Salford stands to benefit from this to the tune of up to £30m with part of the funding coming from the Mayors fund and the rest coming from local Council and local contributions.

The scheme would mean new routes would be opened up between the new RHS Bridgewater and Parr Fold Park as well as Worsley College and Walkden Train Stations.

The proposals would also see a link up to Chapel St which is undergoing a bit of a face lift itself.

It is as yet unclear which paths the new routes will take but they will become just part of a much larger network spanning the whole of Greater Manchester with an estimated total length of 1,800 miles.

Andy Burnham said,

Quote

"The schemes are an exciting next step towards building the bee network.

“When complete it will be the largest joined-up walking and cycling network in the country.

“We’re embarking on an active travel revolution in Greater Manchester and I’m looking forward to the first Bee Network schemes opening later this year.”

There will be no photo of her or anything more other than to say that Miss Brierley has lost the appeal against her conviction for manslaughter.

Instead we would like to ask you to join us in paying our respects to those four wonderful, beautiful children who were so callously murdered that night. 15 year old Demi Pearson, eight year old Brandon, seven year old Lacie, and three-year-old Lia. 

We would also like to take this time to give mention to Michelle Pearson who is without a doubt the strongest mother in Salford, she remains in hospital to this day suffering from not only the physical injuries she sustained that night, but the much greater pain and anguish of having her beloved children taken from her in such a horrific way.

Keep on fighting Michelle, Salford is 100% behind you and your family is always in our hearts.

He was instead given a 12-month community order which will see him have to complete 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He was also told he must sign the sex offenders register for five years. Additionally a sexual harm prevention order was placed upon him which will limit his access to the internet.

The retired miner kept his shameful secret from his family and downloaded the images after looking at disturbing images became a compulsion for him. He said he sought photos on social media out of curiosity.

He was caught after information was handed to the police by the national crime agency, after obtaining a warrant to search his property they visited his home on the 8th of December 2017 and removed two laptops and two mobile phones for further analysis, however, during his police interview he admitted that the images were on his phones.

In total he was found to have saved 85 indecent images of children onto two mobile phones - 13 of which were classed as class A which is of the worst severity.

Crabtree's lawyer said her client was 'deeply ashamed' of what he had done.

He has since made full admissions to his family and has started to attend rehabilitation.

When passing sentence, Court Recorder Geoffrey Lowe, said:

Quote

"It's astonishing to see a man of your background in this situation.

"These are not victimless offences. The children whose photos are taken are abused.

"Some of these images reflect the most serious sexual abuse of these children.

"You regarded this as something that started out as a curiosity then became a compulsion.

"You have shown remorse and sought to seek assistance. This is a blemish on an otherwise exemplary record.

"If these matters are addressed there is no reason why you cannot go back to being the hard-working and respectful man you was."

Now in it's fifth year they are looking to help raise funds for Manchester and Cheshire Dogs’ Home, as well as promoting responsible dog ownership and coming together to share our love of dogs.

This year the are joined again by the PDSA who are providing free dog health checks, chipping and nail clipping and Salford Health Improvement team who will do free human health checks. The festival also includes stalls selling a range of doggy delights, promoting rescues as well as one or two human treats including homemade cakes.

For the younger two legged friends there is also face painting, bouncy castles and guess the breed.

For those four legged friends there will be a dog show, agility course and temptation alley.

The festival kicks off at 10.30am with the dog show starting at 11am opened by the Lower Kersal Morris Troupe.

The dog show

The dog show consists of the following categories costing £1 to enter each category. The categories are:

Prettiest Girl

Best Puppy

Shaggiest Dog

Best Trick

Most Handsome Boy

Best Young Handler

Waggiest Tail

Best Rescue

Dog Judges want to take home

Best Golden Oldie

The winners from each category will then be entered in to the best in show.

Checkout some of the highlights from last year’s festival.

A huge thank you to everyone that attended last year’s event and made it such an amazing day.

Thanks for all the support and we hope to see you again this year.

Price details

There are currently a number of stalls available to book. A stall consists of one table 6ft by 3ft and two chairs within site marquees.

£25 for businesses

£15 for charities and rescues

Also available are site pitches (£50 per pitch) which is 3m x 3m and suitable for your own gazebo or trailer.

Several vehicles in Cadishead have been damaged by stones thrown by youths from a bridge in Cadishead, one vehicle which sustained damage to the bonnet and windscreen, was carrying two small children aged just 4 and 2 years old at the time. The grandfather of the children describes the force of the impacts making them both visibly shaken and upset but otherwise fortunately unharmed. 

Youths launched the shameful and highly dangerous attack from the disused railway lines which span over Liverpool Rd, close to the nearby Cadishead library.

Several vehicles have been said to have been targeted, including a number 67 bus on route through the area. It is unclear how much damage was done to the bus or if anyone on-board was injured. We have approached Go North West for a comment.

One witness said there were stones everywhere as he passed under the bridges shortly after, fortunately his car was not one of those hit.

Sadly in another linked incident a taxi carrying a pregnant lady and her 2 year old daughter came under attack from above, fortunately the vehicle was not hit but the occupants were still shocked at what they had witnessed. The situation could have been a lot worse as it could have triggered complications. Fortunately all in the vehicle were unharmed.

Those responsible are described as being a small group aged between 12-14 yeas old, their irresponsible actions could have led to a much more serious accident had the driver lost control of the vehicle.

Local Cadishead Councillor, Lewis Nelson said,

Quote

"I'm seriously concerned to see young people choosing to spend their Wednesday night seriously endangering lives.

"I have asked for the police to increase patrols at all the bridges in Cadishead and asked for the police dog to pay a visit to the local high-school.

"It isn't clever or funny and I will do anything I can to protect drivers in the area."

Last month police urged parents to get a grip of their children after a similar attack saw cars damaged after children threw rocks from a motorway bridge on the M66.

The situation could have been a lot worse, although for the owner of the damaged vehicle it now looks like he is going to have to watch his insurance premiums rise.

If you have any information as to the names of those responsible or even dash-cam footage then you can contact police on 101 and report it anonymously.

The ‘I Believe’ project will deliver a programme of workshops that will bring together young people who are facing different issues in their lives affecting their mental health and well-being, such as knife crime, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy.

The project will engage 45 vulnerable young people from Salford to participate in workshops to explore and debate their own views on the issues that matter to them, using radio as a platform to share these in an expressive, creative and personal way.

The Salford based 'Unity Radio' youth station which broadcasts from the Landing@MediaCityUK, will run the ‘I Believe’ workshop sessions twice a week, with a live two-hour radio broadcast once a week titled ‘NGY’ (Next Gen Youth). NGY will provide local communities with an opportunity to engage in dialogue on various issues that affect their lives, providing a platform to those who have been marginalised by society.

‘I Believe’ will evolve a young person’s interest in urban music and music creation, from a hobby into skills for life, working towards an accredited arts award. The workshop sessions will provide vocational training in radio skills and tackle underlying issues that affect young people’s emotional well-being and encourage the reporting of incidents as well as providing victim support.

Unity Radio will invite public service representatives as well as music industry figures to animate and add depth to the sessions. Using broadcast and social media to consider real life stories and messages to create a powerful social narrative about the issues young people face in their communities

The project comes at a time when support for young people’s mental health and well-being is needed more than ever. Young people with mental health problems are less likely to be in employment, education or training and are more likely to be in receipt of benefits. They are also eight times more likely to have contact with the criminal justice system. (Knapp et al 2016 report).

Lee Dinsdale, Director of Unity Radio said:

Quote

“The project acts as an enrichment program which not only enhances their current education needs but also gives vulnerable young people the opportunity to improve their confidence as well as develop new digital and creative skills.

By coming into the heart of MediaCityUK and working within a real life broadcast facility it will open up new thought processes that they belong here too and therefore raise their aspirations for the future.”

Stephen Wild, Managing Director of MediaCityUK added:

Quote

“Unity Radio is a fantastic social enterprise which has been successfully engaging disadvantaged youngsters and nurturing their talent for some time. This latest project will really make a difference to local, young people who may not ordinarily have the confidence to speak out and pursue their interest in broadcasting.”

The station broadcasts across most of Greater Manchester on 92.8 FM and you can tune in via links on their website too. http://www.unityradio.fm/ways-to-listen/

The newly elected Conservative Councillor in Boothstown and Ellenbrook, Darren Ward , has issued a warning to parents over the dangers to youngsters who are inhaling what is commonly termed as hippy crack. This comes after a box containing almost a hundred of the dangerous nitrous oxide aka 'laughing gas' canisters were found strewn around in a field close to the Marina by two teenagers.

Rather than wait for the Council to act, the quick thinking Councillor headed to the location right away and removed the items to ensure that young children would not stumble across them, some of the canisters looked to be unused. He has since properly disposed of them at the local refuse centre.

Darren has also contacted local schools and the local police sergeant to let them know, he has also requested officers to show a more visible presence in the area in hope of deterring further antisocial behaviour.

Nitrous oxide slows down your brain and your body's responses, and the effects of the drug varies depending on how much has been inhaled. Taking nitrous oxide can cause: feelings of euphoria, relaxation and calmness. fits of giggles and laughter – hence the nickname 'laughing gas'. It has medically been used as a sedative, most commonly by dentists.

Short-term side effects can include headaches, dizziness and unconsciousness, while long-term, excessive use has been associated with anaemia, incontinence, depleted bone marrow and numbness in fingers and toes.

Although fatalities are relatively rare they do still happen.

Under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, it is illegal to supply nitrous oxide for its psychoactive effect. However, a number of court cases have collapsed due to a loophole in the legislation that provides an exemption for the drug’s medicinal use. The government has said that each case must be decided on its individual circumstances.

GMP have asked that If anyone has any information regarding to please contact 101 or crime stoppers on 0800 555 111.

They have also highlighted the guidelines on restricting the sale of the gas for recreational use.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-restricting-the-supply-of-nitrous-oxide-for-recreational-use

There will be a number of events held at Heaton Park as part of the Manchester Festival of Nature, from wild life walks to bird spotting and educational talks about local ecology and the importance that Bee's play in it.

On Saturday the 29th of June it really will Bee the place to Bee as the park will beecome an hive of activity.

Calm down Honey the puns are not that bad.

The main event however will be an attempt to bring the record of the most human Bee's gathered in one place to Salford and Manchester. The current record stands at around 2,750 people but in order to take the crown it is reckoned that they will need around 3000 people to don their wings and stings and head to the park.

Renowned Mancunian Birder 'James Walsh' says,

Quote

Give your friends a Buzz, let them know what's happening, dress as a bee and lets see you all in heaton park.

Photo: Tony Flynn in a Bee suit having fallen on hard times.

This is not the first time the area has been targeted by thieves, nor will it likely be the last, however there has been an increase in incidents over the past few weeks, which has led GMP to issue a warning to locals to be extra vigilant and take care in securing their valuables.

Officers are reminding people to ensure they lock their doors, keep car keys out of sight and not to leave valuables on show in cars or in homes.

Keep keys and items of value in a safe place out of view from windows

Keep your doors locked (house and motor vehicle)

Lock your garden gates

Consider a crook lock for your motor vehicle 

If you have CCTV ensure that it is working correctly

Consider a security light 

If you are away for any period of time, notify a trusted neighbour or friend who can keep an eye on your property.

Remember: report any suspicious circumstances to the police giving descriptions where possible and vehicle registrations and direction of travel.

If you believe you know who is responsible for these crimes you can call the police direct on 101 or pass the information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where you can remain anonymous.

In all cases of an emergency dial : 999

Police are appealing for information witnesses after a motorcyclist was left with serious injuries in a collision with a silver coloured Toyota Avensis.

The collision happened shortly before 7:30 am on Great Cheatham Street in the Higher Broughton area.

The road was quickly cordoned off in both directions as the man was treated at the scene, he was later transferred to hospital via ambulance having suffered serious injuries.

The driver of the Toyota remained at the scene to give statements to the police.

If you have any dash cam footage or were witness to the collision then please contact police via 101.

CORE:Independents have accused Salford City Council of blatantly disregarding the wishes of the communities of Irlam and Cadishead, as it has been revealed that Urban Vision have been tasked with undertaking an assessment of ground conditions on land pegged for development of up to 1600 homes on an section of Chat Moss.

However, the position of the Council is that this is all part of the viability assessment process as made clear at a public meeting back in Jan 2019.

In a letter sent to Councillors it would appear that Urban Vision has been tasked with assessing peat depths across the disputed site which includes land close to Irlam Station. The assessment will involve on-site ground investigations, which have apparently been scheduled to take place within the next few weeks.

The work will not actually be carried out by UV themselves but rather by sub-contractors who are as yet to be appointed.

20 window sampled boreholes are set to be drilled on the site to gauge the makeup of the underlying substructure.

Additionally there will be the installation of 10 small gas wells, these would be installed on the site for a period of 12 months to allow for monitoring of ground gases associated with the presence of Peat.

Steps would be put in place to ensure that work on occurs during normal working hours as the drill used for the boreholes can produce 'significant' noise.

The time scale for the ground investigations is said to be two weeks with a further ten weeks factored in for the monitoring, lab testing and reporting of the findings.

The Council says that the work is being carried out after issues were raised by members of the public at a meeting back in Jan 2019, at that meeting council officer Chris Findley explained that investigations on the site would have to take place in order to determine its viability as to whether the site should continue to be allocated in the Greater Manchester Spacial Framework (GMSF).

This action is not just specific to the Chat Moss site but is to be carried our across all site allocations within the GMSF draft in order to determine if they are to be included in the final version. 

If the site is deemed to be unsuitable then it will inevitably be removed in the next draft of the GMSF, however, campaigners say that the site is already deemed unsuitable, citing the irreparable damage that would be done to the local ecology.

Campaigners have gathered together on a number of occasions to participate in nature walks across the moss in an attempt to raise awareness of its bio diversity and importance to the ecology of Salford and beyond. The natural carbon sink acts as a filter by trapping not only carbon but also other toxins in the air.

Campaigners fear that disturbing the peat-lands has the very real potential to not only damage the local ecology but also release carbon that has been locked away within them back into the atmosphere adding to the unprecedented levels already present.

Peat-lands are the superheroes of ecosystems: purifying water, sometimes mitigating flooding and providing a home for rare species. And they beat nearly every system when it comes to carbon storage.

Known peat-lands only cover about 3% of the world’s land surface, but store at least twice as much carbon as all of Earth’s standing forests. In addition, at least one-third of the world’s organic soil carbon, which plays a vital role in mitigating climate change and stabilising the carbon cycle, is in peat-lands.

The view by the campaigners is that Salford is lucky enough to have these areas of land that perform an important role, the message is that we should be protecting them at all costs and not building upon them as once they are gone they are lost forever.

Local campaigner Dave Pike said,

Quote

We are utterly appalled at the blatant disregard that SCC have shown to the communities of Irlam & Cadishead as they continue to look at developing Chat Moss even when faced with so much opposition.

If there wasn’t a desire to develop Chat Moss then there would be no requirement for surveys.

We will now be stepping up our campaign to show the Mayor of Salford, the silent supporting Councillors and the Mayor of GM just how passionate this community feels about protecting Salford’s Lungs!

We cannot standby and watch the destruction of countless species of Wildlife and a development that will reek havoc on Irlam & Cadishead for the next 20/25 years.

Please show your support by sharing this post and joining with us to condemn this work!

Core recently upset the apple cart at the local elections after their candidate in Irlam, Darren Goulden, stormed past the finish line with a majority of 125 whilst fellow Candidate Dave Pike finished a strong second in neighbouring Cadishead missing out on taking the seat by 64 votes.

For a full breakdown of electoral voting across the City see here: https://salford.media/elections/local2019 

The independents have vowed to step up their campaigning in order to show just how passionate the local community feels about protecting Salford's Green Lungs.

Dave went on to say,

Quote

We can not stand by and watch the destruction of countless species of Wildlife and a development which will reek havoc on both Irlam and Cadishead for the next 20/25 years.

Newly elected Cadishead Councillor, Lewis Nelson, has vowed to continue to pledge his support in protecting the Mosslands at every stage of the GMSF consultation, a keen environmentalist himself, he was one of the first to arrive and join in the protests at neighbouring Barton Moss when it was under threat from iGas who had designs on hydraulic gas fracturing (Fracking).

Cadishead Councillor Lewis Nelson told us,

Quote

"I am still angry and upset that Chat Moss was put forward in the first place.

"I completely understand why residents are angry now land viability assessments are taking place, I have my fingers crossed that the moss is economically nonviable for housing.

"Whatever the outcome, our community stands ready to defend our moss from destruction."

We have printed the contents of the letter in its entirety below.

------

Dear Councillor,

As you will be aware, the Revised Draft Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) was published for consultation in January 2019 (at the same time as the Salford Revised Draft Local Plan).

The GMSF proposes to allocate four sites outside of Salford’s urban area for housing and employment development, including GM allocation 32 Land North of Irlam Station, which is proposed to be allocated for 1,600 dwellings.

The city council is aware that this site is likely to have significant depths of peat across parts of it, however data on this is currently limited. Representations made to the Revised Draft GMSF expressed concerns about the ground conditions on the site and suggested that this would impact on development viability. This issue was also raised by the local community at the public meeting held in Irlam and Cadishead in January 2019, and council officers explained that site investigations would be required to understand this further.

The city council has recently appointed Urban Vision to undertake an assessment of the ground conditions, in order to provide an indication of peat depths across the site. The assessment will involve on-site ground investigations, which will take place during the coming weeks. The works will be undertaken by a sub-contractor appointed by Urban Vision and will comprise:

20 window sampled boreholes. The samples are taken using a relatively small rig that is less than 1m wide, has its own tracks and can be manoeuvred relatively easily within a site. This produces quite significant noise, roughly about the level of roadworks. Activity would be restricted to normal working hours to minimise potential nuisance.
The installation of 10 gas wells. These wells would be installed on the site for a period of at least 12 months to allow for monitoring of ground gas associated with the presence of peat.

Discussions will take place with the landowners to agree the location and timing of the ground investigations, to ensure that any disruption is minimised as far as possible.

It is expected that it will take two weeks to undertake the ground investigations, and a further 10 weeks for lab testing, monitoring and reporting.

The assessment will help the city council to identify any particularly problematic parts of the site and better understand the practical issues associated with its development, in order to determine whether the site should continue to be allocated in the GMSF.

Anyone charged with drink or drug driving offences over the two weeks will be named by GMP on social media.

The campaign is led by the NPCC and runs from Monday 24 June until Monday 8 July with the aim of reducing the number of deaths and injuries caused by irresponsible drink and drug drivers.

The following people have been charged and their names released by GMP.

Andrea Wilson (13/11/1972) of Pleasant Street, Heywood has been charged with being drunk while in charge of a motor vehicle. She is due to appear at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 17 July.

Joseph Ball (13/05/1969) of Beaumont Grove, Wigan has been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol. He is due to appear at Wigan Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 25 June.

Paul Corbett (20/12/1961) of Rustywell Park, Somerset has been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol. He is due to appear at Manchester & Salford Magistrates’ Court on Friday 18 July.

Daniel Morgan (17/03/1981) of no fixed address has been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol, having an expired provisional licence and no insurance. He is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 25 July.

Kevin Willisford (10/03/1980) of Fox Platt Terrace, Tameside has been charged with failing to provide a specimen and having no driving licence. He is due to appear at Tameside Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 1 August.

Wesley Parnell (09/07/1981) of Tymm Street, Manchester has been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol. He is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 25 July.

Thomas Clarke (26/06/1990) of Wembury Street North, Manchester has been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol. He is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 24 July.

Paul Andrews (24/09/1963) of Hanson Street, Bury has been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol. He is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 1 August.

Five others who were arrested have been released under investigation.

GMP say if you suspect anyone is driving under the influence of drink or drugs, contact them directly on 101 or 999 in an emergency where they pose an immediate threat to themselves or other road users.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The NSPCC has revealed the shocking increase in recorded cases of sex crimes against children in the region, 2231 of which were carried out online.

There has been an unsettling increase since 2015/16 when the number of cases was 417 but this has steadily risen and by 2018/2019 had reached 628.

The charity sent Freedom of Information requests to all of the police forces in the uk and received responses from 40 out of the 44.

Police in England and Wales have been marking online incidents with a cyber flag for the past four years.

The data collected has revealed the shocking extent of the problem of crimes against those under 18, which include instances of sexual communication with children, online grooming and even rape.

The most common age of the victims was just 13 but there were also offices against children much younger, and even sickening incidents involving babies. There are on average 22 reports made to police forces across the country, per day.

Yet the NSPCC fears that this could be just the tip of a much larger iceberg as the data does not include information regarding other types of online harm against children such as those who have downloaded/viewed indecent images and other materials.

The charities Chief Executive, Peter Wanless, said:

Quote

 

“Behind each offence is a child suffering at the hands of sex offenders and, worryingly, we know these figures are the tip of the iceberg.

“Far too many children are drowning in a sea of online threats so it’s now time for the next Prime Minister, whoever he may be, to cast out the life jacket. He must hold his nerve and introduce an independent regulator to protect children from the risks of abuse and harmful content.”

 

The government is currently consulting on an online harms white paper, which outlines new laws to crack down on internet companies. Among the proposals under consideration is the introduction of an independent regulator to enforce a legal duty of care on technology companies to keep users safe on their platforms.

Meanwhile social media platforms such as Facebook are saying they have made huge changes to their platforms to make them safer for youngsters. Some like Facebook have age limits on just who can hold an account but these measures are easily worked around upon sign up by simply giving false age information.

Parents are now on the front lines of the battle and are being asked to be extra vigilant as to who their children are communicating with online. With more and more children becoming connected with internet capable devices and the ease of access to social media platforms, the problem is becoming worse by the day.

Police arrived on scene at around 10:20pm on Monday night after being called out to investigate reports of an assault having taken place.

Upon arrival a man in his 20's was found to be in the water, although he managed to make his way to safety and out of the water by himself. However he was taken to hospital as a precaution.

Police said in a statement that he has received treatment for minor injuries,

Quote

 

"Shortly after 10.20pm, police were called to reports that a man was assaulted on the canal at Middlewood Street, Islington, Salford. 

"Officers attended and a man in his 20s was in the canal, but he managed to make his way out of the water a short time later. 

"He was taken to hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

"It is not yet known how the man came to be in the canal, and enquiries into the full circumstances of the incident are ongoing."

 

Police are continuining to investigate the circumstances of how the man came to be in the water.

Information can be left with police on 0161 856 5351 quoting incident 2482 of 24/06/19 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Kevin Mannion (22/11/1977) was released from prison in May 2019 after being jailed in February 2019 for offences against the Prison Act.

He is known to have links to the Salford area of Greater Manchester as well as in Manchester, Tameside and Stockport .

If anybody has any information regarding the whereabouts of Mannion they should contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 5238 or via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

An impromptu gathering outside the headquarters of the BBC in MediaCity, saw a well attended crowd gather to demand that coming changes to TV licencing for the 75's and over are shelved.

The unpopular move by the BBC would see means testing employed to determine the eligibility of pensioners for a concessionary licence. 

Under previous legislation, anyone aged 75 or over could apply for a concessionary licence but now that is all set to change as the new ruling will mean that only those pensioners in receipt of pension credit will be eligible.

In 2015 the Conservative government, guided by George Osborne, struck a deal under which the subsidy would be phased out by 2020, with the broadcaster having to shoulder the cost of free TV licences.

This will result in an estimated 3 million+ elderly people losing out on their free licence once the new scheme takes effect on the 1st of June 2020.

Unite the Union stood shoulder to shoulder with Salford Pensioners Association and the GMB's Retired Members Association to send a powerful message to the bosses at the BBC.

The peaceful protest saw a number of speeches given by local campaigners, one of whom is a familiar face in Salford, (Media) Maria Brabiner who has been at the forefront of campaigning against what is now universally termed the bedroom tax.

Maria was visibly angry over the coming changes and told us it is an absolute disgrace that from next year pensioners will be faced with losing their concessionary licences.

She said,

Quote

"Make no mistake, if they (The Tories) get away with this, they will go on to target the free bus passes and the winter fuel allowance. It won't just stop at the TV Licences. 

"The Tories have broken yet another election pledge and more and more we are seeing pensioners forced to struggle after paying tax into the system all of their lives.

"For all their faults, Labour introduced the licence concession in 1999 when Gordon Brown announced that the government would foot the bill, now that move forward has been rolled back by a cost cutting greedy government which once more see's the elderly as an easy target."

During the protest the BBC turned on the charm offensive by sending down a trolley filled with tea and biscuits for the gathered crowd, an offer which was promptly refused by all.

One lady cheekily responded by saying that the gesture by the BBC was part funded by the £154.50 per year she has to pay.

Several people we spoke too were quick to note that they laid the blame squarely with the Government who were responsible for the removal of the funding which covered the costs.

One man said,

Quote

"I don't place the blame upon the BBC, it is not they who made the decision to stop funding, that decision lies firmly with the Conservative Government and it is they who my anger is aimed at."

Another responded saying,

Quote

"The BBC may not be responsible for the cuts but they are responsible for carrying them out, they rake in billions each year in licence fee's and that would more than enough to cover the cost if they stopped paying such extortionate wages and wasting the public's hard earned money, it's about time the whole fee system was abolished and the BBC forced to live in the real world like the rest of us."

Chants of shame on you and down with the Tories, down with the BBC, were heard resonating around the square and after the speeches were made, the crowd peacefully dispersed soon after.

Shortly after 8.30pm on Sunday 21 April 2019, a man entered Delta Supermarket on Brookhurst Lane, Little Hulton, brandishing a kitchen knife. 

He threatened shop workers and demanded money from the till before leaving with a quantity of cash, which he placed in a white draw string bag with ‘JD – King of Trainers’ written on it. 

Police have released CCTV images and are appealing for information.

Detective Constable Philip Kumeta of GMP’s Salford District said:

Quote

“Since this incident occurred we have been following numerous lines of enquiry to trace the offender. 

“We’re now appealing for the public’s help to identify the individual responsible. 

“Thankfully there were no injuries as a result of this robbery, but staff were left understandably shaken. 

“While the face of the man in the pictures is covered, he is wearing distinctive clothing. 

“If you recognise him or have any information that can assist our investigation, please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 5194 quoting incident 2177 of 21/04/19 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

The creative team behind the long-awaited revival of Jerry Springer – The Opera have announced details of the final cast members to complete the company.

And Salford born actress Emily Chesterton has landed the roles Peaches and Baby Jane. A graduate of LIPA (Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts), the up and coming actresses credits include Bark! The Musical; Shout! The Mod Musical; and The Kissing Dance.

The ensemble cast of Northern-based talent are tasked with bringing the smash hit cult show’s colourful characters to life on stage.

Jerry Springer – The Opera runs at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre, for four weeks from Thursday 8 August through to Saturday 31 August 2019. Tickets are on sale now.

The controversial show is being brought back to the stage by new production company Northern Ricochet, recently formed by James Baker (Parade, Yank), Tom Chester (Parade, Mamma Mia), and Bill Elms (Epstein: The Man Who Made The Beatles, The Ruby Slippers, Something About Simon).

Northern Ricochet is delighted to announce that David Burilin, Elizabeth Chadwick, Robbie Waugh and CiCi Howells will join the recently announced Michael Howe, Matt Bond, Emily Chesterton, Georgina James, Kai Jolley, Tom Lloyd, and Andrew Patrick-Walker. Also in the company are Emily Clarke and Megan Davies-Truin plus a 14-strong choir.

Originally from St Helens, David Burilin will play Montel and Jesus. His stage credits include appearances in the West End, and as well as UK Tours of Jesus Christ Superstar; Whistle Down The Wind; and Evita. He has recently been part of a global tour as a lead vocalist in The 4Tunes.

Mary, Zandra and Irene will be played by Elizabeth Chadwick. Previous stage productions have included The Pirates Of Penzance; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee; and Birds Of Paradise. Elizabeth is also part of vintage singing trio, The Victory Sisters.

Robbie Waugh from Clitheroe has been cast to play Chucky and Adam. Credits include Shakespeare; Stop The Train; as well as performing on flagship liners Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean.

Actress and chorographer CiCi Howells will play Shawntel, her acting credits include Divas, The Greatest Show: Live in Concert, UK Tour; The Fun Fair, HOME Theatre Manchester; Saturday Night Fever, UK Tour; UK Tour; Witches of Eastwick, Watermill Theatre; Thoroughly Modern Millie, Watermill Theatre.

Matt Bond will play the roles of Dwight and God. Matthew studied at London’s Royal Academy of Music. His credits include Jekyll & Hyde; An American Musical Love Story; Sweeney Todd; and The Merry Widow.

Georgina James will play the roles of Andrea and Archangel Michael. Since graduating in musical theatre from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London, Georgina has been a lead vocalist in flagship show, An Evening With Sir Tim Rice, aboard the Seabourn Cruise Line. This is her UK theatre debut.

Canadian actor Kai Jolley is now based in Liverpool, he will play the role of Jerry Springer’s director of security Steve. An experienced actor, director, editor and award-winning production designer, Kai’s previous acting credits include Stop!..The Play; Violet The Musical; To Kill A Mockingbird; and ITILY.

Satan and Jonathan Weiruss will be played by Wirral’s Tom Lloyd. Tom recently played Leo Frank in the revival of musical Parade also at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre, for which he was named Best Lead Actor In A Musical by the Broadway World UK Awards. He has also appeared in Saturday Night Fever; Dirty Dancing; Singin’ In The Rain; Yank!; Joseph And The Technicolour Dreamcoat; and Rent.

Andrew Patrick-Walker will play the roles of Tremont and Angel Gabriel. His theatre credits include Bat Out Of Hell; This Is The Greatest Show; and Hair. Andrew has also appeared in films Spike Island; Muppets Most Wanted; and Misunderstood.

It was also recently announced that the hotly anticipated lead role of Jerry Springer will be played by renowned actor Michael Howe, who bears a strong resemblance to the television personality.

Michael is best known from his television role playing Sebastian in the BBC series Solo alongside Felicity Kendall; as well as Mr Wilson the barrister in Hollyoaks.

Michael’s other TV credits include Casualty; Life Begins; New Tricks; Kings and Queens; South By South West; Cats Eyes; and Mackenzie. Stage roles have included numerous West End productions including Footloose; The Son Of A Preacher Man; A Tale of Two Cities; Chess; Othello; My Fair Lady; 42nd Street; and High Society. Film credits include the 2016 film A United Kingdom with David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike.

The cast will be joined by a 14-stong Jerry Choir. The singers are from across the Greater Manchester region and will play an instrumental role in the show by supporting the cast of professional actors.

Northern Ricochet is the new production company bringing Jerry Springer – The Opera back to the stage after a 15-year absence.

Northern Ricochet are passionate about producing quality theatre in the North, for the North and using Northern creatives, actors and voices.

Director James Baker commented: “What a formidable cast we have to revive Jerry Springer – The Opera. When we launched Northern Ricochet, we knew that the North West was a hotbed for talent, but we were totally overwhelmed with the calibre coming through auditions.

“We now have all 14 actors, bringing the entire company up to a total of 28 performers each night in the intimate Hope Mill Theatre, this is going to make one "hell" of a noise – we just can’t wait to start rehearsals and to bring the show back to the stage for the first time in 15 years and continue making some raucous noise with a powerful heart for the audiences of the North West. I say "go, Jerry, go!".

JERRY SPRINGER – THE OPERA caused a storm when it came to the UK stage in 2002, and in this new revival it promises the same raucous energy with a revamped and fresh production for 2019!

JERRY SPRINGER - THE OPERA was written by Richard Thomas, who also wrote the music and lyrics, with the book and additional lyrics by Stewart Lee and Richard Thomas. It is based on The Jerry Springer Show, which was first broadcast on television in 1991 and was on the air for 27 years. It tells the story of America’s favourite talk show host who suffers the worst day in his career when faced with some of the most challenging guests he’s ever met on set.

Website:         hopemilltheatre.co.uk

Facebook:       /Jerry Springer Manchester      

Twitter:           @JSTOMANC #JERRYJERRY

LISTING INFORMATION - JERRY SPRINGER – THE OPERA

Dates: Thursday 8 August – Saturday 31 August 2019

Times: Tue – Sat eves 7.30pm | Sat mat 2pm | Sunday 1pm & 5pm |Thu 29 Aug 2pm

Hope Mill Theatre

113 Pollard Street,

Manchester,

M4 7JA

HOW TO BOOK

Tickets: Preview tickets all £20.00 | General tickets £22.50 & £25.00 (concessions available) | Premium VIP On Stage seating £23.00, £25.50 & £28.00 (limited 8 seats per show)

Online: Visit https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/events/jerry-springer-the-opera/

The Met Office forecasters have issued a yellow warning this afternoon and a spokesman has said that thunderstorms may develop bringing with them the high possibility of torrential rain and localised flooding.

The heavens are set to be lit up by natures natural fireworks on Sunday as thunderstorms develop over the course of a 33 hour period.  Heavy downpours will come along with them and they are expected to move north northeastward across most of the UK with Salford and Manchester in their path.

There is also a possibility that heavy rain and already soggy ground could lead to flooding and so rivers and watercourses will be monitored both during and after the storms have passed, in any event the new flood defences put into place in Salford will be deployed if needed to minimise any threat.

Drivers are being advised to be watchful for surface spray on roads and are being advised to slow their speed to prevent aquaplaning and accidents.

The storms will come after what is otherwise set to be a relatively dry and warm weekend.

Friday should be mostly dry with sunny spells expected and temperatures should reach highs of 17C.

As for Saturday and the start of Sunday it will be sunny and warm with highs of 21C to 22C.

A spokesman from the Met Office said:

Quote

"Spells of rain are expected to affect many areas at times from Sunday afternoon and into Monday, moving north-northeastward and perhaps turning thundery at times in some places.

"Scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms may also develop between bands of rain, particularly on Monday afternoon.

"Where thunderstorms do develop, 20 to 30 mm rain may fall locally in an hour, and close to 40 mm of rain may fall in two or three hours."

In advance of the storms the following advice has been issued:

Unplug all non-essential appliances, including the television, as lightning can cause power surges.

If caught out in the storm try to seek shelter if possible. When you hear thunder you are already within range of where the next ground flash may occur, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from the centre of a storm.

Avoid using the phone - telephone lines can conduct electricity

Avoid using taps and sinks - metal pipes can conduct electricity

If outside avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects

Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake

Be aware of metal objects that can conduct or attract lightning, including golf clubs, golf buggies, fishing rods, umbrellas, motorbikes, bicycles, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs, wire fencing and rails. If you are in a tent, try to stay away from the metal poles

If you find yourself in an exposed location it may be advisable to squat close to the ground, with hands on knees and with head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground

If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the above position immediately

Avoid downed power lines or broken cables

If someone is struck by lightning, they often suffer severe burns. The strike also affects the heart, so check if they have a pulse.

The campaign is led by the NPCC and runs from Monday 24 June until Monday 8 July with the aim of reducing the number of deaths and injuries caused by irresponsible drink and drug drivers.

Targeting irresponsible and dangerous drivers in a bid to drive down fatal and serious road traffic collisions is one of the main objectives and a priority for the road policing unit leading on this.

Protecting other road users from the harm caused by those who drink and drug drive is a critical part of the officer’s role at GMP.

The last drink and drug drive campaign took place in December 2018 where a total of 228 arrests were made and 1,867 breath, drug and field impairment tests were undertaken.

Anyone convicted of drink or drug driving will face:

A criminal record

At least a one-year driving ban

Higher motor insurance costs

Endorsement on your driving licence for 11 years

You could also lose your job

Chief Inspector Harrison White said:

Quote

“We do not tolerate anyone who is under the influence of drink or drugs while driving. They are not only a danger to themselves but, more importantly, to other innocent drivers or pedestrians using the road.

“The warmer weather and lighter nights can tempt people to stay out longer and have a drink but this is exactly the type of scenario that can lead to drink driving. If you do drink, please arrange alternative transport home to ensure you don’t affect anyone else’s night.

“Any amount of drink and drugs can impair your vision and dramatically reduce your reaction times. It only takes a second to lose control of your car but the consequences can last a lifetime. Don’t risk it, stay safe and have none while driving on the road.

“If you suspect anyone is driving under the influence of drink or drugs, contact the police directly on 101 or 999 in an emergency where they pose an immediate threat to themselves or other road users. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”