Police confirmed 19 fatalities and up to 50 injuries at the scene of an explosion during an Ariana Grande concert at the MEN Arena. 

Police have asked people not to enter the area around the arena and train station as it is the scene of an ongoing major incident which is suspected to be a terrorist attack.

It has been said that a second device was detonated by a controlled explosion at the cathedral gardens.

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The North West Counter Terrorism Unit is treating the incident in Manchester as a possible terrorist incident, sources said.

Senior national Counter-Terrorism officers are assembling in London and are liaising with the Home Office.

Early estimates put the number of fatalities in double figures, but these are very early stages.

British Transport Police say explosion was in the foyer area of Manchester Arena.

Eye witnesses described stampedes as people rushed to vacate the stadium as quickly as possible, many were injured as they fell to the floor and were trampled. Many described bodies lay motionless on the floor as emergency responders attended to them.

Greater Manchester's emergency services were fast to respond to the incident as ambulances from across the area were drafted in to ferry casualties to hospitals. 

Armed police were patrolling the area with many stationed at key locations.

All train and tram services have been halted and are not expected to resume until the incident is dealt with.

Meanwhile local people have been quick to offer help and support with many offering up rooms for the night on Twitter and Facebook to those affected using the hashtag #RoomForManchester.

Some are reporting its an explosion at the Ariana Grande concert at the MEN Arena.

Although Manchester Victoria have warned of disruption on the system

We will keep try and keep you informed.

CBBC HQ stars Hacker, Karim, Lauren, Katie and Rhys will host the main stage and broadcast live on CBBC from the event on the MediaCityUK Piazza.

Barney and Lindsey (Blue Peter), Naomi Wilkinson (Naomi's Nightmares Of Nature), Paddy Wilde and Jorja Douglas (Got What It Takes) will also be entertaining the crowds live on stage.

CBBC Summer Social, which is free to attend, will bring together top stars, the most amazing games and masterclasses with the teams behind some of CBBC’s biggest shows.

Children will have the chance to try exciting hands-on activities in an arts and crafts zone that teaches both material and digital creativity. There will be live science experiments hosted by CBBC’s Ultimate Brain and in BBC Learning’s Terrific Scientific Zone.

Match Of The Day Kickabout will give children the chance to test their footballing skills, with demonstrations from CBBC presenter and football freestyler John Farnworth. Sports fans can also learn more about commentating on a sports match from the BBC 5 live team. Shaun The Sheep’s Championsheeps will bring farmyard games for all the family and the Lawn Tennis Association will bring mini-tennis to the event.

There will also be an Awesome Author’s stage with a packed programme of live readings, author Q&As and talks aimed at inspiring the next generation of writers and storytellers. Dan Freedman (Jamie Johnson), Dani Harmer (Tracy Beaker) and Michael de Souza (Rastamouse) will all be appearing.

CBBC Controller Cheryl Taylor says: “We hope you'll join us for the fabulous CBBC Summer Social 2017. We love meeting our audiences and this is going to be a very special weekend for children and their families to get involved with. If you're into sports, science, storytelling and creativity - we've got something just for you. Save the date and we look forward to seeing you at Media City in July."

For younger children there is a CBeebies zone, with a Go Jetters disco hosted by the coolest DJs in town, Go Jetters’ Ubercorn and Grandmaster Glitch. There’s also the chance to knit your own Clanger, workshops with the Royal Northern Ballet (choreographers of the recent CBeebies Goldilocks ballet) and appearances from many CBeebies characters.

CBBC Summer Social is open from 9am to 5.30pm at the MediaCityUK Piazza on 8 and 9 July. No tickets are required and families can simply turn up on the day. Events are free, though there may be a queuing system in place at busy times.

For more information and updates visit bbc.co.uk/cbbc

Shortly after 8am on Sunday 21 May 2017, police were called to reports that a paraglider had crashed at City Airport in Barton, Salford.

Witnesses to the incident spoke of how the para-foil folded in on itsself which caused the man to tumble 50ft to the ground.

The ambulance service attended and a 55-year-old man was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries.
The cause of the incident is as yet unclear, so police are appealing for any witnesses to get in touch.

Sergeant Lee Westhead from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said:
 

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“My thoughts are with the man and his family at this time.

“My officers are working hard to establish the circumstances of this incident. If you saw what happened or have any information, then I would ask that you contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit as soon as possible.

“I am particularly keen to speak to individuals with photographs or videos of the incident or the aftermath.”

 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4741, alternatively call 101 or the independent Charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Firefighters from Eccles and Salford were called at 8.20am this morning (Monday, May 22), following the explosion within a first-floor-flat. 

Station Manager Mark Wilson, who is at the scene, said:

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“On arrival firefighters discovered windows blown out of the flat where the explosion occurred. 

“North West Ambulance Service also attended the incident and dealt with the occupier of the flat who is believed to be suffering from shock.” 

 

Firefighters used specialist kit, including a thermal imaging camera, to ensure the scene was safe, before leaving the incident at approximately 10.20am.

The cause of the explosion was accidental, due to a a cylinder in a camping stove heating up.

The man is approximately 50-years-old. The affected flat and two others have been evacuated as a precaution.

The fire engine has now left but investigators remain at the scene to carry out further checks.

Sadia Ahmed, 15, was last seen at her home in Bolton on Friday 12 May 2017. She has not been seen since and police are becoming increasingly concerned for her welfare.

Officers believe she may have travelled to Bradford and to Birmingham.

GMP’s Detective Constable Phil Unsworth said: “We and Sadia’s family are extremely worried about her, as she has now been missing for nine days. I am appealing to anyone who sees her or knows where she is to contact police immediately.

“Sadia if you see this, please get in touch and let us know you are safe.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5825, 101 quoting 1372 12/05/17, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The veteran Labour councillor and former Ceremonial Mayor of Salford had served admirably as a councillor in the City since 1971, most recently representing the Claremont Ward.

The former professional footballer, who once played for Rochdale, became ceremonial mayor in 1992 whereupon his fund raising managed to raise a whopping £48,000 for the Prestatyn Holiday Camp (Salford by the Sea / Jam Butty Camp), which provides holidays for Salford children. Joe also served as deputy chairman of housing as well as lead member for environmental services among other rolls.

As tributes poured in, Rebecca Long-Bailey was among the firstto respond to the news with a heartfelt post on Facebook praising his years of service and dedication to Salford.

Joe was a popular councillor who was adored by those who knew him. His love of Salford was unquestionable and his personality endeared him to others.

A true community councillor if ever there was one and a shining example to all.

He was never afraid to use his words or to take action to get his point across, doing so during last years Labour leadership election by showing his unfaltering support for his party and its leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Joe was a co signatory of a letter of support along with Kate Lewis and Stephen Coen for the beleaguered party leader, at a time when other Salford councillors were signing letters against him or choosing not to get involved. 

Local bedroom tax campaigner Maria Brabiner said... 

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"He was my Councillor for years when my home was part of the old Blackfriars Ward. A very popular Councillor and will definitely be missed. RIP x"

Whilst Peter Gunn wrote...

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"All the best Joe. You leave Salford a better place than when you come into it. That is a legacy."

Meanwhile on Twitter Cllr John Warmisham gave praise to Joe which was shared by many including Labour's Barbara Keeley..

Very sad to hear that Cllr Joe Murphy has passed away. I worked closely with him for a number of years. A great servant to Salford. RIP pic.twitter.com/MAjuRUWxux

— John Warmisham (@Cllrjwarmisham) May 21, 2017

Conservative councillor and election candidate for Worsley & Eccles South, Iain Lindley also led tribute to councillor Murphy.

Sorry to learn of the death of Cllr Joe Murphy - thinking of his family, friends and colleagues this evening.

— Iain Lindley (@cllrilindley) May 21, 2017

Tributes continue to flood in on the SalfordOnline Facebook group, as many people were left shocked to hear the news of his death, touching messages were left recounting many fond stories of Joe from friends and constituents he had helped out along the way.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Dorothy (Dot) as well as his children. He will be dearly missed by all.

This morning  (around 8am) emergency services attended the scene of an accident involving a paraglider who was seriously injured whilst attempting to land at City Airport (Barton)

The man sustained serious injuries and has been rushed to hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

The incident is being investigated by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch as is protocol, Greater Manchester Police are assisting with support.

A spokesperson for GMP said:

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The man is ‘desperately ill’ after suffering serious injuries during the incident.

A paragliding accident took place at Barton Airport at around 8am this morning.

Eye witness reports say that the man fell from the 12th floor onto the roof of a small building adjoining the tower block, paramedics, fire and police quickly arrived at the scene where upon they immediately attempted to resuscitate him.

Police and Fire services gave assistance to the paramedics by providing access to the roof.

It is unknown as to the circumstances that led to the man falling but police are still present and the area is currently cordoned off, it will remain so until the police investigation concludes.

The condition of the fallen man is currently not known. We will update this post as soon as more info is available.

If you can assist the police with their enquiries then please contact them on 101

Image Copyright: Google Earth

Following a number of recent incidents in London, police in Greater Manchester are keen to remind local communities that terrorists can strike anywhere and everyone across the UK should remain alert but not alarmed.

A nationwide campaign was launched recently to encourage anyone with concerns about possible terrorist activity to contact the authorities. Called ACT, for Action Counters Terrorism, the key message is that no one should worry about wasting police time.

If you have suspicions - just ACT.

All the details can be seen via this link gov.uk/ACT - which officers want people to share. The site includes videos - watched by nearly one million people so far - along with posters and two podcasts which tell real life stories about how the public helped foil terror attacks.

Since launching the initiative in March, 3000 people have contacted police with information. The vast majority of concerns turned out to be nothing, but a small number contributed significant information that police have followed up on - information that might otherwise have been missed.

Detective Chief Superintendent Russ Jackson from North West Counter Terrorism Policing: "Information from the public is vital to stopping atrocities. The police and security services are working hard to tackle the threat but we can't do it alone.

"We are working with lots of different agencies and businesses who are all able to contribute to keeping our communities safe - but we need the public more than ever.

"We understand that people might hesitate to contact us because they are worried it could be wasting police time. In most cases it will be nothing to be concerned about but we would rather you called than risk us missing some vital piece of information. All information received will be treated in confidence.

"Someone right now will know something that could make a big different to one of our investigations. They could literally be saving lives by getting in touch, so please share the link gov.uk/ACT"

On 30 January 2015, a 56-year-old man made a report to police that he had been sexually assaulted by Parrish between 1966 and 1970. 　

The man told police the abuse happened at the hands of Parrish, who was a Scout Master in Salford, when he was aged between 7 and 11. 　

He said his grandson had expressed an interest in joining the Scouts and he couldn’t keep the abuse to himself any longer in case Parrish was still alive and abusing children. 　

An investigation was launched and a number of enquiries were followed based on the information bravely brought forward by the man including the almost weekly occurrence that Parrish would accompany him to the toilet and sexually assault him while whispering “Be quiet.” 　

Detective Constable Cathy Blain of GMP’s Salford Borough, said:

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This has been a long and complex investigation and I have nothing but praise for the man who so courageously came forward and reported the abuse. 　

Parrish abused his position of trust in the worst possible way and my only hope is that the prosecution brings some closure after he has suffered in silence for more than 50 years. 　

If you have any concerns at all or want to speak to someone to pass on information or report a sexual offence, you can contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

 

Greater Manchester is nationally recognised as a model of good practice in terms of support services available to victims. 　

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

You can call Greater Manchester Police on 101, or alternatively people can refer themselves to St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0161 276 6515, whether or not you want make a police report.　

St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester provides a comprehensive and coordinated forensic, counselling and medical aftercare service to anyone in Greater Manchester who has experienced rape or sexual assault. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and people can access them via Greater Manchester Police, or as a self-referral.　

Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential support service run by women for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused. Confidential helpline: 0161 273 4500. Black and Minority Ethnic helpline: 0161 273 4514.

Survivors Manchester offers support and counselling for adult male survivors of sexual abuse and rape, regardless of when the event happened. Contact 07919 246 267.

Updated 20:32 - Water is now back on in the effected area but the road remains closed. Thanks to Yvonne Jones on SalfordOnline's Facebook page for the update.

Updated 13:23 - united utilities are repairing a burst water main that has caused a small sinkhole on Newcross Street in Swinton. It's is expected to be repaired within a few hours but the road remains closed so avoid the area. Supplies have been affected in the area and remain off whilst work is carried out.

A sinkhole has appeared on New Cross Street in Swinton, police have told people to avoid the area as it is blocked off, United Utilities have also issued a notification on their Twitter account stating that there is water disruption in the M27 area, it is unknown at the moment if the two are related.

We are looking into it and will have photos soon.

Operation Rogue Trader was held between 8 to 12 May and involved the work of Police, Trading Standards, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the UK Border Force and other agencies. Coordinated by Operation Liberal, the national intelligence unit responsible for cross border criminality and the National Police Chief Council, it was an opportunity for partners to come together for a week of enforcement action. It was designed to disrupt criminal activity and to put an end to illegitimate traders who target the most vulnerable members of our community.

The week-long initiative resulted in the following results; three vehicles recovered, over £2,500 in cash seized, 23 companies were stopped and checked and 17 vehicles were seized for no tax or insurance. In addition the partners inspected three meat trucks resulting in notice being served for an unhygienic vehicle and the removal of meat products as they were unfit for human consumption.

Rainbow flags are also flying from all fire stations in Greater Manchester.

Mayor Andy Burnham said:

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“Greater Manchester is world-famous for being a place that has always looked after everyone; it’s a place where everyone can be who they want to be and love who they want to love. Sadly many lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people still face hate crime in our region, but our simple message is that it will not be tolerated and we will take action.

“Attitudes are changing around the world, but they’re changing too slowly. Nobody should face abuse, threats or violence because of their sexuality or gender. With our message of cohesion and hope, Greater Manchester is a beacon to the world.

 

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said:

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“We are immensely proud to live and work in Greater Manchester, where a big part of our strength is the diversity of our communities. Supporting events like IDAHOBIT is important to demonstrate our commitment to people across Greater Manchester and GMP employees that they are free to be the individuals they are. I want people to know they can live and work safely in Greater Manchester.

“I hope our support for IDAHOBIT gives people the confidence that if they experience hate crime we will take it seriously and support them. I would urge anyone experiencing hate crime not to suffer in silence and to speak up and stand together against hate crime.”

 

LGBT Foundation Chair Smyth Harper said:

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“By raising the rainbow flag, our Mayor and Chief Constable have sent a message loud and clear to LGBT people here and across the world – Greater Manchester is a place where everyone is free to be themselves.

“Hatred in all its forms will not be tolerated in our city-region, and real and meaningful action will be taken to combat it. LGBT Foundation is proud to work with the Mayor and emergency services to help build a safe, strong and cohesive community in Greater Manchester.”

 

Idahobit is a global event marked each year on May 17, which was the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder.

It encourages people, organisations, and governments to take a stand against violence and discrimination against LGBT people.

There are still at least 81 countries around the world where same-sex relationships are criminalised, 10 of which have the death penalty in place.

Up until the late sixties, being gay in the UK was illegal and Britain has only recently got its own house in order by finally pardoning those individuals still carrying prosecutions for being gay.

If you’ve been affected by hate crime and need support or want to report it, visit www.letsendhatecrime.com to find out more. You can also get help through the LGBT Foundation http://lgbt.foundation - a national charity delivering a wide range of services to lesbian, gay and bisexual and trans communities.

GM Mayor Andy Burnham has made a new appointment to drive Greater Manchester’s ambition to be a world-leading green city-region where everyone can enjoy green spaces and breathe clean air.

Leader of Stockport Council Cllr Alex Ganotis will lead on Greater Manchester’s efforts to improve and protect the environment, green spaces and air quality. He will also bring forward plans for a Green Summit, bringing together environmentalists, experts and others to set a new ambition for carbon neutrality across Greater Manchester.

GM Mayor Andy Burnham said:

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“This appointment reflects the strong call I heard throughout my campaign for a greater focus on green issues and carbon neutrality and genuine concerns about our air quality, which in some areas of Greater Manchester is in breach of legal limits.

“My ambition is to transform Greater Manchester into a world-leading greener, cleaner city region; improving the health and quality of life for millions of people while protecting our green spaces and environment for future generations. I’m pleased that Alex will be working with me to take forward this vital, potentially life-saving work.

“Alex will also take forward plans to convene a Green Summit within my first year of office, bringing together those with a stake in a sustainable, environmental future to set a new clear and ambitious target for carbon neutrality across the city-region.”

 

Cllr Alex Ganotis said:

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“I’m excited to be taking on this role because this is about quality of life for people across Greater Manchester. I intend to work with colleagues across the city-region to make sure we invest in low carbon jobs, address the transport and pollution issues that cause health problems, and develop our green spaces.

“The environment and green issues are very much crucial to people’s day to day lives which makes this one of the most important things we need to deliver on. I’m confident we can set the lead in the country, if not Europe, in terms of how a city-region works and grows, and does so in a sustainable, green way.”  

 

Alex will also become Chair of the Greater Manchester Low Carbon Hub, which brings together public, private, voluntary, and university and government representatives to develop carbon reduction and low carbon growth.

£27,527 in total was raised from the 2016 Salford Dragon Boat Festival. Highest fund raising team: "Stockport Transformers" from Stockport Homes with £4,174. Second highest teams: "Challenging Brute Strength" & "Ross's Rowers" from RBS who each raised £3,161.

For those new to dragon boating, it is a team building event that is quick to pick up, progressive in nature and ideal for both experienced crews and novices alike. It is one of the reasons why so may people who watch those Racing The Dragon, realise that it is one of those events ... that is just far too much fun to simply watch!

A dragon boat team is made up of between 13 - 20 team members, although a maximum sixteen paddlers and a drummer will be allowed to compete in any one race. The extra members are because each team will have several races during the day. if you are a small team and down on numbers, the drummer (even another paddler) can always be borrowed from another team.

Racing is over the whole length of Ontario Dock, which is around 180 meters and each team will have a minimum three timed races where their single fastest time only will count for Grand Final qualification. What this means is, even if two of your races are both disasters, one great time is still all you need to be in with a good chance of going through to the Grand Final race.

Before each team's first race, teams will be given a safety briefing and also instruction on the technique used. One person paddling a canoe - simple. Up to sixteen people paddling a dragon boat together ... not so simple.

Team work is vital if a fast time is going to be achieved and for this reason, the instructors will also give 'on the water' training to help with technique. Over the distance we race, fitness is not a key factor - technique however is. So it does not matter if your team is made up of just 12 paddlers or the full 16, because it's a team sprint where team work and timing is everything. What you will be aiming to achieve is an opportunity to compete in the last race of the day ... the Grand Final. This will be a race where all the dragon boats that can be safey raced together will race one last time and first across will be declared: Dragon Boat Champions of Salford 2017.

The event will finish with our award ceremony where team trophies were awarded to the Captain's of the top three teams and Winner's Meadals to each member of the winning team. It's a brilliant day out.

Charity Fundraising

Being a charity fund raising event, each team is asked to nominate a charity and for each team member to raise at least £50 for the team's charity. As part of the fund raising process, each team Captain will need to set up a fund raising page with a recognised online provider (Just Giving, Virgin Money Giving, BT Donate etc.) and email their page's link to their team members. We will also need the link, which will be posted by your team's name in the Team Entry table below.

Each team member will then be able to pay their sponsorship via card using this link and for tax payers, to click the 'Gift Aid' box on the form. Gift Aid is a government funded refund based on the size of your donation (they are giving back the tax value on your donation) and NOT something extra you will be paying, so please make sure you tick the box.

At the award ceremony (where trophies for the top three teams and winner's medals for the winning team will be presented), we will also let everyone know just how much was raised by all the teams and ... which teams raised the most!

On the registration form, there will be a drop-down box where around 50 previously supported charities are listed. You can nominate any one of these or one of your own. The only requirement is that your nominated charity must be registered with the Charity's Commission.

Programme for the 2017 Festival:

09:00 - Registration open

09:35 - Team photo-shoots to start

09:55 - Registration closes

10:00 - Event start and introduction.

10:03 - First teams called up for safety briefings.

10:33 - Start of Race 1.

12:37 - Start of Race 2.

14:07 - Start of Race 3.

15:50 - Grand Final Race

16:05 - Award ceremony and prize giving.

16:00 - Festival End

Please note: these times subject to change in the event of windy weather or a capsize.

For information on team sizes and how to enter, please click here.

The trees have been planted along on the busy Eccles New Road, a main thoroughfare into both Manchester and Salford centres, via the M602, as well as being a key route into MediaCityUK.

The sweetgum trees have been planted across both sides of the road, creating an avenue effect, and have improved 625 metres of path – equating to over a third of a mile.

The trees, also known as liquidambar, have amazing autumn colour, and have been planted as part of City of Trees and improve the quality of the environment across Greater Manchester.

The ambitious movement aims to plant 3 million trees – one for every man, woman and child in Greater Manchester, over the next generation.

Through their Green Streets planting programme City of Trees aims to green grey streets and transform the look and feel of the urban environment, making the places that people live and work more attractive.

Kevin Wigley, City of Trees comments “As well as planting thousands of trees and creating new community woodlands we also want to improve the look and feel of our urban areas.”

He adds; “Trees deliver a huge range of benefits from tackling air pollution and combatting climate change to providing a home for wildlife. We believe they are essential to the future of our cities and towns”.

The City of Trees team are leading the way on street tree planting in Greater Manchester using sustainable innovative planting techniques to deliver high quality projects that maximise the tree’s long term health and vitality.

The team behind the movement has retrofitted nearly 5,000 street trees across Greater Manchester since 2001 through their Green Streets programme.

High impact trees have been planted in key locations such as Chepstow Street, Tariff Street, Whitworth Street West, Albert Square, Stevenson Square, and Princess Street in Manchester City Centre as well as St. Petersgate in Stockport town centre, part of the towns £1billion regeneration programme.

Kevin Wigley, City of Trees, comments “We are thrilled with the new trees which have helped bring greenery and improved biodiversity to the urban environment as well as creating a pedestrian friendly tree line route”.

Home Secretary, Amber Rudd said: “Every day, our police officers and staff go out to work not knowing what they might face, but do so with the utmost professionalism and bravery. We all owe them a huge debt of gratitude.

“That bravery was plain for everyone to see in the phenomenal response of the police to the shocking events in Westminster back in March, as a result of which PC Keith Palmer tragically lost his life.

“It is entirely fitting that those officers and staff who give their lives in the line of duty should be remembered with a lasting tribute. The Government has already committed £1m towards the UK Police Memorial and I hope the public also take this campaign to their hearts and recognise the importance of establishing a permanent place of remembrance.”

The UK Police Memorial will see:

A physical memorial established, set in a beautiful landscaped garden, inscribed with the names of over 1,400 police officers and staff who have died from injuries they sustained whilst carrying out their lawful duties.

The first memorial in the world to merge a physical and digital presence, that tells the story of policing and those behind the badge who have paid with their lives.

A programme developed for schools and colleges to inform pupils and students about the history of our police service and the part it plays in today’s society.

A memorial that aims to foster a greater understanding and reconnection with the public and to bring back a sense of pride and value once more in UK policing.

A memorial where the names of officers and staff who may be killed on duty in future years can be added and remembered.

The establishment of a Living Memorial fund that can support the families of officers and staff killed on duty in the future.

Chair of the UK Police Memorial Trust, Sir Hugh Orde said: “PC Palmer’s death has put greater emphasis on the need to create a place where the nation can honour and commemorate our police service and where family, friends and colleagues of those killed on duty can go to carry out personal acts of remembrance.

“The NMA is the place where the nation can go to remember our services and the men and women who have been killed in the course of their duty for their country.

“We need to establish a fitting memorial that recognises the vital contribution that policing makes to our society and acknowledges the courage and sacrifice made by police officers and police staff who have paid the ultimate price. That tribute must become part of the fabric of our national life.”

Today’s fundraising campaign is launched in partnership with the national news talk radio station LBC and Express Newspapers.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “It’s only right and fitting that we show our support for such an important memorial. Policing protects the freedoms of the country and in doing this there are times when officers lose their lives.

“Officers across the country, including those in Greater Manchester, go out every day not knowing what situation they will face but remaining committed to protecting the communities that they serve. This shows immense bravery. It’s so important that we pay tribute to those officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and that we give their loved ones somewhere to remember and pay their respects to them.”

LBC breakfast presenter Nick Ferrari said: “After the tragic events in London which resulted in the death of a brave police officer, there can surely be no better time to remember the sacrifices that officers like he and others have given down the years. This is our opportunity to thank the brave men and women who stand on the front line for our security twenty-four hours a day, every day of the week and every week of the year.”

Paul Ashford, Editorial Director from Express Newspapers said: “We are backing the memorial because Daily and Sunday Express readers recognise the role of the police in protecting our community sometimes even at the cost of their own lives, and agree that the heroism and sacrifice of thousands of policemen and women should have a national memorial of the highest order at the National Arboretum.”

Further information about the Memorial, how to make a donation or take part in fundraising activity can be found at the UK Police Memorial website www.ukpolicememorial.org Anyone making a donation of more than £20 will receive a black and white Sillitoe wristband inscribed with the words ‘courage and sacrifice’.

in a statement Salford Library services said.....

In light of the recent cyber attacks as a precaution we are upgrading the security of our IT systems immediately.

This means that there is currently no access to Public PCs until this work has been completed.

We apologise for the inconvenience but I’m sure you understand that the security of our systems is vital.

Computers at Salford libraries are FREE to use. We can offer basic help in using the computers and there are computer classes for beginners in some libraries.

Colour or black and white printing is also available for a small charge and some libraries have scanners for you to scan your documents and photos. You can even download files from the internet and save them onto your own memory stick. Please bring your memory stick with you if you want to save any documents, or if you want to we also sell them in all libraries.

We think it is important that our computers are accessible for all to use so we have screen magnifier and text to speech software, adapted keyboards and height adjustable desks.

Children can also use the computers, we just ask for parental consent and that children aged 0-7 years are accompanied by a parent or carer.

You do not need to book (although it is advisable at busy periods) and there are self-service terminals in most libraries.  You can book a computer online up to one week in advance.

Please note: all computers will go off 15 minutes before the library closes.

Salford artist Philip Westcott will be exhibiting his artwork at the cornerstone on the 8th of June. There will also be an opportunity to meet with the artist himself on May 18th between 6pm and 7:30pm.

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Now that I have an extra large room available in my house I decided to move my studio into it.
This also gave me a chance to sort out my earlier paintings.

Having exhibited with The "Art of Salford" group at the Cornerstone I was lucky enough to be offered a solo show there this May, when someone who had booked it dropped out.

This has given me a chance to reflect on my past themes and put up a selection of these for the public. Also, as these don't fit in with my present themes, they can be reasonably priced. I was fortunate to even sell four paintings whilst hanging them, which is pleasing!

The work shows my development as an artist from my early demolition scenes near Liverpool Road to my Salford Precinct and Manchester Arndale studies and finally my Holiday pictures. Although I'm not sure I could show some of my topless sunbathers in this family environment!

Finally, I have included some of my trial prints for my digital drawings before printing them on aluminium.

The Pink Picnic is Salford's annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT+) Pride Celebration. The event is FREE and this year will be held in The Meadow, Salford.

This years event will feature the main stage, expo stalls, food vendors, a bar and children's area. 

Acts confirmed: Angie Brown, Divina De Campo and Sal Ford. More to be announced!

There will also be inflatables for children as well as face painting and information stalls. 

This is a free event with donations gratefully welcomed

Stalls

If your organisation would like to have a stall, there are only a few remaining so please email info@peelparkpinkpicnic.org.uk as soon as possible.