Good afternoon,

Mixed news today as the government relaxes coronavirus restrictions further which is fantastic for theatres, soft play centres and beauty businesses unless they are in Preston - where they still can't open. 

Meanwhile, hospital waiting lists have been increasing during the pandemic but bosses have pledged to tackle cases in order of urgency.

Fire crews have had a busy morning tackling a fire in Hutton, where a caravan blaze spread to neighbouring business units and two people have been rushed to hospital after a crash on the M6.

And just 24 hours after it reopened, an Age Concern charity shop has been forced to close again after thieves raided the safe.

Reporter Stef Hall has shared the moment a boat lover finally launched the vessel named by his late wife, just before what would have been their 21st wedding anniversary.

And find out which band is working with a Chorley brewery to launch a beer named after them.

And you want to catch up with all the stories, successes and issues from yesterday A'Level results please head over to the education section where Sonja Asbury has been busy shining a light on our young people.

Have a great Friday and lovely weekend - and if you head out wear those face coverings - the fines have gone up!

Nicola Adam, deputy editor lep.co.uk 

You can email me at nicola.adam@jpimedia.co.uk

Twitter@jabberingjourno