CORONATION Street's most recent heart-wrenching scene has been blamed for the near-collapse of a Skipton residents' group.

It seems that, for the Corrie-mad people living in and around Moorview Way, the death of Des Barnes proved too much of a draw when compared with a meeting to decide the destiny of their derelict rec.

Back in the summer Skipton Town Council saw fit to hand over control of Shortbank Road recreation area, known locally as 'The Gully', after a massive show of interest from people living on the Greatwood estate.

The council let the locals form their own committee with a view to refurbishing the ground as their Millennium Project, creating a pleasant green spot to walk their dogs and for their children to play in.

But when residents' spokes-man Burt Parker tried to keep the ball rolling by organising a brainstorming meeting at the RAF Association Club on Moorview Way, he had picked the wrong time.

Come hell or high water, for some people 7.30pm on a Wednesday night is... Corrie time.

Dismayed Burt said: 'As Des Barnes died so did the hopes of a handful of residents who have worked hard for many months to draw attention to the state of The Gully.

'It seems that despite all the ground we have covered the Gully project is dead on its feet. We don't feel there is sufficient interest to take it forward.

'It seems that people would rather stay at home and watch TV. Des Barnes has a lot to answer for and if ever the project were to get under way he would surely be the perfect celebrity to cut the ribbon at the opening celebrations.'

The meeting resolved that there would be one last effort to stimulate interest for the formation of an officially recognised Association Committee, but it would be disbanded by late January should such interest not be forthcoming.

Let's just hope there's plenty of life left in Rita Fairclough, and that Eastenders' Grant Mitchell doesn't make too many waves with his wife Tiffany.

Anyone interested in tearing themselves away from the box and joining the Gully initiative should call Brenda Graham on 01756 795137.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.