Police have made an appeal for information following reports that a woman was assaulted by a man while on a walk in Blackleach Country Park in Walkden, at around 10am on Tuesday 11 July.

Following the incident, the man is said to have ran off towards Linnyshaw Garden Centre.

Police have described the man as white, with blonde hair, a red jacket and black pants, walking an Alsatian dog.

Officers in Salford are currently investigating the incident and are providing support to the woman involved.

Inspector Steve Corless, for GMP's Salford district, said:

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"Our officers are currently investigating the full circumstances of this incident and we want to reassure the community that we are determined to bring about a positive result.

"I would please ask anyone who was in the park at that time and may have seen something to please get in touch."

 

Anyone with any information can contact police on 101, quoting log number 1079 of 11/7/23.

You can also report information via https://orlo.uk/2hsKV or through the independent charity Crimestoppers - anonymously – on 0800 555 111.

MediaCity’s popular outdoor dining concept Box on the Docks (BOTD) is back this summer with an events programme set to brighten up this season’s weekends – kicking off with a Pop-up Pride day on Saturday 15th July, 12:30pm – 6pm.

Open to everyone, the day will be packed full of immersive, fun and free activities for all ages from Drag Queen Story Time with Mama G – of Britain’s Got Talent fame, to live music, dance performances, art displays and pop-up stalls with BOTD’s first drag hosted Sassy Supper Club rounding off the day.

Manchester’s dance and visual arts company Ghetto Fabulous, a collective known for advancing education and raising awareness in equality and diversity through black led LGBTQ+ arts activities, will bring energetic dance performances to the space and will host workshops for budding dancers.

Music and entertainment throughout the day will feature northern legends Twisted Tubes, as well as DJ’s including ShimRise, who entertained crowds at MediaCity’s first cultural festival – We Invented the Weekend, earlier this summer.

LGBTQ+ art lovers will have the chance to celebrate drag culture as the second edition of Manchester-based publication HEADS Magazine – The Queens, will be on display all day, showcasing 15 of the UK’s most famously flamboyant Drag Queens, all of whom hail from the North of England.

A hotspot for emerging talent, MediaCity’s Box on the Docks will exhibit the images taken by HEADS Magazine’s founder, Manchester based photographer Liam Heeley.

BOTD will partner with Proud 2 B Parents, an inclusive organisation for all routes to parenthood who will host educational talks and workshops across the whole day. Visitors can expect to see stalls from The Lowry and The University of Salford, including a pop-up shop by the Feel Good Club selling limited edition Pride t-shirts with a percentage of sales going to the Proud 2 B Parents charity.

The day will wrap up with a Sassy Supper Club, hosted by drag legends Lady Bushra and Miss Blair who are also set to perform.

A first for MediaCity, the adult-only, drag-hosted supper club will provide 90-minutes of bottomless cocktails, including aperol spritz, mimosa, frozen passion fruit daiquiri, frozen pina colada, white peach sangria as well as any draft beer or cider and alcohol-free options and tongue-in-cheek entertainment from the drag queens.

Staying true to MediaCity’s eclectic offering, the food on Sassy Supper Club’s menu will feature cuisine from BOTD vendors, including authentic Greek chicken or halloumi gyros, homemade chorizo mac and cheese, Italian focaccia sandwich – prosciutto and vegan options available, to name a few.

Josie Cahill, Place Director for MediaCity said:

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“We’re delighted to bring Pop-Up Pride to MediaCity for a second year running which will also help raise awareness for some incredible causes, including Proud 2 B Parents, an organisation which is so important to LGBTQ+ parents, carers and their children. Above all, we’re really looking forward to hosting a day of celebration, awareness and acceptance.”

Matt Taylor-Roberts, Managing Director at Proud 2 b Parents added:

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“We at Proud 2 b Parents love Pop up Pride, what an amazing celebration of our community in the heart of MediaCity. There is so much going on throughout the day for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies. I can’t wait to see Mama G story time session too, there is nothing like a drag queen story time!”

For more details on Pop-up Pride visit Pop-Up Pride – Media City UK. Sassy Supper Club will be hosted from 5pm until 6:30pm on Saturday 15th July, tickets can be purchased from Eventbrite, £27 per person. 

A cyclist has been injured during a collision with a police car on Belvedere Road at around 6.20pm this evening (15th July) . Emergency services attended and the cyclist was taken to hospital by ambulance after being treated by paramedics at the scene..

It is understood that the police car was responding to an incident before the collision occured.

GMAS and GMFRS were called to the scene with the latter attending for 40 minutes.

The road was temporarily taped off during the incident but has now reopened.

The mans injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing and an investigation into the circumstances of the collision is ongoing. 

A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said:

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"At around 6:20pm today (Saturday, 15th July), firefighters were called to assist at the scene of a collision between a car and a cyclist on Belvedere Road in Salford.

"One fire engine from Salford fire station quickly attended the scene. Fire service trauma technicians assisted colleagues from the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to treat one male casualty, who was then taken to hospital.

"Crews were at the scene for around 40 minutes."

 

Photo ©: Google Maps

Eccles Councillors and local MP Rebecca Long Bailey, have joined forces with the wonderful members of the Monton Village Community Association (MVCA) this morning (Saturday 15th July), their goal is to collect food and other essentials to donate to local food banks and homeless shelters as part of Eccles Giving Day.

Any donations will be greatly received, they will be collecting food items, fresh as well as tinned/dried, but also toiletries, especially women's sanitary products.

The group of volunteers have a stall on the car park of Morrisson's supermarket in Eccles from 10.00am onwards and every item donated will make a difference, no matter how big or small.

The community has already donated six shopping trolleys full of food and toiletries, which goes to show just how generous and compassionate our local community is.

Councillors August, McCusker and Tetteh will also be on hand at our VIP (Very Important Pensioners) Winter Warmer this 23rd of November, as they have volunteered to help out and have been instrumental in securing the location and helping with fundraising.

So if you are heading that way and you can help, please pop over to see them and help fill a trolley.

It's a tragic that in this day and age we still have countless Salfordian's across the city who are forced to seek the help of foodbanks to make ends meet.

Both Tony and I have unfortunately seen first hand the plight of the growing numbers of everyday people who are finding themselves on the wrong side of the poverty line, not that there is a right side.

The most shocking trend we have found is the continual rise of working families who are struggling to stay afloat in this cost of living crisis. It is affecting everyone and most people in this country are just a few steps away from falling into the poverty trap.

In May 2022 it was announced that 22% of children in Salford are living below the poverty line and that number has increased, not decreased.

The ward with the highest child poverty rate is Ordsall ward where 32% of all children are living in poverty, which is ridiculous when you consider the wealth the area generated over the years as a major part of the industrial revolution. It reminds me of the old saying, the rich get richer...

Additionally the data suggests that up to 15% of Salford residents are currently experiencing fuel poverty with upwards of 9% of people in the borough struggling with food insecurity.

As the UK’s cost of living crisis deepens, more and more people – including children – are finding it difficult to make ends meet.

It is a shocking state of affairs and this should not be the case when considering the position and wealth of the country as a whole.

A wonderful team of history making young ladies will be heading off to the United States of America next April (2024) to to compete and represent England at the Cheerleading World Championships.

SportCheer England (The ICU-recognised governing body for Cheerleading in England) will be piloting their first ever national Special Abilities team featuring Senior Pom Dancers (cheerleading) at the prestigious event held at Disney Land in Florida.

To represent England in any sport is a massive achievement, but to be the first in history to do so is just something else – especially when you factor in all the athletes have varying degrees of SEN.

The girls found out last night at training (they train at the Red Hot Flames dance studio in Salford Quays).

You can follow the teams progress via their Instagram account @redhotsuperstars where they regularly post videos of both news about the team and its progress.

This is a phenomenal achievement for the young athletes and they need as much sponsorship as they can possibly get, as this is going to be a once in a lifetime event for them and their families.

If you are a local business who wishes to be a part of their success with sponsorship, please get in touch with them via their Instagram account.

Photo ©: Jazmyne (15)

Delivering this pilot has required several years of development work, and the team are delighted to announce the appointment of Gina Stafford (who has led on the research and development), as the national team manager.

Gina will be working with a small, pre-selected group of Special Athletes to deliver a team in the Special Abilities Unified Pom division.

Gina has been involved in cheerleading for 22yrs; coaching her own programme and competing internationally. In her professional career, Gina is a Senior Teacher at a secondary school for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

A serving and a former GMP officer have been given community orders for assaulting a prisoner by throwing a bucket of water over him following an internal investigation.

Former PS Ian Dunn aged 58 was found guilty of assault at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on 10 July 2023, while CDO Warren Clarke 54 had earlier pleaded guilty to the same offence.

Dunn was given a 12-week curfew order and CDO Clarke an eight-week curfew when sentenced on Tuesday.

Both were ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on 11 July 2023.

The charges relate to an incident at Pendleton Police Station in June 2022 when CDO Clarke threw a bucket of water over a male prisoner.

Dunn has now retired from the force, while CDO Clarke is suspended from duty – both will now be subject to internal disciplinary proceedings.

Chief Inspector Carl Gilbert, of GMP’s Professional Standards Branch, said:

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“The victim in this incident didn’t make a complaint, but this kind of behaviour won’t be tolerated.

“A thorough investigation was carried out, leading to the criminal convictions.

“Disciplinary proceedings will take place now that the judicial process has finished.”

Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane, GMP Force Lead for Custody, said: “Everyone who comes into contact with GMP deserves to be treated with respect and compassion.

“Since this incident, we have appointed an entirely new command team for the Custody Branch and are implementing wider reform that will ensure the highest standards are maintained.”

 

Photo ©: Salford Media Stock

Make sure you get your tickets for the Takeover Day happening at Salford Red Devils on Sunday 16th July raising money for St Ann’s Hospice – you won’t want to miss out!

The Salford Red Devils are playing against their local rivals Leigh Leopards on Sunday 16th July, with the day set to be a great family fun event in support of St Ann’s Hospice.

The event will start from 12:30pm with lots of activities going on ahead of the game. This includes a fun fair, bands playing on the stage, face painting, ice-cream vans, raffles including a match shirt signed by the players, stalls and a chance to meet Stann and Diablo (St Ann’s Hospice’s and Salford Red Devils’ mascots) and to soak a player with a sponge!

The match between the Salford Red Devils and Leigh Leopards will kick off will be at 3pm and there will be a special match ball presentation too.

Heather Bennett, In-Memory and Legacy Fundraiser, said:

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I am so pleased that we have this wonderful opportunity to partner with Salford Red Devils.  Salford Red Devils are an integral part of the community and their support for us at St Ann’s Hospice really does show how much as a club they care about the community around. 

It costs St Ann's £20,000 a day to run the hospice and they could not keep the doors open without the support of their communities. They staff are really looking forward to a fantastic day with the club and the supporters and they're sure that the fans will be just as supportive as the club! 

Heather, continued:

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As a season ticket holder myself, I know what a great fan base we have!

The communities we serve at St Ann’s Hospice and the supporters we have really do mean so much to us, so thank you to Salford Red Devils for being there for us!  We can’t wait to share the day with you all.

Salford Red Devils have been working hard to design a special shirt to commemorate the takeover day with St Ann’s Hospice. The shirts will be available for general sale at the match, with £5 from each shirt sale being donated to St Ann’s Hospice.

The players will be wearing them to warm up in the pre-match so make sure you match the teams and bag one for yourself, friends or family!

Paul King, Chairman at Salford Red Devils, said:

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“We are now a community-owned club and we take our responsibility to the community seriously.  St Ann’s is a long-established charity in the community of Salford with links to the vast majority of our citizens.

“Ever since I was a kid, I have known about St Ann’s.  I used to go collecting conkers in Madam’s Wood with my grandad and brother which is right next to where St Ann’s in Little Hulton is, so I’ve always known it was there.  The year I first went to watch a Salford match at the Willows was the same year that St Ann’s opened in Little Hulton.

 The hospice is an integral part of the community and we want to do what we can to support it. 

 

Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive of St Ann’s Hospice, added:

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“We’re so pleased our relationship with Salford Red Devils is continuing as we raise money for the ongoing care that is provided by our hospice to the local community.

“The takeover day will include lots of fun for families and spectators to get involved in to show their support.

 We are very grateful for all the support from the Salford Red Devils and those attending, from everyone at the hospice we thank you for your dedication to us.

 

Tickets can be purchased on Salford Red Devil’s website and a donation can be made at the time of purchase to St Ann’s Hospice here.

Story by Teagan Earith

Always one of the highlights of The Lowry’s calendar, the annual Open Day is back bigger and better than ever for 2023!

The FREE event is being held on Sunday 6th August from 10am to 5pm and will feature a wide range of fun and interactive activities for visitors of all ages – including the chance to stand on the famous Lyric Theatre stage – the largest outside of London’s West End.

From sneak-peak backstage tours to stand-up comedy masterclasses, family-friendly gallery tours – led by some of LS Lowry’s most well-loved characters to LS Lowry Gin Cocktail making, and music & dancing on the Plaza to life-drawing – there’s so much to see and do.

Some of The Lowry’s Partner companies Rambert, Birmingham Royal Ballet, The National Theatre, and Opera North will be running free workshops and offering opportunities to get hands-on. Plus, there’s cupcake making, outdoor games, crafty-families, story-telling – and much more!

Last year’s Open Day was a huge hit, with over 4,500 visitors to the venue across the day, 1,300 of those enjoying backstage tours and over 1,200 visiting the Galleries. This year, as well as enjoying the permanent LS Lowry exhibition, families will also be able to see Julia and Axel: 30 Years of Favourite Stories; a free family-friendly exhibition celebrating the acclaimed picture-book partnership between Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Some events need to be pre-booked, but many are drop-in and completely free on the day.

Lots more events and activities will be announced soon. For more information visit https://thelowry.com/open-day/.

Irlam single dad Darren Bailey and three friends cycled 220 miles from Southport on the West coast to Hornsea on the East coast over three days to raise funds for specialised physiotherapy for Darren's twelve-year-old Freya.

Freya was born with two holes in her heart and has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. She has had numerous operations, the most recent in February. Her physiotherapy, which is not available on the NHS, costs around £1,000 per month.

Dad Darren Bailey, 51, a water engineer, has been holding annual 'Scooter Grannies' races since 2016 to help raise funds for an operation which helped ease Freya's pain. He now has to continue to raise money for ongoing physio which helps to keep her mobile and means she can continue to ride her adapted bike and go swimming. This year, they decided to opt for the bike ride instead.

Darren said:

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'Originally I was thinking of some kind of event with us dressed as superheroes but my friend Olive, who is 80, said: 'Everyone does that, why not dress as grannies? So I took myself to the charity shop, bought some outfits and Scooter Grannies was born.'

In previous years, Darren and his colleagues have scooted from Irlam to Blackpool, Irlam to Chester, Huddersfield to Irlam and Anfield to Old Trafford. This year he decided to shake it up and try a longer race, though on bikes instead of scooters. They are sponsored by local businesses who sponsor the race to continue to pay for Freya's physiotherapy.

Darren continued:

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'As ever I'm grateful to all my loyal mates who take part in my events every year, as well as the local businesses and individuals who donate money to help Freya. The funds raised continue to provide physiotherapy and essential equipment for Freya to make life as comfortable and pain free as possible.'

'As well as her ongoing physiotherapy, which costs £240 each week, I am constantly having to buy or upgrade equipment as she grows and her needs change. I've already had to remortgage the house to make the adaptations she needs, and there is always something else that needs paying for, even aside from her physiotherapy.'

 

Darren worries about how Freya will be cared for in the future:

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'If it was just me, I'd probably just give up,' he said. 'But I need to keep on fighting for Freya. I'd do anything for her, but it is exhausting.'

Gill Gibb, CEO of Tree of Hope said:

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'We're delighted that this years event was a success and wish Darren all the best with his continued fundraising.'

To donate to Freya's fund, visit https://www.treeofhope.org.uk/freyaslittlelegs/

A popular Salford pitch and pavilion are to get a £750,000 facelift thanks to teamwork.

Local charity Albert's of Salford has leased the 3G artificial pitch and pavilion in Albert Park, off Great Clowes Street, Broughton for almost 20 years from Salford City Council which owns the facilities. Together they made a joint bid to the Football Foundation for a refurbishment grant, with the council undertaking to guarantee any shortfall between the grant and cost of the project. 

That enabled Albert's to secure a £603,495 grant from the Football Foundation and raise the extra £150,000 needed from its own investment fund and successful bids to other charitable trusts and grant givers including the Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation and Humphrey Booth Charities.

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

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"I'm delighted with the result. These facilities are already very well used by local sports teams, community groups and residents. Refurbishing them will not only provide a better experience for them but will open up even more opportunities for people including children from local schools."

Bob Hinder, chair of the trustees of Albert's said:

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"Albert's of Salford has been making a significant contribution to health and well-being, community cohesion and public safety in and around Albert Park for almost twenty years.

"Even with the best stewardship the facilities are now past their best and it was vital that the pitch and changing facilities were upgraded. A new pitch and improvements to the pavilion will ensure we continue to meet community sports and recreational needs for the next twenty years.

"Without the commitment of the Football Foundation to community-led sport and recreational facilities, and without the involvement of Salford City Council, which stepped forward at an early stage to guarantee any shortfall in funds, contractors could not have been appointed and work scheduled for completion by October. Our sincere thanks go to everyone who has contributed including service users, the funders and Salford City Council."

 

Kim Shaw, who has managed the facility since Alberts became a community interest company in 2007, added:

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"We have built up a strong relationship with many Football Association registered teams and clubs such as Barr Hill FC, community organisations like Salford Welcome and Village football club, informal groups, churches and schools. 

"We host many community events and festivals such as the Refugee World Cup. Over 700 individuals use Albert's each week and we strive to provide a good quality, well-maintained and safe environment which promotes mutual respect among our diverse communities."

 

Whilst most regular organised users book the facilities in the evenings and weekends, day-time users of the pitch and pavilion include Foundation 92 (F92), an independent charity linked to Salford City FC, which delivers a range of education, mentoring and well-being programmes on site.

Alberts became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in 2021, a combined registered charity and company limited by guarantee.

GMP have stepped up patrols in the Clarendon Park area of Pendleton and surrounding areas after at least one vehicle was set alight and Swinton police station came under attack from fireworks.

Reports that a large group of balaclava wearing youths on motorbikes engaging in anti-social behaviour were made to police by concerned members of the public throughout the day.

Eye witnesses reported that police vans and officers also came under attack from fireworks whilst responding to the incidents.

It is thought that some of those involved had earlier attended the funeral of a local boy who was involved in a tragic collision with a stationary ambulance on Langworthy Road whilst being pursued by a police vehicle last month.

A spokesperson for GMP, said:

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"Today (Tuesday 11 July 2023), Greater Manchester Police received reports of anti-social behaviour and anti-social vehicle usage in Pendleton, Salford.

"GMP officers have been responding and are patrolling the local area to help locate and bring those involved to justice and to provide reassurance to the local community.

“Our officers have been made aware of antisocial behaviour and anti-social vehicle usage in Clarendon Park and in the surrounding areas in Pendleton.

“In response we have dispatched extra officers to the local area to patrol the local community and surrounding areas to provide reassurance to the local community and to answer any questions the public may have.

“We would highly value any information that you may have regarding these incidents. Any information or video footage you have will help bring us one step closer to finding those responsible."

 

If you have any information, please contact 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report online using the ‘report’ tool on GMP's website www.gmp.police.uk.

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Today we spoke to Glenn Croston from the Salford Veterans Association who in February this year unveiled their memorial wall which commemorates people from Salford who have served in any branch of the Armed Forces since the First World War.

One hundred peoples names have now been added and there is room for a further 80 plaques on the wall, these can be purchased for £50 from Glenn and his team who will affix it there.

Glenn has plans to have 12 silhouette figures made from marine ply depicting the typical British Tommy in full uniform from Boer War through the conflicts up to the Afghan War. These will be dotted around the gardens and a proposed memorial to local men who fought or fell in the war against the Japanese, many of whom died in POW camps.

If you had family who fought in Burma or the Far East, Glenn would love to hear from you so that their names can be added to this new Roll of Honour.

Eccles town centre is set to be brightened up by artists, residents and community groups as part pf the "We Live Here" project commissioned by Salford Council with See Art who are a specialist in public art having exhibited in London, Sydney, Auckland and Cape Town.

There will be a total of 14 pieces of artwork in Eccles and today I spoke to local artist Stephen Campbell who is busy creating a mural on Church Street, Eccles which depicts local landmarks including, Eccles Parish Church, Eccles War Memorial, Nasmyth Hammer, Eccles Cross etc...

Stephen, told us:

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"I am delighted to be involved in this project as I have a studio in Eccles, The Puzzle Factory, and anything that helps both brighten up the area and gets people talking is great by me, I have had several shoppers, stop and ask what the artwork is about and it's all been positive so far.

"The mural is being painted in acrylic and should take a few more days, weather permitting until it is completed, and I hope the people of Eccles will stop and like it!"

Another artist taking part is Nick Hamilton better known as Hammo who is painting a mural on the side of Eccles Market which depicts local market traders and customers, he told me,

"I want to paint a big, cheerful mural which will hopefully put a smile on peoples faces and they may even recognise themselves in the artwork, and I have to say the local people have been really friendly to me giving advice and talking about Eccles markets"

 

The, We Live Here art project will launch on Friday, 21st July until the end of September 2023, with lots to see and do but more importantly you too can get involved, trail maps will be printed and available at locations around Eccles, schools will be involved and I for one am delighted to see this happening.

https://www.instagram.com/thehammo/?hl=en-gb

http://www.smcampbell.eu/

Jonathan (aged 25-years-old) was last seen on 09/07/23 in Salford.

He is described as being 6'1" tall, of slim built and having short ginger coloured hair.

Officers are becoming increasingly concerned about Jonathan and want to make sure he is safe and well.

Anyone with information, should contact police on 0161 856 5455

Residents across Salford can look forward to the biggest ever city-wide programme of creative activities and events thanks to a £749,600 funding boost from Arts Council England National Lottery Projects Grants. 

The announcement and confirmation of the funding follows a bid submitted by Salford Culture and Place Partnership, led by Salford City Council. It will now see the partnership working with cultural organisations, creative groups and residents across the city as part of the project to bring fun, entertaining and wellbeing focussed activities to the city's parks, gardens, high streets and neighbourhoods. 

As part of the three-year programme, local organisations will create events and activities focused round different themes:

RHS Garden Bridgewater will develop a new Working Wood for young people to benefit from the benefits of traditional woodland craft activities.

Outdoor arts organisation Walk the Plank will train 'Creative Explorers' to bring new creativity and adventure to city events.

The team behind Sounds From The Other City will have people dancing in the streets with mini pop-up music festivals.

'We Invented the Weekend' will again transform MediaCityUK and the Quays into a family friendly festival celebrating free time.   

Local artists and creative groups will also be invited to develop and test new event ideas through a 'Make it in Salford' programme and schools in the city will get creative through new artist commissions led by the Salford Local Cultural Education Partnership.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

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"This is great news for the city and our residents. We have a thriving cultural sector in the city doing great work all-year round, through our world-class cultural institutions, like The Lowry theatre and art gallery, Media City, the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, and RHS Garden Bridgewater.

"The city's cultural sector is also comprised of fantastic arts organisations such as Walk the Plank, Islington Mill and From The Other, not forgetting those organisations that play an instrumental role in delivering on our creative health ambitions such as START Inspiring Minds and DIY Theatre Company.

"The successful bid and funding from the Arts Council England will enable the city's rich, vibrant and unique cultural ecology to further our commitments to animating the city and place-making, making Salford a destination and a place where artists, creatives and makers from all walks of life can live, work and make their work, whilst also ensuring that art, creativity and making are accessible for everyone in the city.

"This crucial funding, especially in this 13th year of austerity and with on-going financial challenges in local government, will now mean that plans for a programme of events, developed with partners and residents, can now be brought to fruition for everyone to experience.  

"The funding will also allow us to build on the progress we've made in animating the city following the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst also reflecting and learning from our inaugural Festival of Free Time: We Invented The Weekend.  With this positive news and our city's recent cultural successes, it really does promise to be an exciting time to write the next chapter of Salford's cultural history."

 

Jen Cleary, Director North, Arts Council England said:

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"I'm very pleased that we have awarded £749,600 through our National Lottery Projects Grants to support this ambitious creative programme in Salford.

"It is a fantastic opportunity to enable the city's artists and creatives to share more of their work in public spaces such as parks and high streets for the benefit of local residents and visitors. It's an exciting time for Salford and I'm looking forward to experiencing some of the programme over the next three years."

 

A driver who caused the death of a 63-year-old cyclist has been jailed for 14 months. 

Ratthore Singh (14/05/2001) was sentenced to a 14-month immediate custodial sentence on Tuesday, 4 July 2023 at Minshull Street Crown Court after he pled guilty to Causing Death by Careless Driving and Causing Death whilst driving without a licence during his first appearance at Magistrates Court in Manchester Magistrates Court on 11th May 2023.

The convictions relate to a fatal road traffic collision which occurred around 12:48 am on Monday 20th December 2021.

A vehicle driven by Ratthore hit Roger Parris who was cycling along Centenary Way towards Trafford Park. At the time of the collision, Ratthore was a provisional licence holder and was not supervised by another driver and not displaying L plates on his vehicle.

Mr Parris was thrown from his bike during the collision and Ratthore continued driving before turning around at the roundabout and crossing back over to where the collision happened on Centenary Way.

A second driver travelling along Centenary Way found Mr Parris injured on the road and stopped and contacted emergency services. Mr Parris was taken to hospital but sadly died from his injuries later that morning.

Sergeant Louise Warhurst, of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

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“Roger was wearing visibility clothing, a white coloured helmet and peddling a bike illuminated with lights. He was there to be seen and other motorists had safely passed Roger. This collision was entirely avoidable had Ratthore not been driving so carelessly. Hopefully, this lengthy jail sentence and disqualification from driving will send a strong message to other drivers.

Our thoughts are with Roger’s loved ones today."

 

Salford Council declared their delight at news that their grass roots housing company Dérive has won its first award at the 17th annual North West Regional Construction Awards, which took place last night.

Residential Project of the Year (Sponsored by AB Engineering) was awarded to Salford Passivhaus for its fuel efficient and affordable housing that has been constructed in light of Salford being identified as an ‘energy crisis hotspot’.

This award recognises developments that provide a desirable and sustainable place to live. That demonstrate creative approaches from concept to delivery.

Organisations involved were, Identity Consult, Salford City Council, PRP Architect and Seddon Construction.

The NWRCA, said:

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This was a very strong submission with strong evidence in support of all claims. Not only is this project ground-breaking for the region – it is an exemplar for the whole residential sector.

While taking people off the council waiting list, these affordable homes have been delivered to leading environmental performance to Passivhaus standards.

Important evidence about resident behaviour information came in support of this entry.

 

In a post made via it's social media platforms, a spokesperson for the council said:

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A huge thank you to everyone in our Dérive team, Identity Consult, Seddon Construction and partners who have worked so hard to provide these affordable homes to people who are most in need on our housing register.

The new low energy homes have been designed to lower resident energy bills and this award is a testament to our commitment to providing truly affordable, quality housing in Salford.

 

An appeal has been launched following the release of CCTV of a man seen acting suspiciously, close to the defibrillator locker at The Tatton (Previously known as the Ordsall Cafe Project), shortly before it was stolen.

The man wearing a distinctive Halfords baseball cap was seen using his phone and trying the lock before he walked away.

The same man was then seen walking down Tatton Street where he apparently stopped a neighbour and asked to use their phone as it was an emergency and his phone was apparently broken.

Upon being given the code by the Operator, he ran to unlock the cabinet and grabbed the defibrillator before looking around and running off.

Staff from the Tatton say that an Ambulance was sent out but neither the man, anyone requiring medical assistance, or the life saving defibrillator were to be found. 

The incident which happened three days ago has since been reported to the Police as the defibrillator has still not been returned.

The medical equipment is there to save lives and it's theft now puts lives at risk.

If anyone can help identify the person in the photo, please contact either the Tatton or GMP via 101.

In a post to social media (Facebook), Sam, a trustee for the Tatton, said:

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We are going through a mix of emotions like we are sure you are too. Torn between being very angry to very sad that somebody could do this.

As you can imagine Defibrillators are very expensive and this is not something we can afford to replace. The Defibrillator is going to cost £1100 to replace. People have very kindly asked if they can make a donation to help raise money to replace our Community Defibrillator.

We have therefore set up a justgiving page and a bucket for cash donations has been placed in the Cafe. Please donate if you can, any donation will be greatly appreciated.

 

A crowd-funding page on JustGiving has already raised £715 of the £1,100 required to replace the vital piece of lifesaving medical equipment. The link can be found below.

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/OrdsallDefib23

The Lowry Theatre says that it is delighted to announce the appointment of nine new Trustees to its board.

The appointments follow a significant recruitment process undertaken by the arts organisation. A skills audit was delivered to help shape the recruitment with the objective of identifying the skills and attributes needed for the future success of the organisation, and to increase diversity and representation. The Lowry has embraced the opportunity to add a wider range of voices and experience to its board and welcomed the new members last week.

The new Trustees are Nazir Afzal OBE, Jatin Aythora, Roli Barker, Jaiden Corfield, Phil East, Fiona Gibson, Katharine Hammond CBE, Daniel Kasmir and Andrew Wylie.

They join the chair Sir Rod Aldridge OBE, Lifelong President Felicity Goodey OBE, and current board members Mike Blackburn OBE, Baroness Jane Bonham-Carter, Ian Currie, Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett, Jane Frost CBE, Jeremy Glover MBE, Councillor Bill Hinds, Baroness Beverley Hughes, and Tom Stannard.

Sir Rod Aldridge, Chair of The Lowry, said:

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“We are delighted to welcome a superb new cohort of Lowry trustees - they all add great abilities to our already excellent board. We look forward to harnessing both their skills and their passion for culture in helping to shape The Lowry’s future development”.

New board member Nazir Afzal OBE, was Chief Crown Prosecutor for NW England and formerly Director in London. He was Chief Executive of the country’s Police & Crime Commissioners and most recently, National Adviser to the Welsh Government. During a 30-year career, he has prosecuted the most high profile cases in the country and advised on many others and led nationally on several legal topics including Violence against Women & Girls, child sexual abuse, and honour based violence. He is the Chancellor of The University of Manchester, Chair of Hopwood Hall FE College, sits on the Independent Press Standards Organisation and the National Police Chiefs Ethics Committee, is Independent Member of Oxfam’s Safeguarding & Ethics Committee & Trustee of Association of Safeguarding Partnerships and WOW (World of Women) Foundation. He was appointed the first ever independent Chair of the Catholic Church’s Safeguarding Agency.

Jatin Aythora serves as the Director of BBC Research & Development, where he plays a crucial role in driving the organisation’s technical vision and fostering innovation within the BBC and the wider news and media industry. In this capacity, he supports and shapes the BBC's mission ambition and charter obligations. Before joining the BBC, Jatin served as the Head of Enterprise Architecture at Centrica. During his tenure, he played a key role in developing ideas for home automation products, leading to the successful establishment of Hive Home and Local Heroes. These ventures offer a diverse range of connected home products and energy services. Apart from delivering ground-breaking and industry defining technologies that contribute to social good and in the benefit of humankind, Jatin is interested in design, art and philosophy and is often found with canvas painting abstract art.

Roli Barker has worked for non-profit organisations for over 13 years delivering projects for social impact charities and arts organisations such as Shelter, London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, National Youth Theatre and Hull 2017 City of Culture. Prior to joining the non-profit sector, she worked in the events industry as a project manager delivering national and international corporate events. Roli is currently a Director at Big Life Group and is a non-executive director at Jigsaw Homes. Her interest in ensuring equity and belonging in the workplace, has led her to developing anti-racism strategies and leading EDI groups.

Jaiden Corfield is an activist turned social entrepreneur with over a decade of experience within the social impact sector. Most importantly, he’s a proud Salford lad. As the founder of a consultancy network supporting organisations to realise greater social purpose, Jaiden has worked alongside some of the world’s largest organisations to create and sustain positive change across education, philanthropy and policy. From co-designing the UK’s first youth-led supplementary school to championing some of the UK’s boldest and most disruptive funds, Jaiden brings a depth of professional and lived-experience. Jaiden was first introduced to The Lowry as a young person on one of the Arts for Social Change programmes in 2014. In 2019, Jaiden founded The Outliers Project to support young Salfordians to recognise and achieve their potential. He has since advocated tirelessly to see more young Salfordian’s grow alongside the city and access everything that Salford has to offer.

Phil East became the Chief Executive of Salford Foundation in 2018, having served as Deputy CEO since 2009. During this time, he has had senior management responsibility for the development and delivery of a wide range of projects, with a particular interest in helping those facing multiple disadvantage and in social mobility. In particular, he has developed projects tackling serious youth violence; new approaches to learning and progression into work; domestic abuse; and preventative interventions with young people. He sits on a wide range of multi-agency boards in Salford and Greater Manchester. As CEO, Phil has also led significant changes in terms of business strategy and planning; workforce engagement and wellbeing; and infrastructure improvements. Prior to 2009, he worked for Local Authority Youth Services in the North West and South West and in the voluntary and community sector in Cheshire.

Fiona Gibson is the Chief Executive of Capital Theatres in Edinburgh. Her role spans the leadership of three busy Edinburgh city centre venues who together are Scotland’s largest theatres charity with a mission to inspire a lifelong love of theatre. It provides an award-winning creative engagement programme supporting people living with dementia, care experienced children, diverse communities and arts talent development. Prior to this, Fiona was CEO of the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatres, the Business Director of the Octagon Theatre, Bolton and outside of her theatre day job in the North West of England, Fiona was also the Board member for culture on the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership, a member of the Greater Manchester Culture Steering Group and chair of the Greater Manchester Visitor Economy Board. Previous to the arts, Fiona’s career spanned 22 years with Accenture. As a trustee of the Accenture Foundation Board, she managed a range of community investment projects, culminating in her appointment as the HRH Prince of Wales Ambassador for Responsible Business in the North West of England.  Fiona is passionate about making a difference through the broader ‘life benefits’ she knows the arts brings.  A vibrant theatre with relevant and quality work on stage not only builds joy and aspiration, it also makes a significant difference to health and wellbeing, employability, community cohesion and the regeneration of place.

Katharine Hammond CBE is a senior civil servant with more than 20 years’ experience in Whitehall across a variety of departments including the Cabinet Office, Home Office and FCDO.

Daniel Kasmir gained extensive experience of HR in a number of organisations including Shell, Manpower, FNZ, Xchanging and BDO. He has worked in Private Equity as both an adviser and within portfolio companies for General Atlantic, JC Flowers and Bain Capital.  Daniel joined TalkTalk in 2019 where he is responsible for People and Procurement. He is also Chair of the Employment Board at HMP Thorncross.

Andrew Wylie is a Partner at the international engineering consultancy Buro Happold. He is a UK Executive Director and has responsibility for their portfolio of UK Culture Sector projects and the business response to the climate emergency. He is a Chartered Engineer and has experience of leading multi-disciplinary design teams on a range of complex new build and refurbishment projects including The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Factory International, Manchester Jewish Museum and the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury. Andrew has completed a Master’s degree in Inter-Disciplinary Design for the Built Environment at the University of Cambridge, and is also a member of the Association of British Theatre Technicians.  Andrew’s passion for sustainable design and construction has led him to co-author the award-winning Theatre Green Book which has now been translated into six languages. Following the success of the Theatre Green Book Andrew co-authored the Arts Green Book and he remains an active member of the Theatre Green Book steering group.

The Lowry has said that it is delighted to welcome the new trustees and is looking forward to working with both current and new board members to shape our artistic aims, industry engagement and community vision over the coming years.

A large police presence was reported at Worsley Woods this morning, with an area close to the M60 underpass temporarily taped off.

We are being told that the cordon has since been removed and the police presence has now been stepped down.

However, tragically the body of a man has been found at the well known beauty spot.

Police say that they do not believe there is any suspicious circumstance surrounding his death.

Due to the nature of the incident we will not be reporting further out of respect for his friends and family.

We offer our sincere condolences.