--Nine mining groups are seeking permission to explore sites in Northern Ireland for gold, following the success of the Galantas mine, near Omagh, County Tyrone. New detailed maps have revealed the possible presence of gold around North Down and parts of Co Londonderry.

By ANNE PALMER a.palmer@newsletter.co.uk OMAGH'S hospital campaigners have said that their research team is scrutinising the latest risk and governance report on the performance of Sperrin Lakeland Trust.

TEN crocodiles and other reptiles were recovered from a car during a joint operation by police and animal welfare officers in Northern Ireland. The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and police intercepted the car outside Newry, Co Down, near the Irish border.

HAVING read Shaun Woodward's statement in relation to the Tyrone County Hospital, and having heard his statement on the television news, it is quite clear that this arrogant minister clearly is not listening to the people of Tyrone.

By Michael McHugh Omagh hospital campaigners are to travel to Downing Street and deliver a letter to the PM.The Omagh Hospital Campaign Steering Group is planning the action as part of a series of events coinciding with official consultation on a Royal College of Surgeons' report raising concerns about the safety of hospitals in Omagh and Enniskillen.Protesters angry about the Government decision to concentrate acute health services for the South West in Enniskillen were also to gather outside Belfast City Hall today as well as holding a rally in Omagh on November 28.