing and Residential Homeis having various activities throughout the day including arts and crafts, a pamper session and a games club.

Cllr Pat Wright, executive board member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: "National Care Home Open Day presents a great opportunity to showcase some of the excellent and dedicated work delivered everyday in care settings across Warrington to local people. It also helps to remind us that care home residents and staff are part of the local community and we all have a lot to gain from being connected.

"We hope that National Care Home Day will help bring people together and make connections that can enrich lives.”

Detectives are appealing for a victim to come forward after a witness reported a robbery taking place in Runcorn.

The incident took place at around 12.15pm on Tuesday 11th June 2013, on a footpath leading from Trident Retail Park to Hallwood Park.

The victim − an elderly woman, who is believed to be in her 80s − was walking along the footpath towards Hallwood Park when she was approached by two men who tried to grab her handbag from her shoulder.

A struggle ensued and the witness (a 27-year-old woman) tried to intervene. At this point one of the men produced a knife and threatened both women.

A man and a woman, who were also walking along the footpath, then also tried to intervene. The two offenders managed to grab the handbag and subsequently fled the scene on foot in the direction of the footbridge which leads to Halton Lodge.

The witness contacted police immediately after the incident however, the victim has not yet come forward to report what happened.

DS Clare Ellis said: "It is not believed that anyone was injured as a result of the incident however, the victim was visibly shaken by what happened.

"We understand that this will have been a traumatic experience for the elderly woman and we are keen to trace her to check on her welfare and ensure she is ok. She has also been the victim of a robbery and we would urge her to come forward so we can progress our enquiries.

"The man, who tried to intervene, is believed to have escorted the victim home following the incident and we are also keen to trace him as he could have important information, which could assist with our enquiries. We would urge the man − and the other woman − who have not yet come forward to get in touch.

"Numerous enquiries are currently being carried out in the local area − these include CCTV enquiries and house-to-house enquiries. We would also urge anyone else who may have any information, which could assist with our enquiries, to come forward.

"We take any incidents of robbery extremely seriously and are committed to doing all we can to ensure that those responsible are traced and punished for their actions."

The two offenders are described as clean shaven white males in their early 20′s of medium build and around 5 foot 6 inches in height. One of the males was wearing light blue tracksuit bottoms and a dark blue hooded top, the second male was wearing a black tracksuit with the hood up and black baseball cap underneath. 

Merseyside Police is appealing for the public's help to trace a woman who is missing from her home in Newton le Willows.

Michelle Ellam, who is 32 and from Lyme Street in Newton le Willows, was last seen in Lime Street in Liverpool city centre on Friday 7 June 2013.

She is described as white, with long, straight, blonde hair, blue eyes and of medium build. She had a black eye when last seen and stitches over one of her eyes.

The twentieth anniversary of the Warrington bombing is to be marked by the publication of a commemorative book designed to help young people understand how hatred and tragedy can be transformed into a legacy of hope.

Entitled‘Good can Come from Evil’the book for children and families has been produced by the Tim Parry Jonathan Ball Foundation for Peace in partnership with Golden Square Shopping Centre.

It has been written by an independent author with input from the Parry family, the Foundation and local education experts to enable Warrington families and schoolteachers to understand the tragic events of 1993, the way in which the town and its community was affected and the good work towards conflict resolution which has taken place since with the formation of the Peace Centre.

With a foreword from actress and charity patron Emma Thompson, the paperback sets out to tell the story of the Warrington bombings in a format that is easy for schoolchildren to understand and learn from.

The book’s production has been commissioned by Golden Square Shopping Centre, which has adopted the Peace Centre as their chosen charity during the past twelve months. The book will be on sale at its customer services desk in the shopping centre as well as at Waterstones - with all profits going towards the work of the centre.

Ian Cox, General Manager at Golden Square Shopping Centre comments: "We have supported the work of the Peace Centre for some time now as a charity that is at the very heart of our community. Following discussions with Wendy, we felt that it would be fitting to drive the production of a book, which would act as a lasting legacy for young people of Warrington to remember and learn from the tragic events of 20 years ago.”

Wendy Parry comments: "Over the years, it has been hard to try and relive and retell what happened to Tim and Jonathan in a way which is not frightening to young children. By working with an independent author and ex-teachers we have been able to put the events of the day, and what has happened since, into a format which is easy for them to understand and use in both their schools and at home.”

More than 150 soldiers from across the North West will parade across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Wirral to mark their return from Afghanistan.

Men and women from the 1^stBattalion The Mercian Regiment (Cheshire), also known as 1 MERCIAN, will march through 11 town centres during a five day tour of its recruitment area.

1 MERCIAN is a light role Infantry unit which can conduct operations on foot, by vehicle or by helicopter. It is based in Catterick, North Yorkshire, and so this is a rare opportunity for its personnel to parade for family and friends at home.

Around 400 soldiers from 1 MERCIAN served during its recent six month tour which saw personnel supporting and mentoring the Afghan National Security Forces as they took on greater responsibility for Nad ‘Ali in Helmand.

Sadly, one 1 MERCIAN soldier was killed during the operation. Lance Corporal Jamie Webb, 24, from Wilmslow died in March following enemy action.

Lieutenant Colonel Philip Kimber, the Commanding Officer of 1 MERCIAN, said: "I am extremely proud of the way my soldiers performed throughout this six month deployment in what continues to be a difficult and demanding operational environment. During our tour of Afghanistan we made significant campaign progress and successfully handed lead security responsibility to the Afghan National Security Forces.

"The 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment is immensely proud of the longstanding, close bonds we have with our home communities and so we are deeply honoured that we can parade here and say thank you to them personally for the tremendous support we received whilst deployed.”

With the UK combat mission expected to be completed by the end of 2014, it is likely that this was the last deployment by 1 MERCIAN to Afghanistan.

However the 2^ndBattalion of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment (2 LANCS), which also recruits from the North West, currently has around 400 soldiers in Afghanistan. 2 LANCS, based at Weeton Barracks near Blackpool, Lancashire, took over from 1 MERCIAN and is expected to be the last British battalion to serve in that part of Nad ‘Ali.

Coronation Street star Bill Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, has been bailed until September after appearing at Preston Crown Court court on child sex charges.

He's facing two counts of rape of a 15 year old girl and five indecent assaults on girls aged between 11 or 12 and 16- all are alleged to have taken place in the 1960s.

He has vowed to clear his name.

Widnes Vikings can announce that Matt Beech, owner of Maltacourt, has joined the Board of Directors at the Club. 

Vikings CEO James Rule commented: "I am delighted to welcome Matt onto the Board of Directors. He shares the vision and values that both Steve (O’Connor) and I have, and has an enormous passion for our Club. As a local man who has supported the Vikings throughout his life, he recognises the key role that we have to play, not just on the field but also off it, within the wider community of Halton. 

"Matt has been very successful in business. His knowledge and network will add real value to our Board structure. The investment he has made in taking equity in the Vikings will be integral in facilitating the continued evolution of our Club. 

"In late April, we announced that we were seeking to build a new Board structure. Just six weeks later, I am extremely pleased to announce the fact that we have been able to attract somebody of Matt’s calibre to join our Board. I look forward to working with him.” 

Matt Beech added: "Putting something back into the community that one comes from is a principle that I’m passionate about. Having grown up in Runcorn and spending a large part of my working life in Widnes, I’m delighted to be able to help with the continuing development of the Widnes Vikings. 

"I’m excited about the future and can only see the club going from strength to strength. 

"Yes, success will be measured by most by the results on the pitch but the Club is a bigger part of the local community than that. 

"No question, these are tough economic times, but we’re lucky to have a Club and a team on the up within Halton, a Club to get behind and a Club to make us proud.”

IGas has a long track record of engaging with the communities in which it operates. We operate community liaison groups before, and during the planning process and are committed to in-depth and meaningful consultations. Once operations have commenced we continue to engage with the community. 

We also distribute several hundred thousand pounds a year in community projects in parishes adjacent to our sites, through an independently managed community fund. 

IGas is committed to its social licence to operate, which means honest engagement and commitment to our neighbouring communities.

Warrington Wolves can confirm that match commissioner Ian McGregor has submitted his report to the RFL following the alleged incident during yesterday’s match against Salford City Reds.

Andy Gatcliffe, Wolves’ chief executive, said: "This report completely exonerates Warrington Wolves and as such there is no need for any Club comment.”

Warrington's Gareth O'Brien's signed for Saints on a month's loan

The 21-year-old half back's already had a loan spell at Castleford this season as well as being dual registered with Swinton Lions.

The headteacher at Penketh high school in Warrington's become a YouTube sensation after starring in his own version of Psy's Gangnam Style- which has gone viral.

Jeff Hughes and some of the other teachers star in the video that's been watched in over 100 countries and been viewed on YouTube over 55 thousand times

And you can watch THAT video here and another special video JUST FOR WireFM where the students give Gangnam style a try too

Despite already having a deal until the end of the 2014 Super League season in place, the Vikings are delighted to announce that they have extended the contract of Jack Owens until the end of the 2016 season.

A former pupil of nearby Saints Peter and Paul Catholic College, Jack broke into the Vikings first team in early 2011, making his debut in the Challenge Cup victory against Siddal. Soon after, his second appearance saw him collect the coveted ‘Man of the Match' award in a televised victory over Barrow Raiders. Unfortunately, given he was aged just 16 at the time; he was unable to claim the Champagne!

Owens turns 19 in early June and readily admits that pulling on a Widnes shirt was uppermost on his wish list as a youngster, stating: "Growing up, I played at the (Halton Farnworth) Hornets for 11 years and I’ve always watched the Vikings since I was a young lad.

"I actually had ‘Holmes 1’ on the back of my shirt. Funnily enough, Tim Holmes is now the Player Welfare Officer at the club and someone whose company I’m in, on a daily basis.

"I signed a professional contract at Widnes when I was 16 and when Denis approached me a couple of weeks ago, more than anything, I was just made up to be offered a deal to stay at the club for longer.

"For a home grown lad like myself to be given the opportunity to be a part of his home town team alongside a great bunch of lads, is the best feeling ever!”

Following an outstanding year in the U16s in 2010, Jack became the only player selected for the England Academy squad not attached to a Super League club, and made his international debut, against France, on his 17^thbirthday.

Owens’ evolution from promising youngster to deserved first team squad member has happened quicker than even he had hoped for. By the same token, Jack acknowledges that it is a ride he is certainly enjoying and determined to make the most of:

"I’m learning something new every single day from the likes of Shaun Briscoe and Rhys Hanbury and their input is really helpful. Cameron Phelps is another player that gives me lots of encouragement and advice when I’m playing on the wing outside of him.

"Working under Denis and his coaching staff is really hard, although we do have plenty of laughs along the way. Their work ethic and attitude really rubs off on the players and the set-up here at Widnes is fantastic. Even Kevin Brown admitted to being blown away when he first arrived and he’s played the game at the highest level for a long time.

"I just want to kick-on now and get as much game time under my belt as possible. Obviously I’m still a young lad and I know that I’ve got to be patient, but when the opportunities do arise, I’ll be ready to take them and make the most of them.”

Keen to operate with the proven blend of experience and youth within his first team squad, Vikings Head Coach Denis Betts says that he is extremely pleased to reward a young player, who has successfully made his way through the club’s pathway system: "Retaining the senior players in our squad is important, but it is equally as important for us to remember that the future of this club lies in our young, emerging talent.

"Nobody encapsulates that more than Jack Owens. He’s matured as he’s made his way through the ranks, and we’ve found out this year in a full-time environment that he has the ability to be able to hold his own in Super League quite easily.

"I think he’s a great full back but he’s also got some flexibility in his game and has grown into the wing role, too. He’s got pace, he can catch a high ball, he can kick and I don’t think there’s any position in the back-line that Jack couldn’t fill.

"We wanted to retain him and reward him and with an extended contract and by doing so, we’re now able to keep him at the club and look after him for a much longer period.

"The youth policy we have in place at the club is pretty strong, and although we do need more players in that pool, the one’s we currently have are of real quality.

"Jack can go as far as he wants in this game. What we have to do is create an environment and a platform for him to be able to fulfil his ambition and his dreams.”

The family of Clifford Clarke, 79, who died after being attacked by a dog in his back garden in Richard Kelly Close, Clubmoor, Liverpool, on Saturday night (May 25) have issued photographs and a tribute.

Kenny Clarke, aged 70, Clifford's younger brother, said:

"Cliff was a very easy-going man.

"He did his own thing and made a point about helping others.

"He loved his local pub - the Farmer's Arms - and had many old friends of his there who will miss him dearly.

"He did not deserve this so please put your support behind new laws for dog owners because you would not like any of your loved ones to have this happen to them.

"Our family are heartbroken."

Police say the 19-year-old remains in the same unconscious condition after she was picked up by paramedics at 1.10pm  yesterday. (Sunday) 

Detectives in St Helens are appealing for the public's help in tracing a convicted robber who escaped from prison in Aylesbury and has links to Newton-le-Willows.

Lyndon Stein, aged 49, is wanted for absconding from HMP Springhill, an open prison, on April 29, where he had been serving a lengthy jail sentence for a robbery commited in Bristol in 2006.

He is originally from St Helens and is known to have family in the Newton area.

Anyone who has seen him or knows where he is should call St Helens CID on 0151 777 6843 or leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

TWO men have been bailed and another released after a woman was raped in a Travelodge in Warrington town centre

A 22-year-old man and 25-year-old man have been bailed until Tuesday July 23- a 32-year-old man has been released without charge.

All three are from Leicester and were all under arrest after a 36 year old woman reported that she'd been raped on Tuesday, May 14, at the hotel on Kendrick Street.

Anyone with information can call DC Melanie Taylor on 101 quoting incident number 60 

Patrick Ah Van has today pledged his commitment to the Vikings cause until the end of the 2015 season.

Patrick made an immediate impression on the Widnes faithful in 2012 and finished his debut season at the Stobart Stadium as top scorer with his 16 tries and 34 goals yielding 132 points.

"The Widnes fans love him," said Vikings Head Coach Denis Betts, adding; "I think it's something to do with his big hair and beard!

"Seriously though, Pat has proven to everybody that he has an eye for a try. He makes breaks, has the ability to kick goals and is a genuine all-round exciting winger.

"There are very few wingers in the game who can actually carry the ball like he can and do the hard yards in their own half of the field, and still be blessed with such an impressive skill-set.

"When he was at Bradford, I could see something in his game and I was keen to work closely with him. Over the past two seasons, I think it's fair to say that we've definitely reaped the rewards of bringing him here to Widnes.

"Pat is a great acquisition, and it is a real positive for the club to be able to keep him here and ensure that he is an active part of what we are growing into.

"He is a fantastic bloke, who is well liked by his peers and everybody within the organisation. He's fun to be around but ultimately, he also knows when it's time to switch on."

Ahead of the 2011 season, Patrick found himself with a decision to make. One option was to stay at the New Zealand Warriors club in the NRL competition, where he had made over 50 appearances since making his senior debut in 2006. However, equally as tempting was the bid for his services tabled by Bradford Bulls in the Super League. Having made the choice to ply his trade overseas, Ah Van landed in this country with only one thing on his mind; "I just wanted to establish a name for myself on the other side of the world. I enjoyed my time at the Bulls but since my move to Widnes, I think I've really progressed as a player and I know there are still a lot of improvements left in my game.

"I was delighted to be offered a new deal. This club is really on the way up and we're only going to get better.

"I really enjoy living in the town too, and getting to see and chill out with the locals."

Currently sidelined with a knee injury picked-up in the recent home defeat by Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Patrick admits that he is eager to get his 2013 season up and running again, commenting; "It's frustrating not being out-there with the boys but if all goes according to plan, I'll be back on the field sooner rather than later. We've had a pretty decent start to the year but there's a confidence within the group that we can finish the season strongly, too!

"Individually, I've also got a personal ambition to be selected for the Samoa World Cup squad. My Nanna lives in Samoa and for as long as she is alive, I will put my hand up and make myself available for them."

Sponsored by H Prescott & Sons Self-Storage Ltdin 2013, in his Vikings career thus far, 25 year-old Patrick has made 28 appearances, crossed for 23 tries and added 56 goals. This gives him a current personal points tally of 204 in Widnes' colours.

The 130^thMayor of Warrington, Cllr Peter Carey, was officially sworn into office this week.

He became the first citizen of the town at the annual council meeting held at the town hall on Monday 20 May.

Cllr Carey represents the Fairfieldand Howley ward on the council and was Executive Board Member responsible for Corporate Resources prior to his appointment as deputy Mayor.

He is a former Board Director of Warrington Wolves and became Honorary Vice President of the Club in 2003. He has also been a Trustee of The Boteler Trust for the past 15 years and is Secretary of the Labour Group on the Borough Council.

The mayor’s charities for this year are Multiple Sclerosis ( Warrington) and Playability.

Cllr Carey said: "I am looking forward to my mayoral mayor, representing the people of Warringtonand getting out in the community to meet people who carry out such valuable work in our community.”

Cllr Ted Finnegan is this year’s Deputy Mayor.

Three 16 year old boys arrested following the death of Warrington teenager Ellie Jones have been bailed until July, pending further enquiries.

The three boys were arrested on suspicion of supplying drugs and perverting the course of justice following the death of 16 year old Ellie Jones, who died during the early hours of Saturday morning, 18th May 2013.

A post mortem has been conducted but was inconclusive regarding the cause of death and further toxicology tests are awaited.

Police are continuing to appeal for information from the local community as enquiries remain ongoing into the circumstances leading up to Ellie′s death. Anyone with any information can contact Warrington Police on the national non emergency number, 101.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers hotline 0800 555 111.

Some of the tweets in memory of Ellie...

God has gaine another angel. Thinking of all the family and friends at such a Heartbreaking time! My sis is heartbroken!

hope school make a memorial garden or something in memory of elly! So awful and my thoughts are with all her friend and family

Carmen ‏@_iCarmen18 May

I remember in year 7 I had to sit next to Elly, I was scared of her because she was so bubbly and loud.

Don't think I ever saw her around school without a smile on her face! RIP ell #ripelljones

She was one of the funniest people I've ever met and is going to be missed so much

#RIPEllJones missing you already

Vikings captain Jon Clarke has today penned an extended contract at the club until the end of the 2014 Super League season.

Among Clarke’s many admirers in the game is Widnes’ Head Coach Denis Betts, who spoke of his delight at securing his captain for another year; "Jon has been our best player by far all season and he is leading the team around really well and offers us so much on the field.

"Now he’s settled into life at Widnes, what we are now seeing are the reasons why we brought him here in the first place.

"Jon is healthy, strong, experienced and one of the fittest blokes at the club and regardless of his age, he still wants to play the game which is great news, because I want him to carry on playing, too!

"He’s been inspirational for us this year and his form has probably been some of the best he has displayed since his time spent as part of the England set-up. He’s enjoying his rugby, I’m enjoying having him here, the lads think a lot about him, and it’s great to have him around the place.”

Aged just 18 at the time, Jon made his first grade debut for Wigan in 1997 and following a brief stay in the capital with London Broncos, he returned north during 2001 to begin a successful ten year association with Warrington, collecting a Challenge Cup Winners Medal in 2010. Clarke also helped Warrington to lift the League Leaders Shield in 2011, before bringing his vast experience to the Stobart Stadium Halton.

Throughout his career; the classy ‘number 9’ has continually proven himself as an excellent organiser and leader and back in March, wearing Vikings’ colours, he made his 350th career appearance, in the visit to Catalan Dragons.

Having represented Great Britain at Academy level, Jon later went on to wear the Great Britain shirt at full international level, in the test series against New Zealand in 2007. The same year, he also played for the 'Northern Union' against the 'All Golds'.

Sponsored by PolyBlend UK Limited for the 2013 Super League campaign, in his Widnes career thus far, Jon has featured on 33 occasions for the club and scored 4 tries. He admitted that putting pen to paper was an easy decision to reach;

"I’m delighted to extend my contract for another 12 months and equally as pleased that my body is allowing me to prolong my career and carry on playing with the Vikings. Hopefully we can kick-on again for the remainder of this season and improve even further next year.

"As I said when I first signed, I was part of a Warrington team that took an absolute age to reach where they are now, and it was always going to take a while for the Vikings to achieve something similar.

"Things are only just beginning to snowball at Widnes, but the facts are there for all to see that we are evolving every single week, never mind every year.

"Over the next couple of seasons, Widnes are going to be right up-there challenging for honours. It’s exciting to be a part of that, and I’m proud and privileged to be leading the team in and around this period of time.”

Detectives are currently investigating a serious sexual assault on a 36-year-oldwoman at a hotel in Kendrick Street, Warrington which is understood to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday 14 May 2013.

Police are keen to speak to the occupants of a passing white or light coloured van who she flagged down in Warrington between 3am and 5am.

The occupants are believed to be male and were wearing florescent work clothing. They may have some vital information which would assist with this investigation.

Three men from Leicester aged 22, 25 and 32 have been arrested and are currently in custody.

The victim is being supported by specialist officers from the dedicated rape unit.

Anyone with information should contact DC Melanie Taylor on 101 quoting incident number 60 of 14 May 2013.

Detectives from Warrington are appealing for information after a robbery in Birchwood.

The incident took place at around 4.40pm on Monday 13 May on the footpath on Old Warrington Road.

The victim - a 17-year-old man - was walking along the footpath, which is blocked off to traffic and was formerly Warrington Road, between the Lower Farm subway and Kinsale Drive when he was approached by three men.

The men challenged the victim and punched him twice to the face. The victim fell to the floor and the offenders demanded his mobile phone and wallet.

One of the offenders then stole his leather wallet and all three men fled the scene. The victim sustained swelling to his right ear and jaw but did not require hospital treatment.

The first offender is described as being around about 20-years-old, of stocky build, about 5′ 10" tall and clean shaven. He was wearing a grey hooded top-with the hood up.

The second offender is described as being of mixed race, around 17-years-old, 5′ 8" tall and had short dark hair. He was wearing a blue hooded top, which was tied tightly around his face.

The third offender is described as white and was wearing a blue hooded top, which was also tied tightly around his face.

DC Matt Gagen said: "We are currently trying to piece together as much information as we can regarding the robbery and are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

"The robbery took place late afternoon when it was still light and we would urge anyone who may have been in that area around that time and has seen anything significant to contact us."

Anyone with information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 668 of 13 May.

WARRINGTON Market is joining markets across the country to celebrate ‘love your local market fortnight’.

From Wednesday 15 – Wednesday 29 May a whole host of events are taking place to celebrate markets and encourage people to take a fresh look at their own local market.

There will be a series of specialist markets and local events across the fortnight in Warrington including –

·Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 – History tours with Mark Olly

·Saturday 18 May – Warrington Food Festival, including a vintage market and green market

·Monday 20 May – 1920’s karaoke

·Saturday 25 May – Warrington Teenage Market

·Saturday 25 May – National Family Day

·Wednesday 29 May – Where’s Wally? How many Wally’s does it take to fill Time Square – let’s see!

If you would like to take part in any of these events or want to know more please contact the market information desk on 01925 632571 or email spickering@warrington.gov.uk

Market manager Steve Pickering recently spoke at an event in the House of Commons to kick-start the campaign.

And Steve took a local success story along to London with him – Alison Roberts who runs her ‘Alison Loves to Bake’ business in Warrington Market. Alison baked a cake especially for the occasion and it caused quite a stir at the event!

Alison also bakes cake characters of local figures and these have been cleverly animated into a film to promote our local market.

A 26 year old man's recovering after being stabbed in the back in Padgate.

It happened on Saturday night at a house on Pear tree place.

He has now been released from hospital- a 21 year old woman had been arrested and has now been released on bail.

Public voting has now started for RAP and SNAP, acompetition which is being run by Cheshire Policeand which has been open to 11-16 year olds.

The participating schools are Blacon High School, Kings Grove High in Crewe, Penketh High in Warrington and Bridgewater High in Warrington.

All pupils from each participating school have been asked to sing or write about what concerns them the most in their community.

There are two categories: RAP in which pupils will write or perform a rap song about an issue and SNAP in which pupils will take a photograph of an issue which concerns them.

Cheshire Police are hosting Stage 2 of the competition from www.upbeat.uk.com/11-16where the public vote will be taking 4 x RAP entries and 4 x SNAP entries to the Grand Finale on 3rd June.

"The former Boots building on Bridge Street has been vacant for a number of years and has hindered and constrained the appearance and viability of Bridge Street as a shopping location. Warrington Borough Council has acquired the building for a number of strategic reasons which include preserving its Grade 2 listed façade and protecting and preserving the dignity of the location which fronts on to the site of the 1993 Warrington bombing.”

Vikings front-rower Ben Cross has today confirmed that he will retire after the 2013 Super League season.

Despite having held preliminary conversations with the club about playing on next year, the 34 year-old has now decided the current campaign will be his last.

Speaking exclusively to the club's official website, Ben commented;

"From day one, the Vikings have been fantastic with me and this was my way of giving the club the opportunity to know where they stand with me. I was really keen to play on in 2014 but having picked up a hamstring injury in the early part of the season, as luck would have it – I then did my knee in my first game back.

"If I'm honest it was then when I thought, enough's enough. I can come back from a minor injury but if it was anything more serious, I genuinely don't think that I've got the drive left in me to keep coming back from injury after injury. I'm a big believer that preparation leads to playing well and when you get injured and you can't train as often as you'd like every week, it's really frustrating and gets to you after a while. I'm really comfortable with the decision I've made and it's good to finally get it out in the open."

Cross made his professional debut for Canberra in 2003 and spent 8 seasons in the NRL, split between spells at the Raiders, Melbourne and Newcastle. He also played in back to back Grand Finals and represented New South Wales. However, some of his fondest memories from his playing days back home are from his days in the lower grades.

Cross said; "As a reserve grade player at Canberra, we used to play our fixtures before the first grade games.

"There was a bunch of old guys that would sit above the tunnel where we used to run out and because there were never too many supporters in the ground at that time, you could really pick out all of their yelling and screaming and I remember vividly them shouting my name. Fortunately, before too long I was able to win them over with the way I played the game and how I went about my business on the field. The memories of them wishing me well and shaking my hand offered me great encouragement at the time and it's things such as this that have always led to me wanting to play well and give a bit back to the fans for their continued support.

"I've been extremely fortunate to have played in some huge games throughout my career, on both sides of the world.

"Scoring my first-ever senior try, in a Widnes jersey, is always going to give me something to look back at on my highlights reel and smile about. The same also applies from my experience as a squad member at Wigan and being able to take part in their Challenge Cup Final celebrations at Wembley, despite the fact that a broken arm injury had prevented me from playing.

"Being offered the opportunity to play in the Super League is something I'm extremely grateful for and I can now speak from experience. Individually, I'm always willing to listen to advice from anybody who has actually walked in those shoes and experienced it for themselves. I'm delighted to say that I'm now in position to do exactly that for myself, and I've done it for three strong clubs in both the NRL and overseas."

Currently in his second season at the Vikings, Ben has certainly played his part in the modern-day evolution and no one is more pleased than the 'big number 8', at the progress being made and giant strides that are currently being trodden by the club, stating; "Last year was pretty tough to a certain degree but the good signs were always there. Experience plays a massive role in any profession and it wasn't just the players that benefitted last year, but the club itself too.

"As one, we all moved up together at the same time and I'll definitely be leaving at the end of this year, safe in the knowledge that this club is in a far better position, on and off the field, than it was when I first arrived here. Witnessing first-hand the development of the players and the staff, and hopefully playing my small part in proceedings, is another thing that I'm extremely proud of."

Given the Vikings are currently in the last 16 of the Tetley's Challenge Cup, and working hard each week to find some consistent performances in the Super League competition, Ben was keen to highlight his ideal leaving present, adding; "A Challenge Cup Final send-off would be nice!

"I've got a partial anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in my right knee which will take about 6 weeks to rehab. For the team to progress into the Semi-Final stages and beyond, and for me to play my part in that, would be the ultimate!

"After speaking with my family, at first I have to admit that I was really down in the dumps emotionally after the reality of the decision to retire had sunk in. Time is a good healer though and now I'm only looking forward. When I come back from injury, I'll only have around a dozen games left in my career and let me tell you, I'll be ready to enjoy them and give it all that I can for my team-mates and our terrific supporters.

"The Vikings fans stuck with the team and the club through thick and thin last season and they're now starting to see the rewards for their patience. Personally, I'd like to thank them for making my time, and my family's time, really enjoyable."

So, what does Chapter Two of the Ben Cross life story have in store? In the words of the man himself; "I want to get into coaching back in Australia and start an apprenticeship there. The longer you’re over here it's often a case of out of sight out of mind, so I'm keen to get my foot in the door before the opportunity to do so passes me by.

"I have a genuine desire to be a career Coach and looking further down the track, only a fool would not put in an application for a position that suited them, either in Australia or in England.

"In the recent past, we've seen some great Aussie Coaches come over here and they’ve helped bolster the competition enormously, with Tony Smith, Michael Maguire and the like, being great examples of this. As I commented earlier, whatever your profession, it's all about experience and I'd love nothing more than to return to this country one day in the future and take up a Head Coach position. If Widnes came knocking, I'd be over here on the next flight, for sure!"

A by election will be held for St Oswalds ward of Winwick Parish Council on Thursday 30 May following the resignation of Cllr Alan Smith.

The deadline to register to vote in this election, for new postal vote applications or changes to existing arrangements is no later than Tuesday 14 May 2013.

Polling stations will be open between 7am and 10pm and the polling station is Winwick Leisure Centre, Myddleton Lane, Winwick. Please note that polling cards are not being issued.

The list of candidates is:

For more information

·Ring the elections office on 01925 442184

·Write to the electoral registration officer, Warrington Borough Council, Warrington Town Hall, Sankey Street, Warrington, WA1 1UH.

·Email elections@warrington.gov.uk

·Visit the elections section of www.warrington.gov.uk

"We want this country to have the best education system and the best children's services. To achieve this we must create a department that delivers an excellent service to the public, while ensuring value for money for the taxpayer.

"In November we announced we would close six of our 12 sites over the next five years as part of the department’s ongoing commitment to reduce costs and secure value for money for the taxpayer.

"We have held extensive discussions with the PCS. Any strike action is completely out of step with the vast majority of hard working, professional civil servants at the DfE.”

Warrington Wolves’ Garreth Carvell, Ryan Atkins and Joel and Michael Monaghan to bring Tetley’s Challenge Cup trophy to the local public

Current Challenge Cup holders Warrington Wolves will give members of the public the chance to view the iconic trophy and meet Joel and Michael Monaghan, Garreth Carvell and Ryan Atkins at two events at a local Tesco’s and a Tetley’s pub on Tuesday 30^th April.

Between 5.00 and 6.30pm shoppers will get the chance to pose for photographs and have autographs signed by the Monaghan brothers at Warrington Tesco by The Halliwell Jones Stadium – the venue of their Tetley’s Challenge Cup fifth round clash against Salford City Reds on Sunday 12th May.

Shoppers will have the opportunity to give money to bucket collectors or buy merchandise for Help for Heroes, the official charity partner of cup sponsor Tetley’s.

Later that evening Carvell and Atkins will visit The Tetley’s Club on Long Lane between 7.30 and 9.30pm to take part in a question and answer session hosted by former Warrington and Great Britain forward Bob Eccles.

Fans will get another chance to view the famous trophy and enjoy a free pint of Tetley’s Gold, while taking part in a fundraising raffle organised by Help for Heroes.

For more opportunities to see the Tetley’s Challenge Cup, to win tickets to future games and take part in other giveaway competitions, please visit www.facebook.com/TetleysChallengeCup

WARRINGTON BORN BGT STAR HOPES TO NET THOUSANDS AT CHARITY SOCCER SPECTACULAR

Famous actor and dancer, George Sampson, will take part in a celeb packed football tournament in aid of the charity campaign ‘Hearts and Goals’ supported by Fabrice Muamba.

George will compete against the likes of Dragon’s Den entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne, TV presenter Mark Wright, N-Dubz front man Dappy and pop star Tinchy Stryder whilst taking part in the biggest celebrity football tournament in the UK, run by Soccer Six.

Thousands of fans from across the region are expected to gather on Saturday 18^th May to watch 140 famous names compete at the Reebok Stadium to help raise funds for ‘Hearts and Goals’.

The charity campaign supported by Arrhythmia Alliance, North West Ambulance, Bolton Wanderers and The Bolton Wanderers Community Trust, raises money to purchase defibrillators and raise awareness around the issue of cardiac arrest. Fabrice hopes the event will help buy defibrillators for every football ground in the UK.

Fabrice said: "Having access to a defibrillator is ten times more effective than CPR and for every minute that passes without a defibrillator your chances of survival are reduced by 14 per cent. It is essential that more of them are accessible in public places. I’m delighted with the support of Soccer Six and Bolton Wanderers FC and look forward to a fun filled day for all those attending and involved in the event.”

Strictly Come Dancing’s Chelsee Healey, R ‘n’ B singer Angel and former X Factor competitors Frankie Cocozza and Joe McElderry have also signed up and will go up against stars from TV shows such as Eastenders, Hollyoaks, Geordie Shore, The Valleys and Britain’s Got Talent. Whilst many up and coming bands including Concept, Rough Copy and Future Proof will be performing live at the event.

The showbiz soccer fest will run from 12 noon onwards. Tickets are priced £12 for adults, £8 for under 12s and £40 for a family of five including two adults and three children under 12 years old are available from the ticket line on: 0844 871 2932 (Option 1 and then option 3) or visit https://www.eticketing.co.uk/bwfc/details/event.aspx?itemref=2663

Sunshine Children’s Centre in Warrington has won a nationwide competition run by the Change4Life campaign to encourage healthy eating.

As part of the "Be Food Smart” campaign, Sure Start and Children’s Centres in England were challenged to show how they encouraged healthier eating. The winning centre will see TV chef Ainsley Harriott host an interactive cooking session at the centre on Friday 26^th April.

Sunshine Children’s Centre beat off competition from around the country by encouraging healthier eating with activities that included tasting new fruit and vegetables, trying healthier snack swaps and making fruity yoghurt pots. Parents of the children and centre staff also participated by organising a session demonstrating Change4Life recipes they had cooked, and sharing information on the saturated fat in a lot of ‘fast foods’.

The ‘Be Food Smart’ campaign launched in January to show people how to recognise the foods that contain hidden sugar, salt and fat and find healthier alternatives. The campaign gives people the tools and information they need - including new tips, advice and recipes - to help them eat more healthily and develop ‘Food Smart’ habits.

Sunshine Children’s Centre Support Worker, Diane Tarnawski said:

"The competition helped us to think about the food we eat and parents were surprised by some of the items their children enjoyed during the food tasting. I hope that the experience has helped them all to become a bit more ‘Food Smart’.”

Cllr Colin Froggatt, executive board member for children and young people’s services at Warrington Borough Council, said:

"Congratulations to everyone at the Sunshine Children’s Centre for this fantastic achievement. The staff at the centre and the parents forum have worked extremely hard together with the children and they thoroughly deserve to win this brilliant competition!”

To sign up to Change4Life for recipes, tips and advice on healthier meal choices, or to download the "Be Food Smart” app, search Change4Life online.

Figures released today by the British Crime Survey again show a reduction of 5% in all recorded crime in Cheshire.

Crime in Cheshire is now at its lowest since 1990.

The figures reflect the period between December 2011 and the end of 2012, and there are over 3,245 fewer victims of crime compared to the same period the year before.

One of the most dramatic decreases is in household burglary, which has fallen significantly by 13%. This means there were less than 3000 burglary victims in the county, showing that the Constabulary continues to build on its previous success of reducing the number of victims of this type of crime and ensuring people feel safe in their homes.

Speaking after the release of today′s figures, Deputy Chief Constable Helen King said;

"These figures help us understand where and how our resources are best deployed, and to help identify emerging crime trends and to preventing crime and antisocial behaviour from being committed. I would like to thank the public of Cheshire for helping us achieve these results by taking on board crime prevention advice, and adopting sensible precautions to ensure their own personal safety, and the protection of their homes and personal belongings.

I am pleased to see a fall in household burglary, which we know can have a profound impact on victims and can affect their quality of life.

Our officers and staff work hard and remain committed to reducing crime and bringing to justice those prolific offenders who are responsible for committing a significant proportion of the burglaries reported.

Widnes Vikings’ utility forward Ben Davies has today joined Kingstone Press Championship 1 side South Wales Scorpions, on an initial one-month loan deal.

Davies has made just one substitute appearance, in the away defeat at Catalan Dragons, for the Vikings in Super League 2013, and his Head Coach Denis Betts says the 23 year-old will benefit massively from the extended game time on offer at the Scorpions, commenting; "Ben has found opportunities at the Vikings difficult to come by this season and this opening came about through the friendship of Mick Cassidy and Scorpions’ Head Coach Dave Clarke.

"Being too old to feature in the U19s competition, Ben found himself at a bit of a crossroads and with nowhere to play. He’s now in a position to get some games under his belt, and receive some quality coaching while he’s there.”

A product of Leigh East ARLFC, Ben progressed through the junior ranks at Wigan, winning representative honours for Lancashire, as well as representing England at U15s and U18s level.

He made his debut for the Vikings as a dual registered player from Wigan, in a Northern Rail Cup tie at Batley in February 2010. The following season, Ben gained further invaluable first team experience with loan spells at both Barrow and Castleford before committing his future to the Vikings ahead of their return to the top flight in 2012.

Contracted at Widnes until the end of the 2013 Super League season, to date, he has featured on 42 occasions for the Vikings and scored 6 tries for the club.

If selected, Ben will make his debut for South Wales Scorpions on Sunday (28^thApril), in their Kingstone Press Championship 1 game versus Rochdale Hornets at The Gnoll, Neath.

South Wales Scorpions were formed in 2009 and accepted into the third tier of British rugby league ahead of the 2010 season. The club’s first ever competitive game was against Workington Town on 28^th February 2010. The Scorpions won this encounter 22-20, with a certain Lloyd White, who was on a month’s loan at South Wales from Crusaders, landing the crucial penalty goal to secure victory.

Warrington wolves players are going back to school.

They're amongst 50 others- from across Super league- who are planning for their futures by taking courses at Warrington Collegiate.

It's part of a new scheme- from the RFL- who've teamed up with the college- to teach players skills like business, enterprise and trades.

St Helens also have four players in the squad, including Exiles ever-presents Willie Manu and Sia Soliola.

Wigan Warriors’ Blake Green and Pat Richards are included in the squad, as is Widnes half back Rhys Hanbury.

Hodgson led the Exiles to a 32-20 victory in the second of last year’s Origin series at Huddersfieldafter England had won the opening match 18-10 at Langtree Park, St Helens.

The Exiles will be coached by former Leeds Rhinos and New Zealand Warriors coach Brian McClennan, who coached the Rhinos to Super League Grand Final success in 2008 and 2009.

Exiles 27-man squad: Louis Anderson (Catalan Dragons, New Zealand), Chris Bailey (London Broncos, Australia), Michael Dobson (Hull Kingston Rovers, Australia), David Faiumu (Huddersfield Giants, Samoa), Blake Green (Wigan Warriors, Australia), Rhys Hanbury (Widnes Vikings, Australia), Brett Hodgson (Warrington Wolves, Australia, Captain), Lance Hohaia (St Helens, New Zealand), Antonio Kaufusi (London Broncos, Tonga), Kylie Leuluai (Leeds Rhinos, Samoa), Heath L’Estrange (Bradford Bulls, Australia), Willie Manu (St Helens, Tonga), Manesi Manuokafo (Bradford Bulls, Tonga), Daryl Millard (Catalan Dragons, Fiji), Joel Monaghan (Warrington Wolves, Australia), Michael Monaghan (Warrington Wolves, Australia), Joel Moon (Leeds Rhinos, Australia), Mark O’Meley (Hull FC, Australia), Micky Paea (Hull Kingston Rovers, Tonga), Cory Patterson (Hull Kingston Rovers, Australia), Justin Poore (Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Australia), Tony Puletua (St Helens, Samoa), Pat Richards (Wigan Warriors, Ireland), Jarrod Sammut (Bradford Bulls, Australia), Iosia Soliola (St Helens, Samoa), Zeb Taia (Catalan Dragons, Cook Islands) and Trent Waterhouse (Warrington Wolves, Australia).

Tickets for the 2013 International Origin Game, England v Exiles at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, Warrington, are now on sale from the RFL Ticket OIffice on 0844 856 1113 and online at rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk. Tickets can also be purchased from the The Halliwell Jones Stadium Ticket Office.

The first incident took place on 20 April at a property in Newbridge Close at around 1.20am.

The offender has gained access to the property via the back patio door and has stolen items from the kitchen including a laptop, wallet/purse and an Armani watch.

The occupant − who was upstairs at the time − heard a noise coming from downstairs and went to investigate. He has then seen a man stood on his driveway, who has then run off.

The laptop and wallet/purse were recovered near to the property.

The offender is described as white, in his late teens, around 5′ 8" to 5′ 10" tall, of slim build and was wearing a black coat with a hood, a black tracksuit and black trainers.

The second incident took place on 23 April at a property in Saundersfoot Close at around 1.05am.

The offender has gained access to the property via the kitchen door and has stolen items including an Ipad, Ipod Shuffle, wallet, purse, and a brown leather handbag.

The occupant − who was upstairs at the time − heard a noise coming from downstairs and went to investigate. This disturbed the offender who fled the scene.

DC Nat Lewis, who is investigating the incidents, said: "A number of enquiries are being carried out including house-to-house enquiries, CCTV enquiries and any relevant forensic enquiries.

"We are appealing to anyone who may have any information in relation to the burglaries or the identity of the offenders to get in touch. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been in these areas around the time of the incidents and may have seen any suspicious activity.

"We are also urging anyone who has any information regarding the whereabouts of the stolen items or anyone who is offered similar items to come forward."

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 68 of 20 April and 33 of 23 April.

Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted in Warrington.

The incident happened at around 9.30pm on Monday 8 April at the junction of Orford Lane and Leonard Street.

A 27-year-old man was involved in an altercation with two other men, which resulted in him being assaulted and sustaining cuts and bruises to his face, which required stitches, and bruising to his upper body.

Officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and are carrying out a number of enquiries including house-to-house enquiries and any relevant CCTV enquiries.

PC Jordan Trentini said: "I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the assault, or who was in the area at the time and may have seen anything significant to come forward - even the smallest amount of information can be useful when piecing together a case."

Two men, aged 31 and 25, were arrested in connection with the incident and have since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 89 of 9 April.

Police are appealing for witnesses following a collision in Widnes.

The incident took place on Thursday 18 April in Ditchfield Place at around 12.20am.

The car - a silver Vauxhall Vectra - was travelling along Everite Road. As it approached the junction with Ditchfield Road the car lost control and crashed through the front wall of a garden colliding with the front of a property. No-one was injured as a result of the collision and there was no structural damage to the property.

DC Richard Kirby said: "We are trying to piece together as much information as we can regarding the incident and are appealing to anyone who has witnessed the collision or who may have seen the car prior to the collision to contact police.

"It is believed that the car had been travelling along Speke Road before turning into Everite Road and we are urging anyone who may have been in the area at the time and has seen anything significant to come forward."

A 23-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident and has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information, which could assist officers with their enquiries, is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 23 of 18 April.

SUPER League club Widnes Vikings has launched a search for new directors to join the board and bring fresh skill sets and investment that can assist in taking the club to the next stage of its development.

As part of this evolutionary process Steve O’Connor is to relinquish his chairmanship and become a main board director, with chief executive James Rule retaining responsibility for the club’s day to day management.

Mr O’Connor said: "I work closely with James and he has had overall responsibility in managing the Club since I recruited him in September last year. Our values and vision are perfectly aligned and his presence and the strategy he is implementing has enabled me to make this decision and thereby free up time to concentrate on my other business interests.’’

Those interests include his property development business Steppingstone, a company which is involved in a number of exciting projects. Mr O‘Connor remains committed to remaining on the Vikings’ Board and working with the club’s network of commercial partners to attract more corporate revenue to invest in both the playing and community sides of the club.

He said: "Recent months have seen the development of an exciting portfolio of commercial partners at the Vikings. In addition to providing the support of Steppingstone within that portfolio I intend to work with James to develop relationships with new businesses and existing partners. ‘’

Mr Rule said: "This is the natural next step as we develop a sustainable business model that will help achieve our ambition of competing more consistently with the top clubs of Super League.

"Steve’s vision, energy and considerable financial investment have taken the club from administration to a position where it’s ready to make that step to the next level. In order to do so we need to inject additional revenue into the business.

"Part of that will come from increased gates and the development of new commercial partnerships. In addition by building a Board of Directors we will be able to introduce new investment and new skill sets into the Club that will facilitate our continued growth.

"In the modern game it is unusual to have so much responsibility vested in just one person as we currently do with Steve as the sole shareholder and director. It is therefore a natural evolution for us to develop a board of directors. I am excited by the opportunity this presents and look forward to talking to local business leaders who express an interest in joining the Board and playing their part in the continued growth of Widnes Vikings.”

Rob Polhill, Leader of the Vikings’ stadium landlord, Halton Council, said: " The Vikings are an important part of the community of Halton , on and off the field. The community work undertaken by the Vikings players and staff adds significant value to people in Halton and a successful team on the pitch brings a positive feel-good factor to many people.

"The current ownership and playing staff have taken the Vikings from the Championship to Super League and from Administration to financial stability. We now need to move to the next level where we see greater success on the field and further investment from the private sector to deliver long term financial stability.

"On behalf of the Council we support Steve O’Connor and the Vikings in their ambitious plans to ensure the current success of the Vikings is maintained long term and is sustainable , which is so important if we are to maintain the community benefit that comes from a successful professional rugby team.”

Matt Beech, the chief executive of Maltacourt Global Logistics, the club’s away kit sponsor, says it is the depth of community engagement that makes the Vikings so attractive to commercial partners.

He said: "All businesses have a role to play in giving back to the communities from which they draw their staff, their customers and their suppliers and I’ve yet to come across anything that makes such an ideal partner as Widnes Vikings. It’s why we sponsor their away strip and remain committed as a private sector partner.

"I’ll be working with Steve and other backers to bring more commercial partners on board to benefit in the way that my firm does.”

A second man has been charged in connection with a shooting in Wigan.

David Mitchell (born 22/01/1983), of the Wigan area, has been charged with attempted murder and appeared before Wigan and Leigh Magistrates' Court on

21 April 2013 where he was remanded in custody.

At 8.50pm on Friday 5 April 2013, police were called to Marigold Street in Worsley Hall, Wigan, following reports shots had been fired.

Officers attended and found damage to a house consistent with a gun being fired.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call police on 101,

0161 856 9283 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800

555 111.

Sean Anthony Nolan (born 17/07/1987), of no fixed abode, is charged with attempted murder and appeared before Wigan and Leigh Magistrates' Court on

16 April 2013 where he was remanded in custody.

A 32-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder has been bailed until 4 June 2013 pending further inquiries.

Warrington reveals buoyant property market in 2012 and exceptional start to 2013

Today Warrington & Co released the 15^th Warrington Annual Property Report which reveals that over one million square feet (1,071,000 sq ft/9 9,500 sq m) of commercial property transactions were completed in 2012. Investment sales also netted £80 million – an increase of 285% on figures for 2011.

This year the office market has got off to an outstanding start in Warrington with results for the 1^stQuarter showing more than 60% of last year’s total already achieved.

Deals totalling 137,000 sq ft (12,634 sq m) have already been done. The Independent Police Complaints Commission has occupied 38,000 sq ft at the former Northwest Regional Development Agency’s office at Centre Park; Your Housing has signed to 35,000 sq ft at Birchwood Park; Golden gates Housing is having a purpose built 20,000 sq ft HQ on a site next to Bank Park. The figures also include MWH (a water and environmental engineering firm) who took 13,500 sq ft at Dominion House and United Utilities taking 10,500 sq ft at Lingley Mere.

Peter Crompton, Chairman, Warrington & Co. and Director, BE Group said: "The findings presented in our annual Property Report make very positive reading and shows a vibrant outlook. The resilience of the local economy, recognised in national surveys, is reflected in Warrington’s property market.

"This year has got off to a great start with significant property lettings already secured. This, coupled with the clear momentum building at Omega and the news that the £190 million outline master plan for the Stadium Quarter has received the go ahead from the Council, means we can look forward to a busy and, we hope, another successful year.”

Steve Park, Managing Director, Warrington & Co. said: "The findings in the Property Report are welcome news and it illustrates Warrington’s strong economic position. There’s a lot to look forward to in 2013 and we hope to keep building on the momentum seen last year and at the start of this year.”

Highlights of the report, which was presented by Peter Crompton, Chairman, Warrington & Co. and Director of BE Group at a special event attended by over 100 guests at the Village Hotel, Warrington today include:

Office deals accounted for 213,000 sq ft (19,800 sq m) of the total space, with 35 deals recorded for year.

Over half of the office deals were at Birchwood Park, however the largest single deal was made by Swiss owned hearing aid manufacturers Phonak which committed to a 44,900 sq ft (4,171 sq m) new build office and assembly facility at Centre Park with landlords Marshalls CPD. The building will be ready to occupy later this year.

The industrial sector recorded its sixth best annual take-up figure in fifteen years at 872,000 sq ft (81,000 sq m).

The Northwest’s largest strategic employment site, Omega, contributed significantly to the take-up figure, with the commitment by Brake Brothers to lease 200,000 sq ft (18,500 sq m) at Omega North. The pre-let attracted the highest industrial rent at £5.15 per sq ft (£55.44 per sq m).

Omega will play a key role in 2013 activity. It was announced last week Bericote has received planning consent to build a £100 million 600,000 sq ft (55.750 sq m) logistics facility and two further developments at Omega North are due on site this year. In total the four projects will see 1.5 million sq ft (144,000 sq m) under construction in 2013 which should deliver approx. 1600 jobs when complete.

While there is still work required to address Warrington’s wider town centre area, Golden Square Shopping Centre demonstrated resilience in 2012 with nine new occupiers secured, the largest being Primark taking 56,000 sq ft (5,200 sq m) which will open in late 2013.

Elsewhere in the retail sector, Ikea received planning consent for the 86,000 sq ft (8,800sq m) extension to its store at Gemini Retail Park – this year Ikea’s first UK store celebrates its 25^th anniversary.

For the third year running a new hotel opened in Warrington. In November Gulliver’s Theme Park opened its £3.75 million 56 bedroom hotel next to the attraction. Hotel occupancy levels grew by 3.3%.

A highlight of 2012 was on 17 May Her Majesty the Queen opened the £32 million Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub, the largest Olympic Legacy facility built outside London. It provides community, sport, health and education facilities within a single complex.

Warrington looks forward this year to welcoming the Rugby World Cup in in October, and will host group and quarter final games at the Halliwell Jones Stadium. Samoa will be based in the town for pre-tournament training camp.

Warrington exceeded it targets on new build homes in 2012, with 626 properties completed across 32 separate sites, against a target of 456 from the annual Local Plan.

Councillor Terry O’Neill, Leader, Warrington Borough Council said: "The results of the Property Report are very good news for our town. There are many exciting projects either on site or in the pipeline such as Omega and the Stadium Quarter that will bring investment and jobs to Warrington.” Our saying is invest in success – Come to Warrington and be part of our exciting journey.

Warrington & Co was established to act as a partnership between Warrington Borough Council, business leaders and key organisations as a business friendly interface to deliver regeneration strategies and facilitate growth in the town.

Warrington & Co’s principal function is to progress the delivery of regeneration strategies as set out in the council’s Warrington Means Business document and work with development partners in the delivery of key projects.

The Warrington Wolves Charitable Foundation, in association with the club, officially unveiled the Wire2Wolves Timeline at The Halliwell Jones Stadium at the weekend.

The Foundation were awarded Heritage Lottery Funding to create the interactive timeline to celebrate the rich history of Warrington Rugby League club and the town.

The fantastic piece of artwork, which has also been supported by Warrington business Central Self Drive and designers Fuzzy Duck Create, runs the length of the South Stand concourse and commemorates the past successes of the ‘Wire' and also the recent achievements of the ‘Wolves'.

The timeline features all heritage numbers to mark each player’s place in the club’s history and encompasses the journey of the Warrington club from its inception in 1876 up to the present day including a timeline of town events. The project also consists of living walls with player and supporter memories recorded on timeline projection.

Club chairman Professor Steven Broomhead said: "As a template club within Super League we recognise the importance of this Wire2Wolves timeline to each and every person within the borough-wide community. There is a genuine passion about our sport and this 100 metre display of history and achievement yet again demonstrates the club leading the way in Rugby League and throughout sport stadias.”

The heritage wall was officially opened by past players Alastair Brindle, Laurie Gilfedder and Paul Cullen alongside current legend Lee Briers on Saturday, 13 April: Warrington-born prop Alastair won the Lancashire Cup in 1959, Laurie debuted at the age of 16 earning several Great Britain caps, Paul Cullen is renowned for both his playing and coaching achievements for his hometown club and Lee Briers’ 16 years at the club have seen him become the leading points scorer in Warrington’s history.

Paul Cullen said on attending the official opening: "Something like this makes you stand back and be immensely proud of being part of this great town and club. To be recognised with some of the great players of this club is a privilege and I can only congratulate all involved."

Throughout the launch day players past and present, families, directors, club staff, Wolves Charitable Foundation Trustees, club sponsors and partners, and supporters joined together to take a trip down memory lane.

Wolves’ head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith, who has helped add to the club’s history guiding the team to silverware in recent years, said: "It was fantastic. All the players were commenting on just how great it was. It really is spectacular, a great initiative and it’s very humbling to be part of that history. Each time I see it I get some new information from it and something that helps me understand the club better; some of the things the club has gone through, and the town as well. I think that’s really important, the tie-in between the club and the town and just how important they are to one another.”

The day was also celebrated with the watching of a video reel reminiscing with players past and present, commemorative Record Breaking beer, memory cards, shirt displays through the ages and more.

Neil Kelly, Wolves’ Foundation director, said: "Thanks to Lottery funding and Central Self Drive, a dream has turned into reality. It is great to see the history created by so many has been remembered in this special way. The passion was certainly on display at the opening and made me proud to be from Warrington."

Roy Chicken, of the Supporters Trust, added: "The timeline is a tremendous achievement by the Foundation and everyone else involved in the project. It successfully combines the history of Warrington Wolves and the town of Warrington. It is a must for all supporters young and old to see and to spend time studying the photographs and words.”

Police are appealing for witnesses following a burglary in Warrington.

The incident took place sometime between 4pm on 13 April and 3am on 14 April at a property in Scott Street. Thieves had gained access to the property by forcing open the back door and stealing a number of items from inside including a laptop, television, mobile phone and cash before fleeing the scene.

The victims were out at the time celebrating their wedding − a relative returned to the property in the early hours of the morning to find it had been burgled.

DC Alex Reeves, who is investigating the incident, said: "This has had a big impact on the occupants of the property − they were out at the time getting married at their local church and later found out that their house had been burgled.

"Needless to say this ruined what should have been a very happy day for the couple and their family and this has left them extremely upset.

"We are currently carrying out a number of enquiries in the local area in a bid to trace those responsible − this includes house-to-house enquiries and any relevant CCTV or forensic enquiries.

"We would urge anyone who has any information, which might assist with our enquiries, to come forward. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been in Scott Street around the time of the burglary and has seen anyone acting suspiciously.

"We are doing everything we can to trace the stolen items and return them to the couple. We urging anyone who has any information regarding the whereabouts of the stolen items or anyone who is offered similar items to contact us."

Please be aware that due to a request from Sky, Warrington Wolves Round15 home fixture v Hull FC will now be played on Friday 17th May, kick-off 8pm. (originally Sunday 19th)

This fixture will be televised live on Sky.