PARTNERSHIP MEETING: At a meeting of the Crook Community Partnership, it was reported that £1,000 had been received from the Friends of Crook Town FC to help with this year's Christmas lights.

The money was donated by the group after the success of Michael Manuel's book, Crook at Work and Play. Disappointment was expressed that only £445 had been received from the business community.

Funding is being sought to ensure the Arthur Street Project is carried through.

Crook Carnival next year will be an all-day event on Saturday, July 5.

FOOTBALL RESEARCH: Alan Moor, from Halifax, is researching the life of Richard Smith (Dickie) Bell, from Crook, who was centre forward in the three England schoolboy international matches against Wales, Scotland and Ireland in 1937, playing alongside Len Shackleton.

The English Schools FA is writing its centenary history for 2004 and is under the impression that Michael Owen, of Liverpool, holds the season's record for English schoolboy goals, with 12 in nine matches. However, Dickie Bell scored 12 goals in three matches. If anyone would like to help Mr Moor with his research, write to: 'Sutton', Crossroad, Shelf, Halifax, HX3 7LF.

PRESENTATION NIGHT: Crook Town Cricket Club will hold a players' presentation evening on Saturday, at 7.30pm.