| Bizarre
Boundary Proposal |
4/12/03 |
On
1st December the Boundary Committee for England
published their Draft recommendations for unitary
local government in Lancashire and are now "consulting"
on the draft options put forward for a period
of 12 weeks until 23 February 2004. Click
Here to view the full report. The recommendations
are founded on the findings of a "statistically
robust" Mori Poll of 300 West Lancashire
residents. Click
here for the Mori Report in full.
In
summary, the three options that the Boundary Commission
have proposed are:
-
Option
1: We become part of a massive Lancashire County
Council "Unitary Authority"
-
Option
2: We become part of a new "Sefton and
West Lancashire"
-
Option
3: We become part of a new "Sefton and
West Lancashire"
Rather
bizarrely, our three options are actually only
two. You are asked to provide feedback on these
proposals but, to date, the supposedly convenient
Online Feedback Form on the Boundary Commission
website does not work and so any comments you
wish to make must be made as best you can using
pen and paper and it will cost you the price of
a stamp. We have informed the Boundary Commission
of this oversight and are awaiting a response.
|
|
| Outlook
Wet for the Northern Parishes |
28/11/03 |
Get
the very latest
floodplain data direct from the
Environment Agency Website |
The
Environment
Agency's new Indicative Floodplain Maps
provide a general overview of areas of land
in natural floodplains and therefore potentially
at risk of flooding from rivers or the sea.
The maps use the best information currently
available, based on historical flood records
and geographical models. They indicate where
flooding from rivers, streams, watercourses
or the sea is possible. However the maps
do not show flood defences which offer vital
protection in many areas.
|
The
Agency is making these maps widely accessible
to make it easier for people to find out if they
are in a flood risk area and what local flood
warning arrangements exist. They also inform planners
and developers and are a key tool in informing
decisions on controlling development in floodplains.
For more information and the answers to frequently
asked questions about flood plain maps, the impact
it has on properties, the impact on property insurance
and answers to general questions about flood risk
CLICK HERE
|
|
| Fred
Lee Funeral |
17/11/03 |
A
big congregation gathered to celebrate the life
of Fred Lee who was today buried at St Mary's,
Rufford. Addresses were given by Revd. Stephen
Jones and Phil Rigby. A peom was selected and
read by Joan Rimmer and solos sung by Mike Turnbull.
|
|
| More
White Vans Wanted |
14/11/03 |
All
members of the public are asked to be on the look-out
for the following 2 vehicles. They have been seen
recently acting suspiciously and it is also believed
they have been seen throughout the West Lancs
area. The vehicles are both White Transit vans:-
The whereabouts of these vehicles are wanted by
both Lancashire and GMP Police. One vehicle is
believed to be involved in theft of motorcycles.
Please be on the look-out for both these vehicles.
Any sightings should be reported to the Police
immediately.
|
|
| Fred
Lee |
10/11/03 |
It
is with deep regret that we today learn of the
death of Fred Lee.
Fred
was active in many areas of village life and,
more recently, in helping to establish and develop
this website for the people of Rufford.
We
shall miss him greatly and our condolences go
to Rosemary, friends and family.
Fred's
funeral will take place at St Marys, Rufford at
1pm, Monday, 17th November, 2003. Donations to
the Air Ambulance.
|
|
| Water
Board Warning |
3/11/03 |
| Message
from The West Lancashire Neighbourhood Watch Association
The
police are warning the public about bogus officials
who have been gaining entry to elderly persons homes
by posing as water board officials who want to check
water pipes. Once in the home the offenders have
stolen property.
Descriptions
of two offenders seen are males early 20's one of
whom had red hair and spoke with a stammer. He was
wearing a white anorak. Do not let persons into
your home without seeing proper authority or them
having made a written appointment.
A second problem concerns telephone calls to elderly
residents, saying that the Environment Agency wishes
to make an appointment to call. Their reason is
to give advice on Crime Prevention, mentioning security
alarms in the conversation. These calls do not have
any connection to any Professional body.
Please
do not let anyone into your home without first checking
their identity. If you require information on Security
alarms please contact the Crime prevention officers
at your local Police station. If you wish to contact
the Police please ring 0845 1 25 35 45 or in an
emergency dial 999.
If you wish to pass on information anonamously about
this or any other incident and then you can contact
Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. |
|
| First
Fettlers Boats |
24/10/03 |
First boats sighted in Fettlers Wharf but, unfortunatly,
we have no more info at this time. |
|
| Thefts
Continue |
16/10/03 |
The
Police are reminding everyone, once again, of an increasing
crime trend in rural areas of West Lancashire. These
are thefts from garages, farm buildings and driveways
of heavy equipment such as sit-on lawnmowers and farm
equipment including trailers. It is believed the offenders
are from the travelling community and are using white
transit vans as well as a dark coloured saloon car.
They are calling at premises offering landscape gardening
services. Within half an hour of their call equipment
has been stolen. Please be aware of these offences
and exercise caution with any unknown callers on your
property. If you are suspicious please notify the
Police. |
|
| Hesketh
Arms Activity |
16/10/03 |
| Contractors
have now started work to refurbish the Hesketh Arms. |
|
| A
Taste Of Things To Come? |
13/10/03 |
| A
planning application has been submitted by Ms L. Beardmore
to use part of the premises at 95, Causeway Lane as
a Delicatessen and Cafe. |
|
| Rufford
Retain "ECKY THUMP" Trophy |
29/09/03 |
Rufford
5 Holmeswood 3
A bright sunny autumn Sunday afternoon at Rufford
Village Hall saw Rufford Dads play Holmeswood Dads
for the "Ecky Thump" trophy. Supporters
from both villages cheered their respective sides,
but Rufford Dads retained the trophy for another year.
The game was of a high standard with a number of bone
crunching tackles and a player from each side being
sent off.
This is the second match for this trophy since the
cup, which had become lost, was found in Cheshire
in 2002 and returned to Lancashire. |
|
Photograph Copyright Paul Rawsthorne
|
|
| Boot
Success |
18/09/03 |
| The
final car boot sale of 2003 was held at Rufford
Village Hall on Sunday 14th September 2003. The
weather was kind and certainly far different to
the previous sale in August which ended abruptly
in a severe storm. The day was a huge success and
by the sale of refreshments, car parking donations
and a stall run by Mrs Jean Rawsthorne, over £950
was raised for St Mary's Church.
|
| Wanted:
White Van Man |
13/09/03 |
| All
farms and Neighbourhood Watch members are asked
to be on the lookout for the following vehicle:-
A white Transit Van reg. no. S817 SRJ.
This
vehicle was seen in suspicious circumstances in
Bickerstaffe at around 3:30 on Wednesday afternoon.
It is thought they may have been attempting to steal
a caravan but when challenged the driver( who spoke
with an Irish accent) said they were cutting hedges
and then made off towards Rainford. About 2 hours
later a shed was reported broken into when lawnmowers
and other property were stolen. Please be on the
look-out for this vehicle and report any sightings
to the Police immediately. To repeat:- A white Transit
van reg.no. S817 SRJ. |
|
| Hesketh
Arms Latest |
04/09/03 |
The
Estate Agents sign has been amended to display
SOLD
|
|
| Marina
Latest |
03/09/03 |
Sadly
no official news on progress but our man on the
ground estimates that Fettlers Wharf is now about
one quarter depth with pumping from the canal
now restored. (The breach of the canal at Parbold
would seem to have been repaired as water is now
flowing around the locks in the overflow ducts).
He
states "The canal level appears to be normal
however due to demand for water by marina pumping
has to be done in stages so as not to take too
much from canal" adding "Pile driving
of the marina opening into the canal will probably
begin on Monday followed by the erection of footbridge
on towpath".
|
|
| Sign
Damaged |
21/08/03 |
 |
| A
large branch estimated at over two tons
fell on to the pavement and roadway at the
junction of Liverpool Road and Holmeswood
Road yesterday morning. Damage was caused
to the road signs but fortunatly no one
was injured - not visible under the fallen
branches is a wooden bench seat. |
|
|
| Dear
Editor.... |
18/08/03 |
My
mother was a pupil at Rufford School. She was
born in 1918 and so therefore went to school in
1923. She died last year aged 84 but upon till
the time she suffered from dementure she never
forgot her time at the school and all the names
of the children she was there with. She lived
along Moss Lane in Burscough, with her mother
and father, she also had a brother James(jimmy)
their surname was Lowe. My mothers name was Jane
but most people called her Jinny She tells of
having glandular fever as a child and having to
have all her hair cut off we have pictures of
her with hair to her waist and long white pinafores
on. She told us that she also had lockjaw and
could only be fed on a little egg spoon. It is
very strange as she lived in the farming community
so there didn't really go with out very much,
God help the poor kids!!! Just to say that she
had very many happy memoirs of her school days
in Rufford she still has cousins I think that
live there Caunce's Transport were her relations
and she had relations in Tarleton We moved from
Lancashire in 1967 to the South, I still live
on the South Coast, I was at school in Burscough
as was my brother he still lives in Bickerstaffe
I
would love to hear from any one who knew my mothers
family. Her mother was Alice Culshaw and her father
James Lowe, my uncles name was also James Lowe;
her lived in Mart Lane Burscough and had a lot
to do with the Football Club.
Jean
Lovell
(to email Jean Click
Here)
|
|
| Tennis
Coaching a big hit |
15/08/03 |
 |
The
first of this seasons youth tennis coaching
sessions started today at Holmeswood with
an excellent turnout. The coaching is organised
by Holmeswood Sports Association Tennis
Club The next session is Tuesday 19th
at 9am. |
|
|
| Hesketh
Arms |
14/08/03 |
A
new lease of life for the Hesketh Arms? |
The
statutory notice in todays Ormskirk Advertiser
backs up the news submitted by "Eccles"
on Monday via the bulletin
board. In summary, Geoffrey Hedges of
the Hayfield Hotel, County Road, Ormskirk
has declared that he will apply to Ormskirk
Magistrates Court on the 5th September for
a Licence authorising the retail sale of
intoxicating liquor for consumption either
on or of the premises at The Hesketh Arms,
Liverpool Road, Rufford. |
|
|
| Speed
Limit Latest |
14/08/03 |
 |
The
introduction of the new speed limits (see
below) has been rescheduled by the Highways
Agency for the 22nd August. |
|
|
| Canal
Breach Latest |
11/08/03 |
British
Waterways have now installed stop planks between
Bridge 36 and Giants Hall Aqueduct to enable repair
work on the 200 year old embankment to proceed
as quickly as possible. The Rufford Branch is
still closed due to lack of water following the
breach, in which around 100 million gallons spilled
on to adjacent land. A dedicated team of engineers
is on site working to repair and re-water the
stretch of canal around the breach, which is now
less than two miles in length.
The
craning point for boats wanting to travel from
the west to east of the breach is located at Mayors
Boatyard at Tarleton. The craning point for boats
wanting to travel from the east to west of the
breach is located at White Bear Marina, Chorley.
Boaters are asked to telephone Vaughan Jones at
White Bear Marina on 01257 481054 for a current
status report and to take advantage of the craning
facility. Boaters planning to travel from the
Lancaster Canal are asked to telephone Anne Marie
Mount at BW’s Galgate Office on 01524 751888.
|
|
| Marina
Fill Starts |
30/07/03 |
9.10
a.m. Wednesday 30 July 2003 - The filling of Fettlers
Wharf Marina has just started - The water is being
extracted from the Leeds & Liverpool Canal
and the process is being carefully monitored by
the canal authority, in conjunction with the developers.
In
view of the recent loss of water from the canal
syrtem at Parbold progress may be slower than
was originally intended.
|
|
| Volunteers
Required for Cubs and Scouts |
28/07/03 |
Rufford
Scout Group have a vacancy for a Assistant Cub
Scout Leader and also a Assistant Scout Leader.
Are
you aged 18 years + with a couple of hours a week
to spare? Do you have a sense of humour, an ability
to organise, lead & encourage a group of enthusiastic
8/10 or 10/14 year olds?
For
more information & an informal chat contact
-
Group Scout Leader
Roy Chadwick on 821708 or Click
Here to email Roy
|
|
| Review
of Rufford Parish Council |
28/07/03 |
Following
a response to a petition from the residents of
Holmeswood, received prior to December 2000, seeking
the creation of a new Parish Council in their
area, the West Lancashire District Council have
decided not to proceed with a recommendation to
the Secretary of State to constitute a new parish
of Holmeswood, by the separation of part of the
parish of Rufford. At that time and at the present
date, Rufford Parish Council consists of two wards,
one for Rufford and one for Holmeswood.
When the Council first received a request to undertake
a review from the residents of Holmeswood, an
overwhelming majority (255 0f the 291 electors
-87.6%)signed the petition in support. On 4 April
2003 a letter was sent to all electors in Rufford
Parish, together with a questionnaire setting
out options available.
A response of 225 questionnaires was received
from the Parish as a whole, equal to 13.5% of
the total possible (1666 electors) Of the 225
questionnaires received only 76 were received
from the Holmeswood Ward of which only 58 supported
the option to form a new Parish Council for Holmeswood.
Of the 225 questionnaires received 105 votes were
in favour of leaving Holmeswood with Rufford,
111 to separate Holmeswood from Rufford and 9
in favour of Holmeswood joining Mere Brow.
The West Lancashire District Council in following
the advice and guidance of the office of the Deputy
Prime Minister (ODPM) concluded that there was
not sufficient support to make a recommendation
successful.
Click
Here for the full West Lancs Review Document (PDF)
|
|
| New
Speed Limits Imminent |
24/07/03 |
The
Highways Agency have informed the Rufford Parish
Council that they expect the new speed limits to
be operation from 12 August 2003. The existing 40
MPH zone will be reduced to 30 MPH and the 40 MPH
will be extended northwards of the A580 Croston
turn off.
The
new Puffin crossing is already operational in
the centre of the village and is proving a great
success. It has been noticed that some motorists
seem to think that it is in order to overtake
in the crossing area. Not only is this very dangerous,
it is also an offence under the regulations. Lancashire
Constabulary will certainly take action against
these wrongdoers, as they will against those who
choose to ignore the speed limits.
The
residents of Rufford asked for the reduction in
the speed limit and for the crossing so motorists
failing to observe the law, will be acting against
the residents of Rufford and not just the police.
|
|
| Flower
Festival a Favourite |
21/07/03 |
|
The
National Trust Flower Festival held over
the weekend at Rufford Old Hall proved
a winner. The good weather helped to attract
many visitors to the exhibition within
the historic building and also to the
extensive Old Hall Grounds.
|
|
|
|
School Achievement Award |
30/06/03 |
Rufford
CE Primary School was delighted to receive a School Achievement
Award for 2003. These awards are given to schools by the
Department for Education & Skills (DFES) in recognition
of substantial improvement in the end of key stage results
over the last 3 years. The Head Teacher, Mrs Brough, has
thanked the staff team for their work and effort, which
has contributed to the award. |
|
Trouble at t' tip |
26/06/03 |
Permit
to Deposit Household Waste
Click
on form for enlarged image |
Following
our story yesterday we had a full inbox this morning
with many of you commenting on the "job creation
scheme" surrounding the administration of the
new access policy to the Recycling Centres and the
detrimental impact this will have on recycling initiatives.
Clearly
many householders are annoyed by the introduction
of this policy, the lack of communication with regard
to it's necessity and purpose and also the knock
on impact to the environment (fly tipping) and recycling
(large volumes of green waste diverted to landfill
that would have otherwise have been composted).
We
believe that the situation has already been raised
with our County Councilor, Robert
Hodge and we warmly extend a right of reply
to all parties involved. |
On
a lighter note, we observe that within their permit
numbering system, LCC have made provision for
over 1 billion unique permits to be issued for
Rufford tip. Imagine the queues on a bank holiday!.
We
still have not had sight of a permit for a pedestrian
- could you be the first?
IF
YOU NEED A PERMIT
Ring 0845 0500957
|
|
|
LCC waste opportunity |
25/06/03 |
Lancashire
County Council have confirmed they will go ahead with plans
which have been described as 'making a bureaucratic mountain
out of a recycling molehill'. In readiness for the 1st of
July, LCC have begun administering and issuing permits for
visits to the Recycling Collection points. From
1st July...
Trailers longer than 3m long are banned altogether
4 wheeled trailers of any size need a permit
A van or pickup of any size needs a permit
Even a pedestrian will need a permit
A permit will allow only one
visit per calendar month
The
council claim that the new measures will reduce the amount
of trade waste being processed through their domestic
waste facilities although no one has yet been able to
offer an explanation as to how the number of wheels on
a trailer correlates with its contents. Incredibly, the
LCC Environment Directorate did confirm that if anyone
removes two of the wheels on a four wheel trailer then
a permit would not be required.
A
local farmer added "it may well reduce the amount
of trade waste at the tip but by default these people
have not made proper arrangements for their waste and
are highly likely to just chuck it out at the side of
the road if denied access"
A
spokesman from Green Waste Compost said "it is a
shame that a council who previously have been at the forefront
of recycling initiatives should discourage the very people
who bring in large volumes of domestic green waste over
the summer months. If there is a problem with trade waste
then use some intelligence to tackle the specific problem.
Arbitrary measures that in any way reduce the amount of
green waste collected for recycling cannot be right for
the environment or for a council who has committed to
meet stringent targets in this area.
IF
YOU NEED A PERMIT
Ring 0845 0500957 |
| Award
for Hesketh Green |
5/06/03 |
Pioneering
social housing provider, Maritime, have received another
prestigious award at The Affordable Home Ownership Awards.
Maritime were honoured for their innovative Hesketh Green,
Rufford development, which was named, most sustainable
scheme. The development was completed in 1987 and was
groundbreaking in that it is a mixed tenure scheme. There
are 18 LSE flats, 6 shared ownership houses and 10 rented
flats for the over 55’s. Hesketh Green has provided
much needed accommodation in a rural environment and has
proved extremely popular with very low turn over on the
property.
The
award judges were particularly impressed with the amount
of interest that the residents took in the community.
Rufford has a well attended community centre and many
of our residents make an excellent contribution to the
local community. The chair of the residents association,
volunteers in the local hospital and one 70 year old resident
cooks lunches for the elderly of the community.
Fran
Watson, scheme manager said, “ We are delighted
with this award. Hesketh Green is a fantastic example
of Maritimes commitment to quality design and social inclusion.
It’s just a great place to live, with an amazing
community spirit.”
|
| Rufford
Parish Council |
21/05/03 |
The Annual
General Meeting of Rufford Parish Council was held at Rufford
Village Hall on Monday 19 May 2003:
Councillor Peter Grace was elected to the position of Chairman
for next twelve months. Councillor John Gordon was elected
to the position of Vice Chairman for the next twelve months.
|
| Linnets
do the business |
20/05/03 |
FA
Trophy Final at Villa Park Sunday, 18th May 2003
Burscough... 2 Tamworth...
1
The above date, the most memorable in the club's long
history, will remain firmly etched in the minds of all
Burscough supporters for evermore. The "Impossible
Dream" came to glorious reality as the Linnets
took the FA Trophy (from odds of 400-1 at the start
of the competition) against the champions of the Dr
Martens Premier League, Conference-bound Tamworth. Click
Here for the full match report.
|
| Dance
Lessons Starting Soon |
17/05/03 |
Ballet
- Modern - Tap - Jazz
Starting Soon on Wednesdays at Rufford Village Hall
Classes for all ages
Fun Adult Tap
Children prepared for Examinations and Theatre Performance
RAD & ISTD Syllabus
Fully qualified and friendly teachers
For more information call
01257 271417 - 07810 602386 |
WEST
LANCASHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND RATING ACT 1997
PARISH REVIEW - RUFFORD PARISH
NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN that in accordance with the provisions
of Section 9 of the Local Government and Rating Act 1997
the Council has decided to conduct a review of the Parish
of Rufford with a view to making an assessment for new
or changed parish arrangements.
The
review will examine whether Rufford Parish should be split
up with part of its
area of Holmeswood being constituted as a new parish with
a Council or whether Holmeswood should be amalgamated
with the whole or part of another parish.
In
making its assessment of the need for new or changed parish
arrangements the Council must observe the requirement
of the 1997 Act to have regard to the need to reflect
the identities and interests of local communities and
to secure effective and convenient local government.
Anyone
wishing to make representations about this review may
do so by writing to me at the address below by no later
than 2 June 2003.
Date:
10 April 2003
GILLIAN
L. ROWE, LL.B.
Council Secretary an Solicitor
52 Derby Street
Ormskirk
West Lancashire
L39 2DF
|
| Parish
Council Annual Report |
16/04/03 |
The
Rufford Parish Council Chairman's Report for 2002-2003
has been published highlighting the activities and projects
that have been undertaken by the Parish Council. CLICK
HERE TO READ IT |
| Carers
Pass to Leisure |
26/03/03 |
Apply
for one of 80 concessionary passes being made available
through the West Lancashire Carers Pass to Leisure scheme.
More
Info |
|
Over
recent weeks there has been numerous reports of thefts
of garden ornaments in particular chimney pots. These
offences have occurred across Chorley area also. There
have been 5 incidents in the Halsall area over the past
week as well as 2 thefts from Hesketh Bank. Due to the
wieght of the property being stolen it is obvious that
a vehicle (either a van or a car) is involved. The Police
wish to speak to the driver of a white NIssan Bluebird
reg. no. G38 GJC and any sightings should be reported
to the Police. It is possible that other vehicles may
be used so everyone is asked to be extra vigilant. The
thefts from gardens in Halsall occurred in the early hours
of the morning at around 4am. If anyone has any information
on this matter you can also conatct Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.
|
| Local
Government Act 1972
Parish of Rufford
The Annual Assembly
of the Parish Meeting of the above named Parish
will be held at
Rufford Village Hall
Monday 17 March 2003 at 7.30 p.m.
Such
persons only as are registered as local government electors
for the parish will be entitled to vote at the meeting,
but the meeting will be open to the public during the
proceedings unless the Parish Meeting by resolution otherwise
direct.
Agenda
Chairman's Remarks
Any Other Business
Date of Next Meeting.
This
is the Annual Parish Assembly, at which the Council gives
a report on its activities during the year and at which
members of the public may make comment, criticise or question
the actions of the Council. The Chairman will take the
chair assisted by a clerk but all the members of the public
attending will have the right to address the meeting.
Members of the public may make suggestions of agenda items
to be discussed by the Parish Council at future meetings. |
| Free
Home Composting Kit |
06/03/03 |
|
| A59
ROAD SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS |
(28/02/03) |
After
many years of pressure from Rufford Parish Council, Rufford
School and concerned residents together with support from
David Borrow MP, County Councillor Robert Hodge, Lancashire
County Council have approved the finance to provide a "Puffin
" light controlled crossing on the A59 in the centre
of Rufford Village.
A Puffin crossing differs from a Pelican crossing in several
respects. In particular, the red man / green man indicator
is positioned above the push button. This means that the
pedestrian can see the traffic and the red man / green man
at the same time. When
the green man is illuminated, it is safe to start to cross
the road. There may also be a bleeping sound to assist
the visually impaired. Some push button units are also
fitted with a tactile knob under the unit which rotates
when the green man is
illuminated.
The
Puffin crossing also has detectors which will extend the
time available for pedestrians to cross the road and a
further set of detectors will cancel the demand for the
crossing if the pedestrian moves away from the crossing
area.
Zig-zag
markings are laid on both the approaches and the exits
to the crossing. The zig-zags ban waiting or parking,
prohibit vehicles from overtaking each other and warn
pedestrians of the increased risk of crossing in the zig-zag
area.
This is an important contribution towards the safety of
our residents, both young and old, and will be warmly
welcomed by the whole of Rufford.
Fred Lee
Rufford Parish Council |
| RUFFORD
RECREATION GROUND |
(19/02/03) |
Rufford
Parish Council recently commissioned Dominic Rigby of The
Wildlife Trust to prepare a Management Plan and Brief in
the respect of the woodland in the Rufford Recreation Ground.
(Download
the recreation ground 5 year plan PDF) Costings have
been obtained and the necessary funding is now in place
and work on the project for Phase 1 - Year 1 is expected
to commence on the 5 March 2003.
PHASE 1 – YEAR 1
1. Construction of 1.2 metre wide footpath suitable for
wheelchairs including turning area at the end of the path
in compartment 4.
- Clearance
of encroaching vegetation along existing footpath, 1.2m
wide and 2.1m high.
- Scraping
back the existing path surface, scrapings to be spread
to the sides of the path.
-
Stoning up the excavated path surface with 20mm to dust
base layer and 10mm to dust topping course.
- Rolling
surface flat.
2.
Removal of sycamore saplings and whips in compartments
1, 2 and 4. Saplings to be dug out at the roots and habitat
piles created.
3.
Removal of rhododendron (in compartment 3 and 4) including
as many roots as possible. Material to be burned on site.
4.
Removal of bamboo specimen in compartment 3.
5.
Installation of 3 benches.
6.
Installation of welcome sign at start of path in compartment
1.
7.
Temporary explanatory notice advising visitors of the
work.
The
scheme is only possible due to the support given by Lancashire
County Council, West Lancashire District Council, Lancashire
Small Sites*, Northwest Development Agency, NEL** and
Rufford Parish Council.
*The
Lancashire Small Sites Reclamation Programme is a regeneration
grant scheme managed by Lancashire County Council's Environment
Directorate with financial support from the North West
Development Agency. The Fund is specifically set up to
remove incidents of derelict land and bring about community
benefit.
**"NEL
is the trading subsidiary of Groundwork Wigan and Chorley |
The theft
of tools from farm and business premises are occurring acrosss
the area mainly in rural locations and are increasing. The
thieves are targetting farm buildings or business premises
with a view to steal power tools in particular. They are
also stealing tools from the back of vans of tradesmen .
Recent information suggests that there are 3 males involved
who travel in a white OR light grey transit-type van reg.
no. K 608 WFR. This vehicle and it`s occupants have been
calling at farms trying to sell power tools! It is suspected
that if premises are unoccupied when they call, they will
attempt to break in.
Please be on the look-out for this vehicle and report any
sightings to the Police immediately. If you have any information
regarding these crimes you can also ring Crimestoppers on
0800-555-111. |
| Appeal
for Information |
(02/02/03) |
Dear
editor,
I am researching my mother-in-law's family history, she
is descended from Benjamin LEA who was born in Rufford in
1866/67 to William Lea, who was a gamekeeper at Rufford
Hall. William was born 1838/39 and married Elizabeth Herbert,
William died in 1882 aged 43 and is buried at Rufford. William
had two children, Benjamin and Annie, Annie died in 1922
aged 53 and was buried in Rufford. Benjamin married Margaret
Brew in about 1895 and he became an insurance agent for
Liverpool Victoria Insurance in Edgeley, Stockport. He is
my mother-in-law's grandfather. I would be most interested
to here from any Lea family members still in the Rufford
area.
I hope you can help
Regards
John Downey (Click
Here to Email John) |
| Rufford
Runway Latest |
(31/01/03) |
The Planning
Application for the taking off and landing of model aircraft
at Cross Meanygate, Rufford has been withdrawn. |
The Police
are asking everyone to be on the look out for the following
motor vehicle. It is a Red FORD ESCORT LX Saloon car reg.
no. J61 RND. The Police are anxious to speak to the occupants
of this vehicle, as it is believed these offenders have
committed a number of offences where cars have been broken
into and property (such as handbags) stolen.
The vehicle has been seen in rural beauty spots as well
as around churches and crematoriums. Cars parked around
school premises when collecting children from school have
also been targetted. Any sightings of this vehicle should
be reported to the Police immediately. West
Lancashire Neighbourhood Watch Association |
|
The Parish
of Rufford is currently undertaking an exciting village
appraisal, known as REAL (Rural Evaluation and Action for
Lancashire). REAL is a Lancashire-wide initiative funded
by the Community Fund and delivered by Community Futures.
The REAL village appraisal process helps communities in
rural Lancashire have their say on the future of their village,
and then helps them take action to meet these changing needs.
The
results from the recent survey to identify concerns and
wishes of villagers are now becoming available and the
next phase of the exercise leading to the preparation
of a Parish Plan needs to be set in motion.
A
Public Meeting to discuss the results and to plan the
next important moves by the community is to be held in
the Rufford Village Hall.
It
is hoped that this meeting will be held at 7.30 p.m. on
Thursday 6 February 2003 and there will be full publicity
confirming thus date. |
Planning
Application referred to the Planning Committee for determination:
Application No.: 8/2002/1329
Proposal : Use of land for the taking off and landing of
model aircraft.
Location : Land at, Cross Meanygate, Rufford.
Applicant : Mereside Model Club |
|
This
morning, Wednesday 18th December there have been 4 vehicles
reported stolen from driveways of houses. These thefts occurred
while owners have started up the cars to allow them to warm
up and defrost during this cold spell. With the keys left
in the ignition, owners have left their vehicles running
and unattended and subsequently 4 have been stolen. Please
do not leave your vehicle unattended if the engine is running
and keys in the ignition - it is an open invitation to a
thief. West
Lancashire Neighbourhood Watch Association.
|
| Application
for a visit by SANTA |
(13/12/02) |
In order
to meet new EU efficiency targets for the processing of
children's requests on Christmas Eve, Santa has requested
that the attached form is completed and returned to the
address indicated. Your cooperation on this matter is appreciated.
Download Visit
Application Form |
| Bogus
Benefits Con |
(13/12/02) |
On Wednesday
of this week, a lady in Halsall received a phone call from
a man who said he was a benefits officer and believed she
was entitled to benefits. He said he would like to call
and see her to discuss the matter. She told him that she
was not interested. After she had hung up, she tried 1471
which gave number withheld. She contacted the benefits agency
who said they had no knowledge of any such official. The
Police believe that this may be yet another tactic used
by the criminals known as "Bogus Officials". Please
be on your guard and exercise extreme caution if you get
unknown callers at the door or on the telephone. DO NOT
give them any personal information and do not allow them
into your home. Please notify the Police immediately if
you are at all suspicious.Remember these criminals can operate
anywhere in our area. West
Lancashire Neighbourhood Watch Association |
| Christmas
Card Delivery Service |
(12/12/02) |
Why venture
out into the cold to deliver your Xmas cards around Rufford
when the Lynx Explorer Scouts can do it for you? Cards will
be delivered on Saturdays 14th and 21st December for a donation
of 10p a card. Leave your cards at the Central Garage (Opposite
the Hesketh Arms) with the full address on each card please. |
| Bogus
Official |
(02/12/02) |
During
the last couple of days there has been two incidents of
'bogus official' crimes having taken place in the Scott
estate area of Ormskirk and the Town Green area of Aughton.
But the offenders are likely to strike anywhere in the West
Lancashire district. One offender pretended to be from the
Water board again, the other asked to inspect the smoke
alarms. Both offenders failed to steal property on these
occasions. The offenders are described as white males one
is 6' tall wearing a woolly bobble hat and green jacket,
the other is aged between 40 and 50 slim build wearing a
beige long coat, he was seen to drive off in a red car.
If you have any information about these crimes please contact
the Police or Crime
stoppers. Please keep a watchful eye open for anyone
acting suspiciously West
Lancashire Neighbourhood Watch Association |
| Thefts
from Vehicles |
(02/12/02) |
Overnight
on Sunday / Monday 02/12/02 three vehicles were broken into
on Prescott Ave, Cousins Lane and Hesketh Drive. It seems
that over this period
vehicles in Hesketh Bank, Mere Brow, Banks, Burscough and
Newburgh were also targeted. Could I remind all vehicle
owners to remove or put out of sight any valuables that
may be in their vehicle. Enquiries are being commenced into
tracing the culprits and our Crime Scene Investigators (S.O.C.O.)
are very good at lifting fingerprints, so please try not
to touch or tidy anything until they have been if you are
unfortunate enough to be a victim. I would just like to
mention that the offenders we get in this area are often
travelling criminals from other force areas and we work
closely with our neighbouring forces exchanging intelligence
to locate and apprehend these people. Anyone with any information
on these crimes or any other matters please dont hesitate
to contact me, either by phone, or calling in at the office.
You may leave a message for me via H.Q. on 08451 253545
if you wish or ring Crimestoppers
on 0800 555111. P.C.
2676 Stuart Rowe.
Rufford/Burscough police. |
| POLICE
APPEAL FOR VIGILANCE |
(02/12/02) |
The Police
are asking everyone in the West Lancashire area to be on
the lookout for the following 2 motor vehicles. Both are
believed to be used by a well known offender who the Police
are anxious to speak to regarding a number of burglary and
vehicle thefts. The vehicles are:- 1.
a Red Honda Accord reg no. L365 SKB
2. a Red Vauxhall Cavalier reg. no. G344 LHA
Any
sightings of these vehicles should be reported to the
Police immediately. These vehicles could visit any area
of West Lancashire so extra vigilance is requested. |
| PARKING
PROBLEMS AT RUFFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL |
(29/11/02) |
P.C.
2676 Stuart Rowe of Rufford/Burscough police writes "The
matter is currently being monitored by myself and also Ormskirk
Road Policing Unit and any offenders will be dealt with
appropriately. The issuing of fixed penalty tickets obviously
meets with the same disdain as the recent spate of dissatisfaction
with speed cameras, although we would all like one "down
our road". "The bobby has nothing better to do"
is another cliché, but the complaints still keep
coming and I have to respond to that. Please, please, park
sensibly when picking your children up from school, fixed
penalty tickets are a last resort and we are looking into
issues to try to resolve the matter in partnership with
Rufford primary. Thank you for your time and patience and
if we work together we will be able to resolve this issue.
|
| THEFT
FROM SCHOOL |
(15/11/02) |
On Wednesday
13th November, at 4pm, an intruder entered the school through
the playground entrance, stole a purse and a mobile phone
and escaped through the fire doors onto Holmeswood Road.
The police have details of a number of similar incidents
in the West Lancs area,and are appealing for anyone with
information to come forward. There is a possibility that
an old-style Astra vehicle was involved. Such a vehicle
has been sighted in parked in The Paddock at the time. Any
information should be given to the police at Rufford or
Burscough. |
| CRIMINAL
DAMAGE |
(15/11/02) |
There
have been several instances of damage in the past two or
three weeks in the village. The Bus Shelter in Holmeswood
Road has been damaged twice, the latest attack being on
evening of Wednesday 13 November or on the morning of Thursday
14 November. This damage was after repairs had been completed
in the previous week. Door hooks on the emergency doors
at the Village Hall have been destroyed and newly replaced
gate latches ripped off.
Repairs are paid for from the Parish Council Precept funds
which means that they are paid for by the residents of the
village. The Police also advise that damage has been caused
to the aerials of 12 cars in the village.
Lancashire Constabulary are investigating the occurrences
with a view to prosecuting the culprits when identified. |
| PELICAN
CROSSING |
(15/11/02) |
Rufford
CE School now has its own travel plan, approved by the County,
to promote walking to school and health & safety issues.
This is one of a series of measures aimed at improving school
travel and alleviating parking problems. The school has
met with a representative form the County to discuss the
forthcoming traffic calming project. It was suggested that
residents can support the installation of a Pelican Crossing
by writing individual letters of support, which the school
can then forward. Obviously these will carry more influence
if they include the safety of children crossing the A59.
The school is also running a publicity campaign in the local
press to try to encourage applicantions for a crossing patrol
on the A59, which has been approved. |
SPEED
LIMIT
Mrs Graham Harding, Lancashire County Council Environment
Director has written as follows in respect of the proposed
30 MPH Speed limit restrictions and traffic calming works
on the A59 Liverpool Road at Rufford.
"The Highways Agency have notified me that the objection
to the speed limit has been withdrawn. I am currently organising
the provision of the required signs so that the relevant
speed limit Order can me made. I anticipate that this will
be completed late December 2002/early January 2003"
|
| YOUTH
SHELTER
A number of young residents of the village attended the
recent Parish Council meeting at the village hall and
asked that a Youth Shelter be provided on the recreation
ground.
Projects
of this nature have been put in place in several areasin
recent times. The Parish Council would be interested to
receive comments and ob |
