Police in Salford have launched an appeal for the family of Leslie Allen, aged 80, who sadly died at her home address of Harmony House Care Home on Liverpool Road in Eccles.

There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

Anyone with information about Leslie Allen’s next of kin should contact 0161 856 4687.

On the 2nd of April 2023, Dominic Anthony and Mitchell Berry will embark on a 130-mile continuous Ultra Marathon which will start from The Worsley Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club and end in Abersoch, Wales, on the southern side of the Llŷn Peninsula without stopping all for an amazing cause! 

Why this challenge? 

Dom, said:

Quote

 

For years now I've been obsessed with Physical fitness & the idea of what we are capable of achieving, what also causes us to "break" not just physically but also mentally.

I have turned to fitness challenges to put this curiosity to the test, to see just how resilient I can be when pushed to our so-called "limits". Resilience is not a superhuman gift that is possessed by only the brave and the bold; it's innate in us all.

Although this is a very individual challenge, it would be fantastic to be able to inspire & motivate others to get outdoors, get active, challenge themselves & to collectively create awareness for this amazing charity!

The purpose of this challenge is to raise as many donations & create as much awareness as possible for The Christie Hospital.

 

Mitchell, said:

Quote

 

 

Abersoch is somewhere we both grew up over summer as kids and is the perfect finish line for the event. 

The reason I have chosen to do this for the Mind Charity is because recently I got the courage to seek help about my mental health. Day to day I wake up feeling anxious, overthinking, worrying and it took over my day to day life I then spoke to a doctor and it has changed my outlook on everything.

The reason for the challenge is to give back and also to let people know you’re not alone and together we can get through anything! So please donate for this incredible charity and join us on our journey! 

 

 

The pair have their own just giving pages set up for donations to the charity:    Dom    Mitchell

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure.

Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails.

Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity.

So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

A Salford police officer has been dismissed and placed on the College of Policing Barred List for carrying out an ‘improper relationship’ with a vulnerable woman.

Paul Banks, who worked as a PC in the city, appeared at a disciplinary hearing.

The panel was told Banks accessed a vulnerable woman’s email account that he had advised her to create, and then accessed images that she had uploaded.

Banks clicked on images and videos, most of which were of an explicit nature, more than 200 times and failed to report them to his manager or PSB.

His actions were uncovered by fellow officers, who reported him the force’s Professional Standards Branch.

Detective Chief Superintendent Michael Allen, head of GMP’s Professional Standards Branch, said:

Quote

 

“Banks knew full well that his conduct was egregiously wrong.

“By cultivating an improper relationship with a vulnerable member of the public who he met in the course of his policing duties, the officer has been deservedly sacked from GMP.

“Not only has he disgraced himself, but his depraved behaviour dishonours policing and undermines the principled endeavours of his colleagues, who everyday do a valiant job catching criminals and protecting our communities.

“Indeed, it was Banks’ own colleagues who sensed something was amiss and triggered the first step in a process that rooted him out.

“The prudence of his colleagues is to be commended and I am grateful to the IOPC for conducting an investigation that left no stone unturned.

“No decent member of the police service wants to work with the likes of Banks and there will never be a place in GMP for anybody who behaves like him.

“He abused his position of trust and for that the Office of Constable has been rightly stripped from him.

“GMP is a better force without Banks and we will recruit a new officer into his post who will discharge their duties with honour and espouse the professional and compassionate values of the GMP workforce.”

 

Banks, who had been on restricted since the investigation began in December 2020, was dismissed without notice.

With Puccini's devastating take on passion and power, Janáček's enchanting celebration of the cycle of life, and Strauss' playful look at what happens when tragedy and comedy collide on and off stage, Opera North's new season brings memorable characters, compelling drama and incredible music to The Lowry this March.

One of the world's most popular operas is back with opportunities to catch Edward Dick's thrilling production of Puccini's Tosca on Thursday 9 and Saturday 11 March. The singer Tosca is the lover of Cavaradossi, an artist, but has also attracted the attention of Scarpia, the chillingly corrupt Chief of Police, who wants her for himself. The opportunity presents itself when Cavaradossi is arrested and tortured for helping an escaped political prisoner find refuge. Scarpia offers Tosca a stark choice: if she gives herself to him, he will let Cavaradossi go free.

Baritone Robert Hayward revisits the role of Scarpia with soprano Giselle Allen singing Tosca on 9 March and Magdalena Molendowska on 11 March. Ukrainian tenor Mykhailo Malafii makes his UK and Opera North debut as Cavaradossi, while Opera North Music Director, Garry Walker, conducts Puccini's mesmerising score which includes Tosca's moving paean to art 'Vissi d'arte', Caravadossi's heart-wrenching farewell 'E lucevan le stelle', and the powerful hymn 'Te deum'.

Janáček's The Cunning Little Vixen takes a very different look at life and loss on Tuesday 7. Inspired by a comic strip in his local paper, Janáček reworked the captivating tale of a mischievous young vixen Sharp-Ears to create a work which appeals to adults and young people alike. Having been captured by a Forester to become the family pet, the vixen eventually manages to escape back into the wild where she falls in love with another fox only to be shot while defending her cubs. By turns funny and profound, the opera features a host of colourful characters including hens, a dragonfly and a badger, and a playful score brimming with folk-infused melodies.

Originally a Scottish Opera/ Welsh National Opera co-production, Sir David Pountney's interpretation of Janáček's work is widely regarded as a classic. Andrew Gourlay conducts a cast which sees a host of singers making a welcome return to Opera North including Elin Pritchard as Vixen Sharp-Ears, Heather Lowe as Fox, Callum Thorpe as the Poacher, Paul Nilon as the Schoolmaster and James Rutherford as the Forester. A matinee performance of The Cunning Little Vixen takes place for schools at 1pm on Wednesday 8 March giving many upper KS2 and KS3 pupils the chance to experience live opera in the theatre for the first time.

Strauss' Ariadne auf Naxos, a first for Opera North, completes the season on Friday 10 March in a co-production with Gothenburg Opera, where it premiered to critical acclaim in 2018. London-based Greek director Rodula Gaitanou and designer George Souglides have set the action in a bustling 1950s Fellini-esque Italian film studio. Much to everyone's dismay, two different shows - a light musical comedy and a serious mythological opera - have been asked to merge at the last minute to cut costs. The worlds collide to hilarious effect when the commedia dell'arte's fickle Zerbinetta tries to cheer up Ariadne, who longs only for death having been jilted by her lover Theseus.

Underpinned by Strauss' beautiful score, the ensuing drama both on and off stage offers a meditation on differing attitudes to life and love and casts a quizzical eye over the concepts of 'high' and 'low' art. Opera North's Principal Guest Conductor, Antony Hermus, returns to conduct a cast including, in their Company debuts, English soprano Elizabeth Llewellyn as Ariadne/ Prima Donna and Polish mezzo soprano Hanna Hipp as the Composer. They are joined by Jennifer France as Zerbinetta for what she terms "Strauss' love letter to opera".

Under 30s can take advantage of discounted tickets for all performances, while newcomers to opera can enjoy two tickets for £20 each when they Try it ON.

Following The Lowry, the productions tour to Nottingham and Newcastle, with performances of Tosca and The Cunning Little Vixen also planned in Hull.

Performance Diary

Tue 7 Mar                               The Cunning Little Vixen                                                        7pm

Wed 8 Mar                              The Cunning Little Vixen        Schools' matinee                    1pm

Thu 9 Mar                               Tosca                                                                                       7pm

Fri 10 Mar                               Ariadne auf Naxos                  Audio described                     7pm

Sat 11 Mar                              Tosca                                                                                       7pm

With news of the future renovation of Eccles town centre and the councils recent purchase of the local shopping precinct from Columbia Threadneedle for a princely sum of £4.15m, there have been suggestions mooted that now is the time for a proper local market to make a return to what 'after all is a market town'.

Yes we know there is the indoor market but it is hardly on a par with the likes of Bury or Altrincham.

However, there have been voices within the council that have suggested that such a return would not be viable and that local markets no longer have a place in town centres.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the Metrolink track, the famous Bury Market has won yet another national award –  this time 'The Best Market Attraction in the land', according to industry body NABMA, at its Great British Market Awards ceremony in Birmingham.

Bury Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture and the economy, said:

Quote

 

“This is another fantastic award for our beloved Bury Market, and shows how highly it is valued by people across the land.

“As the judges have said, our plans for the future are exciting, and will keep Bury Market on people’s ‘must visit’ list for many years to come.”

 

The NABMA Judges, said of Bury Market:

Quote

 

“This market is described as one of the best markets in the North West and a destination that attracts customers and visitors from far and wide. It is multiple award winning and is regarded as a ‘regional treasure’.

“It has charisma and atmosphere and the layout offers visitors the opportunity to easily seek out and visit stalls within a very large traditional market in a modern setting.

“This market has a vital role within the local economy, providing jobs to hundreds of individuals, bringing in large amounts of money to the town, and supporting a loyal customer base – with the market being particularly well-used by people living in deprived neighbourhoods, and elderly pensioners living alone.”

 

As the council readily admits in a recent video to showcase Eccles, the town has probably the best transport links in the region, boasting Tram, Train, Taxi as well as bus terminal, all on its doorstep.

Eccles once had a thriving market, but alas, it fell into decline, partly due to the exodus of people who migrated away from the area when its heavy industry declined and jobs were hard to find, as well as pressures from supermarkets which could use their huge bargaining powers to undercut the traders.

Since those dark days markets have had to evolve of die a death and with the support of local councils there are many which have actually thrived.

Bury is just one prime example of how to do things correctly, which this most recent accolade clearly proves.

There is nothing at all stopping Salford Council from replicating the success of Bury, if the regeneration is handled correctly, keyword 'Correctly'.

The primary success of Bury has been in enticing people from across the region to visit, bringing with them money that is spent in the area, on local produce which supports local business. Another success has been rather ironically in how the market actually markets itself as a place people actually want to visit. People go there for a bargain and leave feeling like they have not only got one but also had a nice day out.

A market in this day and age will always struggle to survive with just the custom of the local populace, but if marketed correctly and made to feel welcoming, Eccles could pull in lots of custom from far beyond its borders, just as Bury currently does.

The future of Eccles is looking exciting and investors should be chomping at the bit to get in on the action early, the little market town is in a prime position for redevelopment and could once more become the thriving crown jewel in Salford's crown. The councils recent acquisition is probably one of the best purchases they have made in a long time and the local councillors are all onboard to push to make the town a success.

It just needs a little faith, a little belief and a lot of investment.

The newly refurbished Hive Wellbeing Hub, which reopened earlier this month (6th Jan), have had a fully operational life saving defibrillator installed on the front outer wall of their building, next to the front door.

A defibrillator, sometimes known as an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a small electronic device designed to allow minimally trained people to provide lifesaving defibrillation (electric shock to the heart) to victims of sudden cardiac arrest.

In the event of an emergency, the code to access the AED is available via a phone operator on the number provided upon the units housing.

A pillar in the Salford community, the hub was transformed by a £30,000 refurbishment following an essential fundraising appeal. 

The Hive has long been providing life-changing support and welfare advice to Salford residents for many years and is going from strength to strength thanks to the support of the Swinton community.

The recent works on the building allow them to continue to help support and promote residents to gain self-confidence and assist in finding employment in addition to wellbeing support for mental health issues and substance abuse.

The Hive also facilitates free alternative education provision, delivered by the Community Social Inclusion Network (CSIN), which trains and mentors many individuals through difficult periods in their lives. 

It has played an integral part in improving the lives of residents in the surrounding area.

Location: 185 Manchester Road, Victoria Park, Swinton, Greater Manchester, M274FA, United Kingdom

Bartons world famous, 'one of a kind' swing Aqueduct is to be closed to navigation due to essential and long overdue maintenance work.

The aqueduct, the first and only swing aqueduct in the world, is a Grade II listed building, and is considered a marvel of Victorian civil engineering.

The construction was completed in 1893, with the first coal barges crossing not long after, as they took their loads to fuel the industrial revolution in Manchester.

We did a video on the condition of the bridges back in March 2021

The navigation will be be closed from 7:30am on the morning of Monday 6th March,  until Monday 20th of March, when it is expected to reopen at around 4:00pm.

However, due to the nature of the work the Peel say that they cannot guarantee completion on the published date. 

The Bridgewater Canal Company, part of Peel L&P, along with both Salford City Council and Trafford Council, is aiming to reinstate the towpath along the Barton Swing Aqueduct, reconnecting the Bridgewater Way.

Drone footage of both the Aqueduct and the Swing Bridge

The project focuses on improving pedestrian and cycling connectivity, providing safe access over the Manchester Ship Canal, completing the next phase of the Bridgewater Way.

The proposals have also been designed to provide a Disability Discrimination Act [DDA] compliant route.

The designs have been created with safety front of mind, including discreet lighting within the railings and appropriate landscaping.

If the plans are approved, people will be able to walk and cycle along a 20-mile stretch of the canal from Wigan through Salford and Manchester to Trafford. Work is forecast to start by winter 2021.

A schoolboy who started busking in a city centre is hoping to make his music dreams come true - after being given help by Smiths legend Johnny Marr.

Videos of aspiring singer John Denton, 12, have attracted thousands of views across social media as he covered songs by classic Manchester bands including The Smiths while playing to shoppers on the city's Market Street.

Now the Smiths songwriter is returning the compliment after the Salford schoolboy became the first recipient of his new funding award for young musicians.

John, from Salford, was selected for funding by the charity The Salford Foundation Trust, which operates the Johnny Marr Award to support talented youngsters in the city.

The young guitarist has been given £1,000 funding to pay for extra singing and guitar lessons.John’s dad Phil said:

Quote

 

“John’s ambition is to have a career in music. He will be using the funding to have music lessons to help both his guitar playing and his singing.

“In these tough times it’s a massive help and means that he can progress in his passion.

“Music is not a hobby for John but just who he is and a creative outlet he hopes to enjoy for the rest of his life."

 

He added:

Quote

“It is a real privilege to get this award and he is determined to make the very most of the opportunity he has been given.”

John started playing guitar at eight-years-old when he received one as a Christmas present.

He has now played gigs around his home town, including at Salford Lads Club - where his hero Johnny Marr posed with The Smiths for a photo used for their album 'The Queen Is Dead' in 1986.

The pair have already met before at a Piccadilly Records event for the release of Marr's new album 'Fever Dreams Pts 1-4'. John asked the music legend for advice about forming a band.

Using his advice, John started a band called ‘The Height’ - named after an area in Salford near where he lives. The group released their first single just before Christmas.

Johnny Marr said:

Quote

“It’s a pleasure and privilege to give some assistance to a young musician especially when they’re as dedicated as John. Well done brother."

Peter Collins CBE, from The Salford Foundation Trust who help fund the award, said:

Quote

 

“There couldn’t be a more worthy recipient of the Johnny Marr Award.

"Even though John is only 12 he’s already proven he’s committed to making a future in music and we’re delighted the Trust can give him a helping hand on this journey.”

 

The Johnny Marr Award runs for three years and will pick another young musician from Salford each year for financial assistance.

If like me you are a fan of modern architecture and yes I know some it can be hideous, but we do have some wonderful examples of Modernist architecture and design in Salford, why not come along on a Modernist Mooch of Salford on Saturday 11th February,  1.00pm - meet outside the old Salford Fire Station opposite the Museum.

The host for the walk will be the wonderful, Steve Marland an expert on so many things, fashion, art, design, architecture, music and all round good egg, you'll like him.

What will you see on the Salford saunter?

Taking in the wonders of the AUEW semi-transparent stairwell, on the Crescent, along with the totemic William Mitchell  Aztec totems at Salford University, marvel at Engels beard in the University Campus.

Stare in amazement at the site of where an estate pub may have been, finishing up with a circumnavigation of the space-age Shopping City. and perhaps a peep into St James's R.C. Church

The Walk will be approximately 2 hours in length  - this is an outdoor event and is at the mercy of the weather, please dress accordingly, and take extra care with road traffic and all those other on street hazards!

See you there?

Tickets cost £10 and are available by following this link: Click Here

Academics and students from the University of Salford have returned from an outreach trip to Cambodia where they met with a number of prosthetic users, including an elephant. 

The group, who are part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Prosthetics and Orthotics (CDT) based at the university, explored the need for prosthetics in Cambodia and the work that is ongoing there to provide users with the best possible experience.

Professor Malcolm Granat and Dr Joanne Caldwell from the University of Salford and Dr Maggie Donovan-Hall from the University of Southampton, along with six UK-based CDT students, were visiting Sisary Kheng, a CDT student who is based in Cambodia. The trip consisted of clinical and hospital visits and observations as well as student volunteering.

The week began with the group making the trip to a wildlife park to see Chhouk, an elephant with a prosthetic leg. Sisary and her team at Exceed have been helping the team at the wildlife park create Chhouk’s prosthetics for many years. The group had the chance to see him lift his leg to change prosthetics, something they described as a fascinating experience. 

Exceed, a prosthetic and orthotics school in Phnom Penh, hosted the group the following day as the CDT students presented their PhD work to the Exceed students. Following this they visited several manufacturers of prosthetics, including a family run foot factory where they saw how prosthetic feet were made.

The students undertook a number of volunteering activities during their stay. Several went out on community visits to deliver wheelchairs, while others stayed in the Exceed clinic to help patients requiring prosthetics and orthotic fitting. The visiting academics, Maggie, Malcolm and Joanne, went to a meeting with Sisary at the Australian Embassy. 

Joanne, said:

Quote

“It was great to see Sisary in action talking about funding for the prosthetics and orthotics charity sector and we were honoured to be able to observe this meeting with other non-governmental organisations and charities. In the afternoon we went to see the Director of the Department of Disability Welfare for Cambodia, who listened to our presentations on the CDT and the way the prosthetics and orthotics sector works in the UK.”

After travelling to the coastal town of Sihanoukville, the group were taken on a tour of a provincial hospital and saw the range of services provided to the community in the area. The students also undertook some research for their PhDs at a local clinic.

Following a long drive, they reached Siem Reap, where they visited Safe Haven, a local charity which helps children with disabilities.

Joanne continues:

Quote

“The team who run Safe Haven are incredible and travel across the province to support children and their families. It was very thought-provoking to hear how a small team often has to say no to volunteers and funding as they cannot provide all the services required while maintaining the quality needed.”

Saturday saw a visit to the temple complex at Angkor Watt and before the group left, they were lucky enough to visit a local charity who train rats to sniff out landmines. 

Joanne explains the impact the visit had on the students:

Quote

 

“We were amazed by the dedication of the team there and the serious problem of leftover landmines and the impact that it has on local people, particularly in rural farming communities. The rats were adorable, and the CDT students are now looking to sponsor one to help with the costs of running the charity.” More information on the charity can be found here.

The final day saw the group take part in a reflection workshop where they all shared their thoughts on the trip, what they had learnt and the benefits of attending such an outreach programme. They ended the visit with a final dinner at Sisary’s, where her hospitality and cooking were praised as “irresistible”.

 

Joanne concluded:

Quote

 

“We would like to take the current and new cohort out to Cambodia again in a couple of years, so it was very useful to get feedback on the students’ time there”.

“The whole trip was a success due to the time and dedication put into it by Sisary and her team at Exceed. While we are aware the Sisary is an outstanding student and well known in the prosthetics and orthotics sector both in Cambodia and worldwide, seeing her dedication and desire to make a difference was overwhelming and we are so proud of her.”

 

Two men aged 26 and 30, were sentenced at Manchester Crown Court today to a total of 32 years after seriously assaulting three male victims  in Manchester City Centre in June

Jordan Smith aged 30 of Hulme Street in Salford was sentenced to 15 years for two counts of section 18 assault, a section 47 assault and possession of an offensive weapon.

Simbarashe Mandaza aged 26 of Back Hulme Street in Salford was sentenced to 17 years for two counts of section 18 assault, and a section 47 assault.

Detective Constable Natalie Hollows of GMP’s City of Manchester district said:

Quote

 

“The attack of three innocent young men will never be tolerated in our communities across Greater Manchester. Our officers have worked tirelessly with the victims and their families to ensure they receive justice after this horrific and senseless attack.

“The three victims were simply enjoying a night out in Manchester City Centre, when they were attacked in what is believed to be a case of mistaken identity.

“Smith and Mandaza had lay in wait for around 40 minutes after choosing a brick as a weapon before the victims had left a bar on Peter Street at 2.15am. The victims were then assaulted in a barbaric manner from behind, being repeatedly hit over the head with the brick, punched and stamped on, causing severe and life changing injuries."

 

Ellis Taylor (25/04/2004) of Spring Gardens, Salford has been charged with attempted murder.

He was remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Manchester & Salford Magistrates Court later today (Thursday 26 January 2023).

Police say that the charge is a result of a meticulous and fast-paced investigation using innovative technology into a stabbing from earlier this week (Tuesday 24 January 2023) on Hankinson Way of a 21-year-old man who is still receiving treatment for serious injuries.

Emergency services received calls relating to a disturbance on Salford Precinct, in which a man received a stab wound to his neck. He remains in hospital undergoing treatment for his injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing at this current time.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or know any information, to come forwards and contact them directly on 0161 856 5235 or via 101, quoting log number 2422 of 24 January 2023.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.

Tickets are now on sale for three charity events being organised to support The Ceremonial Mayor of Salford’s annual appeal to help local good causes.

Councillor Ann-Marie Humphreys has this year chosen Animals in Distress, Salford Loaves and Fishes and the Salford Children’s Holiday Camp and all funds raised during her year of office will be split between the three.

Salford musician Peter ‘Hooky’ Hook and M C Tunes will be DJ’ing on Friday 17 February from 7pm to midnight at the Seven Brothers Beerhouse, Middlewood Locks.

Tickets are just £15 per head and, with only 150 on sale, are expected to go fast.

Peter Hook tickets can be booked through Eventbrite.

On Thursday 23 February, the Ceremonial Mayor’s annual quiz takes place at Buile Hill Park Hall in the park off Eccles Old Road at 7pm. Quiz master Steven Pearlman will be firing out the questions, and there are prizes for the first, second and third place teams.

Tickets cost £10 per person with a maximum six per team and hot food is included in the price.

Quiz night tickets can be booked through Eventbrite.

And, on Saturday 4 March, the Ceremonial Mayor’s annual Masquerade Charity Ball takes place at The Lowry Hotel, Chapel Wharf, Salford.

Tickets include a three-course meal, live entertainment and disco, raffle and auction and cost £65 per person or £600 for a table of ten.

To book tickets or to advertise in the Charity Ball brochure please email mayoralty@salford.gov.uk or telephone 0161 793 3618.

Box on the Docks (BOTD) presents the ‘New Art Showcase’, profiling eight local artists in ‘Art Hall’, a temporary covered venue in the heart of MediaCity’s gardens. Alongside the artwork is a mix of independent street food vendors, Seven Bro7hers bar, and the venue will play host to a varied events programme including a range of creative workshops, family activities and live music performances.

The ethos of Box on the Docks has always focused on supporting and nurturing local and independent artists which this new edition of the Art Hall concept complements. Art Hall invites visitors to experience a curated showcase of original artwork featuring eight local artists, open until 9th March.

Curated by design and art duo, Mikesian Studio, the exhibit showcases some of the boundless creativity found in the local area. Mikesian Studio will also showcase their work – a mix of powerful words, bold colours, and graphic forms, with a focus on bringing bright, inclusive artwork to communal and public spaces. Also, on display is work from:

Ahmed Mohammed – working in a purely abstract way, in his large-scale works, he uses oil sticks to intuitively create expressive expanses of colour and form. All his work incorporates bold and assertive mark making in a spectrum of colours.

Alena Ruth – freelance artist based in Manchester, specialising in rug tufting. Sentimental and soft feelings play into her chosen imagery, from long-lost loves to current mental health struggles and lingering emotions from past traumas.

Fleur Yearsley – the recipient of the Gwen John Scholarship in 2017, her work ‘To The Moon and Back’ was part of the John Moore Painting Prize 2020 at the Walker Art Galley..

Joe O’Donnell – based in Manchester for almost ten years, Joe’s work focuses on animals and nature depicted in his signature wobbly style that has been compared to stitching patterns and pixel art.

John Cake – using traditional and digital techniques, Cake makes multi-layered, wild style mind map paintings and sculptures.

Mariel Osborn – her glitter tassel canopies and backdrops are made from hundreds and thousands of hand tied strands with colours picked and blended to evoke different moods and feelings. The green and pink overhead streamers in the Art Hall are energetic and spring like. 

Tara Collette – working with predominately textiles and glass, Collette specialises in creating banners with bold, provocative commentary on social issues. Humour and absurdness are laced throughout her work, adding playfulness and irreverence wherever possible.

Alongside the display, Art Hall will also play host to a range of art, creative and wellbeing events.

To kick off the new season, Box on the Docks presents ‘PAL-entines’ at the Art Hall on Thursday 16th February from 5pm, with entertainment from 6pm – 10pm. The free event will be a celebration of friendship with a showcase of the best of Salford’s local creative talent. BBC Radio Manchester’s David Scott a.k.a. Argh Kid will play host whilst visitors can enjoy music from BBC Introducing’s artists Roesh and Prido, as well as comedic poetry from poet, Jenny Berry, with other artists soon to be announced.

Visitors will also be able to screen print their own tote bags with artist, Sally Gilford.

Police say that they have arrested an 18-year-old man, from Spring Gardens in Salford, on suspicion of attempted murder following a stabbing on Hankinson Way in Salford at approximately 5.10pm last night (Tuesday 24 January 2023).

The teen remains in custody for questioning.

Emergency services received calls relating to a disturbance on Salford Precinct, in which a man received a stab wound to his neck. He remains in hospital undergoing treatment for his injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing at this current time.

Following a number of witnesses coming forward at the scene, officers were able to quickly locate and arrest the suspect.

Over the coming days, there will be a heightened police presence in the area. A Section 60 stop and search order was implemented last night, covering the areas highlighted on the map, and will continue running throughout the day until this evening.

At this time, the investigation is still very much ongoing and police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or know any information, to come forwards and contact GMP directly on 0161 856 5235 or via 101, quoting log number 2422 of 24 January 2023.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.

Citizens Advice Salford has witnessed a significant increase in volunteer applications following a dedicated social media campaign.

The campaign is the first of its kind for the organisation, having commissioned social media agency, Social Republic, to help drive volunteer registrations as demand for its services grows.

The agency has been responsible for creating innovative social campaigns across Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter improving reach with local residents by 646% and engagements by 811%.

Founded in 1939, Citizens Advice provides free, confidential, and impartial advice to the community as well as campaigning on the biggest issues affecting people's lives.

Gareth Hughes, Senior Manager at Salford Citizens Advice commented:

Quote

 

"We are enjoying our work with the Social Republic team who are improving our social media activity and reaching potential volunteers.

It's imperative that we maintain a healthy number of volunteers to keep up with increasing demand.

Volunteers help us assist more than 20,000 people each year, without their passion and generosity, we wouldn't be here today."

 

CEO of Social Republic, Rob Illidge, added:

Quote

 

"As a purpose-led agency, we are delighted to be delivering for an organisation that is close to our heart.

The main aim of our work is to increase the number of volunteers that help to provide vital services to the Salford community, and it's great to see that we have contributed.

Campaigns highlight the multitude of support services offered, and encourage the people of Salford, who are passionate about helping others, to apply."

 

Social Republic is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations; working with the NHS, British Red Cross, Melanoma UK, and Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation.

Police have confirmed that a man was stabbed in the neck on Hankinson Way earlier this evening.

A cordon was put in place and a full investigations is now underway. 

Fortunately the man is said to have been admitted to hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

This latest incident comes just weeks after a similar attack left a man fighting for his life after being stabbed within a few hundred metres of this latest stabbing.

A witness at the scene said that the attack on the 'young man' was unprovoked.

Police say that there have been no arrests and investigations continue.

GMP have released a statement which reads:

Quote

 

"Officers were called at approximately 5.10pm this evening, Tuesday 24 January 2023, to reports of a stabbing on Hankinson Way, Salford.

"A man was found with a wound to his neck. Colleagues from North West Ambulance Service were in attendance and took the man to hospital for treatment on his injuries, which are not currently thought to be life-threatening.

"No arrests have yet been made and investigations are ongoing."

 

There have been reports of a stabbing having taken place close to Lloyd's Bank on Salford Shopping Precinct at around 5:30pm this afternoon (Tuesday 24th January).

An area surrounding the bank on Hankinson Way has been cordoned off by police.

Eyewitness have described how a young man was subjected to an unprovoked attack.

This latest incident comes just weeks after a 62-year-old man was left with life threatening injuries following a stabbing on a nearby car park.

Four people have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, one of which, a twenty year old has been charged.

We are awaiting further information from GMP and will update this article accordingly.