Thanks to a £2 million pledge from the HELP Appeal, the only charity in the country funding NHS hospital helipads, Salford Royal’s new hospital will have a new rooftop helipad that will be able to receive seriously injured or ill patients flown directly in by helicopter. It means that up to 20 minutes will be saved in transferring a critically ill patient from an air ambulance to the hospital.

Building work started on Salford Royal’s new hospital in February last year. Salford Royal is part of the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust. BAM Construction is leading the construction of the new six-storey facility. Features of the new hospital include a resuscitation area, five emergency theatres, inpatient beds, and diagnostic imaging and a helipad.

Although Salford Royal has been a Major Trauma Centre for several years, this is the first time the hospital will have a helipad, meaning that severely ill or injured patients will be able to receive their urgent care and treatment even quicker. It is anticipated that approximately seven flights could land at the helipad every week. 

Today, the HELP Appeal presents the first of four £500,000 instalments, which will fund the helipad’s entire construction on the rooftop of the new hospital.

Dr Scott Beattie, Consultant in Salford Royal’s Emergency Village and also a North West Air Ambulance Charity doctor, said:

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“It’s our job to care for the sickest of patients; those patients who have received the most serious type of injuries or experienced a really serious illness. Time is of the essence with these patients. Fast access to specialist treatment is vital to give patients the best chance possible of surviving and, if they survive, going on to make the best recovery.

“At the moment, patients that are brought to us by air ambulance, land in a nearby sports field and are then transported to us by road ambulance. Although the sports field is less than half a mile away, this costs precious time. We believe that having an on-site helipad at the forthcoming Greater Manchester Major Trauma Hospital could save 20 vital minutes for a patient.

“As an air ambulance doctor myself, I regularly see the benefits that having an on-site helipad brings and I am therefore really excited that we will receive one as part of our new and improved facilities.”

 

HELP Appeal’s Chief Executive, Robert Bertram said: 

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“There is no doubt that Salford Royal and North West Air Ambulance Charity both provide excellent care. Now the region urgently needs the HELP Appeal to seamlessly connect the two and save the time it takes to transfer air ambulance patients to the major trauma hospital.  A £2 million rooftop helipad is the perfect solution.

“Helipads are lifesavers in their own right in giving a patient the best possible chance of survival. Our donation will help to ensure that the helipad will be up and running and saving lives as soon as possible.”

 

Dr Chris Brookes, NCA Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said:

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“We are incredibly grateful for the support of HELP Appeal. The charity are doing amazing work across the country and their efforts are undoubtedly leading to many, many lives being saved.”

Heather Arrowsmith, CEO at North West Air Ambulance Charity, said: 

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“As a charity, our priority is to bring the hospital to the patient. That means providing enhanced pre-hospital care at scene to the most critically ill and injured patients in our region. Once we have stabilised the patient, our focus is on getting them to the most definitive point of care for their onward treatment.

“A helipad at Salford Royal is a game-changer. It means we can take patients, often with multiple serious and complex injuries, directly into the unit to access the treatment they urgently need. This will save time and save lives.”

 

The HELP Appeal donated £1.36 million to the construction of a new helipad at Manchester Royal Infirmary. Since it opened in May 2021, it has seen over 70 air ambulance landings.

The HELP Appeal doesn’t receive any funding from the government or national lottery. To help fund the new helipad at Salford Royal and other lifesaving helipads across the country, please visit https://www.helpappeal.org.uk/donate or call 0800 3898 999.

Property developers Bellway & Countryside have submitted initial proposals to build 690 homes on the 66-acre/27-hectare site of a former colliery which was later developed into 'Brackley' Golf Course before being closed in 2016.

Salford City Council who own a 47% freehold joint share of the land worth almost £40m are set to receive a bumper capital funding pay day of up to £18.5m if the permission is granted and the sale goes through. The remaining 53% of the money from the sale will go to leaseholder MHE investments who own the majority share.

The council could also stand to make approximately £1.1m per year from Council Tax levied upon the properties.

Last year the council successfully removed a Squatter from a building on Bulloughs Farm which is within the site, in order for the deal to progress forward.

It is reported that 'Affordable' housing has not been factored into the plans but developers are to discuss this will the council once the sale has seen completion, with the council given the option of purchasing some of the properties as affordable homes, although the council would be responsible for the Burdon of costs in doing so.

As part of the proposals the development will comprise of:

36 flats

76 two-bed semi-detached houses

250 three-bed semi-detached houses

217 three-bed detached houses

111 four-bed detached homes.

A £12.5m scheme to create the UK’s first Veteran Care Village has been completed.

Broughton House in Salford has cared for more than 8,000 veterans since it opened its doors to the ex-service community in 1916.

Following the demolition of the original home in 2020, Broughton House has been transformed into a modern complex featuring a 64-bed care home and six retirement apartments, designed with the purpose of offering trailblazing provision for the north west’s ageing armed forces community.

The Stoller Wing of the newly-built care home – named in honour of north west businessman and philanthropist Sir Norman Stoller, who donated £4m to the project – pays homage to Broughton House’s rich history with a museum brimming with fascinating stories of former residents, rare war medals and historic memorabilia, keeping the memories of the fallen well and truly alive.

The wing also has an array of modern facilities, including a gym, a hairdressing and barber’s salon, and a restaurant and bar for residents.

Broughton House chief executive Karen Miller said these amenities provide the residents with greater opportunities to be more active and sociable than many other traditional care homes offer, and helps them to reignite the camaraderie they became accustomed to during their time in the armed forces.

The Jellicoe Wing at the new care village – named after World War One hero Viscount Sir John Jellicoe, who opened the original Broughton House building – has two 16- bedroom households. One is dedicated to veterans with dementia and is named in honour of Col Donald Gibbs, a former chairman and chief executive of Broughton House for over 30 years, who passed away in 2017.

The wing also houses an Armed Forces Support Hub and the retirement apartments. The hub focuses on providing welfare support and counselling for ex-service people of all ages living in the local community.

Many veterans see their mental health deteriorate during their transition back to civilian life, and the hub provides access to vital support services.

The retirement apartments are aimed at those who are significantly more independent yet want to be part of a veteran community and its camaraderie.

Residents of these apartments can access all the facilities that Broughton House offers, including a wide programme of wellbeing activities and personal support.

Derrick Corfield, a World War Two veteran and Broughton House resident, said:

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“The new care village is ideal for people like myself who have been living alone, as it puts us back into that bigger family again. It’s a place that celebrates our history, and understands the things we have done in our lives and been a part of.

“I’m really enjoying the activities, especially the history club, so it will be nice to welcome more veterans to the new care village.”

 

Karen said:

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“It is immensely pleasing to reach the milestone of seeing our new Veteran Care Village completed.

“We have delivered a superb, 21st century care home for veterans with high quality accommodation. There are no shared rooms, and each one has en-suite facilities, TV and telephone points, a nurse call system and fully-adjustable electric beds.

“With our Armed Forces Support Hub and the new apartments, we are now able offer a vital trilogy of services to the region’s veteran community – nursing, residential and dementia care, outreach support and independent living.

“Following our transition, we are actively recruiting staff as we increase the number of residents, in particular nursing and care staff from all backgrounds.”

 

She added:

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“Broughton House Veteran Care Village is open to all ex-servicemen and women and their families.

“To enable us to deliver high quality care at an affordable price, our charity does subsidise the cost of care. For a number of veterans who do not have the financial means to cover the fees, the charity makes up the differential between local authority funding and the subsidised amount.”

“However, rates are subsidised by the charity and, to veterans in need, the charity contributes a large portion of the fees so they are able to access the care we provide.”

 

Photo: Karen Miller

Salford City Council has today announced that it is bidding for Salford to be the home of Great British Railways (GBR).

We have submitted our bid via the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to the government which proposes that the new home of GBR would be Embankment – a modern and sustainable office building complex in the city centre.

Salford is a city that is rooted in the history of rail and we believe there is no better city region than Greater Manchester for GBR’s headquarters that would align with the government’s levelling up ambitions.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

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“Salford would be the perfect destination for the headquarters of Great British Railways.

“Not only are we vastly connected to this country’s railway history through figures such as George Bradshaw and the father of railways, George Stephenson, but we are a city that has always been at the forefront of travel. From the first horse-drawn carriages to the first steamboats, our history as Salfordians is rooted in advancing the way we get around.

“We are now a thriving digital city, one of the fastest growing in the region and developing a significant skills and media cluster to rival anywhere in Europe. Greater Manchester has also become one of Whitehall’s key outposts outside of London and is home to several key government departments who have brought decision-making to our doorstep.

“However, whilst we continue to build a brighter future for our city, we remain home to communities in serious deprivation. The jobs, work opportunities and investment from GBR’s new HQ could be critical in helping us address the key disparities that we have in Salford.

“It would be the perfect example of the levelling up that this government is aiming to deliver for communities in the North West.”

 

Here are just some of the reasons why Salford would be the perfect fit for GBR;

Embankment 100 – our suggested location for the GBR headquarters is in walking distance from Manchester Victoria – which is at the centre of the North West’s rail network. Embankment was built on the site of the original Manchester Exchange station, which at one time, had Europe’s longest platform at 682m – accommodating three trains at once.

Our city was the home of celebrated cartographer George Bradshaw, whose famous railways maps and timetables, Bradshaw’s Guide, made famous in Michael Portillo’s Great British Railways Journeys series on the BBC, was first published in Salford in 1839. Mr Bradshaw was born and grew up in the Pendleton area of the city.

It was in Salford, where one of the greatest railway feats took place as George Stephenson, the ‘Father of Railways’ ran the legendary locomotive ‘Rocket’ through Salford during the historic Rainhill Trials in 1829. And it was also here in Salford, where William Huskisson MP, became the first railway victim when the aforementioned Rocket ran him over in a tragic accident which led to millions around the world becoming aware of the arrival of steam engines in 1830.

Stephenson also constructed the Grade I-listed River Irwell Railway Bridge that was central to the continuation of the line from Liverpool into Manchester and significantly advanced railway operations across the country.

Salford has a history of celebrating its rail history and in 2015, a locally led project from the Hamilton Davies Trust transformed Irlam Station back to how it looked in 1894, complete with a beautiful station house, café bistro and meeting space.

Salford is the 18th most deprived local authority in the country and has several communities just two miles away from the city centre who are in the top 1% most deprived nationally. Our unemployment rate (6.6%) and claims for Universal Credit (31,645) are still considerably higher than pre-pandemic levels. Our communities are in desperate need of the jobs, skills, training and investment that the arrival of GBR could bring to our city.

Despite this, we are also the fastest growing economy in our region, securing 15,000 additional jobs in the last five years and have newly registered 2,000 new businesses. We have seen rapid growth in the office economy around the city centre, Media City, Salford Quays and in new locations such as Greengate. Salford is a city that businesses are choosing to base themselves in and people are moving to routinely over other locations and this trend is only set to continue further as the city’s population expands.

Not only do we offer a space that GBR could move straight into, but it is also one of the most sustainable buildings in the city region, securing a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.

GBR would also join the other government organisations currently residing in Greater Manchester which are the Home Office, DCMS, HMRC, GCHQ, DWP, DFE and BEIS.

Salford City Council is working with organisations and partners across the city and the GMCA on the bid which was submitted to the Great British Railways Transition Team in March 2022 with the support of MIDAS – Manchester’s inward investment agency.

Residents, businesses and visitors can get behind the bid by backing us on their channels and sharing the hashtag #DestinationGBR and #Salford4GBR.

The shortlist for the headquarters will be announced in May 2022 and then a public vote will open with the winner expected to be announced later this summer.

More information on the bid will be found at salford.gov.uk/salford4gbr

Worsley Community Fun Day

The first of two family fun events takes place on Saturday 7th May - between 12pm and 3pm at Worsley College, Walkden Road, Worsley, M2 87QD

Tasty food prepared by their talented culinary students

Louby Lou will be there to keep the kids entertained.

There will also be bouncy castles, fair games, face painting and live music on the day.

You can also shop at local businesses and meet a number of charities

Eccles Country Fair

The following month in June will see the 4th annual Eccles Country Fair come to Eccles Sixth Form Colleges - Chatsworth Road Campus for a day of celebrations in the lead up to their 50th Anniversary!

Bring the whole family along and have the chance to meet some of their animal friends, including alpacas and capybaras. A number of local businesses and charities will also be attending, and they will be running lots of exciting games and activities.

No need to register for either event just come along on the day, all donations are welcome!

Eccles 50th Anniversary

Are you a previous student who studied at Eccles Sixth Form College or do you know someone who is? If so, they would love to hear from you.

Email marketingdepartment@salfordcc.ac.uk to share your stories and photos - these will then be shown in their commemorative art gallery at the upcoming Country Fair at Eccles College.

Host a Stall

Calling all local businesses! Salford City College invites you to host a stall at our upcoming community fun days. From homeware to gifts, and food and drink, all businesses are welcome.

They will provide a table, chairs, and shelter, and you are more than welcome to bring along a gazebo and any promotional materials. 

To book a stall please email marketingdepartment@salfordcc.ac.uk This will be a great opportunity to bring the community together - they look forward to hearing from you!

Two men were arrested on Regent Road in Salford on the early hours of Sunday 10th April 2022 after being found in possession of in excess of £4000 and suspected Class A drugs.

Officers from the Transport Unit attended a petrol station to fuel up their vehicle prior to finishing their shift and came across a vehicle with the occupants inhaling drugs.

The occupants were searched who then assaulted officers in an attempt to get away. Both were detained and numerous snap bags of suspected Class A drugs were seized and over £4000 in cash.

A number of mobile phones were also ringing constantly throughout the incident and afterwards.

A 20 and 21 year old man have been arrested on suspicion of police assault and possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply and the investigation is ongoing.

The club was successful in being awarded £47,800 from Culture Recovery fund, delivered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund on behalf of Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The announcement comes after the club lost approximately £90,000 of income over two years through the Covid-19 pandemic. Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett visited the club to celebrate the funding boost with Project Manager Leslie Holmes, volunteers, and local young people taking part in Foundation 92 activities over the Easter holidays.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

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“It is absolutely fantastic news that Salford Lads Clubs has secured this vital cash to keep them afloat. The club has been a part of the cultural heritage and fabric of the city for almost 120 years, and still provides a wide range of activities, particularly for young people in the local community. It is also well loved internationally thanks to the iconic images of The Smiths outside the club, along with other musicians such as Tim Burgess, Peter Hook, Shaun Ryder and Clint Boon, who have helped to provide fundraising and promotional opportunities for the club nationally and internationally. Places such as Salford Lads Club do so much and we must remember the huge positive differences it makes in this city, especially after 12 years of budget cuts at the City Council.”

Leslie Holmes said:

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"The pandemic has had a devastating impact on communities, and it's really good to know that what we do here on Coronation Street in Ordsall is recognised nationally as an important part of the country's cultural heritage."

Salford Lads Club has served the community since 1903 and is a voluntary led charity. As well as running sporting and creative activities for local young people, it houses an extensive archive tracking the lives of teenagers since the club opened. All money raised through its shop goes towards keeping the club running and supporting the activities it provides for the community. People can support the club by visiting on their regular open days on Wednesdays and Saturday - more information is available on the website.

The club also has a range of t shirts including “The North” which has helped raise more than £28,000 since last summer. These are available from the club’s website shop page priced at £15. See https://salfordladsclub.org.uk/shop/

A VIP visitor made Derrick Corfield’s 95th birthday extra special when the World War Two veteran celebrated his milestone at Broughton House Veteran Care Village in Salford.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett was touring the new facilities at the care home and made sure he was able to wish widower Derrick a happy birthday in person.

The Mayor was accompanied on his trip by Joanne Farrell, head of the City Mayor’s office and Salford Council’s armed forces lead officer.

Derrick’s memorable celebrations included a visit from his family, and the home marked the special occasion with a party for residents and staff and a screening of one of his all-time favourite movies, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

Derrick, who is from Salford, moved into Broughton House last summer after toppling from his electric scooter and breaking an ankle. He is one of its oldest residents.

Karen Miller, chief executive of Broughton House, said:

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“Derrick has been a major figure in our home since he joined last year, taking a lead role with our Remembrance Day ceremony and always being a delight with our staff and fellow residents.

“We were extremely pleased to be able to make this a birthday to remember for him. He truly embodies the spirit of Broughton House.”

 

Derrick was too young to serve in the armed forces before the Second World War so, in 1943 at the age of 15, he joined the Home Guard and was attached to the Manchester Regiment and then the Lancashire Fusiliers.

Having previously been a Sea Scout, he volunteered to serve in the Merchant Navy and his mother reluctantly agreed to let him go to sea at the age of 16.

Derrick set sail in February 1944 as a crew member on the ocean-going passenger liner the RMS Orion, which had been refitted to carry 7,000 troops on wartime service.

In the run-up to D-Day, Derrick and his comrades ferried US and Canadian troops across the Atlantic to Liverpool for the invasion of Europe. Derrick manned one of the anti-aircraft cannons after undergoing a ‘crash’ gunnery course with the Royal Navy. He had a brush with death while embarking troops in New York, when he was overcome by fumes in the ship’s paint locker and was rushed to hospital.

After D-Day, the RMS Orion continued to sail all over the world, ferrying troops to Malta, then from Egypt to Naples, and back to the UK. After hostilities ended, the ship ferried survivors back to North America, Australia and New Zealand.

When the ship was returned to its owners in 1946, Derrick stayed at sea aboard other merchant vessels before coming ashore in 1948 because his mother had become ill. Derrick, who has four service medals, was later a fireman for 25 years and had spells working for the probation service and the Ocean Yacht Club charity.

A widower since May 2017 when Marjorie, his wife of 66 years, passed away, Derrick has a son and a daughter, three grandchildren and one great-grandson.

City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

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“I was honoured to visit Broughton House Veteran Care Village to celebrate Derrick’s 95th birthday and see the fantastic job that has been done in building their new state-of-art facility to care for veterans and their families in our city. 

“Derrick epitomises the true spirit of Salford, working tirelessly for many years to make Salford’s Remembrance Sunday event the success it is today.  I know that Derrick is enjoying life at Broughton House and continues to organise special events much to the delight of residents.

“I was also delighted to meet some of the other residents and members of staff who have undertaken a sterling job over the past couple of years providing care and services to residents of Broughton House during the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst also juggling the challenges of transitioning to a new building. 

“It really is fantastic to see facilities like this being built in our city to care for veterans and their families, building on Broughton House’s long-standing commitment since 1916 in caring for those who have served our country. I look forward to continuing to work with this great and much loved institution as we collectively continue our work to support our veterans, armed forces community and their families.”   

 

A charity which enables adults with a terminal illness to fulfil special wishes with their family and friends is in line for a cash boost from proptech business Symple and two sister companies.

Symple has chosen Purple Heart Wishes as its charity of the year for 2022.

Merco Facilities Services, a commercial cleaning business, and FCS Management Services, a business rates management company, have followed suit to provide a triple boost to the charity. The businesses are all part of Kingsbury Holdings and are headquartered in Swinton, Greater Manchester.

Purple Heart Wishes was founded by Symple’s chief operating officer Susan Roughton in 2016 following the passing of her daughter Lyndsey from a brain tumour at the age of 29.

Lyndsey was diagnosed in 2009 after suffering from headaches and blurred vision. Initially, her treatment was successful, but the tumour recurred more aggressively and was diagnosed as incurable in 2012. She passed away in 2014 at St Ann’s Hospice, Greater Manchester.

During her illness, Lyndsey’s family and friends raised over £25,000 for her to fulfil a lifelong dream to visit Thailand and Vietnam. She went for three weeks with a friend who was training to become a doctor.

Susan wanted Lyndsey’s final months to be filled with laughter, love and excitement with her family and friends.

“We tried to arrange for her to do as much as possible to ensure she had the best days of her short life,” said Susan, who lives in Denton, Greater Manchester.

“Thanks to the generosity of individuals and organisations, she did a host of amazing things, including horse riding, going to Premier League football matches, riding on a motorbike and going to the Creamfields music festival where her older sister Leigh was a DJ.

“After she passed away, I felt I wanted to help grant wishes to other adults with terminal illnesses, just as we had done for Lyndsey.

“That led to setting up Purple Heart Wishes, catering for people aged 18 to 55 and even older. There are similar organisations for children, but not many like this for adults.

“Currently we are receiving 12 requests for wishes a month, which is more than we’ve ever had. We receive wishes from the patients themselves, their friends, hospices, Macmillan Cancer Support, The Brain Tumour Charity and elsewhere.

“We are fortunate to receive support from people doing sponsored activities such as parachute jumps, and from Manchester City FC, where we work in the kiosks at matches and concerts and get a percentage of the sales through the catering company Fabulous Fan Fayre.

“However, with the number of requests for wishes now at such a high level, we need to raise more money, and I’m delighted that Symple, Merco and FCS have chosen us as their charity of the year.

“Their support will make a huge difference to people who are very poorly and want to fulfil dreams and create memories for their families and friends by spending precious quality time with them or doing something special. Some of the people who request a wish simply cannot afford to do these things themselves.

“They include hotel stays and breaks at holiday parks with their families, sightseeing in London, having a photo shoot or even providing a pendant gift from a terminally ill husband to his wife. They are all tremendously appreciated. They create lasting memories, and give people the strength to continue fighting.”

Susan said Purple Heart Wishes is also seeking ambassadors and fundraisers as well as sponsors for wishes and for donors of wishes themselves.

“We want to do as much as we can to help families in such tragic situations. It’s great to be able to do this in Lyndsey’s memory, and to bring some joy into people’s lives at a very difficult time. The feedback we receive is always fantastic,” she said.

The charity’s logo is a heart which Lyndsey drew in a birthday card to Susan which was found after she passed away. The Purple Heart medal is awarded to service people in the US who have been injured in conflict, as a way of celebrating their heroism.

“Lyndsey was a hero to us, so it seemed a fitting name for the charity,” said her mum.

Kingsbury founder and chief executive Simon Dresdner said: “We are deeply moved by the story of how Purple Heart Wishes came to be.

“Susan has created something really special in memory of Lyndsey, enabling her legacy to live on. It is our great honour and privilege to be able to support the wonderful work the charity does, knowing what a difference it makes to people in need. I hope we can be a supporting partner of Purple Heart Wishes for many years to come.”

As you may have seen over the past year or so we have been busy helping the foodbank in Eccles, The Mustard Tree, with auctions of paintings by Brian Gorman and local history walks by yours truly.

I am delighted to say that we were contacted by John Brierly a Salford lad with a heart of gold with some good news.

John has offered us two tickets to see the, Simply Sinatra music concert at The Bridgewater Halls, Manchester on Sunday 15th May, not just ordinary tickets these are the best seats in the house and cost £41.50 each, ensuring a great view for you and a companion.

Sadly John will be working away that week and suggested that we auction them off for charity, the charity of the winning bidders choice that is.

Obviously we would like it to be a local charity, Loaves and Fishes perhaps or your local foodbank, there are dozens of deserving causes who would love to benefit from your largesse (look it up).

So if you fancy a night at The Bridgewater Hall listening to, such classics as,Come Fly With Me | My Way | Fly Me To The Moon | New York, New York | Luck Be A Lady Tonight | Mack the Knife | Cheek to Cheek | I’ve Got You Under My Skin | The Lady Is a Tramp | You Make Me Feel So Young and more then read on.

The contest will run from today until next Monday the 18th April, the highest bidder wins the tickets and we will deliver the tickets, you hand over the money which we shall take to your nominated charity for you, winner, winner in my book.

Post your bid on the Facebook page or if you are a secretive millionaire or on the Witness Protection Scheme and require anonymity, contact us at newsdesk@salford.media

So dig deep and get that proverbial, warm inner glow you get for knowing that you have done your good deed for the day....

The driver of a stolen and cloned Audi A1 from Oldham was detained after abandoning the car on Teak Drive in Clifton during a police pursuit, after being identified by Greater Manchester Police's eagle-eyed SRT Tasking Team.

The driver was caught after attempting to flee on foot through gardens, however, it is thought that others in the car escaped from the scene.

The driver was upon investigation, found to be in possession of Class A drugs and the car key.

The vehicle had been stolen in March.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police Traffic said:

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“Cloned Audi A1 sighted by SRT Tasking Team on Manchester Road Clifton.

“The car would make off and was found abandoned seconds later on Teak Drive.

“The occupants were chased through gardens and one male detained hiding in a driveway. Car stolen from Oldham in March.

“The male arrested in the stolen Audi A1 was taken to custody and when searched was found in possession of a class A and the car key.

“He’s got some explaining to do in the morning.”

 

Those who pay their council tax via direct debit and are eligible for the governments one off £150 rebate for their energy bill will be pleased to hear that the money will reach their accounts shortly after paying the first council tax instalment this April.

Those who do not have a direct-debit set up will be sent a letter of invitation for the rebate by early May.

The government has announced that local authorities will pay households in council tax bands A to D a one-off council tax energy rebate of £150 to help towards the rising costs of energy prices.

Only one rebate can be paid per household. A household is a group of persons occupying a single dwelling and the household will be invited to apply. The household will then be responsible for ensuring the household as a whole benefits from the rebate.

The criteria for the rebate are:

It is valued in council tax bands A – D. This includes property that is valued in band E but has an alternative valuation band of band D, as a result of the disabled band reduction scheme. Retrospective amendments to the band will not be included.

It is someone’s sole or main residence.

It is a chargeable dwelling, or in exemption classes N, S, U or W; and

The person who is liable to pay the council tax (or would be, if the property was not exempt) is not a local authority, a corporate body or other body such as a housing association, the government or governmental body.

This means that properties which have no permanent resident, unoccupied or someone’s second home will not be eligible.

The rebate comes as energy prices escalate due to the removal of the price cap as well as the knock on effect across the world from the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Plans are afoot to open a 'Hooters' restaurant in the heart of Salford Quays with a planning application reportedly already submitted to Salford Council.

46-year old Nottingham based Julian Mills already runs a branch of the American chain famous for its scantily clad waitresses in his home town and he is looking to expand the business into Capital Quay this coming May.

The application submitted to Salford Council is for a licence to run live music, recorded music and dance performances. If approved, the restaurant will open its doors between 9am to 1am seven days a week to its customers.

Meanwhile, similar plans to open a Hooters restaurant in Liverpool were met with a petition which condemned the chain as ‘an archaic and chauvinistic brand’, however it didn't stop Liverpool council granting permission despite the controversy and objections from a number of councillors, including the Mayor who said it promotes a “misogynistic environment”. 

In the application, Mr Mills has agreed to advertise his application ‘in the local newspaper and that notice should appear at least once within 10 working days of the application being submitted’.

Hooters originally announced plans for 36 new UK locations in 2008 but only sites in Cardiff and Bristol opened, however, they were short lived as both ended up closing.

An amazing programme of top entertainment is being brought together to thrill and enthrall visitors to the inaugural Cheshire Festival of Power which takes place this summer.

The hotly anticipated new event is planned for the August Bank Holiday weekend when it will take over the 50-acre Ashley Hall Showground near Altrincham.

A packed two days of carefully chosen arena entertainment is promised for the event on 27-28 August, headlined by the brilliant Bolddog Lings FMX Team. The UK’s top freestyle motocross display team - and official stunt team of Honda - provides a unique, non-stop show featuring Britain’s best motocross and extreme sports experts.

The show, based around the world’s largest and most sophisticated mobile landing system, features the UK’s top ranked freestyle motocross riders who are continually pushing the boundaries of FMX.

It promises to have audiences on the edge of their seats with its daring stunts, heart-stopping tricks and non-stop aerial action – some with riders giving live commentary to the crowd as they fly 35ft in the air.

And between displays, visitors are invited to get a closer look at the interactive stand where they can see the bikes close up and meet the riders.

The arena will also host Nick Gregory’s Misselchalke Gundogs. Nick Gregory has been a winner and runner-up in the Kennel Club’s Cocker Spaniel Championship which he has also judged.

An internationally recognised dog trainer who is particularly in demand in the United States, he will showcase his skillful training techniques with the assistance of a range of gundogs from spaniels to Labradors and from puppies to fully trained animals in this unmissable, family-friendly show.

The show’s finale will give people the chance to see Nick working different dogs off lead while remaining in complete control.

Meanwhile ahead of the August festival date there is a chance to enter an amazing car raffle with the prize being a Porsche 911 worth a stunning £90,000.

Tickets will be sold for the opportunity to become the new owner of this iconic and legendary high-performance sports car, with the winning ticket being picked at the Festival of Power itself. And there will also be a charitable donation made from the funds raised.

Elsewhere, car lovers and petrol heads won’t want to miss the Motor Brand Showcase which will feature classic and supercar paddocks packed with exclusive models like Bentley, Rolls Royce, McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Nissan Nismo, Tesla and more.

There will also be classic and superbikes on display, including Ducati and Honda, while GB Helicopters will show one of their fleet next to the main stage.

And visitors will be able to learn more about some of their favourite vehicles with car clubs set to be in attendance, while there will also be a fascinating steam and traction engine display.

Family-friendly attractions also include a huge, traditional funfair.

Meanwhile the festival also boasts a stellar music line-up with two nights of unmissable live performances on the main stage.

M-People singer Heather Small will headline on Saturday 27 August. And on Sunday 28 August there’s a chance to break out all those groovy disco moves when the brilliant Boney M, featuring Maisie Williams, take centre stage.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a wide range of delicious and carefully chosen gourmet food and drink options – with the festival beer being Moretti, and an artisan Makers Market packed with gift and craft stalls.

Cheshire Festival of Power Managing Director Sir Peter Grainger said:

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“Since we announced the new Cheshire Festival of Power last month we’ve been overwhelmed by the reaction from the public – there’s a real appetite out there for what is going to be a great, family-friendly August Bank Holiday weekend.

“The whole team has worked hard to bring together a programme of high-quality events and attractions that together will make the Festival of Power an unmissable two days of exhilarating entertainment.

“In addition to that, we’re also delighted to be able to offer such a stunning raffle prize for one lucky festivalgoer who will be able to roar into September behind the wheel of one of the great, iconic sports cars of the last 50 years.”

 

Day tickets for the Cheshire Festival of Power are £27.50 for adults and £10 for children – while youngsters aged four and under go free (although you will need to order a ticket). There are also special family and weekend ticket options.

VIP Experience tickets include fast track entrance, access to a VIP area with special bars, foodstalls and toilets, a complimentary glass of champagne or bottle of premium beer, and entrance to the Secret Wood – an exclusive cosy lantern-lit area behind the main stage with bespoke music, bars and food.

And an Ultimate Hospitality Experience includes the full VIP package with the addition of access to a caddy to go to any location in the festival, a drinks/table package in the hospitality suite, and a meet-and-greet with the headline acts.

All tickets are subject to a booking fee.

Cheshire Festival of Power will take place across the weekend of Saturday 27 August and Sunday 28 August 2022, at Ashley Hall Showground near Altrincham.

For more information visit www.cheshirefestivalofpower.co.uk/

Book tickets via Ticketline at https://www.ticketline.co.uk/cheshire-festival-of-power#bio

Website:         www.cheshirefestivalofpower.co.uk/    

Facebook:       @CheshireFestivalofPower

Instagram:      @cheshirefestivalofpower

LISTING INFORMATION

CHESHIRE FESTIVAL OF POWER

DATES:            Saturday 27 August - Sunday 28 August 2022

VENUE:           Ashley Hall Showground, Ashley Road, Ashley, Altrincham WA14 3QA

TIMES:             Noon to 10pm each day.

TICKETS:          £27.50 Adult, £10 Child, £65 Family (up to 2 adults and 2 children).

                         Weekend admission: £50 Adult, £17.50 Child, £120 Family.

                         VIP Experience: £80 Adult/£150 Adult weekend admission.

                         Ultimate Hospitality Ticket £250.

On Thursday 28 & Friday 29 April

The official Strictly Come Dancing - The Professionals UK Tour is back for 2022. And fans will be delighted to hear the sensational line-up of incredible professional dancers who will star in the 36 date tour which opens at The Lowry, Salford on Thursday 28 & Friday 29 April and then dances its way around the country, culminating at Aberdeen's P&J Live on 30 May.

Directed by Strictly's Creative Director of Choreography Jason Gilkison, the tour will feature an exciting line-up of 10 magnificent dancers and Strictly TV favourites: Australian Open Champion and 2018 finalist Dianne Buswell; two-time Ballroom and Latin World Champion Nadiya Bychkova; Italian Latin Champion Graziano Di Prima; Professional World Mambo Champion and 2020 Strictly finalist Karen Hauer; 2017 Strictly Champion Katya Jones; undefeated four-time British National Champion Neil Jones; current South African Latin Champion Cameron Lombard; 2017 & 2020 Strictly finalist Gorka Marquez; four-time Italian Dance Championship winner Luba Mushtuk and 2021 Strictly finalist Kai Widdrington.

Jason Gilkison said:

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"We are delighted to announce this incredible line-up of Strictly dancers for this year's official Strictly Professionals tour. These much loved pros are set to dazzle audiences across the country this spring, with two hours of the finest choreography and dancing. Watching them perform at such an incredible standard is an experience not to be missed."

Audiences nationwide will enjoy the inspiring talent of the multi award-winning world-class dancers as they perform stunningly choreographed Ballroom and Latin routines in exquisite costumes, with all the glitz, glamour, sequins and sparkle of the smash hit BBC One TV show - live on stage!

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see this spectacular dance extravaganza as Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals struts to a The Lowry, Salford for a Strictly limited engagement!

A man from Salford has been jailed over a stalking campaign against actress Denise Welch.

53-year-old Toriq Wyngard of Cannon Street in Salford has been jailed for seven years and seven months after admitting stalking as well as causing alarm and distress to actress Denise Welch during the period of September 18th 2020 and February 11th 2021.

Wyngard also plead guilty to being in possession of a knife as well as criminal damage including arson after he set a skip alight outside Welch's property in Cheshire which spread to the Loose Women stars home causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

The incidents have left the Denise and her partner permanently scarred, having to up their personal and home security.

DS Dave Thomason, from Cheshire Constabulary’s Harm Reduction Unit, said:

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“Wyngard’s actions were causing Denise great distress and a trial would have further impacted on her, so I’m pleased that he has now pleaded guilty. I’d like to thank Denise for her bravery in coming forward and I hope this reassures other victims that we do listen and take action against those who carry out such distressing crimes in our communities.

“Our Specialist Victim Advocates in the Harm Reduction Unit have been supporting Denise and her husband throughout - providing practical support, safety planning and advocacy. The Specialist Victims’ Advocates are currently providing direct support to a number of stalking victims across Cheshire in highly complex stalking cases, and I hope seeing this outcome will give others going through a similar ordeal the confidence to come forward and get the support and advice they need to end their nightmare. We will listen and we will help you get the right support in your case, just as we have done with Denise. Don’t suffer in silence, call us on 101 or report it via our website.”

 

Detectives probing the kidnaps of two men in Salford last month are questioning five suspects after dawn raids this morning saw properties targeted across the city and Manchester as part of the investigation.

Earlier today (Thursday 7 April) officers from our Tactical Aid Unit (TAU), alongside local officers, hit six addresses in Blackley, Gorton and Salford.

The action comes after we received a report on the evening of Thursday 24 March regarding a man being assaulted and dragged into a car by a group of three men on Clarendon Park.

Thankfully after enquiries by specialist investigators, the victim - a man in his 20s - was found safe and well with some physical injuries but none that required hospital treatment.

Subsequent enquiries have led detectives from our Swinton CID to believe that a second man - also aged in his 20s - was also targeted by the group but was able to flee from the offenders vehicle.

We think that the incidents have been targeted attacks emanating from a possible drugs dispute involving organised criminals and we're keen to ensure that any potential suspects are identified and brought to custody for questioning.

Five men aged between 20 and 30 are currently in two custody sites across Greater Manchester and await questioning on suspicion of kidnap.

Anyone with concerns or information about suspicious activity in their area should contact us online via LiveChat, if able, or by calling 101 knowing that information will be treated with the strictest confidence.

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

A man in his 30's has been hospitalised after what police believe to be a targeted knife attack by three men in the early hours of yesterday morning (6th April).

The incident happened close to the junction between Barton Road and Liverpool Road in Eccles shortly after midnight. Police say that the man was knocked off his bike and sustained injuries to his head and arm.

He is said to be in a stable condition.

A spokesperson, said:

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"Officers were called to a report of cyclist threatened with a bladed weapon and knocked off his bike on Liverpool Road in Salford just after 12.30am today (6 April 2022). A man in his 30s is received head and arm injuries and was taken to hospital where he remains in stable condition. Two males made off from the scene."

Officers from Greater Manchester Police are asking for anyone with information to get in touch with them via either 101, LiveChat or on www.gmp.police.uk. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 800 555 111.

Once again Manchester United legend comes to the rescue and saves the day, sadly not with his football prowess, how I wish it could be....

Brian Gorman our favourite artist generously donated his portrait of Eric the King to us,, so we could auction it off to raise money for The Mustard Tree emergency foodbank in Eccles, their was firm bidding for it but in Fergie time, Steve Roach stroked home the winner with a £150 bid.

Today I called into the Mustard Tree shop to hand over the cash to the shop manager, Georgia Breen, who thanked us profusely and said:

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"We are delighted to receive this marvellous cash donation and I would like to thank Brian Gorman and Steve Roach for their generosity and Salford.media for arranging this auction.

The money will be spent wisely, sadly we are always in need of donations, be it food, clothing, furniture etc and we can always collect, if you contact us on 0161 228 7331"

 

Another happy ending which is what we like, so if you think you can help Mustard Tree or your local foodbank, then don't hesitate to do it, I'm certain we all have the odd tin of food left over from Christmas lurking at the back of the cupboard which we never got round to eating, donate it!

I personally would like to thank Brian Gorman for his continuing generosity in handing over his portraits, he tells me he is moving to Chester but have no fear, he is still painting and writing etc, so I would like to ask you to help support him, he admits himself to being possibly the lowest payed artist in England, here is a link to his artwork so have a look at it and hopefully purchase a piece of original artwork

https://www.facebook.com/briangormanartwork

Finally a huge thank you to Little Hulton born, Steve Roach who put his hand in his pocket and purchased the artwork.

https://www.onyersports.com/

As Tiny Tim said, "God bless us one and all

Salford's only 24/7 FM radio station has been saved with a last minute flood of donations to secure its future for the following five years.

The local community broadcaster was facing closure later this year as licence fees needed to be paid in order to keep it on air.

A Crowdfunder  for £20,000 was launched earlier last month (March) and the public heard the call and stepped up to keep the uniquely Salford station from playing its final tune.

Salford City Radio Community Resource - a Music crowdfunding project in Manchester by Salford City Radio (crowdfunder.co.uk)

Salford City Radio which broadcasts on 94.4FM has been broadcasting from its base at the Civic Centre in Swinton since September 2007 and has provided a vital link with the community.

At the moment the total raised as of writing is £20,429 and its future seems to be secure for the moment but it needs more money to help replace ageing equipment and so donations are more than welcomed.

Two very generous donations boosting the coffers came from Salford City Council with a donation of £10,000 and Salford CVS who added £5,000 to the Crowdfunder.

Station manager Jill Bowyer, said:

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On behalf of everyone at Salford City Radio, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported our Crowdfunder campaign, either with a donation or by sharing our message. And helped us to not only reach our target but to surpass it, thank you so much!

I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of our community, especially as its such a difficult and uncertain time for everyone.

Thank you for being there for us, and making us feel valued.

Remember always, we are your community radio … and we are here for you.

Get in touch with us anytime you want to promote your organisation or business, run an advertising campaign, discuss something that you are passionate about, or maybe you’d like to join us and become a Salford City Radio volunteer. And don’t forget to get in touch and claim your rewards too.

Email info@salfordcityradio.org and we’ll get in touch with you.

 

Unlike the much larger commercial stations on our doorstep, SCR does not make a lot of money from ad revenue and relies on volunteers and donations in order to keep the station running. In return it offers those who would not otherwise have a chance to be part of radio an opportunity to learn new skills and develop new abilities.

Website: http://www.salfordcityradio.org

Listen: http://www.salfordcityradio.org/listen.php

Donate: SCR Crowd-Funder Page

Photo: Salford City Radio