Are you or do you know the next of kin of Bekoar Singh?

Bekoar sadly died aged 67 at her address on Blackcroft Close, in Swinton on 11/08/23.

Police say that there are no suspicious circumstancing surrounding her death.

Anyone with any information can contact  the Police Coroner’s Office on 0161 856 4687

An innovative pilot business support programme has added over £12.7m in business revenue to self-employed workers across Greater Manchester.

EnterprisingYou is a fully funded business support service that offers a mixture of workshops, coaching, health and wellbeing support to self-employed and gig economy workers across the region.

Since launch, EnterprisingYou has had a positive impact on over 3,000 participants and the wider Greater Manchester community it has supported, from boosting the local economy, driving business growth and empowering self-employed workers.

Following a 15-year career in local government, Salford-based Breige Cobane was craving something more creative. After trying out photography part-time she wanted to see if it would work for her as a full-time career and joined EnterprisingYou to achieve this.

Breige Cobane, Photographer and EnterprisingYou participant, said:

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"EnterprisingYou then helped me to develop my business after a few months, particularly around sales and networking. These were areas I needed to be supported on but also pushed out of my comfort zone, which my coach did really well! Without those sessions I don't think I would have generated the income that I have.

"I've met several clients on the programme but also some fab friends and peers who have been a great support. Becoming self-employed means your work family changes quite a lot, and EnterprisingYou has really helped me set this up."

 

EnterprisingYou was launched in 2019 to combat the issues raised in a stark report in 2018 from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). The report found that despite the over 4 million-strong self-employed workforce contributing over £270 billion to the UK economy in 2017, they were often at the sharp end of the nation's fiscal and financial challenges.

 The programme works with self-employed Greater Manchester residents who have earnings of less than £27,000.

Yvonne Sampson - Head of Enterprise, GC Business Growth Hub, said:

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"The UK has a proud tradition of self-employed workers. We just want to make sure that tradition continues.

"Many were already struggling, but the pandemic magnified those issues. Programmes like EnterprisingYou offer help and support and are designed in a way that people will eventually be able to stand on their own.

"We're really proud to have helped thousands of self-employed people in Greater Manchester to succeed."

 

Extended twice due to its success, the pilot programme was commissioned by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), with funding from the Department for Education (DfE).

Alongside the millions in revenue added by the self-employed, the Insight Report shows the programme's 3,000 participants saw a £663,246 reduction in benefits claimed and a £4.7m increase in businesses profitability.

With the impact of the 'cost-of-living crisis' continuing to be felt, programmes like EnterprisingYou are making a real difference to communities in the UK. If rolled out Nationally, the programme could add £136.7m to self-employed business revenues and increase self-employed business profits by at least £50.6m.

To celebrate three years of EnterprisingYou and its success, GC Business Growth Hub hosted at an event in Manchester's historic Midland Hotel which was attended by alumni, representatives from each Greater Manchester local authority, universities and all those involved in delivering EnterprisingYou.

The event looked at the important role EnterprisingYou played in unlocking opportunities for the Greater Manchester self-employed workforce, with talks led by Andy Burnham and the team that delivered the programme.

Find out more about the programme's impact: EnterprisingYou – Celebration event | Enterprising You (enterprising-you.co.uk) 

Salford council has stepped in and cancelled Patricroft Carnival by serving a prohibition notice on the event organisers following safety concerns shared with Greater Manchester Police over the way the event had been organised.

Earlier in the month the council were forced to take action after it was claimed that organisers had failed to obtain the required road closure permissions for a planned parade. Additionally the use of the field at Patricroft Recreation Ground, was revoked due to what the council cited as concerns over the condition of the field due to the weather.

The Carnival which had been advertised as taking place on 18, 19 and 20 August was moved to Patricroft Conservative Club but following this recent announcement, the event will not be taking place.

The council says:

Due to concerns around the safety of this event for attendees and following consultation with GMP, Salford City Council has taken the decision to issue the prohibition notice to the event organisers. This decision has been taken due to the potential risk of serious personal injury from the activity of operating a carnival, fairground rides, inflatables and other activities.

The block on this event covers the initial plans to host at Patricroft Recreation Ground, the proposed parade and the proposal to host activities at Patricroft Conservative Club.

None of these elements will now take place.

This decision to block the operation of this event has been taken to protect the safety of local residents and attendees. This is not a council run event and the event organiser did not adhere to the correct process required of all event organisers across the city and did not satisfy Salford City Council that this event would be delivered in a safe manner.

The council says that it understand there has been some confusion about the operating of this event, but  they hope this now clarifies that the proposed Patricroft Carnival will now not be taking place on 18 to 20 August. They are advising any residents who were planning to visit the event site with an expectation of experiencing activities - should now not attend.

Councillor Barbara Bentham, lead member for environment, neighbourhoods, sport and leisure, said:

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“The planned Patricroft Carnival will now not take place on 18-20 August. Permission for this event to take place has now been revoked and the event organisers have been informed.  

"This follows investigations by Salford City Council Health and Safety Officers and colleagues at GMP which brought to light concerns around the safety of this event. This decision has been taken due to a risk of serious personal injury from the activity of operating a carnival which involves fairground rides, inflatables and other activities. 

"Our focus is always the safety and wellbeing of our residents. We welcome fun events to the city which operate in a safe manner and meet recognised industry standards, but those that do not meet these standards pose a risk to residents and it is therefore our duty to block their operation as we have done in this instance.”

 

A spokesperson for Patricroft Conservative Club said via their Facebook Page:

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"We as a club are absolutely devastated this decision has been made.

"Patricroft Carnival have been working on this event to be held at the club for over a year and their hard work has come to nothing."

 

Dadly Does It! Work to improve the health and well-being of children and families in Greater Manchester has received a boost.

Unlimited Potential, a social enterprise that specialises in social innovation, is developing its work on positive fatherhood, exploring the role of dads in improving their children’s health and well-being.

The project has been made possible thanks to Greater Manchester Combined Authority providing funding via its Foundational Economy Innovation Fund.

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“Working alongside local dads, we have been learning about the impact of positive fatherhood for the past ten years”, said Chris Dabbs, Chief Executive of Unlimited Potential. “We know that it improves the life chances of children, while reducing pressure on mums.”

The Dadly Does It project will be doing tests of change to see how to improve the engagement of dads by local services. It is supported by a Positive Fatherhood Working Group in Salford, which includes people from both the statutory and voluntary sectors.

Lou Cordwell, Chair of Greater Manchester Business Board, said:

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“By supporting innovation across Greater Manchester’s foundational economy, we can deliver increased productivity in the sectors we rely on for our daily needs.”

“This fund complements the wide range of business support already in place while backing ideas that could increase the resilience of these sectors in the future.”

 

Police investigating a spate of burglary's, attempted burglary's and theft from a vehicle in Walkden have made an arrest and subsequently charged a man.

A number of properties in the area were targeted.

Sam Morrison (23/3/92), of No Fixed Abode, has been charged two burglaries, six attempted burglaries, and theft and interference of a vehicle and is expected to appear in court today in relation to incidents which took placed on the 14th of August in the Walkden Area of Salford.

Police in Salford are looking for information on a man they wish to speak to in connection with a serious sexual assault

On Friday 18 March 2022, officers from GMP's Salford division received reports that a woman in her 20s had been sexually assaulted after a night out in Manchester City Centre.

They are now seeking the public's help in tracing a man (pictured), who may be able to help the police with their enquiries.

Detective Constable Chloe Hill from Salford CID said:

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"We have exhausted all our lines of enquiry up until this stage, but now is the right time to seek the public's assistance in helping us try and identify the man pictured who we believe could help up with our investigation.

"If anyone knows this man or if the individual in questions sees this, please get in touch with us.

"Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 5194 quoting crime reference number CRI/06FF/0007663/22 or the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. "

 

Shamus Harte (07/06/1996) of Lower Broughton, was today (Wednesday 16 August 2023) jailed for 12 years at Manchester Crown Court, after pleading guilty to the following offences:

Meeting a child following sexual grooming

Four counts of making indecent photographs of a child

Two counts of rape of a child under 13 years of age

Abduction of a child

Possession of a bladed article

Harte was also sentenced for theft and handling stolen goods offences completely unrelated to this case.

The court heard how, over a period of time, after engaging with the youngster via social media platforms, Harte obtained indecent images of her. He would also then regularly meet her in Broughton Park, where Harte would capture some of their encounters on his mobile phone.

Harte was arrested in March 2022 on suspicion of meeting a female child under 16 following sexual grooming and subsequently arrested in October 2022 for child abduction and possession of a bladed article. After reviewing his mobile devices, which contained child sexual abuse images and videos, Harte was charged with further offences of rape of a child under 13 years old and remanded in custody. 

Welcoming in the sentence, DS Hannah Rudd and PS Camron Pierre, who were with the Complex Safeguarding Hub at the time of the investigation, said:

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"First of all, we would like to thank the victim and survivor in this case, and her family, who have shown dignity, bravery and strength in seeing this through to conviction and sentencing.

"We know that no amount of time is going to erase what Harte subjected her to, but we hope that today's result goes some way in allowing them to process what has happened and to begin to heal.

"This investigation was a long and complex one, in which the City of Manchester Complex Safeguarding Hub (CSH) worked tirelessly to gather evidence against Harte and see him subsequently locked up.

"This result showcases the multi-agency work between the CSH, social workers and local council, and we are happy that Harte is off the streets and no longer a threat to young girls.

"GMP is committed to bringing perpetrators of these crimes to justice and would ask if you or someone you know are concerned about a child, then please come forward. We will listen and investigate every allegation."

 

If you or someone you know are concerned about a child's welfare, you are asked to contact Greater Manchester Police via gmp.police.uk or by dialling 101. You can also share information anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.

Could you spot a child who is at risk of CSE or CCE?

Spot the signs of child exploitation: Going missing for periods of time or regularly returning home late; skipping school or being disruptive in class; appearing with unexplained gifts or possessions that can't be accounted for; experiencing health problems that may indicate a sexually transmitted infection; having mood swings and changes in temperament; using drugs and/or alcohol; displaying inappropriate sexualised behaviour, such as over-familiarity with strangers, dressing in a sexualised manner or sending sexualised images by mobile phone ("sexting"); increasing their screen time or showing unusual use of online platforms, such as websites, social media, apps or games; they may also show signs of unexplained physical harm, such as bruising and cigarette burns.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.

At around 3pm yesterday (Tuesday 15 August 2023), officers were called to reports of a possible firearms discharge at an address on Churchill Way, Pendleton.

It is believed that that no one has been injured in relation to this incident and no arrests have been made at this stage.

An investigation has been launched to identity those responsible for this incident, with officers now appealing for information.

Detective Inspector Andrew Langlands from City of Manchester's CID division said:

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"I would like to thank the residents for their patience while we conduct our investigations.

"This incident would have no doubt caused concerns to the local community and we would like to reassure them that this appears to be an isolated incident and we are working hard to try and identify those responsible.

"Extra patrol officers have been deployed around the local area both on foot and in patrol cars. If you have any concerns about this incident our officers will be happy to provide reassurance and listen to any of your queries.

"We are appealing to the public to come forward if they have any information that could assist our investigation, whether it be CCTV footage, doorbell footage, photos, or descriptions of the suspects or events, we will ask that you report it to us directly."

 

If you have any information or footage that could assist our investigation into this incident, please contact GMP on 0161 856 4515 quoting log 2068 of 15/08/2023.

You can also report information via www.gmp.police.uk or through the independent charity Crimestoppers - anonymously – on 0800 555 111.

Local housing association Onward Homes has teamed up with the Manchester Bees Forest School to host free forestry school sessions this summer at a local community orchard.

Located at the bottom of Rock Street in Salford, the orchard was formerly a derelict piece of land that Onward re-purposed into a woodland space for the community last year. Since its transformation, the space has been used frequently by local people and organisations for recreation, education, and wellbeing purposes.

Manchester Bees Forest School is hosting the free to access stay-and-play sessions every Wednesday and Thursday between 10am and 3pm throughout the summer holidays. The lessons are outdoor and provide the perfect environment for children to learn in a natural setting and develop play, exploration and supported risk taking by learning how to manage fire and use hand tools safely. 

Activities focus on sensory development through giant bubbles, the mud kitchen and sand pit which are suitable for all ages and developmental needs. Children have also enjoyed bug and scavenger hunts, den building, fire lighting and nature crafts.

Just over a year on from the orchard’s official opening by Mayor of Salford Paul Dennett and local councillor Maria Brabiner, the community space has gone from strength to strength offering an area in the city for local people to spend time in nature. Events like the family forest sessions help to bring the community together and make the most of the orchard.

Sian Millward, Forest School Leader, and Teacher at Manchester Bees Forest School said:

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“It’s fantastic to see this community orchard being used for forest school sessions, providing plenty of new, outdoor activities for local families to try over the summer.

“Outside learning helps children explore taking risks, learn to use tools, connect with nature, and build emotional resilience whilst being in a safe environment. We’ve seen first-hand that the children attending the sessions really enjoy having the opportunity to use their imagination. It's been my pleasure to see parents connect and create community. I'm grateful to our neighbours for supporting us to become more inclusive; we have now made changes so that we can offer kosher snacks on the fire."

“It’s a wonderful space to learn together, and I would encourage more local families to sign up for the free sessions via Eventbrite and get involved before the end of the holidays.”

 

Chavi has been attending the sessions with his children, he said:

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“My kids loved it! It’s great for all ages and so nice for them to learn in a natural environment. Siân was great with the children, especially when they made the campfire!"

Matt Saye, Executive Director of Operations at Onward, said:

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“The sessions have proven very popular with the local community. They have been incredibly happy to have somewhere local to come along to that provides a safe and educational environment for children to learn and play.

“It’s been great to see the social cohesion of different members of the community, coming together to enjoy the space and feedback from the families has been lovely to hear. We hope to be able to continue to improve the space and offer these sessions over all holiday periods.”

 

Veterans living at a north west care home can now enjoy watching films in their own cinema following a grant made in honour of those who have served the nation.

Broughton House Veteran Care Village’s new cinema room is kitted out with a 52-inch screen and velvet curtains, comfortable easy chairs, blackout blinds, a popcorn machine and soft drinks to capture the true essence of a trip to the movies.

Coun Dr Zahid Chauhan, the Mayor of Oldham, cut the ribbon at a special ceremony to officially open the facility.

The cinema was made possible through a grant of just over £4,000 from the Oldham Mayor’s Appeal Fund during the term of office of Coun Chauhan’s predecessor Coun Elaine Garry, and it has been named The Oldham Empire in recognition.

Coun Garry said:

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“My late cousin Commander Derek Parkinson served on the HMS Herald hospital ship during the Falklands War, and my term of office coincided with the 40th anniversary of the conflict.

“During my year as Mayor, I visited Broughton House and met residents and staff. I was very impressed by the care provided to the veterans.

“When I heard that there was an empty room which they wanted to turn into a cinema, I thought funding it would be a fitting way to show support for the armed forces and pay tribute to those who have served, as well as creating something tangible which really benefits the residents, who come from all over the north west, including Oldham.”

 

The Oldham Mayor’s Appeal Fund helps a variety of good causes nominated by each office holder. During Coun Garry’s term of office, a total of £37,000 was raised.

Among the films screened so far at The Oldham Empire are war movies The Longest Day and The Green Berets, Smokey and the Bandit, Top Gun: Maverick, and golden oldies Calamity Jane and Casablanca.

Broughton House resident Peter Belcher, 99, who served in the Parachute Regiment during the second world war, said:

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“I must say it’s excellent that we have a cinema room – it’s nice to sit in there and get the whole experience within the home.”

Karen Miller, chief executive of Broughton House, which is in Salford, said:

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“We knew our residents have a love of the big-screen cinema experience, and we were looking to provide this.

“Now, thanks to the generosity and kindness of the Mayor and the public, we have been able to make this happen far quicker than we could have done without their support.

“When the lights are down and the blinds closed, the room is entirely darkened and gives an amazing experience, with easy chairs, drinks and popcorn. It’s another fantastic addition to our facilities which further enhances the village feel of Broughton House alongside our veterans’ mess, our lovely gardens, and much more.”

 

Broughton House has recently been redeveloped into a complex with a 64-bed care home and independent living apartments, an array of modern facilities, a museum, gym, hairdressing and barber’s salon, and a restaurant and bar for residents. There is also an Armed Forces Support Hub which provides welfare support and counselling for ex-service people of all ages living in the local community.

Coun Dr Chauhan said at the opening ceremony:

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“Broughton House is an amazing place and this facility proves that people can deliver little things that make a huge difference to people’s lives. The Mayor’s Appeal Fund provided an excellent opportunity to help bring the cinema idea to fruition.”

Photos ©: Kevin Feddy - Mayor of Oldham, Coun Dr Zahid Chauhan, at the official opening of the cinema room, with resident Denise Fletcher and Jane Green, director of Care at Broughton House.

Police have given an update following a possible firearms incident at a property in Pendleton.

The area close to St Paul's Church is currently cordoned off as police focus on a nearby block of flats and an alleyway.

It is now confirmed that at around 3pm yesterday (Tuesday 15 August 2023), officers were called to reports of a possible firearms discharge at an address on Churchill Way, Pendleton.

Police say that at this stage, it is believed that no one has been injured in relation to this incident and no arrests have been made at this stage.

A scene remains in place whilst officers continue to gather evidence and establish the full circumstances.

If you have any information that would assist police with their enquiries please call 101, quoting log 2068 of 15/08/23. Alternatively, anyone with information can call the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A crowd gathered today in the Memorial Garden at Swinton Civic Centre for the unveiling of the Far East Prisoner of War Memorial Board which has the names of 110 people all with Salford connections who perished in the POW camps.

The event was organised by ex vet, Glenn Croston, a man who does so much for ex vets with Breakfast Clubs and also the brains behind the Veterans Gardens and Memorial benches.

In attendance today was, The Ceremonial Mayor of Salford, Gina Reynolds, High Sherriff of Manchester, Mrs Mary Liz Walker and City Mayor Paul Dennett, along with various Councillors, Standard bearers, invited guests and the general public.

Glenn read out two poems, The Pathway to Chungkai and Special parade to a hushed and respectable audience followed by the Kohima Epitaph read by Paul Dennett.

The Last Post was played by Chris Harrison as the standard bearers lowered their flags and a one minute silence was beautifully observed, as the Reveille rang out and flags were raised.

Finally the Memorial was unveiled by the Ceremonial Mayor and High Sherriff of Greater Manchester with wreaths being laid including one by Gloria Egan whose father, Walter Edward Scott did in a Japanese POW camp.

The Memorial Board is a fitting reminder to the people of Salford who died in these camps in what has been called, The Forgotten War, thanks to Glenn Croston these men will never be forgotten and rightly so.

A firm of solicitors in Irlam has backed a new legacy scheme launched by a children’s hospice.

Francis House Children’s Hospice is based in Didsbury but supports the families of children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions from across the north west region.

Ogden, Lyles & Fox based in Irlam, is one of six legal firms joining forces with the hospice for ‘Make a Will Month’ this September.

‘Make a Will month’ is running from September 1 to September 29 and the hospice is hoping to raise awareness within the local community of the importance of making a will, and the benefits of leaving a charitable bequest.

Anna McDonald, solicitor at Ogden, Lyles & Fox said:

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“Will month provides an excellent opportunity for people to make a will. It provides security for family and dependents and enables the will maker to have complete control over what happens to their assets when they die, whilst supporting Francis House. As a solicitor serving the local communities of Salford, I am proud to be involved in this initiative.”

Participating solicitors across Greater Manchester, have kindly agreed to provide their time and expertise at a substantially discounted rate, either drawing up or amending a simple Will for an individual for a suggested donation of £100 or £175 for a double Will for married couples or partners.

Legacies in Wills left for Francis House Family Trust, are a crucial part of income, allowing the children’s hospice to provide the very best respite, homecare, end of life care and bereavement support to more than 600 families.

Anyone signing up to make a Will throughout the month of September will not only benefit from a significantly discounted service but will also have the satisfaction of knowing that their future planning for their own family will make a real difference to a much loved charity.

Rachael Taylor of Francis House said:

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“It’s all too easy to put off making a Will but drawing up a Will is the most important thing you can do to protect your family’s future.

“A Will doesn’t just cover finances and property, but also legal guardians for your children, funeral arrangements, and any donations you would like to leave to charity.

“There is no obligation to leave a gift to Francis House when participating in our Make A Will Month, but should you choose to do so, a gift to charity can reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax you have to pay or may even result in you avoiding paying it altogether.

“We are really grateful to all of the solicitors who have joined forces with us and kindly given up their time and expertise to play such a crucial role in ensuring the success of our campaign.”

 

Solicitors taking part include Thompson & Cooke in Stalybridge, AST Hampsons in Bury and Rochdale, Bromleys in Ashton Under Lyne, Ogden, Lyles & Fox in Irlam, O’Donnell in Uppermill, and Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers in Oldham.

To find out more about participating in the scheme visit https://francishouse.org.uk/will-month

Anyone wanting to book an appointment with Anna McDonald can call 0161 775 3744.

Commuters sat patiently awaiting a bus at Eccles station, got a little closer to the number 20 than expected this morning.

The bus which is operated by Diamond Buses and takes a route from Bolton to The Trafford Centre via Eccles, somehow managed to collide with the station causing damage to both the facia and roof of the building.

The bus itself took damage in the form of a dent and broken window.

Part of the station was cordoned off whilst metal sheets hanging from the roof were made safe.

It is unclear as to how the bus managed to hit the building but it has done considerable damage.

We have been told that there were no serious injuries to passengers or bystanders and those on the bus were transferred to another bus to carry on their journey.

Photo ©: Peter Barlow - Not That One

A blind and deaf dog with severely matted fur who was dumped at the side of a canal in Greater Manchester has undergone an amazing transformation in RSPCA care and is loving life in his new home - with a girlfriend too!

The shih tzu dog, named Morris by rescuers, was so matted when found he resembled a pile of rags. 

A walker came across the shocking sight and on closer inspection realised the pile was actually a dog. He thought the poor pet was dead as he was in such a poor condition.

But then he could see the neglected dog was breathing but he was too terrified to move, so he carried him home to help him recuperate before taking him to a nearby vets, who reported the matter to the RSPCA. He was found near the Ashton Canal, at Portland Basin, in Ashton-under-Lyme, on Friday, March 25.

Animal rescuer Inspector Ryan King rushed Morris to the RSPCA's Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for emergency veterinary treatment. 

Staff immediately got to work to shave off 1.3 kilograms of matted fur which was preventing him from moving. Once they could see his face they realised he was also blind in one eye and the other had so many cataracts he needed an operation and they were unable to save his sight.

Morris was then taken to the RSPCA Lancashire East branch where he began his rehabilitation with their dedicated team. Once he was back to full health, staff set about trying to find a special home for the friendly pooch which would cater for his blindness.

A few months later he landed firmly on his paws when sprightly pensioner Josephine Newhall (82), of Wythenshawe, adopted him as she lives in a bungalow which is easier for Morris to navigate himself around. 

The happy chap also has a girlfriend now - as Josephine's daughter Karen Brookes (52) has a female lhasa apso called Ruby who Morris loves to be around when she visits (see picture below).

Josephine said:

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"We knew he was blind when we took him in but I have the perfect home for him and he can get in and out of the garden very easily so it is no problem for him. I have also found out he is deaf too - but he doesn't let these disabilities hold him back at all.

"He loves playing with his tennis ball and loves Ruby to visit but she can be boisterous for him sometimes so he will let her know. They are really good friends and it has helped his confidence.

"Morris is a beautiful little dog and enjoys snuggling up to me on the settee - he is great company and when you think where he has come from it is a miracle he is still here. 

"The RSPCA did a fantastic job in rescuing and rehabilitating him and I am glad he has the happy ending he deserves."

 

he RSPCA is highlighting the plight of Morris as part of the charity's  Cancel Out Cruelty fund-raising campaign calling on the public to support more rescues like this and to raise awareness about how we can all help to stop cruelty to animals for good."

Sue Abraham, fostering coordinator at the Lancashire East branch, said Morris stayed in their care for five months to help rehabilitate him and was placed in a foster home where he could learn to adapt more to his blindness.

She said:

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"His foster mum led Morris around the house on a lead until he got to know where everything was and even adapted her garden for him as he kept falling from a small wall.

"He was always so lovely in spite of all he had been through and all the staff here really loved him - especially when used to play with his tennis ball in the reception area. It is great he has settled so well with Josephine and is still the cheeky chap we all came to love."

 

Ryan, who rescued Morris after he was found dumped, said he is delighted with his progress and could hardly believe it was the same dog when he saw him in his new home.

Ryan said:

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"When the man who found Morris first came across him he was laying next to a bench near the canal. As he wasn't moving he thought the poor pet was already dead. On closer inspection he realised he was breathing but his fur was so heavy and matted he appeared unable to move and he was obviously terrified. 

"Vets at the animal hospital later found he was blind in one eye with glaucoma and had very little sight due to cataracts - so it is not surprising he would have been too terrified to move from where he was abandoned. 

"Sadly the vets did all they could to save the eye with cataracts but it later had to be removed.

"While also at the hospital staff had to shave off 1.3 kilograms of matted fur - which was 10% of his overall body weight - as this was preventing him from moving and causing him suffering. Then he began to feel more comfortable and soon went on to make an amazing transformation at the branch,

"I am delighted to see him settled in a new home loving life - it makes my job so worthwhile and this is why we need people to support our Cancel Out Cruelty campaign to help rescue and rehome more dogs like Morris."

 

Sadly the RSPCA receives around 91,500 calls to its cruelty line every month and investigates 5,300 reports of deliberate animal cruelty but in the summer calls rise to 133,000 a month - which is three every minute. 

Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said:

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"Right now, animal cruelty is happening in England and Wales on a massive scale and rising.  Each year, it reaches its terrible annual peak in the summer months – when an animal is beaten  on average every hour of every day. The cost-of-living crisis also means the cost of rescuing  animals is at an all-time high and our vital services are stretched to the limit.  .  

"Together, we will rescue pets from heartbreaking cruelty and wild animals from horrific abuse.  This summer, every gift you give to the RSPCA helps to cancel out cruelty to animals.  Please donate today to our Cancel Out Cruelty campaign."

 

As the only charity in England and Wales investigating cruelty and rescuing animals, the RSPCA needs support to stay out on the frontline:

£2 could help to provide a meal for a cat or dog in our care

£6 could help pay to feed a dog for a day in our care

£10 could help pay towards bandages for a cat or dog

£15 could help pay for a cat or dog's clinical exam

£20 could help pay towards a bird catching kit

£30 could help pay for a life jacket for an inspector

£100 could help pay towards water rescue equipment

£500 could kit out a 4x4 inspector van

The RSPCA's frontline teams are working hard to rescue animals in need this summer but we can't do it alone - we need your help to Cancel Out Cruelty. To help support the RSPCA, visit: www.rspca.org.uk/cruelty 

The RSPCA Lancashire East branch is part of the RSPCA family but is a self funded branch in its own right. To help them care for dogs like Morris find out more here.

They thought they were buying their dream homes with panoramic views across Greater Manchester.

But people who moved into the new 27-storey Northill Apartments over the last 12 months claim that dream has become a ‘nightmare’.

Residents living in Northill – the tallest residential tower on Salford Quays – can pay up to £300,000 to live there. But some have alleged they have dealt with a catalogue of issues which they claim property managers are either too slow rectify or do not bother with at all.

Renters and people who have bought leases have complained of rowdy parties from homes that have been rented out on Airbnb, vandalism, anti-social behaviour and internal fire escapes blocked by rubbish.

One resident said: “Airbnb parties are a constant problem, particularly at the weekend. Often the smell of cannabis floats around the block. It’s appalling, especially for those of us with children.”

Another said: “Airbnbs are a nightmare. The visitors show no consideration for the people who live here. It’s a disgrace.”

Xenia Estates, who manage the building, said that residential apartments being used for short-term lets via channels such as Airbnb ‘is a recurring theme we are seeing throughout the sector in all blocks in Manchester city centre’. 

They went on: “Xenia Estates are currently taking steps to identify the offending properties and as per the terms of the lease agreement, manage these properties accordingly.”

Burst pipes and sewage issues

However, residents also claim the block has been hit with burst soil pipes with raw sewage impregnating apartments and unemptied bins. On top of this, they say they are having to pay soaring annual maintenance charges between £1,600 and £2,000 for services – including window cleaning – which they say are not being provided by management company Xenia Estates.

None of the residents living in the 264 apartment block we spoke to wanted to be identified. But a number have contacted the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) alleging they are deeply worried by the number of issues they say are plaguing the apartment block.

One said: “We have deep concerns about the deplorable conditions and appalling service provided by the property maintenance company Xenia who we as renters and owners have no faith in.”

Another said: “Despite repeated complaints to Xenia they have shown a shocking lack of responsiveness, leaving us in unacceptable living conditions.”

Another resident said they had “a vile sewage smell” when they moved in.

“We had sewage leaking into our own toilets, this is common with new buildings, apparently,” they said.

“However, it looks like they were keen to shove us all in as soon as possible, rather than wait until everything was working properly.”

The Xenia spokesperson confirmed that the soil pipe issues occurred in February as a result of a faulty pipe.

“The on-site caretaker, the property manager and a contracted plumber were on site until 11pm the same day to ensure the fault was taken care of and to assist with the clean-up. The pipework was repaired promptly and there have been no further issues since. 

“The bins at the building have now been cleared. Any delays in regular collections were as a result of access being blocked by cars being parked improperly. The newly installed ANPR cameras should mitigate any delays in the future.” 

They added: “Service charges are collected from owners based on a budgeted amount at the start of the financial year. 

“On occasion, if there is a surplus in the year-end accounts it is promptly credited back to the owner. 

“Xenia Estates accounts and service charges are independently audited, and we are fully transparent with owners in relation to what is budged and where the service charge is spent. If any owner wishes to discuss their individual service charge budget, they should contact Xenia Estates directly.”

Issues with post and thefts

Other residents also claim the apartment block has been targeted by criminals over the past few months. One said the main front door has been left open, broken into and ripped off multiple times.

“It took about 10 months to actually fix the lock on the door and this was only because the door was ripped off the hinges,” they said.

“This resulted in everyone having access to our parcels, as they have been and are currently still just left on the floor in the lobby on full view. This door issue resulted in multiple bike thefts from the ‘secure’ room.

“There has been reoccurring flooding on multiple floors ruining people’s possessions. This was fixed on multiple occasions yet still occurs.”

Another resident alleged their post was left in ‘unsecured areas’ that had been targeted by thieves.

“I have been told we are expecting a concierge – with no timescale or details – and have been charged extra for this, even though the building was advertised with this before we moved in,” they said.

“Unfortunately however, to this date (a year after I’ve moved into the property) our parcels and bikes still remain in an area that is not secure and where previous theft has occurred.”

A Xenia Estates spokesman said: “A 24-hour security/concierge will be in place at Northill imminently which will assist with any concerns over vandalism, anti-social behaviour or thefts taking place at the block. 

“Regarding comments in relation to the fire escapes being blocked by rubbish, Xenia Estates can confirm that if these issues were present on site, our on-site caretaker would make us aware and act accordingly. 

“Access to the building has been difficult due to cars being parked improperly and as such, ANPR cameras have now been installed. 

“We can confirm that adequate fire escape signage is installed throughout the building and there have been no concerns raised by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue (GMFRS).”

The LDRS has contacted GMFRS, but so far they have not responded.

A spokesperson for Airbnb told the LDRS: “While we have not received any complaints to investigate, we are concerned to hear these reports. Parties are banned on Airbnb and we have zero tolerance for anti-social behaviour, and we have introduced numerous technologies to help block unwanted bookings. 

“We are committed to being good partners to communities and our 24/7 hotline allows neighbours to contact us directly with any concerns, which we will investigate.”

At around 6:30pm on Friday 11 August, officers were called to reports of a collision on Albion Way in Salford.

A blue motorbike travelling north along Albion Way came off the carriage way and resulted in the 25-year-old male rider sustaining serious injuries that later tragically proved to be fatal.

During the collision the vehicle also collided with a 25-year-old female pedestrian causing her serious injuries although thankfully these are not believed to be life-threatening.

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have witnesses the collision or who may have footage of the incident – including CCTV, mobile or dashcam.

You can make a report by calling 0161 856 4741 quoting log 3059 of 11/08/2023. Alternatively, you can make a report via the LiveChat function on GMP's website (www.gmp.police.uk) or by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Photo ©: Google Maps

On the 9th August 2023 officers from the Salford North Neighbourhood team were conducting a plain clothes operation in the Trinity and Blackfriars area of Salford due to reports from residents and business owners that drug dealing is occurring regularly around the chapel street and Blackfriars area.

At 2:45pm a male was identified by previous intelligence riding the electric bike pictured.

The male was stopped and detained and found to be in possession of 78 wraps of class A drugs and a further house search uncovered a large amount of cash and a substantial amount more class A drugs.

The male was charged and remanded for possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession with intent to supply heroin, possession of cannabis and driving without insurance.

Inspector Samuels, said:

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“The Salford North Neighbourhood team will be actively targeting drug dealing and ASB in the Blackfriars and Trinity area of Salford"

A LOCAL opticians is wrapping up the summer holidays with a toy appeal in aid of Salford-based charity, Wipe Your Tears, which provides support for children living with life-limiting illness or escaping domestic abuse and their families.

The campaign, which runs throughout August, will see team members from Specsavers Salford, in Briar Hill Way, donating brand-new toys for new-born to 16-year-old children, in exchange for wearing head-to-toe rainbow colour clothing. 

Customers are also being encouraged to take part by either donating unused / unopened toys or cash.

‘At this time of year, we’re all thinking about holidays and how to occupy the children over the school break, making it so easy to forget how many families there are dealing with illness or fleeing domestic abuse,’ says Kyrsty Walker, Specsavers Salford store director. 

‘As a local business we’re always looking at ways to support the community and Wipe Your Tears pulled on so many heartstrings.  The team are incredible and work so hard to bring a small piece of happiness into the lives of those less fortunate, ranging from granting a last wish, financial assistance, funding a piece of medical equipment for home use or simply providing a safe place.

‘By donating toys, we hope that we can play a small part in bringing a smile to those in need.’ 

Wipe Your Tears chief executive, Wendy Hutchins adds: ‘We’re delighted that Specsavers has taken the initiative to support us, especially during the cost-of-living crisis.

‘We know the toys will lift the spirits of those living with illness and perhaps more importantly those who have had to leave all their possessions and favourite toys behind to escape domestic abuse.’

To find out more, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/salford or call the store 01615 160360.

Taking place on Saturday 19th August from 10am at Box on the Docks, Seven Bro7hers and A Few Scoops are delighted to announce their sponsorship of Turn The Box Blue Festival.

The family-fun day will be jam-packed with music, entertainment and activities, fabulous food and drink, before ending with a spectacular DJ set from Mancunian legend, Mike Joyce (The Smiths).

Mentell provides circles for men aged 18+ to talk in a safe and confidential space, free from advice and judgement. This groundbreaking charity originated in Stockport with just seven participants in 2017 and has since helped over 3,500 men nationwide.

The festival aims to highlight the important work that Mentell does within our communities while providing a fun and relaxing day out with your friends and family.

The morning will see Story Time Corner invite children to listen to stories with a focus on mental health and wellbeing, as books such as The Worrysaurs and The Colour Monster are read aloud. Born To Be Wild Child will create a mural for children and adults to complete, and The Beaut Truck will provide face painting, glitter makeup and hair braiding in their mobile salon. 

Meanwhile, Beavertown Brewery has pledged to give away alcohol-free beer all day, and other delicious food and drink vendors are set to include A Few Scoops, Seven Bro7hers, The Tasty Greek, You Melt! and Beigel.

Later, the music festival will take place throughout the afternoon, as a variety of incredible acts will head to the docks; including a headline DJ slot from Mike Joyce (The Smiths). Other much-loved and local music acts will include Twisted Tubes, Remake Remodel and DJ J’Adora with Amber Jordan.

The festival also invites guests to help raise money and take part in their exciting raffle, where a number of amazing prizes will be up for grabs.

Andy Walker, Interim CEO, Mentell said:

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“Having turned various bars, barbers and boroughs blue over the last six years, we’re delighted to head to Box at the Docks in MediaCity UK – and turn the Box blue! We wanted to create a fantastic, family-friendly event while spreading the word on Mentell, and we can’t thank Seven Bro7hers and A Few Scoops enough for organising everything.

Suicide is the biggest killer of men under the age of 50 in the UK, and over three-quarters of death by suicide each year is from men. With events like this, we hope to raise awareness of our services and let men and their families know that support is out there for them.”