Carl Byron (17/06/1981) of Manchester Road, Over Hulton, who was previously security manager at HMP Forest Bank, was sentenced to two years and ten months in prison after pleading guilty to theft and money laundering.

Anthony Bradbury (06/10/1987) of Haslam Street, Bury, who was formally a Security Analyst at HMP Forest Bank, has been jailed for two years and two months after pleading guilty to theft and money laundering.

They were jailed today, Friday 23 November 2018, at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square.

The court heard how Byron and Bradbury had been stealing CDs, DVDs and games along with gaming accessories that had been brought into the prison as part of a legitimate prison industries contract.

The items were delivered to the prison and prisoners were required to repackage them and put them into order to be sent to their final destination.

Byron and Bradbury were required to conduct searches of the deliveries and during this time they would steal up to 100 items at a time by putting them into holdalls and walking out of the prison with them.

The pair were never searched as they were responsible for conducting searches on prison workers themselves, so they could walk out of the prison unquestioned.

They would then sell the items on eBay.

It is believed that the duo conducted their illegal enterprise for over two years earning themselves over £100,000.

Detective Sergeant Jonny McGirr from GMP’s Salford borough said:

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“Byron and Bradbury used their positions at Forest Bank Prison to go unnoticed as they stole thousands of pounds worth of items.

“They betrayed the trust that the prison had placed upon them and were brazen thieves who lined their pockets through deceit.

“Byron in particular painted a picture of himself as someone to be trusted and Bradbury looked up to him, and would do whatever he was told.

“They will now spend the next two years in prison where they will experience first-hand what it is like to be on the other side of the bars.”

 

Social housing provider City West  had recently delivered improvement works to the Little Hulton park costing around £12,000 improvements which included a new roundabout, extension of the soft surface play area around as well as painting and repairs to the existing equipment.

Overnight the play park was targeted by vandals who set a blue wheelie bin on fire, which has caused extensive damage to the flooring which will now cost an estimated and additional £500 to rectify.

City West are in the process of obtaining the footage from CCTV cameras that cover the area in an attempt to try and identify individuals involved.

This latest attack comes after Parr Fold Park was plagued by vandals carrying out similar attacks.

If you have any information regarding the culprits or you just wish to report any concerns relating to vandalism and Anti Social behaviour in your Neighbourhood please contact City West or GMP.

hello@citywest.org.uk or live chat with us www.citywest.org.uk

contact GMP on 101 or live chat with them on www.gmp.police.uk

contact crime stoppers on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

Salford Council has issued an update on the status of the investigation into claims of "off-rolling", a process which involves removing children academically performing poorly from the school register in order to skew the schools performance statistics, something ex head teacher Drew Povey strongly denies.

In an update today, the deputy Mayor of Salford City Council, John Merry, has attempted to clarify thier current position as well as give explanation into why the process is taking so long, he also wishes to dispel what he claims is misinformation being reported by the press.

Councillor Merry said the school is waiting for the results of the recent Ofsted inspection which was part of the routine cycle of five-yearly inspections.

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“Ofsted is an independent and impartial government agency.

“Inspectors assess a wide range of information and evidence from parents, the entire senior leadership team – not just the head teacher alone – their own observations in school and the school’s past performance in exam results. Inspectors then draw their own, independent conclusions and grade the school accordingly.”

 

Councillor Merry said claims that the investigation was a ‘witch hunt’ were nonsense.

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“Let me state categorically that there is no witch hunt and there is no hidden agenda to see the school fail and to make it part of the Greater Manchester Learning Trust which the current interim head teacher oversees.

“I cannot put it any more plainly than that. If the school is judged inadequate by Ofsted then, under government rules, it would have to become a sponsored academy. The choice of academy trust would be outside the council’s control and only certain multi academy trusts are eligible to sponsor schools in this situation.  The academy trust GMLT would not be eligible. Leaders from GMLT are currently supporting Harrop Fold as they have the capacity, skills and willingness to help.

“It is on record that the previous head teacher wanted to convert Harrop Fold to an academy. It is also on record that Salford City Council is opposed to academies in principle but, in the interests of the children, has said it will work with any school which converts to an academy.

“The governing body was not bullied and intimidated into launching an investigation. I understand that the allegations made were serious enough to warrant investigation in the interests of the staff involved and the school and we are confident that has been done thoroughly and in accordance with employment law.

“Yes the investigation has taken time because it has been thorough. I cannot and will not go into detail about that because it is confidential.”

 

Why does the school have a deficit budget?

When the school was in ‘special measures’ in 2003 the debt was built up as the school was trying to improve rapidly. Pupil numbers were low at the school at the time.

Has the debt of the school decreased?

The school has worked hard, in partnership with the council, to reduce their debt to the local authority from over £3m to £1.4 million despite challenging financial circumstances and cuts in budgets to all council services. 

The local authority has written off £300,000 of the debt to help the school and the school has been involved in a number of activities, supported by the governing body and the Executive Headteacher to raise additional funds. The local authority has been supportive of the activities, it has extended the repayment plan twice and the local authority also gave the school a five year payment ‘break’. 

Salford City Council has a commitment to continue to support the school to become debt-free.

Is it true the council wants the school to academise?

Salford City Council does not support the policy of academisation, but, in the interests of pupils, it supports schools when they have chosen to go down that route, and all schools and academies work collaboratively in our family of schools.

Harrop Fold applied a number of years ago to become an academy with Consilium. Ellesmere Park, Buile Hill and Moorside are all part of this multi academy trust and have strong relationships with the local authority. The Department for Education, however, requires schools to have a healthy budget situation before academising.

The Government can force a school to academise if a school is judged to be inadequate by Ofsted. In this situation, the local authority will have to pay off the school’s deficit budget and the choice of academy trust would be outside the control of the local authority. Only certain multi academy trusts are eligible to sponsor schools in this situation.  The academy trust GMLT would not be eligible. Leaders from GMLT are currently supporting Harrop Fold as they have the capacity, skills and willingness to help.

Why are people talking about academisation?

The school has recently had an Ofsted inspection. If the school has been found not to meet standards then the school may be forced to academise under current government regulations. 

What happens to Harrop Folds debt if the school academises?

It has been inaccurately reported in the press that Salford City Council would financially benefit if Harrop Fold converted to an academy. The £1.5 million debt would, in fact, return to the local authority and Harrop Fold will be debt free. 

Why has the council not being more open about the investigation into staff members?

This is a governors’ investigation. It is a well-established principle of employment law that the details of disciplinary investigations should remain confidential. This is also recommended in the ACAS guide to Discipline at Work and it applies to all employers, not just the local authority or governing body. 

It is a breach of the implied term of trust and confidence between an employer and employee to divulge details of a disciplinary investigation to any third party. We cannot share the details of the investigation. The members of staff who are currently suspended are entitled to, and deserve, confidentiality and a fair and just investigation.  

There was a rumour that the council offered to pay the former headteacher off, is this true?

The council has made no offer of payment to any staff involved in this matter.

When will parents learn the outcome of the Ofsted inspection?

Ofsted’s finding and judgements are not yet finalised as quality assurance checks take place before reports are published. It is anticipated that the report will be available to all parents/carers later in November or early December.

There is a rumour that the council has told the governing body that they will be replaced by an Interim Executive Board (IEB). Is this true?

The council has never made this suggestion to the governing body.

Salford council has issued a letter to homes affected by the recent fire at the old Lucozade factory in Little Hulton, telling them not to be alarmed if they see clean up crews in Haz-Mat (Hazardous Materials) suits.

However some residents are still concerned over the cleanup operation and future possible health impacts to their families.

In its letter the council tries to reassure the public that any risk to health is now considered low.

Dear resident,

The fire is over and the company owners, in conjunction with Salford City Council, are moving on to the next steps.

Specialist consultants, Bureau Veritas, have tested the air quality in the area on both Thursday 15 and Friday 16 November. We are pleased to report that no fibres were found in the air and more air quality tests will also be carried out after the demolition.

This confirms that the risk to health is low and there is unlikely to be any significant exposure to asbestos. However, as a precautionary measure it is sensible that any asbestos containing debris is carefully removed.

The company owners are working to appoint specialist demolition contractors to remove the building. We expect this to start later this week. As a precaution we recommend that you keep your windows and doors closed while the demolition takes place and keep pets away from the warehouse site.

The roads and paths were cleaned by Salford City Council after the fire. Lower Wharton primary school is currently being cleaned as a precaution by specialist cleaning contractors (Rhodar) appointed by the owner of the warehouse and the work is likely to continue for the rest of the week. The specialist cleaning contractors will be cleaning the residential properties that the council made contact with on the Thursday afternoon and we currently expect this to commence on Wednesday 21 November.

The contractors will wear full haz-mat suits and masks as they carry out the cleaning. Please do not be concerned about this, this is their routine practice and does not indicate any extra risk.

If you find small particles of ash or debris from the fire on your property or vehicles and they are small enough to wash away you can first dampen them down using water, then gently flush them away to the drain. If there are larger pieces of debris please do not touch them as they could break up.  Contact us for specialist removal using the contact details below. Please do not sweep up or vacuum ash or debris as this could create airborne dust.

Monday to Friday - 8.30am-4.30am: 0161 793 2500.

Out of hours and weekends: 0161 794 8888.

Or visit https://contactus.salford.gov.uk/?formtype=ENV_NUIS and select asbestos in step 2.

We hope this update reassures you that the risk to health is low and that every effort is being made to clear the site, school and small number of properties affected by the fallout from the fire.

If you have any queries, please contact us through the form or phone number above.

Today (Monday 19 November 2018), the following people were sentenced at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square. 

Dmaine Robinson (27/02/1986) of Graythorpe Walk, Salford was sentenced to 11 years and eight months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possessing firearms to commit an indictable offence and conspiracy to commit GBH with intent. 

Michael Crimes (27/10/1978) of Littlegreen Gardens, Salford was sentenced to six years and five months after pleading guilty to participating in in the activity of an organised crime group.

Amy Cooper (17/04/1986) of Barrfield Road, Salford was sentenced to 18 months, suspended for two years, after pleading guilty to assisting an offender.

The court heard how on Sunday 4 February 2018 at around 6.30pm, the victim – a 30-year-old man – was in Alberts Restaurant on East Lancashire Road in Swinton with friends. 

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“Three people have today been held to account for their actions that left a man in hospital with serious leg injuries. Thankfully, he has recovered but clearly this incident could easily have had much worse consequences. 

“Robinson stood back and watched as the group left the restaurant. He knew full well what was about to happen and had plenty of opportunity to stop it or raise the alarm but instead he watched it unfold and attempted to cover his tracks. 

“While these individuals have today been sentenced for their role in this conspiracy, our investigation remains ongoing and our team are currently following several lines of enquiry in an attempt to identify the shooter and anyone else involved to ensure they are held accountable for their actions. 

“Throughout the whole operation we have worked closely with our partners, sharing expertise to enable us to crack down on organised crime across Salford. We will continue to work alongside them to bring those involved in organised crime to justice.”

The Senior Scam Busters, which comprises of 13 predominantly older and retired people, will be trained to give fraud advice and guidance as well as signpost people to specific agencies when necessary.

More than 1,000 reports of fraud and scams are recorded every month across Greater Manchester and a large percentage of these are made by older members of the public who have fallen victim to telephone scams, online scams and doorstep crime.

The newly formed team will identify and contact victims over 60 years old from the reports, giving practical help and advice over the telephone to reduce the risk of them falling victim again.

The introduction of the Citizen’s Contract in October, saw GMP calling on communities to work together to create a safer Greater Manchester. The Senior Scam Busters will become an integral part of the policing family, attending community engagements and educating vulnerable people about fraud and how they can protect themselves from the scammers.

Deputy Chief Constable Ian Pilling said:

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“Keeping Greater Manchester safe is no longer just a police responsibility and the introduction of the Scam Busters team is crucial to supporting current demand and increasing our engagement with the communities we serve.

“Our new skilled and knowledgeable recruits emphasise how valuable older people are in society and by creating an environment where volunteers can socialise with each other and the wider GMP and partner family, we can work together to carry out this vital work.”

 

Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester Bev Hughes said:

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“More than 1,000 people a month are deliberately targeted and tricked into sharing their personal information – with money being taken.  I have personally experienced attempted fraud over the past few weeks and I know how disturbing and upsetting it is to be a target for fraudsters.

“The Senior Scam Busters will be able to offer invaluable support to older, more vulnerable people to reassure those who have been targeted and stop people becoming victims of fraud in the future. This is a really innovative approach to preventing fraud and I look forward to seeing how it develops in the coming year.”

 

If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040

Students from Oasis Academy MediaCityUK have been taking part in the initiative, which has captured what it’s like to live in the region, through their eyes.

The budding snappers are part of the Academy’s Friday evening youth club and have produced a series of stunning images under the theme ‘Salford Through our Eyes’, to depict what the city means to them.

The photographs, which include Salford Quays and the streets of Ordsall, have now gone on permanent exhibition at the Oasis Academy’s newly launched Hub.

The project was made possible thanks to a £500 grant from housing association Salix Homes through its Springboard fund which provides grants to projects and initiatives in Salford that boost community spirit, promote health and wellbeing, reduce isolation or improve the environment.

Adam Webster, community development leader for Oasis Academy, said:

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“The funding Salix Homes has provided has enabled our young people to express what their community means to them through the art of photography.

“Visualising Salford’s community through the lens of a young person provides us with a valuable insight into how this demographic sees their environment, as well as granting them an opportunity to develop new skills and aspirations.

“The young people have loved it and are keen to do more photography projects in the future.”

 

Jeanette Green, neighbourhood manager for Salix Homes, added:

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“Salix Homes is really proud to have supported this fantastic project. As adults, it can be easy to forget how differently children and teenagers view the world. The stunning images produced have showcased their talents and provided a fascinating insight into the unique perspectives of our local youth.”

To find out more about how to apply for a Springboard grant, go to:www.salixhomes.org/springboard   

During the fire on the 15 November 2018 local residents were advised by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to keep their windows and doors closed. The fire no longer poses a threat and is not distributing ash or debris. The property involved in this fire had an asbestos-cement roof. The owner of the property is demolishing it today so as a precaution Salford Council would recommend that residents keep their windows and doors closed for the rest of the day. We would also advise that pet owners ensure their animals avoid visiting contaminated areas. 

It has been reported that material has been deposited in ash or debris in the vicinity of the trading estate and surrounding residential areas. This may contain asbestos and we are taking steps to clean roads and paths, and working with the company to offer specialist cleaning of properties.

Salford Council would like to stress that risk to health is low and there is unlikely to be any significant exposure to asbestos following fires involving materials containing asbestos.

The Council are working closely with other agencies, including Public Health England. We have also appointed specialist consultants to monitor the air quality in the area for potential pollutants so that we are able to give residents the best possible advice.

As a precautionary measure it is sensible that any asbestos containing debris is carefully removed to minimise any potential exposure.

Salford City Council is arranging a clean-up of asbestos containing materials spread by the fire which may have fallen as ash and debris over the surrounding area. This is in conjunction with the property owner’s contractor.

If you find small particles of ash or debris from the fire on your property or vehicles and they are small enough to wash away you can first dampen them down using water, then gently flush them away to the drain. If there are larger pieces of debris contact us for specialist removal using the contact details below.

Do not sweep up or vacuum ash or debris as this could create airborne dust.

If you prefer to leave any cleaning to the specialist team then you can contact us to request this by calling or using our web form:

Monday - Sunday 24 hours: 0161 793 2500.

Or visit https://contactus.salford.gov.uk/?formtype=ENV_NUIS and selecting asbestos in step 2.

If you came into contact with the smoke plume and you experience any breathing difficulties, watery eyes, coughing and a sore throat and have any ongoing symptoms, contact your GP or NHS 111.

Faux Stained Glass Workshop at Ordsall Hall, 25th November 1-4pm (ages 7+). £12.50 inc booking fee.

Come to the beautiful hall and make a Christmas inspired faux glass panel. Materials provided and full tuition provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Christmas Grotto at Ordsall Hall Sunday 9 & Sunday 16 December, 1 – 3.30pm

Come and meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto at Ordsall Hall and receive a gift. £5 per child, booking required.

Monton Voices Choir at Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Sunday 2 December, 1.30 – 3.30pm – FREE EVENT

Join the Christmas celebrations with Monton Voices Choir who returns for another year. This free Christmas concert takes place in the unique setting of the gallery. Guests can visit the café for festive treats and keep an eye out for that perfect Christmas present in the shop.

Musical Revolutions at Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Wednesday 5 December, 6.30-7.30pm
£4.50, booking required. Professor Stephen Davismoon brings an introduction to the changes that occurred in musical thinking during the first two decades of the 20th century – the years leading up to, during and immediately after WW1.

Christmas Gin Tasting with Gin Meister, Wednesday 5 December, 7.00-9.30pm at Salford Museum and Art Gallery

£30 General Ticket / £39.95 General Ticket + anti-pasti platter. Join guests at a unique location for Gin Meister's Christmas fabulous Gin Tasting evening with 5 artisan gins that epitomise the festive spirit.

Christmas Platters in the SMAG Café, available Monday 3 December to Wednesday 19 December, until 3pm

£9.95 pp without Prosecco / £12.95 pp with Prosecco, booking required, weekdays only. Get into the festive spirit and indulge yourself with our afternoon Prosecco and platters. 20cl of Prosecco and a delicious platter selection of cured meats, chutneys, olives and artisan bread.

Also available with cheese, and a Fentimans soft drink instead of Prosecco.

The Tin Soldier, Thursday 12 December, 6.30-8.30pm at Ordsall Hall
Adult £12 / Child and Concessions £10 / Family Ticket £38, booking required.

Toy soldiers, goblins and ballerinas… all the ingredients for a perfect family show filled with puppetry, multimedia and live music, this is a Christmas story not to be missed. Adapted from the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale and performed by Folksy Theatre.

Ghostly Christmas Stories in the Great Chamber, Ordsall Hall, Sunday 2 December, 1.30-3.30pm - FREE
No booking required. Join us in the Great Chamber (said to be one of the most haunted rooms in Ordsall Hall) for an afternoon of family friendly ghost tales.

Arts Centre Christmas Concert – St Philip’s CE Church
Monday 3 December from 6.30pm

£5 for adults and £3 concessions. Under 5s free. Come along to the first MAPAS Christmas Showcase performance to hear what Arts Centre members have been working on this term. Featuring performances by MAPAS Maestros, Percussion, Synth Orchestra, Training Strings, Westwood Band-Its, MAPAS Maestros, Irlam Maestros and the Training Band & Concert Band.

Arts Centre Christmas Concert – St Philip’s CE Church
Wednesday 5 December from 6.30pm. £5 for adults and £3 concessions. Under 5s free. Come along to the first MAPAS Christmas Showcase performance to hear what Arts Centre members have been working on this term. Featuring performances by Salford Youth Brass Band, Guitar Club, Rainbow Rooms Choir, Jazz Collective, Community Choir, Inner City Sound Community Band snd the Saxophone Quartet & Big Band.

Arts Centre Christmas Concert – Moorside High School
Thursday 6 December December from 6.30pm. £5 for adults and £3 concessions. Under 5s free. Come along to the first MAPAS Christmas Showcase performance to hear what Arts Centre members have been working on this term. Featuring performances by Convert Strings, Junior Youth Theatre Company, Senior Youth Theatre Company and Salford Youth Orchestra.

Carol Playing at ASDA Swinton - FREE
Saturday 8 December at 10am and 22nd December at midday. These are free events. Join MAPAS at ASDA in Swinton for some festive music performed by members of the Arts Centre. There will be singers, violins, clarinets and perhaps a tuba or two. Any funds raised will go towards the MAPAS on tour campaign to subsidise the cost of overseas musical tours for our senior musicians. 

Carols & Choirs at Christmas – St Peter’s CE Church - FREE
Monday 11 December at 6.15pm. This is a festive celebration for school choirs, providing the opportunity for primary and secondary school choirs to gather and perform a selection of massed items along with an individual song from each choir. Each year this proves to be a lovely way to end the term by bringing together children from across Salford. 

SAYO SPARKY Christmas Festival – Clarendon Leisure Centre – FREE ENTRY
Saturday 15 December, 12-4pm

Some charges will apply for specific activities, no booking required. Enjoy family time and bring the children along to enjoy the festivities.

Free magic show and party games (1.30-2.30pm), gift stalls, table top sales, Santa’s Grotto, giant inflatable obstacle course, bouncy castle, festive face painting, glitter tattoos, tombola, Christmas arts and crafts, aqua blast pool slide (12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm). Do you sell gifts or have unwanted items? Then why not book a stall for just £5. Please contact Clarendon Leisure Centre on 0161 736 1494 for further information.

LIBRARIES

A Very Jolly Christmas at Blackleach Country Park
Saturday 8 December, 10am-12pm
£1 per child, no booking required

Follow the jolly Christmas trail around the park, listen to some Christmas stories and decorate a yule log with the ranger.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Family Festive Crafts Swinton Library, drop in from 10am-11.30am.

£1.50 non members, £1 members. £3 for families. Join us for festive fun crafts.

For full details of all events and more, please visit www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk. You can book online, via Eventbrite, by phone or by calling in to some venues.

Fire fighters are currently battling a large warehouse fire which has broken out at a building on the Worlsey Trading Estate.

GMFRS was called to Lester Road on the Worsley Trading Estate, Little Hulton, shortly after midnight on Thursday, November 15 and eight fire engines and two aerial appliances are currently at the scene tackling the blaze.

The whole of the warehouse roof is said to be 'well aligh't and the fire currently measures 100 metres by 100 metres, although good progress is reportedly being made and the fire is now surrounded and under control.

North West Ambulance Service and Greater Manchester Police are assisting at the scene. 

At 6:30am Incident Commander Tony Bryan issued the following update:

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 “Our crews have worked tirelessly through the night to tackle this very challenging incident. Thanks to their hard work the fire is now surrounded and under control.

“There will be an emergency service presence at the scene for some time yet and there will be some disruption, I would like to thank residents for their cooperation. As a result of the fire, some asbestos has been blow on to surfaces in the local area.

"This is low level asbestos and is nothing to worry about but if you see any please do not touch it.

“We currently have the Forward Incident Officer (FIO) from the Local Authority supporting us at the incident. We are currently arranging street cleansing, and notifying various premises such as schools which have been affected in the immediate vicinity.

“People should continue to keep all windows and doors closed and stay well clear of the area.”

It is not thought at this point there have been any casualties.

Reports coming in are that several of the nearby homes have been evacuated by the police as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile an urgent warning has been issued for nearby residents and those with breathing difficulties to keep windows and doors closed.

A warning has also been issued to the public to avoid any white asbestos materials they may encounter in the surrounding area, it is classed as low level but should still be avoided and reported.

Manchester Road West is currently closed in both directions and it does not look like it will be reopened in time for the rush hour traffic later this morning, please make plans to use alternative routes just in case.

It was fantastic news for campaigners today after the Secretary of State upheld Salford City Council’s decision to refuse planning permission for two prospective developments – for 600 new homes at Broadoak in Worsley, and for a smaller development of 165 new homes within the same site.

In reaching his decisions on the two developments the Secretary of State has identified that the developments would fragment and detract from the openness and continuity of the Worsley Greenway and would cause unacceptable harm to its character and its value as an amenity and open recreational resource. Given this, there would be a clear and fundamental conflict with the council’s long standing Worsley Greenway policy.

The greenfield site is a mixture of woods and open meadows and stretches from Monton Green to Worsley Road.

The Peel Group submitted a planning application to build 600 homes on the land but this was refused by the council’s planning panel in November 2013. At the time the council said the land was part of the Worsley Greenway and the development would destroy its character.

Salford’s draft local plan also recommended designating the Worsley Greenway as green belt land.

The Peel Group appealed the panel’s decision but, after a six week public enquiry in 2014 the original decision was upheld by the Secretary of State in March 2015.

The Peel Group submitted a high court challenge but before that could be heard a separate high court panel ruled that a technical element of the inspectors report was wrong and the March 2015 decision by the Secretary of State was quashed. 

The government said a new inquiry would have to be opened to consider all the evidence again. Meanwhile, The Peel Group applied for planning permission to build 165 homes on a smaller part of Broadoak which was refused by the council’s planning panel in July 2017.

Councillor Derek Antrobus, Lead Member for Planning and Sustainable Development at Salford City Council, said: 

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“This is the second time the Secretary of State has supported the Council’s policy to protect our valuable green space.  The Greenway policy has been in force for years and is designed to keep a vital green lung between Monton and Worsley.

“Local residents from both areas have supported our stand on this and did a fantastic job in putting the case to Government.

“This land is not the right place for development and thanks to our long-standing policies we have protected it for generations to come. Our draft Local Plan policies will aim to further strengthen protection of this land.

“Salford is committed to maximising development on brownfield land and there are plenty of other sites which fit that bill where Peel can build much needed family homes.

“I would encourage them to concentrate on those areas. I sincerely hope they will not waste taxpayers’ money by challenging this decision and making the council fight them again in court. ”

 

Will Peel Holdings now back down and walk away or will they once more force the council into another lengthy and costly court battle? Only time will tell.

Eccles Carnegie Library is the new home to the Patricroft Steam Shed Memorial where it is now on public display in the main library area. The memorial moved from its original home of Patricroft Steam Sheds to Monks Hall Museum in 1971, after that it was kept by Salford Museum from the 1980’s after the closure of Monks Hall as a museum. 

The steam sheds, opened in 1885, were the base for 32 locomotives where they were maintained and their duties arranged.

The brass memorial had been kept in secure storage at Salford Museum and Art gallery, but after a campaign by SWARM (Salford War Memorials) led by public plea on social media, and the help of Salford Community Leisure meant it was on permanent display in time for Remembrance 2018.

Eccles Community Committee used their budget to pay for the memorial to be put in place.

It was originally unveiled on Saturday 21 July, 1923, as a token of appreciation of the service given by the 128 men of the Patricroft Steam Sheds who fought in the First World War. Of the 128 who served between 1914 and 1918, 27 were either killed, died of wounds or illness in places which include The Somme, Gallipoli, Selonika and Palestine.

Because of the nature of the work employees of the Patricroft Sheds were taken from a wide area including as far off as Wales as well as local areas such as Eccles, Salford, Wigan, Crewe and Ashton.

During the four year conflict the 27 men who died served with various regiments and corps including, The Lancashire Fusiliers, The Manchester Regiment, The King’s (Liverpool) Regiment, The Royal Engineers, The East Lancashire Regiment, The Monmouthshire Regiment, The Royal Welch Fusiliers, The South Wales Borders, The Royal Garrison Artillery, and the Royal North Lancashire Regiment.

Councillors Margaret Morris and Barry Warner are the armed forces champions at Salford City Council. Councillor Morris said: 

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“It is fitting that the memorial is back on display in time for Remembrance Sunday – to honour the fallen and those who gave their service in the First World War. Thanks to SWARM and Salford Community Leisure for working so hard to get it back on public display”

Councillor Warner added: 

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“All those listed are real people who went away to fight for this country. They paid the ultimate sacrifice and our thoughts are with them and their loved ones as we now live our free lives in this country.”

The request is for residents to put out a waterproof bag, marked Salford’s Santa Appeal containing a small, unwrapped gift suitable for a child aged nought to 16 with any bin or food caddy being collected between Monday December 3 and Friday December 7 or hand it to the crews as they do their normal round that week.

Gifts could be items such as toys, games, sports items such as footballs, clothing such as scarves, hair accessories, gloves, hats or selection boxes.

Volunteer drivers will follow the crews as they work, collecting any gifts. All items will be checked and then passed on to local charities including Women’s Aid which helps women and children fleeing domestic abuse and Wood Street Mission which supports struggling families in Salford and Manchester.

The idea came from refuse collector Sam Barry, who is also the Unison convener.  Union reps from Unite and GMB and managers from Salford City Council have given it their backing.

The three unions will sponsor red high visibility jackets and Santa hats for the crews to wear during the week of the collection.

City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

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“It’s a lovely idea and the council is delighted to support it to make sure Salford children in need really get a Christmas to remember.

“Our refuse collectors are truly showing the Spirit of Salford with this. Gifts don’t have to cost a lot but show our struggling families that others are thinking of them. We would ask though, for the children’s sake and safety, that all donated items are brand new.”

 

Sam added:

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“A lot of families are struggling in Salford with benefit changes, low wages and rising prices and the more I thought about it, the more I didn’t want children to miss out.

“We have over 110,000 households on our weekly rounds so the potential is huge. It could make it an incredible Christmas for children in Salford who would otherwise go without.”

 

Gifts can also be dropped off at Turnpike depot on Eccles Old Road, Salford Civic Centre, Chorley Road, Swinton or Salford City UNISON’s branch office, 443-445 Chorley Road, Swinton, M27 9LQ between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Shortly before 10.40am yesterday, Saturday 10 November 2018, police were called to reports of a collision between a blue Vauxhall Corsa and a pedestrian on Monton Road in Monton.

The deceased girl has now been formally identified as 8-year-old Emily Connor from Chesterfield, unfortunately she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene, despite the best efforts of the emergency services to save her life.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. At this time he remains in custody for questioning by police.

Meanwhile a touching tribute to Emily has appeared close to the spot where she tragically died, cards, teddies and flowers from family, friends and members of the public have been placed on a wall along the roadside close to Cavendish Street.

A small crowd of mourners gathered this afternoon to remember the life of a young girl taken far before her time.

In a touching tribute to Emily, her family said:

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“To our Emily, the kindest person we ever knew.

“You will always be in our thoughts.

“We will talk about you every day.

“Rest in peace beautiful girl.”

As ever our hearts go out to the family who have asked to be allowed time to grieve at this distressing time.

Police are continuing to appeal to anyone who saw the blue Vauxhall Corsa in the area around the time of the collision or anyone with CCTV or dash-cam footage from Monton Road to please get in touch.

The pedestrian - an 8 year old girl - was treated by paramedics but was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. 

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He remains in custody for questioning. 

Monton Road is currently closed between Cavendish Road and Half Edge Lane. 

Enquiries are still ongoing. 

Police Sergeant Lee Westhead, of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

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“Tragically a young child lost her life this morning and we are doing all we can to support her family at this devastating time. 

“I would urge anyone who witnessed the collision or anyone with any information to please get in touch with my team on 0161 856 4741.” 

“The road closures will remain in place throughout the afternoon as investigative work is carried out so please avoid the area where possible. 

Anyone with information should call GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting reference number of 09/11/2018, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

A property developer already under fire in Salford by residents fighting against the development of the old Swinton sewage works, has today been branded disgusting and sick by residents in Bolton.

Street Lamp Poppies have become and increasingly popular way to publicly commemorate our war dead and as the nation comes together to mark the end of the atrocities of the first world war, more and more of them have popped up along the roadside.

However, residents in an area of Bolton, were shocked to find that someone acting on behalf of the housing developer had shamelessly covered one of the tributes up in order to advertise its Barton Quarter development launch in Horwich.

Bellway have now said that the sign was put up by a contractor and that they have instructed them to take it back down, however they are a little late in acting as someone has already took it upon themselves to remove it.

Responding to the Living in BL Facebook group they replied:

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We’ve made all the relevant people at Bellway aware and they are dealing with it. They have instructed the signage company to take them down immediately as soon as possible.

When I have an update I will get it to you.

Thank you for bringing it to our attention.”

Some have called the placement of the sign insulting, others have said it is both deplorable and sickening.

One resident said:

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"It is simply the desecration of a memorial that has been placed there to honour those brave armed forces personnel who gave the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom.

"To cover it up in this way is not only heartbreaking to see but it is an utterly deplorable act and Bellway should be totally ashamed."

 

Meanwhile residents in Swinton have been locked in a battle against Bellway after they claim a 241 home development has brought misery to the surrounding area and seen hundreds of trucks trying to navigate up and down what were once quiet streets in a leafy residential area.

A local campaign group forced Bellway and Salford Council into a meeting last month.

On Thursday 08 November 2018, officers from GMP’s Challenger Manchester team – a team dedicated to disrupting drug supply and organised crime – executed a warrant at an address in the Salford area.

This warrant was part of an operation aimed at tackling organised criminals who supply drugs in the city centre. 

Police recovered large quantities of drugs during the raids. 

Krystian Socha (25/02/1991)  and Roland Kalaja (26/03/1995) both of Victoria Crescent, Eccles have been charged with possession of Class A and B drugs with intent to supply and have been remanded in custody .

They are due to appear at Manchester Crown Court on Friday 07 December 2018. 

Next week (November 11-17) is International Fraud Awareness Week and Salix Homes is running a major crackdown to target tenancy fraud.

It’s estimated that tenancy fraud costs the public purse around £900 million every year, with around 100,000 housing association homes across the country affected by some sort of tenancy fraud.

Anne-Marie Bancroft, tenancy specialist at Salix Homes, said:

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“Tenancy fraud can take many forms, from illegal subletting and not using it as your main home, to obtaining a property by deception or the fraudulent purchase of a social housing property through the misuse of the Right to Buy scheme.

“At a time of a housing crisis, and with 7,000 people on the housing waiting list in Salford alone, it is crucial that housing fraud is taken seriously to ensure that the people living in social housing are legally entitled to be there.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, it is not right that some unscrupulous individuals are profiting from the homes we let, and for every home that is being used fraudulently, means once less home available for people in genuine housing need.”

Salix Homes has dealt with more than 60 cases of suspected tenancy fraud.

Last year alone, its officers uncovered three cases of the misuse of the Right to Buy Scheme, which allows tenants to purchase their homes at a significant discount if they’ve lived in the property for more than three years.

Had the fraudsters been successful, it would have cost Salix Homes more than £150,000 in discount, plus the loss of three properties from its housing stock that could be providing much needed affordable homes.

Another fraudster was caught out when housing officers spotted a post on the tenant’s Facebook page saying he’d moved abroad, despite still claiming to live in his Salford home.

To mark International Fraud Awareness Week, Salix Homes is encouraging its staff and tenants to be on the lookout for signs of tenancy fraud and report it.

Signs of tenancy fraud can include large numbers of people residing at a property, properties that stand empty for long periods, and tenants that are difficult to contact.

Throughout the week, Salix Homes officers will also be ramping up their investigations carrying out spot-checks and tenancy audits at people’s homes to look for signs of fraudulent activity.

If you suspect an incident of tenancy fraud call 0800 218 2000 or email tenancyfraud@salixhomes.org

Photo: Anne-Marie Bancroft, tenancy specialist at Salix Homes

Police were called shortly after 10.30am on Friday 9 November 2018 to a report of a robbery outside a bank on Monton Road, Eccles. 

Two men on a motorcycle made threats towards a G4S cash-in-transit delivery driver before stealing a small quantity of cash. 

There were no injuries. 

Anyone with information on the incident should call police on 101 or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Yesterday saw the TSB on Eccles Shopping Precinct targeted by four masked men armed with guns.

Photo: Anonymous via Facebook

Giant poppy banners, with the message Battle’s Over have gone up outside Salford Civic Centre to help mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One.

And in Walkden veterans’ support group Shoulder to Soldier plan to create a new allotment and community garden for all ex-service personnel and the community to share. The land is being provided by housing association Salix Homes and Salford City Council will help fund a memorial stone to be placed there.

Meanwhile, if you have not already sone so, you can pick up a poppy this weekend if you are out and about around the Tesco in Pendleton, Cadets from Salford ACF will be stationed there and selling "Official" poppies again.

There have been reports of unscrupulous sellers callously cashing in by selling unofficial poppies so to ensure your money goes to the right place please give them a visit and pick one up from them. They will be there from around 8am til 5pm.

Councillor Margaret Morris and Councillor Barry Warner, the council’s veterans’ champions said this year’s remembrance services would have extra significance 100 years after the end of World War One.

Councillor Morris said:

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“Back in 1918 there were bitter-sweet celebrations. Joy and relief that the war was finally over but grief and sorrow for those who would never come home or whose lives had been horribly changed by their experiences."

Councillor Warner added:

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“Salford men played a huge part in the conflict and around 650 of them died on the first day of the Battle of the Somme alone. We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice, just as we will never cease to remember and thank all the service men and women who have served in wars and conflicts since and continue to work to keep the world a safer place.”

Linda Fisher from Shoulder to Soldier, which was formed in 2017 to support serving and ex-forces personnel, said the allotment and community garden would help people make new friends and enjoy a new interest.

The plot of land earmarked for the project on Linnyshaw Close has stood empty for several years.

Liam Turner, environmental services manager at Salix Homes, said:

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“Salix Homes is very proud to support Shoulder to Soldier to provide a community allotment and garden for military veterans.

“Ex-servicemen and women can often feel very isolated after leaving the forces. They sacrifice a lot and lose friends and comrades along the way, so we hope this allotment and garden space will provide a safe haven where they can socialise and reconnect with the armed forces community.  

“The land is currently unused and overgrown, so we look forward to seeing it brought back into use in the future for such a worthwhile cause.”

 

Lest we forget

Salford’s Remembrance Sunday services will take place on Sunday November 11,

The Ceremonial Mayor Councillor Ronnie Wilson will lay a wreath on behalf of the city and representatives from the Royal British Legion will form an honour guard and lay wreaths for the fallen at the Swinton cenotaph.

The remembrance services are:

Salford – The Cenotaph, Albert Bentley Place, The Crescent, Salford
Assemble at Albert Bentley Place at 10.30am
Service and wreath laying begins at 10.45am
 

Swinton – The Cenotaph, Salford Civic Centre, Chorley Road, Swinton
Parade assembles at Morrisons, Swinton Hall Road, Swinton at 10.10am. Parade leaves at 10.25am
Service and wreath laying begins at 10.50am
 

Eccles – The Cenotaph, Church Street, Eccles
Parade assembles at the car park at the back of Eccles Town Hall, Church Street, Eccles at 10.30am
Service and wreath laying begins at 10.50am

Walkden and Worsley – The Cenotaph, Parr Fold Park, Walkden Road, Walkden
Parade assembles at Walkden British Legion, Wilfred Road, Walkden at 9.20am
Church Service at St Paul’s CE, Manchester Road, Walkden at 10am
Wreath laying begins at 10.50am

Irlam and Cadishead – The Cenotaph, Princes Park, Liverpool Road, Irlam
Parade assembles at Irlam Catholic Club, Liverpool Road, Irlam at 10.20am
Service and wreath laying begins at 10.50am

Little Hulton – The Cenotaph, St Paul’s Church, Peel Lane, Little Hulton
Service and wreath laying at 10.30am.

Members of the public will also be invited to lay wreaths by the clergy conducting the service.