Chester Chronicle - Latest

UK & World News: Archbishop takes on atheist Dawkins

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:05:17 GMT

The Archbishop of Canterbury and atheist Professor Richard Dawkins are set to go head to head to discuss man's greatest question.

National Sport: Wales heading North with George

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:45:18 GMT

Wales' teenage rising star George North will go into Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland being hailed as "a superstar of the game".

National Sport: England cruise to warm-up win

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:45:17 GMT

England coasted to a seven-wicket 'victory' in a bizarre mis-match against the Lions at the Zayed Stadium.

National Sport: Age no barrier for Kalman

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:45:17 GMT

Prop Ed Kalman completes a triumvirate of three uncapped Glasgow Warriors on the Scotland replacements' bench for Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales - but his route towards a first Test cap is more circuitous than that of Duncan Weir and Stuart Hogg.

National Sport: Best ready for Paris pain

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:45:17 GMT

Rory Best has warned Ireland they must be prepared to break through the pain barrier if they are to rescue their RBS 6 Nations by overcoming France.

National Sport: Redknapp "would consider" England

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:45:15 GMT

Harry Redknapp admits he would consider taking the England manager's job but insists he will not be able to combine the role with his current position as Tottenham boss.

UK & World News: Honeymooner added to murder accused

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:05:19 GMT

Shrien Dewani is to be added as the fourth accused in the case over the honeymoon murder of his bride Anni, a court has been told.

UK & World News: 450 jobs face axe in Comet review

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:05:19 GMT

Struggling electricals chain Comet is poised to cut 450 jobs in a drive for the "significant savings" needed to safeguard its future.

UK & World News: Bracelet scheme for drink offenders

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:05:19 GMT

Criminals convicted of serious drink-related offences will be fitted with US-style "sobriety bracelets" to keep them dry under a new pilot scheme.

UK & World News: Hunt goes on for soldiers' killers

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:05:18 GMT

Police have launched a fresh bid to catch the gunmen who killed two soldiers in Northern Ireland, as a terminally ill man convicted of trying to torch their getaway car was told he must serve a minimum of 25 years in jail.

UK & World News: Damilola killer back in jail again

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:05:18 GMT

One of the killers of schoolboy Damilola Taylor has been recalled to jail for a second time just 16 days after being released, sources have said.

News & Reviews: What’s On - Shows - February 16 onwards

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:49:33 GMT

SHOWS

What's On: Exhibitions - February 16 onwards

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:49:51 GMT

EXHIBITIONS

Virtual Art Gallery: Virtual Gallery: Do you want to be featured?

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:56:00 GMT

IT IS now even easier to become part of the Chronicle's Virtual Gallery.

What's On: Music - February 16 onwards

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:21:55 GMT

MUSIC

What's On: Events - February 16 onwards

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:21:35 GMT

EVENTS

UK & World News: 25 die as blasts hit Syria city

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:05:16 GMT

Twenty-five people have been killed and 175 wounded in two explosions that targeted security compounds in the northern city of Aleppo, Syrian media reports.

National Sport: Redknapp flattered by England link

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:45:14 GMT

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp admits he is "flattered" to be the overwhelming favourite to succeed Fabio Capello as England boss but appeared to rule out the prospect of combining his club role with managing the national team.

News & Reviews: Theatres - Still Showing - February 16 onwards

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:28:32 GMT

STILL SHOWING

News & Reviews: Theatres - Coming Soon - February 16 onwards

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:28:40 GMT

COMING SOON

Hair & Beauty News: How to get the Hollywood smile at home

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:47:00 GMT

HAVING a gleaming set of pearly white teeth is a favourable trait when it comes to personal appearance.

UK & World News: Atheist victory on council prayers

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:05:17 GMT

A test case bid to outlaw prayers before local council meetings has been won by the National Secular Society and an atheist councillor.

UK & World News: 25 years for dying barracks killer

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:05:16 GMT

A terminally-ill man must serve a minimum of 25 years in jail for the murders of two soldiers shot dead by dissident republicans in Northern Ireland, a judge has ruled.

UK & World News: Barclays pays bonuses amid anger

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:05:15 GMT

Barclays has handed out £1.5 billion in bonuses to investment bankers for last year, although the lender slashed the pot by 32% amid mounting pressure over the controversial payouts.

UK & World News: Winter chill brings snow and ice

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:05:14 GMT

Widespread disruption looks to have been avoided on transport routes across England and Wales despite significant overnight snowfall and sub-zero temperatures that show little sign of relenting.

National Sport: Fergie backs Harry

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:45:18 GMT

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Harry Redknapp as "the best man" for the England job.

National Sport: New deal for Giggs

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:45:14 GMT

Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has signed a one-year contract extension, the club confirmed on Friday.

UK & World News: Double-murder accused found hanged

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:05:16 GMT

A lodger accused of the murders of his landlady and her mother has been found hanged in his prison cell.

National Sport: Evans ready for Davis Cup return

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:45:16 GMT

Dan Evans insists the Glasgow crowd will see a much more mature player this weekend than the one whose defeat condemned Britain to an ignominious Davis Cup loss in Lithuania two years ago.

National Sport: McBryde wary of wounded Scotland

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:45:16 GMT

Robin McBryde believes Scotland will be encouraged by an impressive Millennium Stadium performance two years ago when they look to stop Wales in their tracks on Sunday.

National Sport: Roby has grounds to be excited

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:45:16 GMT

The excitement is building for England hooker James Roby as he prepares to lead St Helens out for Friday night's historic first Stobart Super League match at Langtree Park against Salford.

National Sport: Strettle happy to bounce back

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:45:15 GMT

England wing David Strettle embodies the inspirational truth behind the quote from legendary American football coach Vince Lombardi: "It's not whether you get knocked down but whether you get up".

What's On: Gigs - 16/2/12

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:03:23 GMT

FEBRUARY 16

UK & World News: Action on bonuses 'is pro-business'

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:05:17 GMT

Ed Miliband has accused the Government of defending the interests of the "irresponsible few" in the row over City bonuses.

UK & World News: Ministers 'ring alarm bells on NHS'

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:05:17 GMT

Three Conservative Cabinet ministers have "rung the alarm bell" about the Government's NHS reforms with one comparing it to the poll tax, it has been claimed.

National Sport: O'Connell wants to avoid mistakes

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:45:15 GMT

Paul O'Connell admits Ireland's failings during their RBS 6 Nations opener against Wales offer a blueprint on how to lose to France.

National Sport: England set contrived target

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:45:15 GMT

England found themselves needing 230 to win a bizarre match in Abu Dhabi - after bowling the Lions out for 96 in only 28.3 overs.

National Sport: Agent quells Hiddink possibility

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:45:14 GMT

Guus Hiddink's "strong personal relationship" with ousted captain John Terry could rule him out of contention to be the next England manager.

National Sport: FA determined to get it right

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:45:14 GMT

The four-man Club England board will sit down on Friday to begin the process of selecting Fabio Capello's successor adamant they will not be railroaded into appointing Harry Redknapp.

National Sport: Pearce is his own man - Bevington

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:45:14 GMT

Club England managing director Adrian Bevington insists interim England boss Stuart Pearce should not be judged on his brother's political beliefs.

Local & Chester News: Cheshire West and Chester Council dumps ING partners to deliver Northgate Development

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:26:39 GMT

CHESHIRE West and Chester Council aims to wrestle back control of the city’s stalled Northgate Development retail project by ditching its commercial partner.

Local & Chester News: Hillsborough justice campaigner Anne Williams from Chester secures Westminster debate

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:22:21 GMT

A CHESTER mum whose teenage son was crushed at the 1989 Hillsborough Stadium tragedy has won a debate at Westminster into his death.

UK & World News: Eurozone demands more Greece cuts

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:05:16 GMT

Just hours after Greece gave in to painful new job and spending cuts, European ministers have declared that Athens did not go far enough and demanded more within a week in exchange for a 130 billion euro bailout to stave off bankruptcy.

UK & World News: Lord Prescott to seek police role

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:05:15 GMT

Lord Prescott will run to be elected as one of the UK's first Police and Crime Commissioners, he has announced.

UK & World News: Barclays slashes 2011 bonus pool

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:05:15 GMT

Banking giant Barclays has slashed the bonus pool for its investment banking arm by 32% in 2011 to £1.5 billion amid mounting pressure over the controversial payouts.

National Sport: Dernbach puts England in charge

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:45:15 GMT

Jade Dernbach took three wickets for two runs as England destroyed the Lions' top order in Friday's one-day international warm-up match at the Zayed Stadium.

National Sport: Solid start for Woods

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:45:15 GMT

Tiger Woods had six birdies in his round of 68 on the Spyglass Hill course as he made a solid start to his PGA Tour season in the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am in California.

UK & World News: Snow set to wreak transport havoc

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:05:14 GMT

Widespread disruption is expected on transport routes across England and Wales following significant overnight snowfall and sub-zero temperatures that show little sign of relenting.

UK & World News: Barclays set to reveal bonus pot

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:05:16 GMT

Banking giant Barclays is expected to report another multibillion-pound profit haul, despite a turbulent year for its powerhouse investment arm.

UK & World News: Hague: No plans to arm Syria rebels

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:05:15 GMT

Britain has no plans to arm Syrian rebels trying to overthrow President Bashar Assad, the Foreign Secretary has said.

UK & World News: Argentina to state Falklands case

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:05:14 GMT

Argentina's foreign minister is due to arrive at the United Nations to officially protest about Britain's "militarisation" of the seas around the disputed Falkland Islands.

UK & World News: Man shot dead in housing estate

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 01:05:28 GMT

A man in his 20s was shot dead at his home in Co Donegal.

UK & World News: Being lonely 'worse than smoking'

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 01:05:27 GMT

Being lonely in old age will propel you to the grave more quickly than smoking, a senior Downing Street adviser said as part of an effort to encourage people to retire later.

UK & World News: PM support for NHS change 'drifted'

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:05:24 GMT

David Cameron and other senior ministers have been criticised for backing away from public sector reforms amid heavy political pressure.

UK & World News: Gas call centres go face-to-face

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:05:24 GMT

British Gas customers will be able to talk face-to-face with staff when they telephone call centres through a new video service, the company has announced.

UK & World News: MoD budget claims 'over-optimistic'

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:05:23 GMT

Claims the Ministry of Defence has finally got to grips with its equipment budget after years of cost overruns and delays may be "over-optimistic", MPs have warned.

UK & World News: Three million CRB checks in a year

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:05:23 GMT

Three million background checks were carried out in England and Wales last year, figures show.

UK & World News: Girls in gangs warned of rape risk

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:05:22 GMT

Girls involved with gangs are often raped by male members, teenagers have been warned, as the Government announced £1.2 million funding to help victims.

National Sport: May date for Khan-Peterson rematch

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 23:45:15 GMT

Lamont Peterson has agreed to a rematch with Amir Khan in Las Vegas in May, the Bolton fighter's camp have said.

Everton FC: Everton FC have perfect antidote to winter blues at buzzing Finch Farm, says Leighton Baines

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

SO OFTEN January and February are the months to forget.

Everton FC: everton fc skipper phil neville welcomes fresh start after capello england exit

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

EVERTON skipper Phil Neville believes the departure of Fabio Capello from his post as England manager will not necessarily hurt the national team’s long-term hopes.

Everton FC: Everton FC winger Royston Drenthe must fight to prove he is still worth place in Blues midfield despite Pienaar return, says John Heitinga.

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

ROYSTON Drenthe must fight to prove he is still worth a place in Everton’s midfield in the wake of Steven Pienaar’s return, says John Heitinga.

Liverpool FC: stevie must be england skipper says liverpool fc team-mate jamie carragher

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

JAMIE CARRAGHER believes Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard is the perfect candidate to replace John Terry as England captain.

Liverpool FC: Henderson hopes to bounce back after missing first Liverpool FC game of season

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

JORDAN HENDERSON is desperate to earn a recall to the Liverpool team for tomorrow’s crunch showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

National Sport: Ashton hails improved discipline

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:45:15 GMT

Chris Ashton believes life on the straight and narrow is already paying dividends for England as they prepare to tackle Italy at the Stadio Olimpico.

National Sport: Denton aims for consistency

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:45:15 GMT

Scotland number eight David Denton is determined to outshine Wales counterpart Toby Faletau in the cauldron of the Millennium Stadium on Sunday.

Liverpool FC: Jan Molby column: Liverpool FC can exploit United’s weaknesses

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

I FULLY expect Liverpool to get a result at Old Trafford tomorrow. Manchester United aren’t a great team and they aren’t playing particularly well at the moment.

Liverpool FC: Jan Molby column: Guus Hiddink is ideal man to lead England into Euro 2012

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

THERE’S a real clamour for Harry Redknapp to be the next England manager but I think Guus Hiddink is a much stronger candidate.

Liverpool FC: Liverpool FC’s Craig Bellamy targets a strong finish to the season

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

CRAIG BELLAMY believes Liverpool are well placed to kick on in the final months of the season.

Liverpool FC: Liverpool FC’s Jordan Henderson wants to add to list of impressive away wins as Reds travel to Manchester United

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

THE travelling Kop have toasted sweet successes at the Premier League’s most celebrated arenas this season.

Everton FC: David Prentice: Steven Pienaar back to bring best out of Leighton Baines at Everton FC

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

AFTER slinging over more goal creating crosses than any other player last season, Leighton Baines has scored more goals than he’s set up this term.

Everton FC: David Prentice: Everton FC’s goal-hungry Nikica Jelavic gets the picture

Chester Chronicle — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DON’T you just love a self confident striker?

UK & World News: Action on bonuses 'is pro business'

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:05:15 GMT

Ed Miliband has accused the Government of defending the interests of the "irresponsible few" in the row over City bonuses.

UK & World News: Mills rejects claims over voicemail

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:05:15 GMT

The former wife of Sir Paul McCartney did not authorise former News of the World editor Piers Morgan, or anybody else, to listen to her voicemails, she told the inquiry into press standards.

National Sport: AVB welcomes Abramovich presence

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:45:15 GMT

Andre Villas-Boas remains relaxed about the recent close scrutiny of owner Roman Abramovich at Chelsea's training ground as the Blues boss focuses on making sure his side finish in the top four of the Barclays Premier League - which he accepts is "not a very honourable position for the dimension of this club".

UK & World News: Sisters named oldest living twins

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:05:18 GMT

Two 102-year-old sisters have been recognised as the world's oldest living twins by the Guinness Book of Records.

UK & World News: PM talks to king about preacher

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:05:17 GMT

David Cameron and King Abdullah of Jordan have agreed on the "importance of finding an effective resolution" to the Abu Qatada case, Downing Street said.

UK & World News: Disruption fears as snow forecast

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:05:17 GMT

Up to four inches (10cm) of snow is expected to fall in parts of England and Wales overnight raising fears of widespread disruption to the roads and railways.

UK & World News: Firefighters' pension strike threat

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:05:16 GMT

The Government is facing the threat of renewed industrial action over its controversial pension reforms after unions representing hundreds of thousands of NHS workers, civil servants, firefighters and teachers raised the prospect of widespread strikes.

UK & World News: Union warns of new pensions strike

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:05:16 GMT

The Government is facing the threat of renewed strike action over its controversial pension reforms after the country's biggest trade union said fresh action is a "real possibility".

National Sport: Jones set for lock role

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:45:15 GMT

Former Wales captain Ryan Jones will take the place of banned lock Bradley Davies in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash against Millennium Stadium visitors Scotland.

UK & World News: Cross-dressing conman 'disgusting'

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:05:17 GMT

The victim of a thief who disguised himself as an elderly woman to steal thousands of pounds from her bank account has branded the cross-dressing conman as "disgusting".

UK & World News: 'Hope' for UK police Libya visit

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:05:17 GMT

Scotland Yard detectives investigating the murder of Wpc Yvonne Fletcher are expected to be able to visit Libya "soon".

UK & World News: Nine bomb plot terrorists jailed

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:05:16 GMT

Nine members of an al Qaida-inspired terror group that plotted to bomb the London Stock Exchange and build a terrorist training camp have been jailed.

Virtual Art Gallery: Virtual gallery: Susan has eye for all types of design

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:50:00 GMT

Susan Sutherland - Artist

UK & World News: UK 'will defend Falklands properly'

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:05:17 GMT

Argentina should be in no doubt that Britain will "defend the Falkland Islands properly" against any threat to its inhabitants' right to self-determination, Prime Minister David Cameron has said.

National Sport: Earls back for Ireland

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:45:14 GMT

Keith Earls has been restored at outside centre for Ireland's RBS 6 Nations clash with France in Paris on Saturday night.

Local & Chester News: Severe weather warning for Cheshire road users

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:38:25 GMT

ROAD users in West Cheshire are being urged to take extra care over the next 24 hours following a Met Office weather warning.

UK & World News: Three admit abuse at care home

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:05:16 GMT

Three members of staff at a care home at the centre of a television investigation into allegations of abuse have admitted mistreating patients.

UK & World News: Greek leaders agree to new cuts

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:05:16 GMT

Greek Prime Minister Lucas Papademos and his coalition partners have struck a deal on new cuts demanded by creditors to secure a vital 130 billion euro (£109 billion) bailout.

National Sport: McIlroy makes late run

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:45:18 GMT

Rory McIlroy had seven birdies in his last 10 holes to finish the opening round of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic only three behind Spain's Rafael Cabrera-Bello.

National Sport: Villa unable to extend Keane loan

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:45:17 GMT

Aston Villa have been unsuccessful in their attempt to extend Robbie Keane's loan period and he will return to the Los Angeles Galaxy after the clash at Wigan on February 25, Press Association Sport understands.

National Sport: Pearce to take control of England

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:45:17 GMT

Stuart Pearce will take charge of the England team for the friendly against Holland on February 29, Football Association chairman David Bernstein has confirmed.

National Sport: FA not ruling out foreign manager

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:45:15 GMT

Football Association chairman David Bernstein admits the next England manager will ideally be English or British but must above all be "the best person" available.

UK & World News: Ofsted boss outlines rating changes

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:05:23 GMT

As many as 1,000 outstanding schools could find their status under review because their teaching is not of the highest grade, Sir Michael Wilshaw has announced.

UK & World News: £4.5m skills cities fund launched

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:05:22 GMT

The Government has announced a £4.5 million fund aimed at boosting adult skills in cities across England.

UK & World News: Mills denies playing voicemail

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:05:22 GMT

The former wife of Sir Paul McCartney never authorised former News of the World editor Piers Morgan, or anybody else, to listen to her voicemails, she has told the inquiry into press standards.

National Sport: Elokobi makes Forest switch

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:45:18 GMT

Wolves defender George Elokobi has joined Nottingham Forest on an emergency loan and could stay at the City Ground until the end of the season.

National Sport: Pearce takes control of England

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:45:15 GMT

Stuart Pearce will take charge of the England team for the friendly against Holland on February 29, Football Association chairman David Bernstein has confirmed.

Special Features: Skinny or loose? The denim debate

Chester Chronicle — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:29:00 GMT

If you’re looking to expand your denim wardrobe, it can be difficult to decide which style, fit or brand of jeans best suits you. Of all the denim cuts, though, many of us are leaning closer and closer towards what were once considered alternative styles; particularly the skinnier and looser fits.Despite becoming commonplace nowadays, these opposing styles are still among the most intimidating to try out for the first time. They’re unusual and audacious – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give them a try. Skinny jeans, in particular, are a daring choice that look fab if worn the right way. They’re modern and edgy – and show no signs of falling out of fashion any time soon.You don’t have to be particularly tall to pull them off either; in fact, skinny jeans – as the name suggests – can be incredibly slimming. The most slimming denim colours are the dark washes like indigo, black, navy and dark grey. Pair these with a light coloured top for a bit of contrast and a stylish statement.Loose fit jeans can vary in style from worker jeans to drop-crotch, but are generally more widely associated with comfort and flexibility, while skinny jeans can be notoriously constricting and tricky to remove.So, once you’ve decided to take the drainpipe plunge or settle for the comfort of a looser fit, the tricky part can be deciding on your brand. Price, denim quality and durability can vary tremendously from brand to brand, so it’s important that you find the best brand for your requirements.If quality is your number one criteria, Firetrap jeans have recently been named by GQ Magazine as the best jeans money can buy. Firetrap is a premium brand that offers exceptional materials and durability, as well as a stylish look. Levis jeans are another dynamic premium brand that offer outstanding quality and unbeatable style.If pricing is an issue, however, other brands may suit your needs more. Voi jeans are sharp and fashionable, and slightly more affordable than other premium brands. They also specialise in loose fitting denim, so if skinny isn’t your thing, you may be on to a winner.