Updated 15/08/17 - Police advise us that they are no longer looking for this person.

Robert Blears (09/08/1984) was released from prison in May 2017 but has breached the terms of his license and is now wanted. 

Blears is believed to have links to the Eccles and Salford areas. 

Anybody with information about his whereabouts should contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

We have been contacted with a shocking story of 'Nomelessness' within the City by a concerned citizen named Daniel Hulse who wishes to remain anonymous.

A few weeks ago a 'Large' Gnome wearing an England shirt was spotted living alone on one of the small concrete islands that sit in the water between Sam Platts and the Hamill office building on Salford Quays.

Shortly afterwards his isolation and loneliness was to come to an end as this modern day Gnomio was joined by his Juliet complete with wedding dress and bouquet.

What a small world it must be as within weeks of moving in they were quickly followed by another little couple looking to make a Gnome on the prestigious Quays.

Things seem to be going well for them as just last night the patter of really tiny feet could be heard as Mrs Gnome gave birth to two babies who are now living along side them on their little island paradise.

It is a baffling mystery as to how these little folks are getting there, why they seem to be heading to that one small island and more interestingly why they all seem to stand and stare at Sam Platts all day.

We contacted Salford Council for a statement but they hung up.

We then contacted Gnomeless Charity Shelter who told us we had misspelled it and they were going to call the police if we continued to harass them.

We then contacted the Gnome high council but they were short on info.

So we contacted renowned Gnome expert and local Salford History buff Mr Tony Flynn who told us:

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Little is known about Gnome culture and customs, other than they usually have pointy hats and a garish taste in fashion. Kinda like Lady Ga Ga or that Dappy fella from Ndubz.

It is possible that they are there to fish the waters but I see little evidence of a fishing rod or for that matter any fish after the recent dumping of chemicals into the Irwell.

In all likelihood there could be the usual Salford Alien involvement or possibly they have come to the area to take advantage of those *cough 15,000 jobs promised to Salford folks when the Quays was being built.

Personally speaking I think its just someone sodding about or possibly witchcraft, the usual stuff for these parts.

Now I know they are in the area I will be guarding my underpants draw tonight, thanks for the tip off.

 

We headed down to the area and tried to catch up and speak to the Gnomes but the mischievous little folks just ran around singing ha ha ha, he he he, at which point one threatened to 'kick our heads' in so we left.

Eventually we did get to speak to Trafford Council who told us that it would potentially be hard to evict them as they technically are neither in Salford or Trafford their Island is situated on the border of both in Gnomans Land.

So it seems like the mystery of the Gnomes is set to continue as Gnomeone has come forward with any info.

If you know how they got there, have a theory of how they got there or to be frank, just have any idea what on earth is going on then please let us know.

Huge thanks to both Daniel Hulse and Hamill at the Quays for the tip off.

Officers from the GMP Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident; however at this time it is believed that this was a tragic accident and that there are no suspicious circumstances. 

Police Sergeant Brian Orr of the GMP Serious Collision Investigation Unit said:

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 “This was a heart-breaking incident involving a young boy which has understandably left his family distraught and the thoughts of everyone in the SCIU are with them at this terrible time. 

“At the moment this appears to have been a truly tragic accident and not a suspicious incident; however we have launched an investigation to establish a full understanding of exactly what happened. 

“I would ask that anybody who witnessed the collision to please contact police.” 

 

23:00 We are being told by police that a young boy had tragically died at the scene.

22:55 Armed police were first to respond as they were closest to the incident and in the area at the time.

22:40 Police have said that they are responding to a road traffic accident involving a vehicle hitting a child.

Reports came in of a huge police presence and possibly armed officers at the IBIS Hotel on Trafford Road, Salford.

Up to 15 police units and reportedly 3 ambulances have been called to the scene, where one witness described a woman covered in blood as well as screams heard in the area.

It has now been established that a young child was tragically hit by a vehicle on the car park to the rear of the building, sadly he has died at the scene.

Police say that the armed officers were there as they were closest to the incident and first to respond.

Anybody with information should contact the SCIU on 0161 856 4741 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go to the family at this time.

Police are investigating after shots were fired for the second time in four days, raising fears that Salford may once more be in the grip of gang related gun crime.

Officers attended and found damage to a property consistent with a firearms discharge.

Two women, one man and a boy were in the address at the time of the incident. One occupant received minor injuries from smashed glass.

A blue Peugeot 307 was found nearby which is believed to be linked to the incident.

Police are appealing for information about a light coloured Vauxhall Corsa which was seen at the scene at the time of the incident.Superintendent Mark Kenny of GMP’s Salford Borough said:

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“I have no doubt people will be concerned by this incident and understandably so but I want to assure local residents that we are have launched an investigation.

“We are quickly working through a number of lines of enquiry today to try to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and as a result people may notice an increased police presence.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who can help us establish that picture of exactly what happened – particularly with regards to a light coloured Vauxhall Corsa which was seen at the incident and may have been involved.

“I would ask that anybody with information contacts police immediately.”

 

Anybody with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 2075 of 09/08/17, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Entitled ‘Roundabout’, the ‘plug-in and-play’ venue is the brainchild of Paines Plough – a theatre company from London that focuses on presenting new work by acclaimed playwrights.

Its residency in Peel Park has been commissioned by The Lowry as part of its commitment to bringing the thrill of live performance to all Salfordians – not just those that visit its home on Salford Quays.

Julia Fawcett OBE, chief executive of The Lowry, said:

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“We fundamentally believe that our responsibility in terms of presenting work to audiences stretches far beyond the footprint of The Lowry building, or indeed the artistic choices of our creative team.

“Roundabout contributes significantly to that mission – not just because it presents work ‘on location’ so to speak - but because a central part of the line-up is programmed by the local community.”

Alongside three new plays direct from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Roundabout will present:

‘Allo ‘Allo with Peel Drama Group: The senior group of Peel local drama society perform an extract from much loved 80s sitcom ‘Allo ‘Allo; Growing Pains by Tom Gill: Carrying the weight of the world in his J.D Sports bag, a working class lad trades his bag-head mates and council estate for a one-way ticket out of Salford; and Little Hulton Sings: Local Primary Schools from Little Hulton, including Wharton, St Andrews and St Pauls come together to form a community choir performing some of their favourite songs.  

Fawcett added:

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“The shows that we have programmed - Black Mountain, Out of Love and How to be Kid – are, we believe, some of the best new work on the circuit. We’re excited to present that work in the heart of Little Hulton alongside the work of the community.”

Roundabout forms part of the inaugural Little Hulton Goes Large festival.

For more information or to book tickets, visit: https://www.thelowry.com/events/roundabout-in-little-hulton

I don't usually do this but as this young lady turns 100 years old today and she is so full of smiles and happiness I thought it would be a lovely thing to wish her a happy birthday and congratulate her on both a telegram from the Queen and becoming a Salford Centenarian.

Plus we kinda had the bunting in the loft going to waste from when it was Tony Flynn's turn.

So without further ado congratulations to Annie "Nancy" Collins on reaching the grand age of 100 today.

Seen here celebrating with a glass of bubbly at The Midland Hotel with her care team from Select Community Support - Services Ltd.

So what better way to mark your 100th than to get your face in the local news and a ruddy huge cake.... ok we ate the cake but we can wish you a huge Happy Birthday on behalf of Salford. All the best and we hope you have an amazing day.

So if you would all like to join me in a round of Happy Birthday... after 3, a 1, 2, 3......

Starting on the 13th of September the fantastic Debbie Prince of the Halle Orchestra (YES WE SAID HALLE!!!) will be running an after school choir for kids with Asthma, the aim being to test if singing helps breathing.

The not for profit project is being ran in conjunction with Halle Children's Choir, Salford University, Unlimited Potential and Wigan Warblers.

It is totally free and so long as you are within the required age range, suffer from Asthma and use a Brown Preventer Inhaler and love to sing then you can pop along and join in the fun.

If the study goes well then it could lead to children having not as many attack, boosted confidence and fewer visits to the health clinics to see doctors and nurses.

To get involved simply message Heather Henry via Facebook for more details or to book. Alternatively you can call her on 07941 790670 or drop her an email at heather.henry@unlimitedpotential.org.uk. 

The welcome event is likely to be Wednesday the 13th of September after school at Walkden Gateway, then after that to be held weekly at Harrop Fold High School - just waiting to be confirmed, so please book.

At around 5pm on Friday 31 March 2017 a 27- year-old woman was on the number 8 bus travelling through Salford into Manchester when she was approached by a man who began speaking to her before trying to kiss her. 

The woman got off the bus at Shudehill and walked to work in the Northern Quarter. But the man followed her there and had to be escorted from the premises. 

The following week on Friday 7 April 2017 the man approached the woman again on the same bus route. The woman ignored him and he got off the bus, however he returned to her work that evening. 

The man had also returned to the woman’s work between the two incidents. 

Police have now issued an image of the man in the hope that the public can help identify him. 

Police Constable Gareth Bishop, from GMP’s Salford Borough, said:

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“Luckily no serious harm came to this woman, but she was left terrified by the incident. 

“Incidents like this leave people scared to go about their daily business, and no one should be made to feel that way. 

“We have now managed to find a picture of a man we would like to speak to in connection with this incident. 

“Anyone who recognises him, or may remember witnessing these incident,s is asked to get in touch with police as soon as possible.” 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident number 1855 of 8 April 2017 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

Earlier this year, housing association Salix Homes opened The Hive – a new state-of-the-art facility providing much needed accommodation for people aged 18-25.

The centre was launched in May by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who said he’d like to see similar facilities built across the region.

Now the facility on Cromwell Road in Kersal has been named as a finalist in the Affordable Housing Scheme of the Year category in the prestigious 24 Housing Awards.

Speaking at the launch of the scheme, Mr Burnham said:

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“I want to help young people make their way in the world and this is a development that’s very much focussed on young people and housing that’s affordable to them.

“I’m very proud to support it, and I would like to see more of this type of development all across Greater Manchester.”

 

The Hive is one of the first centres of its kind in Greater Manchester providing modern and affordable accommodation for up to 14 young people while they work, complete their education or training.

The project focuses on supporting young people whose ability to work or study is being hampered by their unsuitable living arrangements – it may be that they are sofa surfing or don’t have a permanent place to live.

Lee Sugden, chief executive at Salix Homes, said:

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“The Hive is the jewel in the crown for Salix Homes, providing young people not only with a place to call home, but also with an opportunity to transform their lives and build bright futures.

“As a nation, we are in the grips of a housing crisis so we are very proud to be leading the way in Salford to provide much-needed affordable accommodation for young people and to be recognised for our efforts in the 24 Housing Awards really is the icing on the cake.”

 

Salix Homes worked alongside contractor Seddon to totally transform and modernise the building, which was once the site of Petrie Court homeless shelter, but has stood empty since closing down in 2014.

Duncan Williams, housing director at Seddon, said:

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“The Hive provides vital support to Salford’s young people, and it’s fantastic to see the scheme being recognised by the housing industry. As a champion of young people, skills and training, we’re honoured to have been part of bringing such a progressive initiative to life.”

The facility was named The Hive in honour of Kersal councillor Harry Davies, who passed away last year and was well-known in the community for his commitment to helping others and his passion for beekeeping.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Coventry on October 12.

Every year the city takes part in International Youth Day on August 11 which recognises all the positive things young people across the world bring to their communities.

And this year, there’s an even bigger programme of 21 events organised by young people for young people and their community.

Councillor Lisa Stone, lead member for children’s and young people’s services, said:

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“Every year we make a film about some of our most inspiring young people.  This year we will hear the amazing stories of a teenage asylum seeker, fundraiser and carer and a young man who never misses a moment of school despite caring for his seriously ill mum. They have overcome challenges that would floor many adults yet they stay strong and positive, do well at school and give back to their communities.

“Alongside that we have a wealth of events from a day for families organised by young people with disabilities, to barbeques, picnics and events to raise contributions for local food banks. Young people will be showing off all they have done with youth groups, their artwork and even their baking skills to make the day fun for other people.

“I’m so proud of all the positive things our young people in Salford do for others and I wish them every success for Youth Day 2017.”

 

Events run from Saturday August 5 to Monday August 28. Full details can be found on www.wuu2.info/youthday/

Three men have been jailed after a police operation to target gun crime in Salford.

Grzegorz Marciniak (22/06/78) of Deacons Drive in Salford pleaded guilty to three firearms offences, two counts of conspiracy to supply class B drugs and conspiracy to supply Cannabis and Amphetamine. He sentenced to 23 years in prison.

Rajfar Marcin (31/10/80) of Knutsford Street in Salford pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Cannabis and Amphetamine. He sentenced to five years and four months in prison.

They were both sentenced today, Monday 7 August 2017 at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square.

Pawel Strazalkowski (26/11/1980) pleaded guilty to possession of a false identity document with improper intention and possession with intent to supply class A drugs. He was sentenced on 16 March 2017, and he received four years six months in prison. There were reporting restrictions on the case that have now been lifted.

During the search police seized a firearm, silencer and ammunition wrapped in a towel in the kitchen, a large quantity of Cannabis, Amphetamine and a Cannabis farm.

The men were remanded into custody and later charged.

Detective Sergeant Colin Shakleton of GMP’s Serious and Organised Crime Group said:

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“This operation was launched to target the criminals who use guns and drugs to instil fear and cause misery in our communities.

“Seizing these weapons means that we have stopped them from falling into dangerous hands and causing further misery.

“We will continue our work to make our streets safer with the support of our partners, and of the public, who have supported us to get to where we are today.”

 

Roger Pegram has served as a GMP officer for 17 years and in that time has gained a number of academic qualifications, from The University of Salford, Manchester Metropolitan University and The University of Cambridge.

He has completed his studies alongside his Sergeant duties, and is currently Acting Inspector in the City Centre division.

Having left school with only four GCSE’s, Roger has found his passion in evidence based policing, and hopes that his findings can have a positive influence on how police forces are run.

Roger said:

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“Evidence based policing is about using science to better understand what policing methods work.

“It is about community safety and enabling police officers to make informed decisions for themselves, as part of their daily duties.”

“While I am proud of my academic achievements, my priority lies with being able to make a positive difference on how we serve the public, and ensure communities are kept as safe as possible.

“The theories I work with can be applied to all areas of policing from domestic abuse situations to burglaries.

“I have received great support from GMP as a whole, and have recently coached a number of ‘champion officers’ who are now able to pass on our findings throughout the organisation, to positively influence the way we work day-to-day.

“Receiving my rights as a Visiting Scholar was a very proud day for me as I come from a very humble background and hadn’t imagined I would ever be in such an influential position.”

 

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said:

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“Roger works tirelessly to provide us with knowledge to better serve our communities, both here in Manchester, nationally and internationally.

“His enthusiasm, expertise and passion in ensuring that we as police are working as effectively as possible, is invaluable.

“He is a dedicated officer and I am proud to have him serving in my Force.”

 

Police were alerted to reports of gunshots fired on Cromwell Road in Eccles shortly after 12.30am today (Sunday 6 August 2017).

Police units were quickly dispatched within minutes and were soon joined by the forces helicopter hovering overheard. Upon arrival at the scene it was discovered that the target had been a house not far from the junction with Milton Street, windows were found to have been shattered with glass strewn on the ground and window ledges.

Up to 5 shots were fired in quick succession with at first many neighbours thinking the bangs were fireworks. Earlier in the evening they were being let off around the same area. 

GMP have disclosed that there were reports of two men in dark clothing who were seen fleeing the scene on a moped, turning left and heading onto Nelson Street.

Fortunately nobody has been injured in the attack.

Local people are in shock and disbelief that this could happen on their own doorstep, the details surround the attack are still unknown and police enquiries are ongoing.

A 50 yard stretch of Cromwell Road was cordoned off but it has since been removed and traffic is back to normal.

Anyone with any information, or who witnessed the incident, should call police on 101 quoting incident number 93 of 6 August 2017.

Photo Copyright 2017 - itookyourpic.com

It captured the scene, in 1953, as crowds flocked to Bolton Wanderers' then-Burnden Park ground and would go on to break all records for the sale of a British artist’s work at the time when the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) acquired it for £1.9m in 1999.

And now, the work has been recreated by five-year old Amelia Griffiths from Horwich in Bolton, whose bedroom overlooks The Trotters’ modern-day home, Macron Stadium.

The acrylic paint on canvas, which Amelia has named Still Going to the Match, is from the same aspect as Lowry’s work - albeit with the striking architecture of a modern football stadium.

The work was Amelia’s entry to the 2017 Copley Prize - an annual competition for 4-11-year-olds to produce a painting or drawing inspired by the famous artist’s work.

Her work was chosen as this year’s winner by Noel and Alison Copley, who founded the competition, along with the curator of The Lowry Collection, Claire Stewart.

Commenting on her success, Amelia said:

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“It feels amazing to win. I feel proud of myself.  My favourite hobbies are painting and dancing. Thank you for picking my picture".

And when asked how she would feel is someone paid £1.9m for one of her paintings one day, she said:

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“'I'd share it with my family and save some for me to buy a kinder egg and with the change I'd buy new paints and paint brushes and paper and new dance stuff.”

Claire Stewart, added:

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“Going to the Match is one of the most popular works in the collection – and the fact Amelia has captured this work from her own bedroom window is not dissimilar to Lowry’s own approach, which was to paint what he found in front of him.”

Noel and Alison Copley said:

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“We loved Amelia’s painting from the moment we saw it and were amazed when we found out she was only five years old. It’s a lovely painting and a worthy winner.”

Amelia’s painting will hang in the permanent LS Lowry exhibition at The Lowry for one year.

In July 2014, The Lowry galleries were renamed The Andrew and Zoë Law Galleries in recognition of the couple’s £1m donation to the arts centre – which is a registered charity.

The pedestrian, a 58-year-old man, was taken to hospital with serious injuries which are described as life threatening. 

The driver of the truck was not injured and stopped at the scene to speak with officers. 

No arrests have been made. 

Police Constable Paul Shore of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

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“A man remains in a critical condition in hospital and it is vital we have the full picture of what happened.

“We are particularly interested in speaking to the people in a new blue Vauxhall Astra which turned left out of Owen Street onto Langley Road South. 

“We believe they may have witnessed the collision as they would have been travelling in the opposite direction to the truck. 

“I want to stress that these people are not in any trouble, but could hold vital information concerning this investigation.” 

 

Anyone with information or dashcam footage should contact GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting reference number 471 of 03/08/17 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

Photo Credits : Andy AP

At around 7.40pm on Tuesday 13 June 2017, police were called to St Peters square to reports that a man had assaulted an 18-year-old woman.

The woman was taken to hospital where she was treated for a broken nose.

Police have released a CCTV image in an appeal for anyone who recognises the man to come forward.

Police Constable Jonathan Davies of GMP’s City of Manchester borough, said:

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“This young woman was in a busy area of the city when she was brutally attacked and left with a broken nose.

“Given how clear the image is, I’m hoping that someone who knows the man will recognise him from the picture.

“I’m urging anyone who may have information that could help our investigation to please get in touch.”

 

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 1930, 101, quoting incident number 2097 of 13/06/17, or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.