SALES of your favourite Observer have risen yet again - for the sixth consecutive year.

Our average sale for July-December 2006 was 14,887, which is 15 copies more than for the same period in 2005.

We are one of only four weekly papers in the whole of the North West to show a sales increase in the latest figures announced by the independent Audit Bureau of Circulation.

In 2001 the Observer was selling only 12,876 copies and it has shown a steady and consistent rise since then.

Editor Mervyn Kay said: "This latest rise is a relatively small one but it is very satisfying to buck the industry trend.

"At a time when many other newspapers are struggling against falling circulations, the Observer has consistently sold more copies.

"This is due to our combination of exclusive news stories, quality features and excellent sports coverage.

"It is also a tribute to the talent of my staff and the loyalty of our readers."