FOR 180 years the famous old mill on Ringley Road, Stoneclough has stood firm as a monument to Lancashire's industrial heritage.

But, as the site of the former paper mill is about to become a 218-home modern housing estate and community, it has suddenly moved... into Cheshire!

The surprise shift in borders was spotted by Dave Bradley, who lives opposite the mill. The 38-year-old self-employed businessman works from home and is interested in the internet.

"I logged on to the website of the developers Countryside Properties and there it was - Ringley Lock 'in the very heart of Cheshire'," said Dave.

"The development is great for the area. But this change of borders is even better news for me as the value of my house has just shot up by one, maybe two hundred grand.

"Will we now have a hunt with a pack of hounds charging down Ringley Road mid-summer?"

Dave, who lives with his wife Diane, contacted the freephone number on the website - which shows smart shots of the area, including cobbles and coaching lamps and the Ringley church tower - and was told the website must be correct! But when the Bolton Evening News rang later, a spokeswoman admitted the error and said the website designers would be altering it "although it will take a bit of time." In the meantime, Dave and his neighbours are enjoying their prestigious change of address. In fact, they would now like to be known as The Cheshire Set!