IN case you've missed your Northwich news this week, here's a pick of our 10 top stories...

  1. Sad news for the town came on Thursday, as, after a consultation period, M&S announced it will continue with its plan to close the current store. The store also revealed that, despite negotiations taking place with CWAC over alternative premesis, the store will be leaving the town altogether. Read more here.

Northwich Guardian:

2. It was late drama as 1874 Northwich ended their campaign with a cup win at the weekend. Aaron Smith scored the winner with two minutes to play in the final of the North West Counties Lague's Challenge Cup. Read the full round-up and reaction here

Northwich Guardian:

3. The highly-anticipated Dead Dead Good Weekend kicked off on Thursday, and will continue over the weekend with performances throughout the town from some huge names in music. Read more here.

Northwich Guardian:

4. A family of hoarders from Northwich who were evicted from their home of 60 years when they refused to throw away any of their belongings, now face the prospect that losing their home was for nothing. Find out more here.

Northwich Guardian:

5. Emergency services have highlighted the extent of tragedy which has hit the regions roads over the past 12 months. Almost 70 people have died in crashes on Cheshire roads since the start of last year. Read more here.

Northwich Guardian:

6. Rudheath and Lostock's MP could be the next Prime Minister. News broke this week that Tatton MP Esther McVey is planning to stand for the Conservative leadership when Theresa May steps down. Read more here.

Northwich Guardian: Esther McVey

7. A couple who met through their love of all things fantasy have enjoyed a wedding beyond their wildest dreams. Harry Potter, Labyrinth, Vikings, Robin Hood, the Hobbit and Game of Thrones were among the themes. Read more and see pictures here. 

Northwich Guardian:

8. A mum from Rudheath gave a heartfelt 'thank you' to the doctors and nurses who saved the life of her four-week-old baby. Within 24 hours of little Freya developing breathing difficulties, she was undergoing life-saving heart surgery. 

"It was the longest two hours of our lives," said Freya's mum, Laura.

Read more here.

Northwich Guardian:

9. Leader of Cheshire West Council Samantha Dixon has stepped down following a torrid local election for the local Labour party, which saw them lose overall control of the council. 

The Cheshire West Labour group, which is still the party with the most members on the council, now has a new leader. 

Read more here.

Northwich Guardian:

10. Real ale fans have voted Northwich's Salty Dog as their spring Pub of the Season for 2019.

The north Cheshire branch of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, recognises pubs and bars that are doing something different to attract customers, and the Salty Dog has certainly attracted attention.

Read more here.

Northwich Guardian: