A former nursing home in a Salford conservation area is to be extended and converted into a religious education hub.

The derelict two-storey care home building at Lower Broughton Road in Broughton will become a complex of three apartments and a Yeshiva – for boys of the Hasidic Jewish faith aged between 16 and 18.

It will focus on the teaching of religious texts through classes and lectures. 

The community will also be able to use the Beis Hamedrash space to study.

Capacity will be limited to 40 students with three full-time staff, operating between 7am to 8pm with occasional opening until 11pm for worship during religious events.

Members of the city’s planning and transportation regulatory panel approved the plans despite objections from nearby residents.

One said there had been insufficient consultation with the local community while another said the building would be an ‘eyesore’.

Meanwhile, one said:

Quote

“There are several schools in the vicinity. There is an over-concentration of such uses, which makes the area feel like a campus and not a residential area.”

Another said:

Quote

 

“The traffic and disruption will impact on lives. Traffic calming measures like yellow lines and speed bumps slow vehicles down making it harder for residents to use their own cars.”

“This is a faith school,” said one. “It will operate on a Sunday when the area should be quiet and peaceful. This erodes the character of the area.”

 

However, the plan was unanimously approved by the panel. Coin John Warmisham said:

Quote

 

“I welcome this. I drive past this horrendous building every day. 

“To see something like this come forward can only be welcomed. It is much needed in the area.”

 

But Coun Warmisham did recommend some ‘junction protection’ around nearby Griffin Street and Oak Road which he said was ‘very narrow’.

Coun Mike McCusker said while he ‘understands’ residents’ concerns he particularly liked the way the application had been brought to the panel, taking in their fears and reversing a proposal to fell four trees.

And he added:

Quote

“Wouldn’t it be great if all planning applications did that, and everyone ended up happy with the outcome?”

Salford City Council has announced the appointment of Melissa Caslake as Executive Director of Children’s Services (DCS).

Melissa Caslake was appointed to the interim post at the authority after the departure of Charlotte Ramsden in January 2023.

Tom Stannard, chief executive said:

Quote

 

“I am delighted that Melissa Caslake is remaining with us in the permanent post of Executive Director of Children’s Services (DCS).

“She has brought a wealth of experience and knowledge from comparable roles as a DCS for a number of local authorities including Devon and the bi-borough arrangements between Kensington and Chelsea and the City of Westminster.

“This is a key leadership post to deliver the highest quality and most effective children’s services for the city and champion the needs and improved outcomes for children and young people. Melissa will work alongside our political and officer leadership as well as partners to deliver our core priorities and commitments to children and young people. 

“She complements and completes our strong leadership team in children’s services and shares our Spirit of Salford ethos.”

 

Melissa Caslake said:

Quote

“I am very pleased to have been appointed to the permanent DCS role in Salford. Since January I have been undertaking the interim role so I already know what so many great teams are doing to get the best outcomes for children. I am looking forward to building on these existing strengths and working with my teams, across the council and with partners, families and communities to ensure children in Salford thrive."

A Salford councillor who helped to feed more than 1,500 through the Covid-19 pandemic has been recognised by the King and Queen Consort as part of the official Coronation celebrations.

Sammie Bellamy founded and volunteers with For The Love of Food Salford and has been recognised for her contribution and crowned a ‘Coronation Champion’.

It has been awarded by the Royal couple in conjunction with the Royal Voluntary Service.

This follows a call out to the nation to nominate their volunteer heroes. Almost 5,000 entries were received, with nominations made for individuals aged 14 up to 103.

Coun Bellamy was said to impress judges with her ‘hard work and dedication, feeding more than 1,500 people per week through the Covid-19 pandemic as well as more than 500 over 65s over five days with her 5 Days of Christmas project’.

Camilla, the Queen Consort is said to be a passionate advocate of volunteering and is president of the Royal Voluntary Service.

The Coronation Champions Awards were launched to recognise exceptional volunteers from across the country at this momentous point in history. Across the UK, 500 Champions dazzled the judging panel with the impact of their work, their inspirational stories and unwavering commitment to volunteering.

All Coronation Champions, including Coun Bellamy have been invited to attend one of the official Coronation celebrations, such as the Windsor Castle Coronation Concert or a Coronation Garden Party. They will also receive a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a certificate signed by Their Majesties.

Coun Bellamy said:

Quote

 

“I am overwhelmed to receive this prestigious award. I love helping people and believe no one should be left behind or should have to do without that was the reason behind the creation of For The Love of Food Salford CIC (Community Interest Company0.

“It’s a real honour to be recognised for hard work but none of this work would have been possible without the support of my family and friends and the amazing volunteers who have helped over the last three years or the amazing supermarkets that have donated excess food so we can feed those in need. This award is for us all.”

 

Royal Voluntary Service chief executive Catherine Johnstone said:

Quote

 

“We were completely blown away by the response to the Community Champions Awards and the huge volume of amazing nominees put forward.

“Our judges had a tough job selecting just 500 Champions from an array of thousands of inspirational individuals, who all deserve to be recognised and commended.“

 “Each of our Coronation Champions displayed a commitment and contribution that far exceeds any expectation and we’re overjoyed to honour and thank them during this exciting point in history.”

 

People feeling inspired to try volunteering themselves are encouraged to take part in The Big Help Out on Monday May 8. The Big Help Out is another official Coronation project, aiming to encourage newcomers to volunteer, bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation weekend.

A councillor has urged a mystery eco-warrior who has laid claim to an abandoned graveyard to come forward – so he can be billed for years of maintenance work by the town hall. 

Councillor John Mullen has sent the message to the man who allegedly paid for the gates to the Barton Upon Irwell Roman Catholic Graveyard to be repaired, before locking them with a padlock and putting up a ‘no trespassing’ sign.

Coun Mullen, who lives near the cemetery in Eccles, has emailed the address on the sign asking the person to make himself known.

He wrote:

Quote

 

“I note that you have placed a sign on the gates that suggest that you now own the land as only the land owner could press trespass charges.

“Please could you confirm title and an address where Salford city council can invoice you for the past works cutting back vegetation from the highway for the last 20 years?

“I look forward to your response.”

 

Coun Mullen told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS):

Quote

“I have not received a response yet, but we need to know who this is.”

The saga unfolded after amateur historian Craig Ellis wrote to the POPE over concerns the graveyard – last used for a burial in 1940 – was becoming a drug and alcohol den.

Craig, 52, has discovered that the cemetery was once owned by the de Trafford family. When they bequeathed it to the Catholic church, the paperwork was never completed, meaning it effectively belongs to no one.

The IT consultant is also worried that the mystery may take control of the graveyard with a view to securing ownership and developing the site.

Craig says he has also tried to find out who the person is by emailing the address on the no trespassing sign and asked if people can visit graves in the cemetery – and received a ‘no’ in an email.  

The metal gate contractor, who asked not to be named, has told the LDRS he met the man at the gates on Peel Green Road about three weeks ago. 

He fixed the hinges, painted the gates and put a padlock on, and was paid by bank transfer from a personal account, he added.

An amateur historian has locked up an abandoned graveyard in a bid to flush out the person or organisation that appears to be trying to take control of it.

Craig Ellis reckons the Barton Upon Irwell Roman Catholic Graveyard – last used for burial in 1940 – is now vulnerable to ‘unscrupulous developers’ because it appears that no one owns it.

Under property law, someone who takes over unclaimed land and manages it for five years can effectively take ownership of it.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) reported a few weeks ago that Craig had written to the Pope over concerns that the freely-accessible graveyard was becoming a drugs and alcohol den.

After that, a mystery man called ‘Luke’ contracted a local company to restore the gates and put his own padlock on along with a ‘no trespassing’ sign.

Craig has since tried to find out who this person is by emailing an address on the sign – cleanupyourarea@yahoo.com from an organisation called Clean Co – and asked if people can visit graves in the cemetery and received a ‘no’ in an email.  Luke has also launched a GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/HelpingUsToHelpYou to raise cash for the graveyard but has so far refused to reveal his own identity.

IT consultant Craig has responded by getting his own padlock and installing it on the gate but says he will unlock it for any member of the public needing to gain access.

The metal gate contractor, who does not want to be named, has told the LDRS that he met Luke at the gates on Peel Green Road about three weeks ago. 

He fixed the hinges, painted the gates and put a padlock on, and was paid by bank transfer from a personal account.

The contactor said:

Quote

“Luke told me he was intending to manage the land for five years and put in for a ‘reserve’ for the land.”

That news set alarm bells ringing for Craig, 52.

He said:

Quote

 

“I think the person who has placed the lock on the new gate has a ‘possible’ intention to block anyone from access under the pretension of ‘site maintenance’ then to claim squatters rights after a number of years, as per UK law as the site is not land registered.

“I think Salford city council should be made aware as it could be too late in the future if they leave the site as is.

“Also, you have to consider the public right to be updated and to be given access when needed to the graves.

“I think by placing my own lock on the gate it may force the hand of Mr Luke and Clean Co to come forward and be honest with the public regarding who they are, who are they acting for and what their intentions are.

“Once the public is made aware and given access rights when needed and there is no plan for them to claim squatters rights and Salford city council are happy with their plan then we can all progress happily.

“At this point, I’ll remove my own lock. I stress if the public need access I’ll remove my own lock for anyone, which is the opposite to what Luke has said to me via email who said: ‘Unfortunately access to the public is NOT permitted at this point in time as the land is currently undergoing maintenance until further notice’."

 

Craig continued: 

Quote

 

“It’s possible he’s attempting to take control of the land with a view to developing it at a later stage, which I find quite alarming,” he said.

“I want the graveyard looked after and respected for what it is, a place where entire families and many priests are buried.”

 

And Craig stressed he bears Luke ‘no ill will’. “I just want him to be open and transparent about what his intentions with the graveyard are,” he said. “It could be that his motives are entirely laudable, but we need to know whether or not that is the case.”

Craig said he is also disappointed that although it’s been established that the graveyard is not owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Salford, that they ‘do not seem to be interested in the issue’.

“All the people buried in there are Roman Catholics, some entire families, and many priests,” he said. “Surely, that should be a reason to get involved.”

The Diocese have so far refused to comment other than to say it does not own the graveyard.

The LDRS has also contacted Luke by email and he responded with: 

Quote

 

“My name is Luke and I am a member of the Eccles community.

“I’m here maintaining the land at Barton Upon Irwell Cemetery after a long time being left. It would be greatly appreciated if any donations can be made, whether it be money, spare tools, a removals van, bin bags, a helping hand, a skip or anything else you think would help us make Eccles a better place.”

 

He said in his email he would contact the LDRS ‘after the Easter holidays’ but so far has not done so.

The 30 metre by 30 metre cemetery was formerly owned by the de Trafford family, who were big landowners around Peel Green for hundreds of years.

But when the family offloaded the burial ground to the Catholic church in the 19th century, the necessary paperwork for ownership to be secured was never completed, meaning the graveyard is now owned by no one.

Emergency services descended on the petrol station at Morrisons in Eccles this morning (26th April) following reports of a gas leak.

A cordon was put in place but has since been removed.

The focus seemed to be around a collection of gas tanks to the side of the petrol station, with engineers from Cadent on site assisting.

Fire teams attended and were seen using hoses sprayed into the air to dissipate the gas, they have since left the scene.

The petrol station remains closed at the time of reporting but is due to reopen soon.

A spokesperson for GMFRS, said:

Quote

 

“Just after 6.30am this morning (Wednesday 26 April) we were called to a petrol station at Irwell Place, Eccles, in response to reports of a suspected gas leak.

“Two fire engines from Salford and Eccles fire stations were quickly mobilised to the scene. Firefighters have been working alongside colleagues from Cadent to isolate equipment on the site and ensure the area is safe.

“Crews remain in attendance at this time."

 

Lurching through Morrisons car park this morning When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden scooters, well not all golden obviously in fact none were but, bear with me.

I was transported back to my gilded youth when I was the possessor of several scooters (OK not all mine as Paul Kenny and the Headmaster at De Las Salle School will testify, in fact he did!).

I started off with a Lambretta 125 LD which was like driving a tank, then a Li 150 and for a glorious week in Summer a TV 175 which belonged to a pal John Brady who had kindly loaned it me, and yes he was aware that I had it.

My swan song involved a Zundap Bella scooter and the doors of The Weaste Hotel pub, I have drawn a veil on that episode.

Today's meeting was organised by The Salford Knights Scooter Club who do an annual run to Salford Quays every St Georges Day, with scooters both old and new taking part and it is a fantastic sight.

So if you have a love for all things Mod, scooters, Parkas, Tonic suits, Fred Perry's, Tootal scarfs, the music and the attitude then get on down to Salford Quays today.

Think of Jimmy in Quadrophenia... channel that spirit and enjoy this day

Hot from the oven comes Dave Hill's latest culinary delight, he's only gone and baked an Eccles Pie.. yes you read that correctly, Eccles Pie.

We were invited down to sample this delicacy which comes after the success of Dave's Salford Reds Pie and the mighty Salford Pie.

This little beauty is basically... cabbage, ribs, mash, butter beans, white sauce and and a soupcon of mustard for that added bite and before you ask there are no bones or ribs in it! that would be silly if not dangerous.

Dave explains all in the short video whilst in the course of duty have to sample it... and yes it's delicious as can be expected.

They will be available from today Saturday 22nd April at The Leaf Bean Pod Cafe, corner off Cawdor Street and Trafford Road, Barton, Eccles.

Form an orderly queue please.

The Manchester office of law firm Shoosmiths has raised thousands of pounds for a city charity which aims to combat poverty and homelessness.

A family fun day organised by the firm, which included a charity football match against TV soap stars, raised nearly £3,700 of funding for Mustard Tree.

Jet2 Allstars, who are made up of soap stars past and present, faced off against Shoosmiths’ lawyers and representatives from the charity in the special match, which was hosted at Monton AFC, alongside face painting, raffles, and food stalls.

The Jet2All Stars line-up on the day featured stars from Coronation Street, Hollyoaks and Emmerdale alongside celebrity friends, and included Alan Halsall, Nick Culkin, Nick Pickard, Jay Kontzle, Rhodri Giggs, Rishi Nair, Chris Perry Metcalf and Ashley Taylor Dawson.

Meanwhile, the Shoosmiths' Superstars team were proud to welcome Bader Ayed, who was a professional footballer in Kuwait before arriving in the UK in January 2022 where he was seeking asylum.

Bader is currently enrolled on Mustard Tree’s “Freedom Project”, training in the coffee shop for two days a week and is undertaking computer confidence and ESOL (English lessons) and aspires to become a football coach in Manchester. 

The Jet2AllStars won the match by 5 to 2 and were awarded with the Shoosmiths' Community Cup.

Mustard Tree, who have been Shoosmiths’ designated office charity for the last year, works to create opportunities for people to help themselves through providing practical support, friendship, connections into work, improvements to health and wellbeing plus new experiences to encourage aspiration. Recently, the demand for services provided by Mustard Tree has reached an unprecedented level - each month they are seeing footfall of almost 10,000 people.

Robert Nieri, charity lawyer for Shoosmiths said:

Quote

 

“The fun day was a great success, not just in terms of the numbers who turned up from the local community, or for the money raised for Mustard Tree, but because it epitomised the Shoosmiths’ approach of working together – not only within the firm, but with our clients, contacts, charity partner and the wider community - to make a positive impact. 

"We are hopeful that the inaugural Shoosmiths' Community Cup can become an annual fixture in the Manchester sporting calendar."

 

Jo Walby, CEO of Mustard Tree said:

Quote

“We are so thrilled with the support from the Shoosmiths team, and it was great to see everyone coming together for a family fun day out. Thank you to everyone involved in this incredible event. Next time we hope to leave as the winning team with the Community Cup!”

Anyone who would like to support the work of Mustard Tree can join the High Fivers here

MP for Salford and Eccles Rebecca Long Bailey visited the Salford Community Leisure’s Helly Hansen Watersports Centre on Salford Quays on Thursday 20 April to help highlight issues around water safety and promote water safety education.

Ms Long Bailey met with Michael Wardle, who is a Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) lifeguard, to discuss the importance of water safety education.

RLSS UK, a national charity who provides free water safety education, believes that water safety education should be on the curriculum in schools to equip all children with the right skills and knowledge to safely enjoy a lifetime of fun in the water.

During the visit, Ms Long Bailey said:

Quote

 

“Devastatingly, over the last few years, lives have tragically been lost in the waters at Salford Quays. The police and Salford council have been working hard to increase patrols and to inform visitors about water safety measures, as well as currently undertaking an independent review into water safety, but education is also a key part of ensuring water safety.

I thank the Royal Life Saving Society UK and its volunteers, in providing free water safety education to our community. This is vital for informing the many people who visit the Quays each year of the dangers open waters present, especially during the hot summer months.”

 

The Royal Life Saving Society UK produces lesson plans and resources for teachers at both primary and secondary schools to use to integrate water safety into the curriculum. During the charity’s Drowning Prevention Week campaign in 2022, they were able to educate over 341,000 school children with the free downloadable school resources available. As well as this, the charity was able to engage with over 50 MPs in a water safety event at Westminster, with the hope that MPs raise the issue in their own constituencies.

Michael Wardle who led the session on behalf of RLSS UK said:

Quote

"The Royal Life Saving Society is the foremost drowning prevention charity. Our mission statement is "to help people stay safe in, on and around water". This is only achievable by the hard work of our volunteers. Partnership working is a major tool to achieve this. With the support of Salford Leisure Service, the RLSS has set up a seasonal Lifesaving club at Salford Quays, whose aim is to educate, inform, and reduce death by drowning.”

For further information on water safety, visit https://rlss.org.uk to download free education resources.

Photo ©: (left to right): Hollie Tatlock (Centre Manager), Rebecca Long-Bailey (MP for Salford and Eccles), Mike Wardle (RLSS North West Ambassador), and Cheryl (RLSS volunteer lifeguard in Salford)

Jo Salim, who works for local landlord ForHousing and helps people to keep a roof over their heads, has won the Public Servant of the Year Award at the Spirit of Salford Community Awards.

Organised by Salford City Council, the awards celebrate local people making a difference in their community.

Jo is part of ForHousing’s Tenancy Sustainment Service (TSS), which works with tenants in need of extra support to look after their homes and keep their tenancy on track.

Jo had been nominated secretly by a tenant who wanted to thank her for her dedication and hard work in helping others, describing Jo as an “angel of life”.

Jo said:

Quote

“It felt just brilliant even to be nominated, so to have won really took me by surprise! I feel like I have won this award for the team and I'm so proud to put TSS on the map.”

Jo, who has been in her current role for about five years and was a housing officer for a decade before that, said:

Quote

 

“I've always done charity work and been involved in volunteering in my community, as well as for uni when I studied youth work.

“I was brought up to believe that we should ‘give and forget, receive and remember’ – so helping people comes naturally to me.

“For the council to recognise this makes me stop and think. It’s normal for me and my team – we’re just doing our job to help tenants – but it can be too easy to forget what a difference we are making in other people’s lives.”

 

Jo and her team work with tenants to develop a personalised support plan to help them turn their life around. Support put in place ranges from budgeting advice to coaching on life skills, and from wellbeing help to access to food banks.

Quote

 

“We are a small, dedicated team working with tenants with complex issues to maintain their tenancy. Over the last 12 months, the team has supported 96 tenants to sustain their tenancies and has maximised tenants’ short- and long-term income by £637,000 over the last 12 months.

“The people we work with are going through a really difficult time, maybe they've got mental health issues, or they are burying their head in the sand about challenges they are facing.

“We help people from all walks of life. Everyone from every background deserves help and it’s something I’m really passionate about.

“Being described as an ‘angel of life’ by the tenant who nominated me was really surreal. She was already only just getting by and then was furloughed in the pandemic, and lost family members to the virus too. I helped her get more support – just as I help others whose lives have taken a hit or just progressively gone downhill – but it’s a special feeling for that to be recognised.

“I'm privileged that people trust me with details of their personal life and that I can make a positive difference in their life thanks to the support ForHousing provides, and seeing these tenants thrive again is incredible.”

 

The progressive landlord, which owns and manages over 24,000 houses across the North West, puts tenants at the heart of everything they do to make more things possible for more people. 

Martyn Hague, Executive Director of Customer at ForHousing, said:

Quote

 

“We are all really proud of Jo – and more broadly of the whole team within the Tenancy Sustainment Service. They continually go above and beyond to support tenants to prevent homelessness and transform people’s lives.

“We understand things are really tough for a lot of our tenants right now. We have a wide range of support available and would urge anyone who is struggling with their finances to get in touch with us. We are here to help.”

 

For further information and advice call ForHousing on 0300 123 5522 or contact them via the website https://forhousing.co.uk

Every little thing he did was magic, he could light up a room with his presence and captivate an audience with his slight of hand and logic defying trickery, which on more than one occasion left our Tony Flynn scratching his head in disbelief at what his eyes had seen.

Jez was one part of a duo who were born to entertain and both he and his beloved Emma appeared twice on our Fred and Flynny shows after we begged them to return. Both of their appearances rank among our highest viewed shows and the viewers in Salford took them both into their hearts.

So it is especially painful as Salford Media today pays tribute to a dear friend, 'Mr Magic' himself, our very own 'Harry Potter', Jez Mansfield, who sadly passed away peacefully early on Thursday Morning, following hospitalisation due to the return of cancer which he had been in remission from for a number of years.

It is heart-breaking to think that just a week earlier Jez had married the long time love of his life, Emma Jane who took her place by his side, looking beautiful and resplendent as ever as they shared their nuptials at his hospital bed.

Both myself and Tony are utterly devastated to hear the news of his passing this morning and rightly so, we consider them both as good friends and we wish to share our love and pass on our sincerest condolences to both his wife Emma and his friends and family.

Tony Flynn, said:

Quote

 

"I am heartbroken to hear this news, from my first meeting with Jez and Emma I fell in love with them, the funniest, cleverest, kindest, loving, devoted and caring people I have met in years.

"I shall raise a glass of Salford Honey Rum tonight to Jez, the world has become a darker place without him!"

 

Carl Davison, Said:

Quote

 

"Both Jez and Emma meant the world to Tony and I, we adored them both equally.

"Our hearts are saddened this morning upon hearing the terrible news of Jez's passing and we both wish to extend our condolences to Emma and their families and friends at this time.

"Jez was truly magic in more ways than one, he was one of those people who could put you at ease within seconds and he instantly connected with all those he met.

"He was one of a kind and entertainment ran through his veins.

"The magic he brought to my heart will never be forgotten."

 

Salford City Council are amongst countless others who have paid tribute to local artist and celebrated son of Salford, Harold Riley, after hearing of his passing. As we reported yesterday, Salford Council was quick to lower the flag above the Civic Centre as it paid tribute to one of our cities finest sons.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

Quote

 

“It is with great sadness that I have recently heard of the passing of Harold Riley. The flag at Salford Civic Centre has been lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect for one of this city’s most famous sons and treasured artists. 

“In Salford we are incredibly lucky to have been blessed with two of Britain’s foremost artists of the 20th century – Harold Riley and L.S. Lowry, who were friends for 30 years, charting over 100 years of the social history of Salford through their art. Salford gave L.S. Lowry the freedom of the city in 1965 and 52 years later Harold Riley also followed his friend and accepted this prestigious honour.

“From the bottom of my heart I would like to thank Harold for all he has done for our great city, he had the true Spirit of Salford with a deep love for the people, communities and an unwavering commitment to his city, Salford.

“Harold was a humble eloquent man with a great sense of humour and with the ability to put everyone at ease particularly through his many stories about his life in Salford and wider experiences travelling the world as an artist.

“Harold was a very generous man contributing to numerous good causes across the City over his lifetime. The list is long, but to name just one, Harold donated 100 original works to Salford Royal Hospital along with 100 prints of these works that are now on display around the hospital to support patients and staff.

“He will be sorely missed, and Salford is very much the worse for his passing – Rest in Peace Harold.”

 

Tom Stannard, Chief Executive at Salford City Council said: 

Quote

“Harold was a renowned artist, known throughout the world but he remained devoted to his home city. He was given the Freedom of Salford in 2017 and after the ceremony had the opportunity to drive a small flock of sheep up the Crescent.”

Harold sold his first painting in the City Art Gallery when he was just 11 years old. And from this he went on to  receive recognition from across the world for commissioned portraits of princes, popes and presidents, including Nelson Mandela, Prince Phillip and John F Kennedy.

Nelson Mandela had six lengthy sittings with Harold over 18 months in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The portrait he created was unveiled in 2005 and raised more than $1m for South African children’s charities at auction in New York.

Some of Harold’s work is currently on display at Salford Museum and Art Gallery whom made the following statement:

Quote

 

At Salford Museum & Art Gallery, we are incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Salford artist Harold Riley. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.

Harold has been a huge part of Salford Museum & Art Gallery over the years, not only through his wonderful personality but also in his artistic contribution. Born in Salford in 1934, he sold his first painting to the museum aged 11, a sale engineered by his friend L S Lowry, and the museum then went on to purchase other works over the years as he became world-famous.

As well as painting well-known figures, he spent much of his time recording the lives of people in Salford, and the significant changes to the city, through painting, photography and drawing. This love for Salford was reflected in his work and he enjoyed close links with the museum over the years, popping in frequently as he worked from his nearby studio.

In 2017, Harold Riley was given the freedom of Salford, honouring the creative and cultural impact he has made on his home city.

We are honoured to hold a number of Harold’s works in our collection and even more so to have some pieces currently on display as part of our exhibition ‘Exploring the Collection’, which is open until 30th April.

Harold will be greatly missed.

 

Meanwhile, Art of Salford organiser Tony Easom said:

Quote

 

We have always admired his work.

I often visited the shop at the Lowry Outlet, which served as a gallery for his work.

He once did a doodle for Janet, Lisa's sister and my sister in law whilst shopping at the Lowry at a shop she worked at We met him only once at the opening of The Tea'osk in Lightoaks Park, where we were also the first customers with our grandson, Nick, he was very engaging with everyone at the event.

A truely loved Salford gentleman and recognised artist throughout our city and beyond, he will be sadly missed by so many.

 

Fellow, Salford Artist, Broady, told us:

Quote

 

Harold Riley was such an influence not just on my art but the way I thought about Salford.

His pictures had a warmth and a love of a city that was undergoing a great social and cultural change with most of Victorian Salford being bulldozed in the great slum clearance programme which not only swept away all our architecture and terraced streets but it swept away a lot of the family and friends and local characters that brought those places to life.

I was fortunate enough to meet Harold and chat with him a few times over recent years and he was such a lovely man, a real gentleman.

He oozed a love of Salford and its people and always took the time to chat about his pictures, Lowry and life in Salford.

I will really miss just knowing he's around, sat in his gallery chatting to visitors and scribbling little drawings. He is up there with Lowry and is part of Salford's heritage. My sincerest condolences go to all his family in particular his daughter Kate at this sad time.

 

Public pressure is mounting for the historic Barton Swing Bridge which links Trafford to the Eccles area of Salford to be restored.

A petition lodged several years ago on the Change.org website has now reached more than 9,000 signatures. 

https://www.change.org/p/peel-ports-holdings-restore-historical-barton-road-bridge-before-it-is-too-late

The Grade II listed bridge is owned by Peel Ports and the petition claims it is being ‘left to rot away’.

Posted by Phil Franks, it calls for it to be restored ‘before it is too late’.

Quote

“It is now in severe need of re-painting and rot treatment, as it is literally crumbling away,” he writes.

His campaign is being supported by Barton and Winton councillor John Mullen, who lives a stone’s throw from the bridge. 

Quote

“I support the petition in trying to save an important heritage asset,” he said. “I’ve reached out to Phil Franks, but he has never responded to me.”

Councillor Mullen said that Peel and Salford city council officers were in ‘back and forth’ dialogue about the bridge.

Quote

“It’s a piece of history and there’s even more history behind it,” he said. “It’s well known to be the first swinging bridge of its kind. It’s an amazing piece of Victorian engineering and it’s just rusting away.”

However, he said there were fears that any renovation project could result in the bridge being closed to traffic for up to nine months, creating chaos for people travelling across Manchester Ship Canal.

Quote

“That would be a major problem for local commuters,” he said. “But a solution needs to be found.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Salford city council said: 

Quote

 

“We do appreciate and understand the feelings of local people on this issue. 

“Barton Swing Bridge is owned and maintained by Peel Ports (Manchester Ship Canal Company). 

“Officers from Salford city council are in early discussions with Peel Ports about their maintenance and repair of the bridge but no decisions have been made at this stage.”

 

The swing bridge was built during the construction of Manchester Ship Canal and opened to traffic on January 1 1894.

By the 1930s, the bridge had become a significant bottleneck for workers in Trafford Park who commuted over the bridge on foot or bicycle, particularly during peak hours.

It also became an important route for goods vehicles heading to Trafford Park across Lancashire and for parishioners in Eccles travelling to Mass at All Saints Church on the canal’s south side.

By the 1950s the bridge had become part of the outer ring road, forming part of the route from Stretford to Bolton, avoiding both Manchester and Salford.

Peel Ports have been contacted for comment.

Photo ©: LDRS

Two new tenants have confirmed moves to Salford, signalling further success in the letting market for Salford City Council at the New Bailey.

It’s a positive start to quarter one for the development, with combined lease agreements of over 44,000 sqft across the two buildings. The deals are the number one and two biggest leasing agreements in the city centre in quarter one.

Matillion, the dual headquartered cloud and data technology company based in Denver and Altrincham have agreed a deal to relocate their northwest office to Two New Bailey adjacent to Spinningfields.

In addition, the Competition and Markets Authority, the government body responsible for  helping people, businesses and the UK economy by promoting competitive markets and tackling unfair behaviour will also be calling Salford their home.

Matillion will be taking just over 27,000 sqft from Salford City Council over the seventh and part sixth floors on a ten year lease on what is the largest deal of quarter one this year in the city centre. They will be joining Eversheds, Clyde and Co and Cellnex UK in the building. Only one and a half floors now remain available within the property.

The fitout will provide an engaging, productive, comfortable space that will include a feature link staircase between the floors designed to create an inclusive and collaborative environment. Oktra will be responsible for undertaking the fitout on behalf of Matillion.

For the CMA, the deal will see them lease the whole of the fourth floor of One New Bailey comprising 17,281 sqft, making it the second largest deal in the city centre in quarter one 2023 after Matillion.

New Bailey continues to go from strength to strength having already attracted the likes of BT, HMRC and most recently the Competitions and Marketing Agency at One New Bailey. 

JLL and Myerson solicitors acted on behalf of Matillion in the acquisition. Salford City Council were represented by Cushman and Wakefield and CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang.

The CMA join Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer Solicitors, Dentsu Aegis, WH Ireland, Shawbrook Bank, Circle Recruitment, Allegis and Benchmark International leaving just two suites of 3,490 sqft and 8,450 sqft available.

Chief Executive Tom Stannard from Salford City Council said:

Quote

 

“I’m as excited, as I’m sure they are to be welcoming both Matillion and the Competition and Markets Authority to New Bailey. It’s further positive news for our property portfolio and in particular this development, which has already attracted other big names recently.

These confirmed leases are testament to our commitment as a council to offering office space that meets the needs of a variety of businesses. They are a reflection of the amazing work our teams and delivery partners are doing in not only creating these amazing spaces, but also in showcasing them, as well as attracting and securing new tenants. I’m delighted with the current successes we are seeing and look to announcing further agreements in the future too.”

 

Photo ©: Salford City Council

A team of seven athletes aged 13-to-15 from the City of Salford Synchronised Swim Team has been crowned the best in the UK.

The team, coached by Jess Fletcher won the National Youth Team gold award at the Artistic Swimming National Age Group Championships earlier this Spring.

This is the first time the group, which trains at Irlam and Cadishead Leisure Centre has won a team gold medal at championship level, which sees around 130 swimmers attending to compete over two days every year.

The team had to show five hybrids and three acrobatic movements throughout their routine and were marked on execution, artistic impression and difficulty which resulted in a combined score of 119.7415 - almost 5 full points ahead of the rest of the competitors.

The winning synchro team are Sophie Flemming (14), Frankie Derbyshire (14), Lotti Horsman (14), Ailsa Fox (15), Lena Ramanah-Beck (13), Neve Lambert (14) and Grace Jenkins (14) all from Salford.

The team picked up another medal at the leading annual swimming event which was bronze in the National Youth Duet (for ages 13-15). In the Solo category, Lena Ramanah-Beck finished 5th and Sophie Flemming finished 10th out of 127 swimmers.

In the 12-and-under Duet event, the team’s youngest swimmers, Abbie Pullen, Zosia Holyniewska and reserve athlete Eleanor Burlinson, all aged 12, finished in 6th place and this marks the first time in six years’ that there has been Salford representation in this event.

Jess Fletcher, Head Coach of City of Salford Synchronised Swim Team, said:

Quote

‘I’m so proud of the team’s hard work and commitment and the fantastic results speak for themselves. The collective passion for synchro, teamwork, and friendship shines through and we are all so happy for the team’.

Paul Bland, Sport & Leisure Manager at Salford Community Leisure, says:

Quote

‘Congratulations to Head Coach Jess, her team of coaches and all the swimmers. The team have shown that with hard work, dedication, and passion, you can achieve great things.’

Photo ©: Salford Community Leisure

Police in Salford are asking for the publics help in locating a wanted man from Salford.

George James Heaton (10/04/1971) was released from prison in December 2022 after being jailed for having an offensive weapon in public.

He is wanted on recall to prison after breaching the conditions of his licence.

Anybody with information regarding the whereabouts of George James Heaton should contact police on 0161 856 5265 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police have launched an appeal for help in finding a missing man from Eccles.

Adam Hodson (15/09/1987) was released from prison in March 2021 after being jailed for 6 months for burglary offences.

Hodson is known to have links to the Salford area of Greater Manchester.

Anybody with information regarding the whereabouts of Adam Hodson should contact police on 0161 856 5265 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Bradley (aged 36) was last seen at around 8:45am on Friday 14 April 2023 on Mayflower Avenue in Salford.

He is described as a white male, medium build, 6ft tall with blonde/ginger hair wearing black Adidas trousers, black Adidas trainers and a black coat.

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

Anyone with information about Bradley's whereabouts should contact police on 0161 856 7619 or 101.

Residents in Salford are set to protest against plans to convert a large Victorian house into 22 studio apartments.

Plans for the scheme on Barrfield Road, Irlam have been submitted to the city council’s planners, sparking fears among neighbours it would be occupied by students on courses at universities in Salford and Manchester.

However, the builder behind the scheme has told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that students are not his target market.

The plans which include parking spaces for 15 cars were tabled last week and triggered alarm among owners of other large Victorian properties.

None of the residents who contacted the LDRS wanted to be named. The residents are predominantly of South Asian origin and they fear the application will be approved because ‘our opinions matter less than in other more affluent areas of the city’.

One said:

Quote

 

“We live in big spacious terraced houses dating back more than 100 years, and many are now being converted into flats. 

“When you are renting out bedrooms to people, it doesn’t have much of an impact, but in this case 22 more people could generate up to 30 more cars round the streets, with 15 spaces on the site.”

 

Another said:

Quote

 

“The neighbours have spoken amongst themselves and there are fears this could drag the neighbourhood further down.

“There are student properties already around here and there are issues over how well they are maintained and that when they leave to move, their rubbish is just dumped out in the street.”

 

Applicant C&T Real Estate Ltd, run by 28-year-old builder Tom Muscat. He told the LDRS:

Quote

“There is no intention for this development to be student apartments. The plan is for them to be individual self-contacted flats for ordinary people.”

The planning application has been accompanied by a ‘crime impact statement’ from security consultants Dobson Owens.Its report says:

Quote

 

“A crime analysis in the immediate vicinity of the proposed site and broader neighbourhood area has been conducted in line with the anticipated use and controls.

“Based on this intelligence, the existing use and potential future deterioration of the property, due to its part vacant nature, and the extensive facilities already in the area, there are no enhanced crime risks present and the project will likely have a positive impact on the neighbourhood and the likely hood and fear of crime.”