Pauline Edwards, of Darwen, Lancashire, who was badly injured in an accident at a sixth form college, is suing the college authorities. She has issued a writ against the St John Rigby Sixth Form College, of Orrell, Wigan, claiming her injuries were caused by the negligence and breach of statutory duty on the part of the college.

Writ issued by Reynolds Porter Chamberlain, London.

St Helier NHS Trust, of Carshalton, Surrey, is being sued by a Sutton man whose wife died in hospital. Colin Waterer seeks damages in respect of the death of his wife, Diana Waterer, at St Helier Hospital on 12 April 1993 as a result of allegedly negligent medical treatment.

Writ issued by Russell-Cooke Potter & Chapman, Putney, London SW15.

Hammer Distribution of Basingstoke could be heading for the legal history books by becoming the first company to sue in the High Court for libel over information published on the Internet. Hammer is suing Martin Orpen, of London EC2, claiming he libelled it in a message, "Want to know more about Hammer Distribution?", published on the Internet between 17-24 April this year.

Writ issued by Fladgate Fielder, London W1.

Webbs Country Foods, of Winchester, Hampshire, is suing North Dorset District Council, accusing it of wrongfully claiming to be entitled to fees for meat inspections, examinations for residues, and examinations carried out by official veterinary surgeons. Webbs says there is no need for vets to carry out the work and argues that experienced stockmen or slaughter men would be equally capable of doing it. It brands the council fees as unlawful, claiming the purpose of the inspections and examination is to protect the public and that the costs of such inspections should not be levied against companies.

Writ issued by Bermans, Liverpool.

Eastbourne cabinet maker John Hoey, 32, is suing his employers Bevan Funnell, of Eastbourne, seeking damages over neck and shoulder injuries he received when a metal bracket fell from overhead piping on to him while he was at work. The writ says he has not worked since the accident, the prognosis for his injuries is poor, and he it is unlikely he will ever be able to work again.

Writ issued by Stephen Rimmer & Co, Eastbourne.