Police believe a couple who went missing with their new born baby, are now in Essex.

Constance Marten and Mark Gordon went missing with their new born baby, after their vehicle broke down near junction four (Farnworth, Bolton) of the M61 last night (Thursday 5 January 2023). The family left the vehicle and the motorway safely – walking to the Anchor Lane bridge which links the Highfield and Little Hulton areas.

Mark was wearing dark clothing and Constance, who has a southern accent, was wearing a burgundy coat. The new born was swaddled.

Officers have reason to believe that Constance has recently given birth and neither her or the baby have been assessed by medical professionals. They are seriously concerned for both of their welfares.

There has been a possible sighting of Constance at Harwich Port in Essex at around 9am this morning (Saturday 7th Jan), a further sighting coming shortly after at around 10am in Colchester.

Police say their primary concern is to ensure that all three are safe and well.

A GMP Spokesperson, said:

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"We have released a new CCTV image of who we believe is Constance which was outside of Harwich Port in #Essex at 9am today. Our concern is make sure the Constance, Mark and baby are safe and well." 

Anyone with information should contact GMP via 999 quoting 2657 05/01/23.

Some sad news this evening (Saturday 7th Jan), as it is revealed that the body of a man has been recovered from the waters of the Manchester Ship Canal close to the Warburton Toll Bridge in Cadishead.

Emergency services were alerted at around 1.45pm this afternoon after a number of reports of a body in the water from the public.

Sadly paramedics recovered the body of a male who was declared dead at the scene.

No further details have been given at this stage.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said:

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"At around 1.45pm today (Saturday, 7th January), firefighters were called to reports of a person in the water near the Warburton Toll Bridge in Cadishead.

"Firefighters from Irlam and Eccles fire stations quickly attended the scene. Fire crews assisted North West Ambulance Service and Greater Manchester Police to retrieve a body from the water.

"Sadly, the man was declared deceased at the scene by paramedics."

 

29-year-old Lewis Prince from Browning Street in Salford, appeared in Preston Crown Court to enter a plea of not guilty after being accused of the attempted murder of a 2-year-old child who was found with injuries to his head and neck at a house in Blackpool on the 7th of December 2022.

After an appearance at Blackpool Magistrates court on December 10th 2022 , Prince was remanded into custody, spending Christmas behind bars until his appearance this morning.

Prince entered a plea of not guilty and a trial was set for May 30th before he was remanded into custody once more. 

Police have launched an investigation into a firearms discharge On Ryecroft Avenue, just off Meadowgate Road in Weaste.

The incident which took place in the early hours of New Years day involved a gunman who fired through a ground floor window at the property. Fortunately police say that no one was injured during the attack.

Neighbours initially thought it was a firework as part of the celebrations that were taking place, but it was quickly determined to have been a firearms discharge.

Police are asking for anyone with CCTV footage or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

A spokesperson for GMP, said:

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"At around 00:50am on New Year’s Day (Sunday 1 January 2023), officers responded to a report of a disturbance on Rye Croft Avenue.

"After an initial investigation it has transpired to be a firearms discharge through the front ground floor window of a property. No injuries were reported at the time and after initial enquiries no arrests have been made.

"Detectives are now in a position to appeal for witnesses and gain any further information that may help with their investigation, including doorbell footage."

 

Anyone who can help is asked to contact 0161 856 5235 or 101 quoting incident number 238 of 01/01/23. Alternatively, details can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

An investigation is underway following the death of a prisoner at the 1,300 capacity Sodexo managed HMP Forest Bank.

The death has been referred to the ombudsman.

A spokesperson at HMP Forest Bank said:

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“We can confirm that a HMP Forest Bank prisoner died on 4 January 2023. The next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with the family.

"As with all deaths in custody, there will be an investigation by the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman and therefore we are unable to comment further at this stage.”

 

Constance Marten and Mark Gordon are missing with their new born baby, after their vehicle broke down near junction four (Farnworth, Bolton) of the M61 last night (Thursday 5 January 2023). The family left the vehicle and the motorway safely – walking to the Anchor Lane bridge which links the Highfield and Little Hulton areas.

Mark was wearing dark clothing and Constance, who has a southern accent, was wearing a burgundy coat. The new born was swaddled.

Evidence suggests that Constance has very recently given birth and neither her or the baby have been assessed by medical professionals.   

GMP Head of Public Protection Detective Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr said:

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"As a mum, I would like to make a direct appeal to Constance. Constance, I know this is an exceptionally hard time for you and you are likely feeling scared but I promise that our number one priority is the same as yours – to keep your beautiful new born safe. As you know, it's really important that both you and your baby are assessed by  medical professionals as soon as possible so please make contact with emergency services or make your way to your nearest hospital, wherever that may be.

"I would also like to appeal to members of the public – not just in Bolton but across Greater Manchester and beyond. If you have any information about this family's whereabouts, please do nothing more than contact emergency services. GMP can be contacted via Live Chat on our website or 999. Even the most minor detail might help us keep this mum and baby safe."

 

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police via 999 quoting 2657 05/01/23. GMP can also be contacted via gmp.police.uk.

Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Another story with the feel good factor about it relating to Eccles which for some reason seems to attract negative publicity.

Today, Friday Sixth of January local man, Jake Christopher opened his new catering venue, called Jake's Diner in the covered market, Eccles Precinct which you may recall was previously Helen's Cafe.

Jake told me more:

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"I do have a background in catering although I initially started out in banking with the HSBC group which I got bored with, I like a challenge and have ran a few of my own companies,

When I saw the equipment here for sale, I decided it would be a great idea to reopen the cafe and utilise the catering equipment and so I purchased the business.

At the moment it's early days and I am sticking with the traditional English breakfast menu, although there is much more available, jacket potatoes with various fillings, burgers,. sandwiches, omelettes, salads, chips,toasties, tea, coffee, soft drinks,plus we can do specialised meals on request.

My aim is to make it it a meeting place, a community type cafe where you can meet friends and eat in comfort, so please call in"

 

When I called in I was pleased to see that it was bustling with customers with most tables taken, there are additional tables and chairs outside the Diner where you can sit and eat, whilst watching the world go by.

Jake has future plans which include doing home made pies, and dinners which can be eaten inside or taken away and is to be congratulated for taking this bold step, and as I always say, support your local trade, pop in for a brew and a chat with Jake, you'll enjoy it,

Jake's Diner is open Monday to Friday (except Wednesday) 8.30a, - 2pm and Saturday 8.30am - 4pm

Salford City Council has produced the following video, declaring that 'It's time to show Eccles some love' following its acquisition of Eccles Shopping Centre as part of its redevelopment plans for the town centre.

Councillor John McMullen said that the town has gone through a number of changes over the years, speaking of the 'thriving' era of the 1970's when the centre was first built and it was at it's height of popularity but the glory days of the town centre have since declined and much work is needed to restore it back to the jewel in the crown of Salford which it previously was.

He goes on to talk about the amazing transport links that the town centre has and we totally agree as Eccles boasts not only direct access onto the Metrolink system, but also its own gateway to the rail network via the historically important local station, not forgetting its road links via bus and taxi links.

Eccles is a prime location for redevelopment if the project is managed correctly, and the Council listen to the voices of the local people, it could once more become not only a place to shop but also restore its former glory as a premiere destination for entertainment and nightlife.

Salford Mayor, Paul Dennett, spoke about the hardships that Eccles has experienced, noting particularly the lack of job opportunities' and housing that does not meet the needs of the people. He goes on to describe the empty shops in the centre and the lack of investment that the area has seen over the years.

Paul declared that is it now time to show Eccles some much needed love and that during local consultations the council were asked to think big and bold and that is exactly what they are now doing.

Local Councillor McCusker spoke of the importance to recognise and celebrate the towns heritage as part of the redevelopment and its future as a vibrant place to meet, eat and play. A place fit for the future.

He said it is time to accept some hard truths, that the centre as it stands at present is not working for the town or the community. He says that the first step is to take control of the town centre and put it in the hands of residents, which the purchase of the shopping centre is the first step along the way.

People have been calling for this redevelopment for many years, ourselves included. With a little vision and a lot of love from both council and the people of Eccles, something beautiful could blossom.

Eccles could rise from the ashes like a proverbial phoenix and once more be the place to be.

A number of retailers based within Eccles Shopping Precinct have contacted us in confidence regarding news of Salford Councils acquisition of the site, as part of their plans to regenerate the area.

They voiced concerns that they have not heard anything directly from the new owners (Salford City Council regarding their future within the precinct, or if/how contracts will be affected.

One tenant who did not wish to be identified, said:

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"I, along with a number of other tenants, are concerned that we may not be offered new contacts for replacement units within whatever form the regeneration takes. 

"We are also worried that we may be priced out of the town centre if property rental charges are increased.

"Local businesses are already under pressure with the current state of the economy and rent increases could see the closure of many of the existing shops."

Salford City Council purchased bought the 200,000 sq ft Eccles Shopping Centre from Columbia Threadneedle for a whopping £4.15 million, as part of plans to completely redevelop Church Street and the Town Centre.

The council has responded to an email sent by us on their behalf, to reassure them that all current contracts will remain unchanged and commercial tenants will continue to be protected by their current tenancy agreements.

There will be further consultation in the coming months and tenancy holders will be fully engaged in the process as the regeneration moves to the next stage.

A council spokesman said:

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"The immediate future for traders will remain unchanged. The council has purchased the shopping centre, but it is business as usual. All contracts will remain in place and commercial tenants continue to have the protection of their current tenancy agreements.

"As covered in the press release the future of the town centre will be subject to further consultation over the coming months - commercial tenants will be fully engaged in that process so we can understand their specific needs/concerns.

"In the meantime any day-to-day matters should be directed to the centre manager, Workman's (tenants have full contact details.)

Salford City Council is to seek new powers from the government to fine drivers who block yellow box junctions or drive in cycle lanes following public consultation.

At the moment only police officers can take action on 'moving traffic' offences which also include misusing one-way streets, ignoring no entry and turning restrictions and driving in areas where cars are not permitted. The government offered local councils the opportunity to apply for the power to enforce these offences following a public consultation to test local public opinion.

Over 300 people responded to proposals to use the new powers at six sites across Salford with 60 to 64 per cent in favour of enforcement action at each one.  People also suggested enforcement at other sites across the city which the council will consider for future expansion of the scheme.

Councillor Mike McCusker, lead member for planning and sustainable development, said:

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"The aim of this is simply to enforce the laws that are in place to keep traffic moving and improve road safety and public support for this is clear."

Salford City Council plans to use the powers to stop drivers blocking yellow box junctions, making illegal turns or driving in cycle lanes at Chapel Street and Trinity Way, Irwell Street and Trinity Way, Blackfriars Street, Regent Street and Oldfield Road, Chorley Road and Salford Civic Centre and Blackfriars Road and Silk Street. In time the powers could be used across the whole city.

Can you help Northern Care Alliance solve a 48-year-old mystery?

On the 4th October, 1975 staff from Salford Royal (then Hope Hospital) sent a poem they had written to sports writer, the late David Meek, from the Manchester Evening News.

The poem was about a former Manchester United player named Steven R James. He came across it after his Auntie Nora shared an envelope of memorabilia that she had collected about him over the years. The staff who wrote the poem believed that he wasn’t getting the credit he deserved.

A few years ago, Steven decided to start writing his personal memoires and stumbled across the poem as he was going through his things. He was very moved by how much the authors of the poem appreciated his career as a player and that they took the time to write to the newspaper.

Steven said:

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“I reach out in the hope that there may just be some of the people that wrote the poem still at the hospital, or maybe some of their extended family and friends so I may extend my heartfelt thanks for the joy it has given me as I approach my 73rd birthday, 47 years since it was first written.”

This is where you come in, if you are familiar with this poem and were involved or know of anyone who helped to write it, let NCA know. Help them solve this mystery that has stumped Steven for almost 50 years.

Contact Victoria.toiviainen@nca.nhs.uk if you can provide any clues.

The Honourable James: A Poem

There are rumblings around the Old Trafford ground,
Regarding the Honourable James.
Why are there no shouts being bandied about,
With regards to the absence of same?
He did a great job, as agreed by the mob
Of supporters and critics alike.
But he never seems to get publicity- yet,
He earns it, the Honourable James.
Twice bashed in the face, then fallen from grace
By the art. Hon Docherty, Tom,
That’s why we don’t hear,
Those roars far and near,
For the Honourable Steven R. James.
Ten years he’s been with them,
The longest of all
Due for a Benefit soon?
Oh, why don’t we see him, Gazelle like and tall,
The quietist man of them all?
So- let’s read next week, from the man David Meek
Concerning the Honourable James,
About how last season, he helped pull them through
And out of Division Two

A 17-year-old boy who was arrested after handing himself in to police following the stabbing of Salford man Tyron Riley, has been released.

The suspect attended a police station voluntarily and was taken into custody for questioning.

GMP confirmed that the teenager had been released from custody pending further investigation.

Shortly after midnight on Tuesday 27th December 2022, police were called to a report of a man with serious injuries near Clarendon Park in Salford.

Emergency services attended but tragically, Tyron was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives continue to appeal for information, which can be given by contacting police via 101 quoting incident number 12 of the 27/12/2022.

A dedicated Major Incident Public Portal has also been set up to receive information, and you can directly submit images and mobile phone, dash-cam, or doorbell footage here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S50-PO1

Details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Salford City Council says that it has completed the purchase of Eccles Shopping Centre from current owners Columbia Threadneedle Properties for £4.15million.

The purchase, it says, highlights the council's significant commitment to the future of the town. It is a vital acquisition and the first key component in plans to deliver a new, shared vision for redeveloping and revitalising Eccles. It means the town centre's future is now in the hands of the council and the community and enables the implementation of the shared vision to begin. 

Over 600 residents took part in the initial public consultation around the future vision for Eccles. It highlighted views from residents, stakeholders and community groups for the need for drastic change, a fundamental transformation and the redevelopment of the town centre.

The councils long-term plan, which will see them working alongside the community, is to create a vibrant town centre where people can eat, meet, and play. There will be a focus on building a place that celebrates Eccles heritage whilst forging a new future for itself. A place where residents can choose to live and work as well as taking advantage of the town's connectivity.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

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"It's time to accept some hard truths, that the centre as it stands now isn't working for the town or the community. So, it's now time to show Eccles the love and support it badly needs.

We've listened to the needs of the community and by taking ownership of the shopping centre, we can work alongside the local community, stakeholders and a developer partner to bring this shared vision to life. A vision to re-purpose the area and create a modern mixed-use development with civic spaces that complement the historic parts of the town centre."

 

In recent years Eccles has, like many other town centres up and down the country, faced decline and has failed to capitalise on the growth experienced in other parts of the city, including central Salford, Greengate and at Mediacity and the Quays. The transformation of these areas has changed the face of Salford and led to an influx of investment and people calling Salford their home.

Eccles now needs to be part of city's regeneration story and benefit equally. This is all to ensure it doesn't suffer further decline and enable it to play a vital role within a dynamic and diverse Salford.

Future consultation led by Salford City Council will begin in the coming months with a programme of engagement, consultation and local events. Once again residents will be encouraged to share their views and opinions to help shape a shared vision for the future of Eccles.

A post office in Walkden is set to close it's doors on Sunday 15th after being bought out by Morrisons following the collapse of McColl's convenience stores in 2022.

The majority of stores taken over by the supermarket giant will remain open but sadly it seems that the bean counters have deemed the store at 141-142 Walkden Road, M28 7QH has been one identified as a loss-maker and so sadly this also means that the franchised post office branch which operates within the store will be forced to close as well. 

This is really sad news for elderly and disabled local residents in the area who have relied on it, as they will now be forced to find an alternative and that for some, it may be very difficult. 

The Post Office will cease trading on Sunday 15 January 2023 at 5.30pm and there are no signs that it will reopen.

The branch has placed posters on display within branch to inform customers of it's impending closure.

The closest alternatives are the branches located at 23-23A Bolton Road, Worsley, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M28 3AX . The closest other alternative is 299-301 Manchester Road, Worsley, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M28 3HH, which acts as a Drop + Collect only.

Click to find your closest branch: https://postoffice.co.uk/branch-finder

Local MP Barbara Keeley has raised concerns via a letter to Grant Shapps MP, Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Secretary about the closer as well as how the lack of Government support in the Post Office will result in more franchised branches closing and also puts stand-alone branches at risk too, as they face financial challenges in this cost-of-living crisis.

Police have re-issued an appeal to find a missing man after becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare and safety.

Peter, 55, from Boothstown, was last seen on Thursday 29 December 2022 at 7.38pm at the Texaco Garage on East Lancashire Road in Mosley Common, after leaving his home at 7.30pm.

He is approximately five foot 10 inches tall, with short grey hair at the side, with it a bit longer at top.

He was wearing a grey zip-up hoody and blue grey jogging bottoms (pictured).

There are extensive searches being carried out in the Boothstown, Astley and Higher Green areas, and officers are asking anyone who may have seen Peter, or anyone with any other information regarding Peter's whereabouts, to contact them on 0161 856 8351, via 101 or by speaking to the independent charity – Crimestoppers – anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police in Salford have launched an appeal to identify a man they wish to speak to following incident at HMP Forest Bank Prison.

At approximately 9:30am on 23 December 2022, 6 packages were thrown over HMP Forest Bank Prison wall.

Officers in Salford are investigating the incident and are seeking to identify the man pictured in these CCTV images as it is believed he may be able to assist with enquiries.

Anyone with information – or footage – that could identify the man in the image, should call 101 - quoting the crime reference number CRI / 06FF / 00388 71 / 22.

Alternatively you can make a report via the LiveChat facility: https://orlo.uk/t6b1f

You can also make a report via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Fierylight and Little Angel Theatre are delighted to bring their musical adaptation of The Smartest Giant in Town, adapted from the classic story by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler to The Lowry, Salford from 21 – 26 February 2023.

Celebrating 20 years since publication, The Smartest Giant in Town is a heart-warming and vibrant story about friendship and helping those in need. Little Angel artistic director Samantha Lane and award-winning musician Barb Jungr bring the bestselling book to life in this musical, puppet-filled adventure. The production follows on from Little Angel Theatre’s other bestselling adaptations of Julia Donaldson’s picture books, including The Singing Mermaid and The Everywhere Bear.

Julia Donaldson says: 

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“I wrote ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’ twenty years ago but the theme of generosity and kindness seems just as relevant today. The story really comes to life in Little Angel’s adaptation, which is also very faithful to Axel Scheffler’s brilliant illustrations. I saw the show when it first opened at Little Angel Theatre and the whole audience – including me – loved the puppets and enjoyed the songs. I’m so pleased that now more children will be able to experience it.

Axel Scheffler says: 

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“I am very fond of George the giant and his friends in ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’; I enjoyed creating his world with its mix of town and countryside, and range of animal characters in a place where everyone lives together harmoniously. The creative team at Little Angel with Fierylight has brought my artwork to life in 3D in a brilliant way and their production is great fun. I really recommend it.”

The Smartest Giant in Town has been adapted and directed for the stage by Little Angel artistic director Samantha Lane and award-winning musician Barb Jungr, who has also composed new music for the production. Set and costumes are designed by Kate Bunce, puppets are designed by Judith Hope and lighting is designed by Sherry Coenen. The West End cast will be Heidi Goldsmith, James Keningale and Ashton Owen.

George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town . . . until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes!

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are the UK’s leading picture book partnership. Their books together, which include modern classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child, are popular globally and have sold over 75 million copies worldwide. The Smartest Giant in Town was first published by Macmillan Children’s Books in 2002.

Police have revealed that a 17-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of murder, as part of an investigation into the fatal stabbing of Salford man Tyron Riley which happened in December.

The suspect attended a police station voluntarily yesterday. He remains in custody for questioning.

Shortly after midnight on Tuesday 27th December 2022, police were called to a report of a man with serious injuries near Clarendon Park in Salford.

Emergency services attended but tragically, Tyron was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives continue to appeal for information, which can be given by contacting police via 101 quoting incident number 12 of the 27/12/2022.

A dedicated Major Incident Public Portal has also been set up to receive information, and you can directly submit images and mobile phone, dash-cam, or doorbell footage here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S50-PO1

Details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police are searching a section of the Bridgewater Canal and wooded area between Boothstown and Astley/Higher Green following a report of a confirmed sighting of a missing man known as Peter at 1938hrs last night, at the Texaco garage, East Lancs Rd, Mosely Common.

He is described as:

A white male, 5ft 10in tall,

He has short grey hair on the side which is a bit longer on top.

He is said to have last been seen wearing a grey coloured jacket, grey tracksuit bottoms and a pair of trainers.

It was previously reported that Peter had been wearing a grey beanie hat, but police have confirmed this not to be the case.

Police say that he also has a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his neck which says ‘Michelle’.

Anyone with information about Peter's whereabouts should contact police on 0161 856 7857 or www.gmp.police.uk.

At around 6pm yesterday (Thursday 29 December 2022), officers were called to a disturbance in Overdale, Swinton.

Specialist officers attended and pursued two men, aged 41 and 21, who were apprehended and arrested at the scene on suspicion of money laundering and firearms offences. 

They remain in police custody for questioning.

A 21 year old man was taken to hospital to receive treatment for injuries that are not life threatening or life changing. These injuries were not inflicted by a firearm.

Bags containing what is estimated to be around £100,000 of pounds of cash have also been recovered and a scene remains in place whilst officers carry out their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Steven Hughes of GMP Salford CID, said:

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"We understand the concern this incident will have caused our community and we have increased patrols in the area, both to reassure and to keep you safe.

"We received reports last night that a suspected firearms discharge was heard in the area at the time of the incident. At this time no evidence of a firearms discharge has been recovered however the matter is being investigated by specialist officers.

"The investigation is moving at pace and we are following up numerous lines of enquiry.

"If you have any information or footage that could assist the investigation, please contact GMP Salford on 0161 856 5049 quoting log 2399 of 29/12/2022."

 

You can also report information via www.gmp.police.uk or through the independent charity Crimestoppers - anonymously – on 0800 555 111.