APPREHENSION surrounds the once-in-a-century date of 6/6/06 with the three sixes often being linked to evil, but for one young Little Leigh boy it marks the occasion of his sixth birthday, something which he is very excited about.

Edward Esling, of St Michaels Close, Northwich, turned six yesterday, Tuesday, on the 6/6/06.

But the day passed without a hiccup - contrary to warnings given by friends of the family.

Mum, Jane Esling, 32, said: "A lot of people have mentioned the different associations with the date, but we've just laughed about it.

"We're not superstitious, so as far as we're concerned it just makes Edward even more special."

Edward attends Little Leigh Primary School and is the oldest of four children.

His dad, Paul, 32, said: "Although he doesn't really understand the significance of the date of his sixth birthday he still thinks it's cool."

BIG DAY: Edward shows he's not worried about turning six on the sixth day of the sixth month of the sixth year of this century. g062468