Illegal phones, electrical devices and drugs have been seized following an operation to crack down on organised crime gang members operating from inside prison.

Following a significant increase in the number of phone 'throw overs' - where mobile phones are thrown over the prison walls at the prison, a joint-operation named Operation Dragonfire has been launched between Greater Manchester Police (GMP), HMP Forest Bank, HMPPS and North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU), to further the work carried out by prison staff.

Intel driven targeted cell searches were carried out, and 14 phones, two devices similar to a Wi-Fi router, a large number of steroids, several sim cards and other electrical contraband were all recovered, which will prove highly disruptive to the criminal network. 

Following the cell searches, a large-scale operation took place to target those involved in getting the phones into the Sodexo-run prison. With support from GMP's Drone and Tactical Dog unit, as well as NWROCU, a range of covert and overt patrols were deployed. This led to six arrests and six packages intercepted, which included three phones, tobacco, cannabis, cigarette papers, spice laced lined paper, lighters, and screwdrivers, which can be used to hide contraband.

Prisoners having access to mobile phones inside prison is illegal, and can compromise the sites security, posing risks to other prisoners, prison staff and the general public.

Once inside, mobile phones can be used by prisoners to continue operating as part of an organised gang. These illicit phones can be used to:

·        Co-ordinate throw overs of further prohibited items, such as phones and drugs

·        Intimidate witnesses

·        Continue to manage organised crime networks

The aim is not only to remove illegal mobile phones which have made their way to those serving time in prison, but also target those facilitating the 'throw overs' and those communicating with offenders behind bars – all of which are a criminal offence.

Operation Dragonfire is driven by intelligence, and has been established to target the higher tiers of criminal networks here in Greater Manchester. The intelligence determined which cells were searched, to ensure the work being carried out will target those who are deemed to be the highest threat, both inside and outside Forest Bank. 

The multi-agency operation is also working to disrupt those who are communicating illegally with offenders in prison, by targeting all numbers in contact with the seized phones. Those making illegal contact with prisoners will be cautioned and advised that they are breaking the law and the consequences of doing so. 

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Mossop from Programme Challenger at Greater Manchester Police said:

Quote

 

"We have become aware of alternative ways people are smuggling phones into prison. The suspension of social visits due to the Covid-19 pandemic is believed to be linked to an increase in the number of phone throw overs, which has become a prevalent issue in prisons.

"Phones smuggled in not only put the prison at risk, but also the wider public. If offenders have unlimited access to unmonitored phones, they are able to continue managing organised crime and co-ordinate further criminal activity both in and outside of the prison.

"Furthermore, once inside, phones can be sold to a captive audience at a higher rate than in the community, making vulnerable prisoners and their families subject to exploitation, and safeguarding risks.

"Working in partnership with HMP Forest Bank, HMPPS and North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU), we are able to prosecute those involved. GMP's involvement, often means that those caught using the banned mobile phones receive an increased prison sentence, and I hope this serves as a stark warning to all involved.

"A lot of work has gone into this operation and the volume of contraband recovered shows how successful the targeted cell searches have been, in addition to the success of patrols, and packages that were intercepted.

"I would also like to reiterate to those involved in the wider picture. Communicating with prisoners who are using illegal mobile phones is a criminal offence, as is throwing phones over. The collaborative work and large-scale action of Operation Dragonfire demonstrates that this will not be tolerated here in Greater Manchester.

"Patrols will remain in place, and we continue to take this extremely seriously. I would also ask anyone with any information in the event of throw overs taking place, or any information relating to this type of crime to report into us.

"We regularly rely on the public for information, and continue to act upon intel that comes into us to continue to drive our strategies and operations forwards."

 

Matt Spencer, Director of HMP Forest Bank added:

Quote

 

“Mobile phones in prisons constitute a significant threat to the security of the prison, undermining prison discipline, public safety and public confidence in the justice system.

“HMP Forest Bank is one of the largest, busiest and most complex prisons in the country with challenging populations, including the highest number of organised crime group males in the North West.

“We are constantly reviewing our activities in response to illicit phones but acknowledge that we always have more to do to disrupt organised crime networks.

“Multi-agency operations like Dragonfire have a huge impact, and I would like to extend my thanks to all agencies involved.”

 

If you have any concerns or information, you can contact police by dialling 101, or via the LiveChat or online reporting available at: https://www.gmp.police.uk/ 

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

Always dial 999 if it is an emergency.

Emergency Services were called to the canal tow path close to Monton Bridge yesterday (April 7th) after reports of an elderly man having collapsed.

Sadly the man in his 80s had died at the scene and police temporarily cordoned off the area along the towpath as well as the entrance to it along the top of Verdun Road.

Police and Paramedics from North West Ambulance Service attended.

There are no suspicious circumstances and the police have now informed his family.

A spokesperson for GMP said:

Quote

 

"Police were called to Monton Road, Eccles, at about 4.15pm on Wednesday 7 April 2021 to reports a man had collapsed on the canal towpath.

"A man in his 80s sadly died at the scene and his relatives have been informed.

"NWAS also attended.

"There are no suspicious circumstances."

 

Our condolences to his family and friends at this awful time.

A man has been jailed after being found in possession of 'numerous packs of suspected cocaine and crack cocaine' and 'a quantity of cash' after police pulled over a suspicious vehicle in Little Hulton almost a year ago.

The vehicle Ali was driving was stopped on Cleggs Lane, Little Hulton, on April 17, 2020 and was arrested immediately.

It may have take a lot of hard work to get a result but finally Husnain Ali of Rishton Lane in Bolton was jailed after he entered a guilty plea to possession of heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply, obstructing police and driving with no insurance and was sentenced to three years imprisonment at court.

The arresting officer PC Upton was given praise by both his colleagues and the public for his hard work on the long investigation which lead to Ali finally being jailed.

Officers from GMP wrote on their Facebook Page:

Quote

 

"Who remembers PC Upton’s arrest nearly 12 months ago on Cleggs Lane, Little Hulton?

"It has been a long investigation, and PC Upton has worked hard on the case.

"As a result, Husnain Ali, born 27/08/1992, of Rishton Lane, Bolton, appeared at Manchester Crown Court on March 5, 2021, and pleaded guilty to possession of heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply, obstructing police and driving with no insurance and was sentenced to three years imprisonment.

"Great work from PC Upton and his team, as always.

"Keep safe everyone."

 

With research revealing that since the COVID 19 pandemic almost 40% of disabled people in the United Kingdom are less active, sport inclusion charity Access Sport is continuing its vital work to work together at a community and strategic level to make sport accessible to all.

Reflective of this mission, the build of a new bike track is underway in Salford, Greater Manchester, designed to utilise the power of sport to create positive change for the community, including its vulnerable young people. 

Being built with support from Access Sport, The London Marathon Charitable Trust, Places to Ride, Salford City Council and Little Hulton Big Local, the project is designed to meet the needs of the community, which has higher-than-average rates of physical inactivity, with 34% of children physically inactive in Salford, comparative to the country’s 24% average.

Providing a safe, off-road facility for people to enjoy learning to ride, the track will help Salford’s children become more confident cyclists. In addition, with a higher-than-average proportion of children with special educational needs and disabilities in the area, the track will provide an amazing facility for all, becoming home to an inclusive cycling club run by local volunteers.

Whilst all funds required to build the track have been raised, a leisure facility on its own isn’t always enough to engage the people that can benefit the most. That is why sport inclusion charity, Access Sport, is determined to do more, with support from the local community. 

Launching a fundraising appeal, with a goal of raising £15,750, the charity is calling on the community, both in Salford and nationwide, to help raise funds to enable more young disabled people to benefit from all the track has to offer.

With Little Hulton, Salford, where the track is based, home to a young population with an above average proportion of children aged 0-19, and an estimated 7,500 children and young people across the city with a long-term illness or disability, with a further 3,500 for whom their disability is life-limiting, the track, which sits within one of the country’s most deprived areas, is of vital importance.

What’s more, Access Sport’s partners, The London Marathon Charitable Trust, will match every pound donated, up to a ceiling of £5,000, through their Strategic Partnership Grants Programme. So, any amount contributed is effectively worth double!

That’s why Access Sport needs your help to raise these funds, enabling them to teach 150 disabled young people to ride a bike, or improve their cycling skills, by bringing specialist coaching and equipment to the brand-new bike track. 

Running a 10-week programme with specialist qualified Level 2 BMX cycling coaches and providing access to tuition, bikes and equipment, disabled young people will gain the confidence to get out and ride a bike. The funds raised will enable 150 young people to learn cycling skills that will last a lifetime. 

Joe McTague, Delivery Director at Access Sport, says:

Quote

“Raising these funds is not simply about enabling us to help young people improve their cycling skills. There’s so much more to be gained. The benefits of being active are clear, and for too long, people with the most to gain have been the least active. Not only will our programme help young, disabled people increase their activity, it will also enable them to gain the confidence to try something new and increase their sense of independence, all whilst enjoying an opportunity to get outside and join in. What’s more, the programme will provide an opportunity for these individuals to meet new people and make friends, developing important communication and teamwork skills, this truly goes beyond biking alone!”

Shanaze Reade, former BMX World Champion and Access Sport Ambassador, says:

Quote

“This track is going to make such a big difference to locals. It's been a really tough time for so many people and having this facility on the doorstep is going to mean kids - and anyone really - can get out and have somewhere safe to go on a bike.”

Alison Jones, Development Manager Little Hulton Big Local, says:

Quote

“As a resident lead organisation, time and time again we heard that our young people wanted something bikeable or skateable in the park. We are very happy that their ideas have been heard and that we will have an amazing bike track on Peel Park, Little Hulton. We want all young people to be able to use the track including those with disabilities.” 

Donations from the public could help to:

Teach 150 disabled young people how to cycle, or become better at cycling, with coaching from British Cycling-trained experts 

Ensure local disability groups and pupils at special educational needs schools have free access and expert coaching at the new bike track 

Buy balance bikes and open-face helmets for young people with special educational needs 

Buy extra pads, helmets and PPE to ensure the track and equipment is Covid-safe

To make your donation and to find out more about how you can make a difference in helping Access Sport in their mission, please visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/cycling-for-salford

At the start of the month we ran an article regarding the potential sale of the former Salford City Stadium, now known as the AJ Bell Stadium, located in Barton.

Salford City Council maintain that any discussions on the sale of the stadium are still in the early stages and as yet neither the Council or Peel who make up the other half of CosCos (the joint owned 50-50 venture) have agreed any sale.

An approach has been made in the past by the owner of Sale Sharks which was promptly turned down, with Salford Deputy Mayor, John Merry deeming the offer as being “unacceptable”.

On the 1st of April, Salford Council issued the following which states that the Council will be seeking reassurance on commitments for Salford Red Devils before any such sale is agreed.

However, in a statement released earlier today by the Devils, Chief Exec, Paul King states that the current tenancy agreement between the club and CosCos is 'simply unsustainable' regardless of whom has ownership of the stadium.

Like most sports clubs in the UK, the Covid crisis has hit Salford hard and they are struggling financially with no confirmed end in sight.

Even if the club were to reopen tomorrow it would still take time to recover from the knock on effects of the pandemic as supporters will no doubt initially be fearful of attending large sporting events until they can be assured that it is safe.

Fortunately the outstanding vaccination roll out in Salford has led to a huge drop in infection rates with today just 8 confirmed positive tests being recorded, but even so it will still take time for local sports clubs to recover once they can reopen and Salford's Red Devils are not immune.

For a club that has already been struggling, any future rent increases would have a catastrophic impact on their finances and ability to continue to maintain a base in Salford.

If an agreement can not be found then there is the very real possibility that our local rugby club could find themselves homeless.

The Devils are hopeful that they can secure a new affordable deal which would allow them to continue to use the stadium as a base and warn that increases to their rent above what is financially viable for the club would be devastating for them and professional Rugby in Salford.

Paul King, Salford Red Devils Executive Chairman said:

Quote

 

“We appreciate the historic and ongoing support provided by Salford City Council in what we and our fantastic fans will clearly identify as a challenging period for the club off the pitch in the last few years.

“The club has recently been made aware of a proposal for the acquisition of the stadium. Although late in the day, and as a club without a benefactor, we are looking at making a bid ourselves to protect our Salford base.

“However, we must also look at extending our tenancy at the AJ Bell stadium, safeguarding our future at our ground in the City of Salford, regardless of ownership. We appreciate the council stating their ‘reassurance for commitments for Salford Red Devils’ upon any sale.

“Our current tenancy agreement is simply unsustainable for the club and we have been seeking a new deal on terms that we can afford. CosCos have supported the club with rental payment arrangements in recent seasons, we hope that we can strike a new agreement that allows both parties a mutually sustainable level.

“Any ownership changes to the stadium that increases our rent above what is financially viable for the club would be devastating.

“We and the council must work together now to keep Salford Red Devils in Salford. These sentiments have been strongly shared by the Mayor and members of Salford City Council and we are hopeful that this joint resolve will conclude with a positive outcome for Salford Red Devils remaining at the AJ Bell Stadium.

“The club will provide a further statement should any significant developments arise. As always, I am personally grateful, as is everyone at the club, for the fantastic support of our fans and fellow Salfordians.”

 

The club has now called upon the Council to work together with them to ensure that the club remains within Salford.

At around 10pm on Tuesday 6th April 2021, police were called to a report of a serious road traffic collision on Albion Way, Salford.

Officers attended and established that a vehicle had collided with the barrier, whilst taking the exit off the M602.

Emergency services attended and a male and female - aged 23 and 21 - were taken to hospital, where they remain with serious injuries.

No arrests have been made, and enquiries are ongoing.

Constable Neil Pennington from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at Greater Manchester Police said:

Quote

 

"We are appealing to anyone with information and/or dash cam footage to speak with police as we work to piece together how this incident unfolded."

"Both individuals remain in hospital with serious injuries, and any information could prove invaluable."

 

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting 2899 of 06/04/21 or the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Can you help police find John Curran, 29,  who was last seen on Francis Road in Irlam, at around 7pm on Tuesday 6 April 2021?

John is described as being white, of large build, approximately 5ft 11, with short, dark brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, dark grey jeans and black trainers with white stripes.

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

Anyone with information about John's whereabouts should contact police on 0161 856 5063.

GMP's Traffic Division used a tactical ramming method to knock a illegal motorcyclist from his bike on Park Road in Swinton yesterday evening (Tuesdays 6th April), and it was all caught on video camera.

The Balaclava Clad off-road biker was spotted riding with a fellow biker in a dangerous manner around the streets of Salford.

Police were forced to take steps to stop the reckless rider to ensure the safety of the public.

Unfortunately they were unable to apprehend the rider as he was able to jump on the back of a second bike and both made their getaway.

GMP will now send the bike to the crusher.

Salford housing association Salix Homes has scored a hat-trick of nominations in the prestigious Northern Housing Awards.

Salix Homes has been shortlisted in three categories in the Northern Housing Awards, which recognise the achievements of housing providers in the north.

Social housing development Joan Lestor House in Walkden has been named as a finalist in the Best Development for Social/Affordable Rent category.

Salix Homes transformed the derelict former women’s refuge into nine apartments for social rent – some of the first new, social housing to be created in the area for many years.

It has also been shortlisted in the Best Digital Transformation category in recognition of its technical innovation and digital modernisation strategy.

Salix Homes’ digital journey has seen the landlord launch a ground-breaking digital repairs service – MySalix - incorporating innovative chatbot technology; and become the first housing provider in the UK to fully embrace the public cloud.

The Salix Homes Customer Committee is also in the running for the Best Resident Involvement Initiative gong. The Committee was launched last year in a bid to give tenants greater influence in how housing services are provided.

Sue Sutton, chief executive at Salix Homes, said:

Quote

 

“The past 12 months has been a year like no other, but despite the challenges posed by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, we have continued to make a difference, improve housing services and transform lives and communities for our customers in Salford.

“We’ve created new, desperately-needed homes to help tackle the housing crisis, established our pioneering Customer Committee and pushed on with our plans to become a truly digital organisation, equipped for the demands of a modern world, so to be recognised for our efforts in all these areas in the prestigious Northern Housing Awards is a real honour and is testament to all the hard work of our colleagues and partners.”

 

The winners will be announced at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday, May 13.

Salford City Council is reminding residents the clock is ticking for those who have not registered to vote.

And the council is encouraging those who have already registered to consider applying for a postal vote to ensure they make their mark even if they’d prefer to stay at home.

People have until midnight on Monday 19 April to register to vote - and until Tuesday 20 April to apply for a postal vote.

Returning Officer Tom Stannard said: “The polls will open at 7am on Thursday 6 May and it is important that local people have their say. I’d encourage all our residents to make sure they are registered to vote. Five minutes and your national insurance number is all it takes to register. If you’ve just turned 18, are new to Salford or recently moved to a new home, you’ll need to make sure you’re registered to vote in the May elections.

“We are working hard behind the scenes to make sure the election runs as safely and smoothly as possible during the current COVID-19 pandemic. The safety of members of the public and employees is of the upmost priority so it’s important for residents to remember to wear face coverings to help keep people safe. Our polling stations will have a range of safety measures in place, but if you would prefer to stay at home please consider registering for a postal vote, so that you can still have your say.

"This year in Salford we have an ‘all out election’. This means that all 60 council ward seats are up for election. Residents also get to choose who they want to be Salford City Mayor and who they want to be The Greater Manchester Mayor. All Salford residents will receive a mayoral booklet with a full list of candidates for Salford City Mayor and their election address.”

People can register to vote at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote and sign up for postal voting at www.salford.gov.uk/postalvote

The polls close at 10pm on Thursday 6 May.

The count for Salford local councillors will begin at 11am on Friday 7 May.

The count for the Salford City Mayor and Greater Manchester Mayor will begin at 11am on Saturday 8 May.

More information about the forthcoming elections, one of the biggest in Salford for years, is at www.salford.gov.uk/mayelections including voter guidance with videos explaining the different ballot papers, what to expect at a polling station and how to complete a postal vote.

I have heard the saying that if you go in somebody's you can guarantee there will be a glass from a local pub in there, I think this saying can be extended to a copy of a Neil Richardson, local history publication.

We visited Sue Richardson's house in Ringley Village to see a truly amazing collection of books, Trade Directories, maps, photographs and even a bound collection of the Manchester Guardian newspaper from 1821 - 1972, a historians dream.

Neil who sadly passed away in 2006 was good friend of mine and I am proud to have known him, I first met him in 1977 when he was the Editor of the Camra magazine, What's Doing, an hilarious and often Irreverent newsletter about local pubs and breweries.

Together with Alan Gall we wrote , A History of Salford Pubs volume one, this was published in 1978 and from then on things snowballed as Neil assisted by Sue set up his own publishing company and began publishing affordable, local history publications, and  put in print many. many authors, myself included whose work, would have never seen the light of day.

His publications covered a vast area of Salford and Manchester with such topics as Salford Docks, memories of Hulme, Rochdale, Oldham, Bury, Miles Platting. Hanky Park, Weaste, housing conditions in Victorian Manchester, the history of long defunct breweries and pubs, cinemas, dance halls, policing, WW! and WW2 local regiments, the Blitz and far to many to mention here, in all some 200 publications were printed, this has now been whittled down to around 100 or so.

Sue Richardson has continued with this legacy and from home still reprints much of the back catalogue and the odd new publication, single-headedly, a cottage industry you could call it, but more importantly she provides an invaluable service for both the keen local historian and the person who has a love for a certain area and likes to reminisce about days gone by.

I am delighted to say that Sue has managed to keep up, just printing the books but has been hard hit for sales with the Covid crisis, however she has informed that she is still doing postal sales and can be contacted at home where she will be happy to discuss sales with you, but please phone before calling at her home address.

Please contact Sue on 01204 578138 or via email at wattywalton@btconnect.com

Or

If you send a Stamped Addressed Envelope to Sue at 88 Ringley Road, Stoneclough, Radcliffe, Manchester, M26 1ET. She will send you a catalogue of all of the over 100 books available

Finally Sue tells me that her email is a bit slow at the moment but rest assured each one will be answered, if you get stuck, you can message me at, tony@salford.media and I will pass messages on.

So please support your local small business at this most testing of times and Sue fully deserves all of our help and support

For a full list of available books please attached file: Download

Some good news for the Three Sisters nature reserve in Ellesmere park today as Salford Councils planning panel unanimously signed off on Tree Protection Order which will allow the council to now monitor for any future proposals for work to be carried out on the trees so that they can ensure that they are given fill consideration.

In October 2020, United Utlilited sparked outrage in the surrounding community and among nature lovers after proposing to place a storm tank on an area of land on the site.

This was turned down by the planning panel after objections were made by local people and local politicians, including the cities wildlife champion, Councillor Lewis Nelson.

However there is still the threat of UU appealing the decision or even just to completely ignore it as they have a national mandate to carry out large infrastructure projects.

This added safeguard is a welcome addition to the fight to help preserve the area unspoilt for future generations to enjoy.

Over the past month or so, work to improve the area has been carried out and we took a walk this evening to check out the improvements.

Check out a few of the photos from our visit below.

In the past 24 hours we have received information concerning an approach by a currently unnamed third party with regards to the potential sale of the current home of Salford Red Devil & Sale Sharks - The AJ Bell Stadium, in Barton.

Over the past few days there has been rumour circulating online that a stadium sharing deal between two other clubs has been put forward which could possibly see the future of Salford Red Devils at the AJ Bell placed in jeopardy if the sale of the 12,000 seat were to be approved.

Salford Council has today released a press statement confirming that an approach from a 'would-be' purchaser has been made but are quick to point out that as yet, there have been no decisions made and that Salford Reds have been asked in light of the approach to bring forwards their own proposals for purchasing the stadium.

The former Salford City Stadium, now known as the AJ Bell Stadium was constructed in 2011/12 and has been the home of Salford's Rugby League side since opening. It was built by Salford City Council in partnership with co-owners Peel Land & Property who both have an equal 50-50 stake in CosCos, the management company that oversees the stadium.

Salford's Devils moved to the new stadium after quitting their former home 'The Willows' in Weaste.

Since then the club has had its ups and downs but in recent years they have gone from strength to strength on the pitch with an impressive win of 'The Million Pound Game' and narrowly losing in the grand final to St Helens in 2019.

In order for a sale of the stadium to take place it would have to be agreed by all parties. Salford Council has confirmed it will be seeking assurances for commitments for the club should any sale take place.

The clubs behind the bid have not yet been named but both Salford FC and Sale Sharks have been mentioned as potential purchasers online, however we must stress that at this time this is just speculation and online rumour, it is not definite.

The Sharks have made a previous bid for the stadium back in 2017 when owner Simon Orange said they had made an offer above what they thinks it is worth.

Salford Deputy Mayor, John Merry referred to the offer as being “unacceptable”.

A spokesperson from Salford City Council said:

Quote

"We can confirm that the Council has been approached by a would-be purchaser for the stadium, but we would like to emphasise that no decision has been taken. We should also note that the Council would only account for one half of any such decisions in any case, as the stadium is owned via a 50-50 management partnership through the Stadium Company CosCos.

"Recognising the approaches that have been made to the Council, the Red Devils have also been asked to bring forward a proposal for purchasing the Stadium and all such proposals will be considered on their own merits. There are no timescales on any of these discussions and all offers can be discussed on their own merits - with no guarantee that CosCos will seek a sale at the end of them.

“Should a future decision be taken to sell the stadium, the council will be seeking reassurance for commitments for Salford Red Devils.

"The council has been integral in supporting Salford Red Devils and rugby league in the city for many years and we continue to do this in any way that we can. Previous actions - including payment holidays on rent and loan support -  have stabilised the club and provided time for their board to make longer term plans for its future."

 

Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace the next of kin of a man from Salford

Romendo Shekhar Dewan, 89, has sadly passed away at his home address at Ascot Court, Salford on Monday 29 March 2021.

There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Anyone with information about Romendo’s next of kin should contact the Police Coroner’s Office in Bolton on 0161 856 4687.

A 'so far' unnamed cut price supermarket chain has its sights firmly aimed on Worsley as part of a proposed much larger retail area.

Earlier this week it was announced that O'Flannigan Construction based upon the Wirral, was aiming to submit planning permission to build a medium sized 'precinct' complex on land it has acquired close to Worsley Woods.

If given the go ahead by the local council it would see eight retail units and up to 56 new jobs created in the area.

So far it said that there has been interest from a local budget supermarket chain of the likes of Aldi or Lidl that plans to take up 2 units for a new store at the prime location.

A charity shop and food-bank operated by the upper church of later-day saints is also looking at taking a unit.

A smaller unit at the entrance to the site would make a perfect fast food drive-thru opportunity a spokesperson said.

Earlier this week a source within O'Flannigan Construction told us:

Quote

 

"We have had plans for this in play for almost 5 years and we have been given good signs so far that permission to build will be given.

"O'Flynnagains are a huge national construction company with its roots in Dublin and acquired the land with a view to creating a much needed local retail space in what is seen as a high status area.

"We have had interest from a local charity but as yet contracts have not been signed.

"Our company has been in talks with a local German super market chain and we feel that it would hugely benefit the area and give a boost not only to the local economy but also to house prices in the area.

"We look forward to working with the local people in Worsley to make this a reality."

 

Additionally the company have also set out plans for a call centre to be built on land in nearby Roe Green.

We will have more on this story if it develops.

Salford's favourite historian, accomplished author and respected local journalist, Mr Anthony Errol Flynn, has announced that he is standing as an independent candidate for the position of City Mayor in the upcoming Salford elections which are to be held this May.

Tony cuts a popular figure within Salford, having amassed a considerable following over the years due to his immense encyclopaedic knowledge of the cities history as well as his wit, humour and philanthropy.

Speaking on the steps of Swinton Civic Centre, Tony told us: 

Quote

 

"I am a Salford lad through and through, born in the heart of the old city on the wind swept shores of the Irwell to a Salfordian Mother and an Irish Father.

"I have never really had much of an interest in politics but over the years I have found it harder and harder to sit on the side lines and feel that now is the perfect time to come forward, make my mark and take a stand, for the future of this city I love.

"If I am lucky enough to be elected I will be donating all of the Mayoral salary to a local charity or good cause to ensure that it does not interfere with my weekly ESA payments.

"For me it is not about the money, it's about the amazing people and the beautiful city we all reside in."

 

Tony went on to speak about his election pledges:

Quote

 

"If I am fortunate enough to win the office of Mayor, I will immediately seek to abolish it, I was never keen on it in the first place and feel that there are better and cheaper ways to run a city. Why do we need so many mini mayors? They can be cut for a start.

"As for Salford, I have said this for a long time, we need to 'Bring Back The Borough's' and I will be seeking for devolution in places like Eccles, Swinton and Irlam etc... so as to have a more localised governance within the old townhalls so as to allow them more control over their specific areas and how money is spent on things like pot holes, infrastructure and cycling schemes.

"In my opinion the money and wealth of the city needs to be more equally distributed across the whole of Salford and not just concentrated in the enclaves of the already rich and wealthy, like Salford Quays, The Crescent and Clifton.

"We need more fairness and a cross in my box is a vote for just that.

"I will tirelessly campaign for Salford University to drop the hilarious Manchester 'tag' and demand that The Lowry Shopping Centre shows a little pride by badging itself firmly in Salford where it is sited and not as part of Manchester.

"It is time to take a stand, so let us be proud of our city, its former docklands and it's industrial and spiritual heritage.

"With the cost of living increasing and the more vulnerable feeling the bite in wages and benefits, I will also seek to put pressure on Morrisons to reduce the cost of a plastic carrier bag to a more reasonable price as pensioners can ill afford 50p per bag, it is a big rip off in my opinion and it needs to be addressed.

"Failure to do so means that an average big shop could cost upwards of £2 just in plastic bags alone if you forget them, for the older folks, that's a lot out of their meagre state pensions.

"With regards to 'green' issues, I will be seeking to legalise cannabis in Salford and to grow it for medicinal use for people with bad backs and gout upon Barton Moss, creating a sustainable local income for both the farmers and the local council via taxes. At the same time, protecting the greenbelt from housing developments and fracking.

"I will seek for the AJ Bell Stadium to be renamed the Salford 'Willows' Stadium as a hark back to the glory days of Rugby in the city, once the current naming rights deal have expired, it is ours, it is in Salford and it deserves to have our proud cities name all over it.

"If Sale Sharks opt to leave then sod them, they will be replaced by allowing smaller local clubs like Winton Wanderers access to the ground to help them grow and flourish.

"And Peel can shut it too, I am pulling no punches here and mean business."

 

Quote

 

"Salford is sat upon a black gold mine, there are still many many tons of coal still left under our city and it is an untapped resource we can no longer afford to ignore, I pledge to do all I can to reopen Agecroft if elected.

"Admittedly there are houses now on the old site but there is plenty of open space along the Croal Irwell valley to be able to site an open cast pit.

"People need jobs and mining is one way to quickly bring a little wealth and prosperity back to Salford.

"As you know, this past 12 months or so has been a nightmare for local businesses and I hear their cries and feel their pain, so in order to help them get on their feet again I will pledge to allow longer opening hours as well as cut business rates and in some key parts of the city, pubs will be allowed to open 24/7 (Not Monton).

"Buile Hill Mansion is an issue that many want solving and I am in advanced talks with a Chinese consortium based in Rhyl to purchase it and finally reopen it for public use. If successful, there will be a cat sanctuary and petting zoo for the young uns, a roller skate rink on the upper floors for 80's style roller disco for the teens, and I am proud to say that there will also be a weekly raffle to help the Winton Orphanage and other equally good causes, like the save the Winton Beaver fund and Pendleton based animal charity, 'walking aids for one legged pigeons'.

"Salford people love nothing more than to reminisce about the good old days and so if elected I pledge that I shall rebuild cross lane and put it back to how it used to be.

"The old pubs and houses will be rebuilt brick by brick and if it is a success I will move the project to stage 2 which will see the whole of Hanky Park rebuilt, slums n all.

"I will finance this by increasing taxation in more affluent areas.

"I have other great ideas which I think could benefit Salford, this is just the tip of the iceberg. I didn't want to have to take the stand but I felt obliged to.

"If Paul Dennett had agreed to my demands to solve this the old school Salford way, with a bare knuckle fist fight for charity on the civic centre lawns, then I would have had no reason make this political.

"It is what it is so please vote Flynny this May."

 

Tony hopes to have his full politically correct 'personifesto' out later this week once it has been finalised and printed for free on the photocopiers at Eccles Library..

For a full copy of the 740 page hard back booklet which comes with a free copy of his Eccles pub book, you can contact him on 0161 820 2411 and leave a message starting with the words 'In Like Flynn'.

Salfordians are being reminded not to forget to fill in your census, if you’ve not already completed it there is still time and plenty of help available if you are struggling.

Sunday March 21 was national census day but if you have not already completed it there is still time left - and it is a legal requirement that people do so.

There have been some inaccurate reports in the media saying that the public had until Sunday night of the 21st of March to fill it in, otherwise you'd get a £1,000 fine!

The census is still continuing, and reminder letters are now being sent out to households. You have in fact got until 4th of May, which is when the operational period will start drawing to a close, and there will be plenty of reminders between now and then.

Obviously the sooner people fill the census in before then, the better, as it is mandatory and people could still face a £1,000 fine, from May onwards.

Field staff will be visiting homes that have not already filled in the census to assist them on the doorstep or sign post them to other areas of support.

Why does it matter?

Because the statistics it provides help build a picture of Salford’s communities and their needs and because funding for vital services is based on population count. If that’s not accurate Salford may get less money than it needs to provide vital public services such as education, health and transport.

In short, without your input, our local council could be underfunded which could have an adverse effect on how much is available to spend in the coming decade on public services.

What about privacy & safety?

All of your personal information is kept private, locked and secure for 100 years, only statistical data is used and no personal data is shared. 

Everyone working on the census signs the Census Confidentiality Undertaking. This includes people working for the census offices and for it's suppliers.

It’s a crime for them to unlawfully share personal census information.

The Census Office have a strict security regime that follows government standards. This includes physical and IT security measures to protect your information.

It’s also a chance to write yourself into history, making it easier for future generations searching their ancestors and discovering their family history.

Need Help?

If anyone needs help to complete the census online or needs a paper copy, alternative format or help with languages they can call the national helpline free on 0800 141 2021 or visit https://census.gov.uk

They can also book a free phone or video call help session with Salford City Council’s Better Off team by visiting www.salford.gov.uk/cloudchat or by calling the Spirit of Salford helpline on 0800 952 1000, Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm.

Additionally, Alison the census engagement manager for Salford is running an online drop in session 4-7pm on 6 April which can be accessed via the link below. 

https://meet.google.com/sfq-exfr-dut

If you would prefer to visit local help centres please see www.salford.gov.uk/census2021 where they are listed.

Please make it count for Salford!

Major work to three Salford roads will start from Monday April 12 and will last approximately six months.

Salford City Council say the £1.3 million scheme to resurface the A6 Chapel Street is necessary to stop the road deteriorating further. It was repaved with granite blocks in 2011/2012 as part of work to revitalise the area which has unlocked more than £660 million worth of investment and development potential.

The granite blocks have become damaged over time and need to be replaced. The cost will be part funded by a financial settlement agreed between Salford City Council and Urban Vision/Galliford Try which carried out the original work.

The resurfacing work, which will affect Chapel Street between Trinity Way (the inner ring road) and Oldfield Road will be carried out under lane closures which starting  from Monday April 19 and using a contraflow which will be introduced from Monday May 3.

A new layby in Great George Street will be created as part of the scheme to provide parking for funeral corteges at Salford Cathedral and avoid vehicles stopping on Chapel Street itself. Great George Street will be closed at its junction with the A6 Chapel Street for a few weeks during the six month period  to facilitate  this.

Traffic exiting or seeking to enter Islington Way will be via signed diversion routes. 

Meanwhile work to improve cycling and walking routes along Liverpool Street will begin in April after the Greater Manchester Combined Authority approved the final funding needed for the £3.1 million scheme last month. 

The Liverpool Road scheme will maintain the road space for motorists but increase space for pedestrians and cyclists and will introduce a new crossing and bus boarding facilities. The road will remain open as normal with two way running for the first phase.

Work to complete the terraced footway/cycleway on Middlewood Street, which has been delayed by building work, will also go ahead in May. The road will be open one way for traffic to Manchester but closed at its junction with Trinity Way to Salford bound traffic.

Ben Dolan, Salford Councils Strategic Director For Place, said:

Quote

 

“These are major and complex schemes which have taken months of detailed planning to put together.

“We will get a good head start on them before lockdown measures are due to be lifted fully in June, although we anticipate many people will continue to work from home or continue walking or cycling as they have done through lockdown.

"However some disruption to traffic is inevitable and we apologise for that but it cannot be avoided if this road is to be restored and work carried out. Access to businesses and homes in the area will be maintained.”

 

Police arrested three men and a woman and seized a large amount of class A drugs on Sunday 28th March as part of GMP Salford's on going operation to tackle an organised crime dispute in the city.

As a result of the arrests, a man named as Aiden Curtis (25/01/1996), of no fixed abode, has been charged with handling stolen goods.

He appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court yesterday (Tuesday 30 March) and has been bailed and is due to appear at Manchester Crown Court on Friday 6 August 2021.

Officers from the Operation Naseby disruption hub - formed in April 2020 in response to a violent dispute in Salford - searched an address on Powel Street in the Clayton area on Sunday 28th March.

A total of £3000 in cash was found at the property and half an ounce of suspected class A drugs - namely cocaine was seized.

Seven phones were also recovered and taken away in evidence to be used as part of other on-going investigations.

A 25 year old man was arrested for being wanted for a number of offences and also in connection with money laundering and possession of drugs with intent to supply. He remains in custody for questioning.

Two other men, both aged 25 and a woman aged, 22, were arrested on suspicion of money laundering and possession of drugs with intent to supply and have been released under further investigation.

The action relates to a recent dispute between groups in Salford and north Manchester as dedicated teams of officers in both districts continue to work closely with the Serious and Organised Crime Group and respective local partners.

Detective Chief Inspector Rick Thompson, of GMP's Salford district, said:

Quote

 

"Friday night saw us make an important impact on the scourge of organised crime in Salford and there is no doubt that this action will have disrupted this particular group.

"Our officers do work around the clock daily to keep combatting criminal groups operating in our city and we are committed to maintaining this level of action to keep decreasing the level of serious crime on our streets."

 

At around 11.10am on Tuesday 25 February 2020, police received a report of a firearm discharge that had occurred in the early hours of that morning on Coniston Avenue, Whitefield. 

Officers attended the scene and identified damage to a window and wall of a property that was consistent with that of a firearm discharge. 

Thankfully no injuries were reported and a full investigation was launched. 

Yesterday (Tuesday 30 March 2021) officers conducted a warrant at a property in the Eccles area and a 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody for questioning. 

Police say that approximately a quarter kilo of cocaine was also recovered during searches of his property. 

Detective Chief Inspector Joe Harrop of GMP's Serious and Organised Crime Group, said:

Quote

“This incident caused considerable concern amongst the community and our officers have been working tirelessly to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. 

“We currently have one man in custody for questioning and this is testament to the determination and hard work of the officers investigating this incident over the past year. This type of reckless behaviour is not welcome within our community and GMP will do all in its power in order to remove both dangerous weapons and dangerous individuals from our streets.

“I would also take this opportunity to highlight that the intelligence we receive from members of the public can be of great assistance to our investigation so I would encourage anyone with any information in relation to this type of activity to come forward and speak with police.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6482. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.