By JANE FIELD

SANKEY residents are appealing for the return of a bus shelter which disappeared when roadworks took place.

The bus stop on Park Road is well used by people in the area, including residents of Sankey Manor and bungalows for the elderly, mums and tots, and commuters, who have all been left out in the cold and rain.

The road was resurfaced by Warrington Borough Council in August, when the shelter was removed throughout the works.

Roy Smith, ward councillor for Sankey North, is determined to see the shelter returned. On Tuesday he presented a petition signed by more than 220 residents to the chairman of the borough council's environment committee at the Town Hall.

"The bus stop is well used and is on the main road into town," said Clr Smith. "There is a lot of anger that it has not been returned. It is used by a lot of elderly and disabled residents who have no means of transport.

"In bad weather a shelter is essential."

The steering committee of the residents' association is also making the matter a priority and will discuss its next course of action at a meeting at Sankey Manor on Monday night, starting at 8pm.

"Lots of people use the bus stop and we want the shelter put back," said steering group member Marie Bacon.

"Especially considering the atrocious weather we have had, it has been horrendous."

A spokesman for the borough council said that there are problems with the new Adshel shelter, which is a different design.

"There are construction problems and the foundations have to be relaid," he said.

"All shelters have to be 18 inches away from the kerb, so it is not feasible for the new shelter to be put there."

The steering group of the residents' association is also welcoming people from around the Park Road to Barrow Hall Lane and Whittle Hall Lane area who would like to come along and join them.

"Everyone is invited to come along and join the group or simply attend the meeting, including teenagers if they want to," added Marie.

"We are asking for ideas of what people want or what concerns them, and would welcome their support."

Further information about the residents' association is available by contacting Barbara Hunter or Elaine Page on 810237.