Nicholas Clapp

 Alcohol woman net

Preston counsellor criticises government’s alcohol deal

Lesley Threlfall knows more than most people about helping alcoholics. She has worked with them for 10 years. So when someone with her experience criticises the government’s alcohol policy, it’s worth listening. “On paper the strategy seems good, but when you see it in more detail it doesn’t look as great,” she said. Mrs Threlfall, pictured, says more effort is needed to change drinking attitudes. This [...]

778 days ago by pub2

Preston pubs struggling to survive as government policies hit hard

Susan Carr has seen a lot during her time as owner of The Variety pub on Adelphi Street. She has been the landlady for more than 11 years. But now, she and may other pub owners face a difficult time in the industry as setbacks force many watering holes to close. “It’s probably the worst it’s ever been. For most pubs it’s dire, absolutely dire,” [...]

778 days ago by Wedding shop

Preston shops unable to capitalise on Royal Wedding

It seems everybody wants to cash in on the Royal Wedding, from knitted souvenirs to tours of where Kate Middleton lives, new money-making schemes pop up daily. However, a trade not benefitting is the wedding industry. Surprisingly, despite the endless coverage, such businesses have not seen an increase in customers. “I don’t think the fact it’s happening makes a difference. It’s not going to inspire [...]

792 days ago by
Dog handler Michael Corish, Eric - the winning pooch, and owner Michael Coad, from Longton. [Image: onEdition]

Preston pooch is Crufts’ top dog

Canine fans gathered at the annual Crufts competition to see a Preston pooch scoop an award. Eric, a Bichon Frise, took it in his stride, beating off 21,000 dogs to reach the final. He won the toy group, for smaller dogs. This put him through to the best in show event. Eric’s owner, Michael Coad, from Longton, was shocked by the triumph. He said: “To [...]

794 days ago by Fire team

Brave firefighters to assist Japanese relief efforts

Specialist members of Lancashire’s fire and rescue services have joined the relief effort in Japan. As details of the disaster unfold, trained teams have been sent from countries worldwide. Seven members from the region’s fire services have been sent to the stricken nation. They include Andy Hayes and Mark Noblet from Preston. Fire service officer, Richard Edney, praised the group for their courage. “Obviously they’re [...]

795 days ago by Preston's newest public toilets, on Kendal Street

Exclusive: Public toilets will not be closed

The city’s public toilets will not be closed, Blog Preston can exclusively reveal. It was feared that Preston’s loos would be closed after nearby councils in Manchester and Sefton decided to scrap theirs. But the council have stated their commitment to maintaining their 12 toilets, and also vowed to open more. Kevin Goonan, of Preston City Council, claimed they are important for society. “They’re a [...]

803 days ago by

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