Both companies are owned by the Malvern Group which went into administration on Thursday, leaving an estimated 53,000 customers in doubt over holidays they had booked.

A statement on the Malvern website read,

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"We regret to advise you that Malvern Group incorporating Superbreak Mini Holidays Limited and LateRooms Limited, has filed a Notice of Intention to Appoint an Administrator on 1st August 2019 and have ceased trading with immediate effect.

"It is the company’s intention to appoint an administrator to deal with the affairs of the business tomorrow."

 

The advise for those with concerns over bookings with LateRooms was to contact the hotel directly.

LateRooms went on to say,

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"In relation to your forthcoming booking(s), LateRooms.com acted as an agent on behalf of your accommodation supplier therefore we anticipate that your reservation is secure and your payment will be taken by the accommodation supplier either in advance (for non-refundable reservations) or at the property.

"LateRooms limited have not taken any payment for your booking.

"We recommend however that you contact your accommodation supplier directly prior to travelling to confirm. You can find their contact details on your booking confirmation.

"To amend or cancel your booking you will need to contact the accommodation supplier directly."

 

It advised SuperBreak customers to contact Abta, their travel agent or their credit card provider for further help.

Abta has issued advice for customers of SuperBreak, but said it did not cover LateRooms.

In a statement, it said,

Quote

 

The "vast majority" of SuperBreak holidaymakers' arrangements would be covered through Abta, Atol or their credit card companies.

"These customers will either be entitled to a refund or, if they've booked through another travel company, they should contact them to discuss options which may include continuing with their booking, re-booking or alternative arrangements,"

 

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has raised concerns over the safety of the supermarket's 60 Crispy Chicken Dippers and has asked customers to return the packs to stores for a full refund.

This is thought to be an isolated case and no other Iceland products are thought to have been affected by the issue.

The product being recalled is the supermarket’s pack of 60 dippers (1.08kg), with any best before date code.

Iceland has started putting up recall notices in stores and the information is being shared online via both the media and social networks.

In a notice, the FSA said:

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"If you have bought any of the above product do not eat it. Instead, return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund."

If you are concerned or have queries, Iceland said you can speak to a store manager or alternatively contact the customer care line on 0800 328 0800.

In the early hours of Monday 1 January 2018, Birkett and Wimbleton forced their way into a property on Foynes Close in Manchester as a mother and her four young children were sleeping. 

As the pair crept upstairs, the mother woke up and saw Wimbleton on the landing carrying a hammer and wearing sunglasses in an apparent attempt to disguise his identity. 

Spotting him about to walk into the room where her young children were sleeping, the woman ran out and pleaded with him not to go in. At this point she also noticed Birkett standing on the landing with a crowbar in hand. 

Birkett then walked towards her and held the crowbar to the woman’s face and threatened her before punching her to the ground as she attempted to stop him entering her bedroom. 

The two offenders then searched the room for valuables and took a PS4, an iPad and a mobile phone that had all been bought as Christmas presents. 

Birkett and Wimbleton would strike again, this time targeting a takeaway delivery driver on Iron Street in Ancoats on Saturday 13 January 2018. 

The man had just dropped food off and was walking to his car when he was approached by the two offenders wearing balaclavas and demanding money. When he refused, he was thrown to the floor where one of the men began choking him as the other rummaged through his pockets. 

After the victim threw his wallet under the car in an attempt to prevent them stealing it, Wimbleton held him down as Birkett kicked him in the face and body. 

They then stole his jacket, fleece, wallet and mobile phone and ran off before returning a short time later and attempting to steal the victim’s car but were unable to start the vehicle. 

The pair fled the scene as police arrived but were arrested hours later at a nearby address. 

Detective Sergeant Louise Edwards, of GMP’s City of Manchester Division, said:

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“Birkett and Wimbleton are violent offenders whose greed ultimately caught up with them and resulted in their arrest. 

“They were prepared to use force to get what they wanted and even sunk as low as knowingly assaulting a mother as her children slept in the next room. 

“I hope it will bring their victims some comfort to know that they have been brought to justice.” 

Three men approached the rear of the house through the garden and forced their way through the back door. 

They threatened the two home owners – two women aged 81 and 82 – along with their visiting relative – a 79-year-old man – with a screwdriver before stealing a quantity of cash and a mobile phone. 

The trio fled in the direction of Broadway before getting into a silver saloon that was parked on the road. 

Officers have released CCTV footage from Welwyn Close of three men they want to speak to in connection with the investigation along with a picture of a silver saloon. 

Detective Constable Paul Walls, of GMP’s Trafford borough, said:

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“An innocent family were subjected to a terrifying attack in their own home, the place where you should feel safe, and they are still recovering from the shock of this ordeal. 

“I am thankful that no-one was injured but this could easily have had devastating consequences. 

“We’re really keen to speak to the men featured in the CCTV footage as part of our enquiries and I would urge them or anyone who knows who they might be to please get in touch. 

“We have also released a picture of a silver saloon and whilst I appreciate it isn’t the best quality, I would ask anyone that thinks they might have seen the car in the area around the time of the robbery to please call police.” 

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 7530 quoting incident number 1233 of 20/09/2018, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

She asked her for a lighter and when the victim said she didn’t have one the attacker began punching her, pulling her hair and kicking her. 
  
The woman, who managed to run away, was covered in bruises and scratches while clumps of her hair were also pulled out. 
  
The incident happened about 11pm on Saturday 28 July – the Magic Numbers were playing at the venue that night. 

Since then officers have carried out local enquiries including trawling through CCTV. The investigating officer has also circulated the image of the woman they want to speak to across the force. 
  
However, despite these attempts to identify her, officers still don’t who she is and need to speak to her urgently. 
  
PC Liz Ralph, from GMP’s Trafford borough, said:

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“This was a vicious and brutal attack on an innocent woman as she stood outside the venue waiting for a friend. 
  
“Although her physical injuries were not really serious, this attack shook her up and has made her understandably fearful. 
  
“We are desperate to identify the woman pictured and I would urge anyone who recognises her to please call police. 
  
“If this is you, then I would also ask that you make contact with officers at the earliest opportunity.” 

Any information can be passed to police by calling 0161 856 7530 quoting incident number 558 of 1 August 2018 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

Please note, this incident did NOT happen within the Arndale itself.

Luke Jones (26/04/91) of Keston Crescent, Brinnington and Ryan Gould (28/08/90) of no fixed address have both been charged with a public order offence and two counts of section 47 assault. 

They have been remanded in custody and will appear later today (Friday 12 October 2018) at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court. 

At around 2.10pm on Monday 20 August 2018, police received a report that two women and their young children – a three year-old girl, a five-month-old baby in a pram and a ten-year-old girl in a wheelchair with severe disabilities – were attacked and abused.

At around 2.10pm on Monday 20 August 2018 police received a report that two men had attacked and abused two women and their young children, a three year-old girl, a five month old baby in a pram and a ten-year-old girl in a wheelchair with severe disabilities.

The mums had gone into Manchester city centre with their children on a day out when two men began shouting abuse at the 10-year-old girl outside Boots on Market Street under the Arndale food court.

Incredibly distressed by what had just happened to all of them, the mums retreated to McDonalds in St Anns Square to calm the children down. Unfortunately the men arrived at the restaurant shortly after.

The men brazenly sat themselves next to their victims and again began abusing the little girl in the wheelchair, shouting derogatory comments and threatening violence.

As the girl became increasingly upset, her mum stood up to confront the men about their behaviour. She was then punched in the face by one of them leading to a scuffle between the two men and the mums.

A drink was then thrown at the little girl but ended up covering all of the children including the baby, and one of the mums.

Investigating officers have now released images of two men they would like to speak to in connection with the assaults, and are appealing for the public’s help to identify them.

This is being treated as a hate crime.

Police Constable Dave Stebbings  from GMP’s Manchester city centre team said:

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“Occasionally, we receive reports that make you sick to the stomach.

“How anyone could attack and abuse young children and their mums on a day out, I have no idea.

“During the commotion the 10-year-old girl ended up hiding under a table shaking, extremely distressed by the abuse and assault on her mother. It breaks your heart thinking about this.

 “I would like to hear from anyone who recognises the men in the images to get in touch. I also hope to hear from anyone who witnessed these abhorrent assaults.

“Thankfully the injuries sustained will leave no visible scars, but the mums and their children will take much longer to recover from the trauma of their experience.

“There is no place for this appalling behaviour in society.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 3221, alternatively call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with attempted robbery. He has been bailed to appear before Manchester Youth Court on 25 September 2018. 

This is in relation to an incident which took place on Oxford Road at around 7.20pm on Tuesday 4 September 2018 and was filmed before being widely shared on social media. 
  
The video showed a man being punched in the face as the brazen thief attempted to steal his £800 bike. He refused to let go and was dragged across the floor before the offenders gave up and fled the scene. 

It has been little over thirteen months since the now iconic Mobike first hit the streets of Salford & Greater Manchester.

And by hit we literally do mean hit, as many of them were vandalised, thrown into local rivers, set on fire and in one case even painted gold by some artistic vandal from Weaste in an unsuccessful attempt to make it look less obvious and well, LESS MOBIKEY.

And so here we are today to announce that the ill fated Mobike is to retreat from the streets of Greater Manchester... Well if we are being honest here, as we reported last year, they already did that in most parts of Salford within the first few months of business as the vandalism rates were so high.

Bikes were limited to certain areas of the City, mainly around Salford Quays and the Eastern flanks that nestle up to Manchester.

The scheme was doomed from the start as unlike with the 'Boris' bikes that are used down there in that London, these were dockless and so did not need to be returned, they were mainly left lying around at the sides of roads or more commonly across pavements.

They were pretty much left anywhere and everywhere and that therein was the problem, no bike docks equalled no care at all as to what happened to that bike once you parked it up and left it at the end of your session.

Bikes were often left in areas in which there was already a high bicycle theft rate and it was open season for those who simply saw them as a resource they could exploit.

Locks were smashed off them and the electronic trackers were removed, for a good while it was not uncommon to see kids and young adults openly and freely riding around on a *hacked bike without a care in the world. 

The police were not interested as they had real crimes to deal with and so there they were used with impunity and discarded just as easily.

One brazen thief even took measures to secure his stolen Mobike to a lamp post with a padlock so that nobody else could steal it. (See main photo).

And so it was only too obvious that the company had failed to take into account the simple fact that if there is something to exploit, in Salford it WILL be exploited.

So who do we blame here, the company? the vandals?

Well truth be known we really have to treat them equally as the company really did not do its homework and went into this extremely naively to say the least. Greater Manchester is not your typical area and the simple matter of failing to put bike docks in place from the get go was ultimately it's downfall. In short, their business model was critically flawed.

 As for the vandals, well they should be ashamed of themselves, they won't be as they don't give a damn at the end of the day, but they really should do as they have deprived all those who WERE using them responsible (and legally) from now being able to do so.

I hear it said that we can't have nice things in Salford, this is an example of why.

Launched last weekend (2 September) the workshops are delivered by highly qualified traffic police officers from GMP’s Safer Roads Targeting Team and include an observed ride,interactive presentations, discussions and safety advice.

The initiative aims to reduce the number of road traffic collisions involving motorbikes by further improving the skills, knowledge and hazard awareness of experienced riders.

Chief Inspector Gareth Parkin from GMP’s Road Policing Unit said: 

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“Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users across Greater Manchester and far too many riders are killed or seriously injured on our roads. Eleven motorcyclists have lost their lives on the roads so far this year and that is completely unacceptable.

“We’re working hard to reduce that number with the introduction of BikeSafe, a new Force measure that supports our wider operational work to reinforce rider safety and reduce casualties and fatalities.”

 

Public engagement and operational enforcement continues to be a priority for GMP and a recent week of action saw officers from the road policing unit on patrol across Greater Manchester, advising both drivers and motorcyclists and targeting riders who behave in an anti-social manner which can often cause serious and fatal collisions.

Chief Inspector Parkin continued...

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“Drivers can often underestimate the proximity of motorcycles, causing risk of collision when pulling out at junctions. We’re encouraging drivers to take longer to look for motorcyclists and think about the person, not the bike.

“Motorbikes are powerful machines and failing to treat them as such can lead to devastating consequences. It is vital that riders remain vigilant at all times, pay attention to their speed and surroundings and to be aware of other road users at all times."

 

More information and details of how to book on a BikeSafe workshop can be found on the website: www.bikesafe.co.uk/greater-manchester

Keep up-to-date with BikeSafe GMP by following @gmptraffic on Twitter and using the hashtag #bikeSafeGMP

On Friday 20 July 2018 police received a report that a credit card had been stolen from a Manchester city centre office on Lloyd Street two days prior and used on a lavish spending spree in luxury stores throughout Manchester and the Trafford Centre.

Jewellery and electronics were among some of the items the credit card was used to purchase, with the bill running into tens of thousands of pounds over two days.

Detective Sergeant Daniel Hadfield from GMP’s north Manchester team said:

Quote

 

“After a large CCTV trawl we have identified a man that we would like to speak to in connection with the theft of the credit card and subsequent spending spree.

“This was a phenomenal amount of money to be spent in just two days.

“I would like to appeal for anyone who recognises the man in the photo to get in touch with police as soon as possible.

“If the man himself is reading this, I would like to encourage him to come forward.”

 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4409, alternatively call 101 or Crimewatch anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable, Ian Hopkins, has spoken out after it was claimed that people may potentially be fined for going 1mph over the speed limit.

The move has been slammed by motorists and some MP's as being utter stupidity with some questioning if those in charge are actually living in the real world.

Mr Hopkins was one of the Chief Constables to speak against any plans to reduce the tolerance levels at National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC).

He said:

Quote

 

“We all want our roads across Greater Manchester to be safe and to prevent deaths on our roads. Any loss of life on our roads is awful which is why we are looking at a package of measures with agencies to make roads safer.

“The NPCC is looking at the whole issue and not just tolerance levels and I support that. To be clear, I have no intention of lowering thresholds for speeding in Greater Manchester.

“Travelling around Greater Manchester is already challenging. Congestion is amongst the worst in the country and average speeds on our motorways are around 47mph. The train network is facing huge challenges which can force more people onto the roads.

“Hitting motorists with a reduction in the tolerance levels would mean many more of them being fined creating further misery for them.

“Police resources are already stretched and we have to prioritise the most serious incidents and those where someone is vulnerable or at risk. In light of this situation to put such a sharp focus on targeting motorists, when we are struggling to reach many incidents, could alienate people. We have lost 2,000 officers in recent years and would not divert resources into dealing with motorists travelling at 1 or 2mph above the speed limit.”

 

GMP remains committed to reducing deaths and serious injuries on the roads. Around 50 people a year lose their lives on the roads of Greater Manchester, a figure that has been at the same level for the last five years.

Lee Cadwallader (10/03/1988) of Presto Street, Farnworth is wanted after breaching a restraining order. 

He is also wanted in connection with a sexual assault and assault which happened earlier this year. 

Cadwallader knows he is wanted by police but is actively evading arrest. 

He is known to have links with Blackley, Harpurhey and Moston, as well as Hull. 

Anyone with information about Cadwallader’s whereabouts is asked to contact police on 101 or make an anonymous report through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 
 

Anwar Ali (02/01/1985) of Chapel Street, Hyde was found guilty of five counts of rape of a child aged under 12, four counts of sexual assault by penetration of a child under the age of 12 and two counts of accessing indecent images of children.

At Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, he was sentenced to 21 years in prison today, Thursday 2 August, and a further four years to be served on licence thereafter.

He was also ordered to remain on the sex offenders register for life.

Ali abused his victim over the course of four years in the early 2000s from when the victim was just five-years-old.

Ali would entice the boy away from other people to play computer games, where he would ultimately sexually abuse him on numerous occasions, before raping him.

In June 2017, following a report made to police of concerns about Ali, officers from GMP’s Child Protection Unit seized a computer registered to him.

Searches on the computer revealed that it had been used to view indecent images of children, leading to his arrest.

Detective Constable Louise Isherwood from GMP’s Child Protection Unit said:

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“Ali is a sexual predator who not only used a young boy’s interest in computer games to abuse him over a prolonged period, but had the audacity to plead innocence from the point of police interview and right throughout the trial, forcing the victim to relive this horrific ordeal.

“But, thanks to the courage of his victim – who did not want to tell his friends and family about this abuse and coped with it on his own before receiving specialist support from officers – we have today’s sentence, which sends out a clear message that no matter when these types of crime happen, they will be taken very seriously.”

 

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Greater Manchester is nationally recognised as a model of good practice in terms of support services available to victims.

 - If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

 - You can call Greater Manchester Police on 101, or alternatively, people can refer themselves to St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0161 276 6515, whether or not you want to make a police report.

 - St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester provides a comprehensive and coordinated forensic, counselling and medical aftercare service to anyone in Greater Manchester who has experienced rape or sexual assault. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and people can access them via Greater Manchester Police or as a self-referral.

 - Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential support service run by women for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused. Confidential helpline: 0161 273 4500.

 - Survivors Manchester offers support and counselling for adult male survivors of sexual abuse and rape, regardless of when the event happened. Contact 0161 236 2182.

At around 4.20pm on Monday 25 June a woman was getting her two-year-old son out of his pushchair on Broadstone Hall Road South, at the junction with St Mary’s Drive, when she heard two popping sounds.

The child began to scream and the mother noticed blood on his right hand.

She assumed his hand had become trapped in the pram and quickly took him home, before deciding to take him to hospital.

As she arrived at hospital, she noticed a small metal pellet in the bottom of the pushchair.

Police now believe the child was shot with a pellet gun and are appealing for information.

PC Matthew Beaden from GMP’s Stockport Division said:

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“We are treating this incident extremely seriously and are following several lines of enquiry.

“We believe that someone in the local community knows who fired these shots, or has information that can lead us to the offender.”

 

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 9619 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

The victim was walking her dog through the park when she was grabbed by a man from behind who ripped her clothing and attempted to rape her. 

The man is described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall, aged in his 40s and wearing dark clothes in an unkempt and ragged state. He is described as having a strong Manchester accent. 

On Tuesday 3 July 2018, police arrested a 51-year-old man on suspicion of attempted rape. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries. 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. 

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Parker, of GMP’s Trafford borough, said:

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“This woman has been subject to a truly terrifying ordeal, and she is currently being supported by specially trained officers at this difficult time. 

“I want to reassure the community that we have increased patrols in the area, and if you have any concerns or queries, then please do speak to the officers. 

“Our investigation is on-going, and I want to appeal to anyone who thinks they may have any information that can assist us, no matter how big or small, to please contact police.” 

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 7747, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

On 3 October 2018, police received a report that two boys had been assaulted at a teaching centre affiliated to a Mosque on Crawford Street in Rochdale by their Imam, Abdul Rauf.

Police launched an investigation and seized CCTV from inside the teaching centre.

Whilst viewing the CCTV, police viewed Rauf assaulting many children whilst they were in his study class.

The assaults were never reported to police, however, the CCTV evidence enabled police to charge Rauf for the offences which had not been reported.

Inspector Phil Key from GMP’s Rochdale borough said:

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“Abdul Rauf is a nasty, bully of a man who beat the children in his classes until it became normalised.

“The children were left cowering and holding onto their ears, their arms and their legs after he repeatedly used violence as a punishment.

“The parents of the children had no idea that they were leaving their children in the care of a man who would leave them writhing in pain and covered in marks and bruises.

“Rauf left the children intimidated and afraid to tell their parents about his bullying tactics.

“I dread to think how many children’s lives he has affected over the years, we are doing all we can to support those children and their families that we know about.

“We are working with Rochdale Council, the Council of Mosques and other partners to ensure that this type of behaviour is never repeated and our children are safe with those that we put our children in the care of.

“I would like to commend the bravery of those who came forward and spoke to police, I understand how difficult that must have been. Rauf will never be able to hurt another child in his care, and that is all thanks to those who spoke out against him.

Anyone who has been affected should contact police with any concerns.”

 

Gail Hopper, Director of Children’s Services at Rochdale Council, said:

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“The prosecution and today’s sentencing of Abdul Rauf resulted from the council working with police to investigate concerns about his reprehensible behaviour towards children. Alongside that, the council has been working with many unregulated groups to inform them of their safeguarding responsibilities. We have also helped a number of groups establish effective safeguarding procedures and held information sessions as part of our ‘Safe After School’ campaign.

“The crimes that Rauf has been found guilty of showing he is a coward and a bully who should never have been entrusted with the care of young children. We applaud the actions of those who bravely reported his crimes.

“We are asking parents and other adults to remain vigilant, ask the right questions and importantly, to listen and support children who tell them about things that have happened that shouldn’t. We all share responsibility to take action that effectively protects all children. If we fail to listen to children and address their concerns, they are likely to stop telling us when such things happen."

 

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We ask anyone with such concerns to contact us to seek advice and enable the council and police to look in to the issue. Contact lado@rochdale.gov.uk or 0300 3030350 or phone the police on 101.”

Greater Manchester Fire Services have appealed for the publics help in providing much-needed items to help the brave firefighters who are courageously battling raging moorland fires in multiple locations around Greater Manchester.

They are in urgent need of the following items:

Insect Repellent

Sun Cream

Baseball Caps

Pairs of Socks, both thick and thin

Bottled Water and sports drinks would also be helpful to keep crews energy levels up as they tackle the worst recorded wildfires in blistering heat.

If you can help, a collection point has been set up at Red Rose Cafe at 237 Bolton Road, M6 7HP.

Many stores have also donated but more is needed.

Our firefighters are putting in long shifts, some as long as 22 hours. They are working under unprecedented conditions and need the support of the public.

The ‘Trapped’ campaign was launched in October last year to raise awareness of criminals who are grooming and exploiting children and vulnerable adults to commit crime on their behalf.

Greater Manchester Police has identified 25 victims of criminal exploitation since 1 January 2018. In addition, 67 pieces of information have been received relating to people being criminally exploited since the ‘Trapped’ campaign launched in October.

County Lines is a form of criminal exploitation and sees offenders moving children or vulnerable people for the purposes of selling drugs. They could be trafficked around the local area, or taken from urban areas to countryside or coastal areas to sell drugs.

Victims could also be criminally exploited and forced to carry out other crimes such as arson, violent offences, criminal damage, assault or robbery. They could also be forced to store firearms or money.

Offenders groom, threaten force or trick victims into carrying out their crimes. If the victim doesn’t comply the offender may use violence or threaten the victim’s family to ensure they get what they want. Gifts may be given to the victim as a reward to keep them on side which leads them to become trapped in a spiral of intimidation, fear and debt.

Throughout the week officers will be taking to the streets to talk to communities about criminal exploitation and how victims can get help. They will also be delivering presentations in schools, providing training to parents and carers and visiting children’s homes to raise awareness of the campaign.

Detective Superintendent Jon Chadwick said:

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“Offenders deliberately prey on some of the most vulnerable people within our communities and use coercive and controlling behaviour to threaten and exploit victims and their families.

“This type of crime is completely unacceptable and we will take robust action against any offenders causing misery to people’s lives in order to fulfil their own gains.

“We’re thankful to everyone that has come forward and already reported criminal exploitation but we need more people to talk to us so we can stop these offenders causing further fear on our streets.

“I understand it may be difficult to pick up the phone but we can help you find a way out. If it’s happening to you or somebody you know please call Greater Manchester Police on 101. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to the police, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 instead.”

 

Gail Hopper, director of children’s services at Rochdale Borough Council, said:

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“This is a developing and hideous example of how vulnerable adults and children are being targeted and exploited across the country. I would ask anyone who is worried to share their concern – with the police, Crimestoppers or a trusted person. If you are a parent or neighbour who sees things happening that looks wrong please share your worries. There is help available. There is no reason why any child should be forced into a life of crime. Getting to know more about the people behind this type of offending will make it easier for us to disrupt it and prevent other children from being targeted.”

Beverley Hughes, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime said:

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“Children and adults are being trapped by criminals into terrifying situations: exploited, threatened, often physically abused and forced into crime. Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to being groomed in this way. It is a vile form of modern slavery and we will do all we can to prevent children and young people falling prey to these criminals.

“Whether a young person or an adult, help is available, and the police and other partner agencies are working together to support victims and bring those responsible to justice. We need the support of the people of Greater Manchester to help prevent further people from being exploited so please contact us if you have been or know somebody that has been a victim of this despicable crime.”

 

Some signs that a young or vulnerable person could be ‘Trapped’ and need help are:

Young people going missing and travelling to seaside or market towns

School absence or missing from school

Money, clothes or accessories which they are unable to account for

Receiving an excessive amount of texts and phone calls

Relationships with controlling / older individuals or groups

Carrying weapons

The significant decline in school results/performance

Self-harm or significant changes in emotional wellbeing

To report a crime call Greater Manchester Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, call the Modern Slavery Helpline 08000 121 700.

To pass on information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Adil Mohammed Ali (04/04/1997) of no fixed abode, has been charged with section 18 assault. 

He has been remanded in custody and will appear at Manchester & Salford Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Monday 2 July 2018. 

This charge follows an assault on Bloom Street at around 4.45am on Saturday 30 June 2018. 

A 60-year-old man - who was cross-dressed at the time - had been outside AXM bar when he was assaulted.

He remains in hospital in a critical condition.

At around 4.45am on Saturday 30 June 2018, police were called to reports of an assault on Bloom Street. 

A 60-year-old man - who was cross-dressed at the time of the assault - had been outside AXM bar when he was approached by a man who punched him to the floor. 

The victim was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition. 

A 21-year-old man was arrested at nearby on suspicion of assault. He remains in custody for questioning. 

Enquiries are ongoing and officers are appealing for anyone with information to contact police. 

Detective Inspector Patrick Goodrich, of GMP’s City of Manchester division, said:

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“This was a shocking attack on an innocent man who was enjoying his evening but has now been left in a critical condition in hospital. Our thoughts remain with him and his family as he receives treatment. 

“While we have arrested a man, our investigation is still in its very early stages and we are working hard to establish the exact circumstances that led to this incident although it is not believed to be a hate crime at this stage. 

“We can see from CCTV footage that there was a white woman with blonde hair who was wearing a red top and black trousers in close proximity to the attack and we believe she may hold vital information. I want to stress that she is not in any trouble but I would urge her to get in touch as she may have key details that would assist our enquiries.” 

“I would also appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the assault or anyone with information to get in touch. 

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 4409 quoting incident number 471 of 30/06/2018, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. 

Arsonists have been spotted lighting fresh fires by a United Utilities helicopter as it assisted firefighters on the ground tackling the raging moorland fire that has decimated parts of Winter Hill.

Tony Crook, area manager for Lancashire Fire Service, said:

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 “A United Utilities helicopter which was dropping off water at Healey Nab found people lighting fires in the vicinity in the area where the fire was already burning.”

“They alerted us here, we called the officers in the police helicopter nearby and they apprehended somebody. In a separate incident, fire crews near Scout Moor Road had to stamp out a fire which they saw people lighting, in an unmolested part of the vegetation.

“It’s absolutely heartbreaking. All these people are deployed for the safety of people, never mind the damage to the environment It causes.”

 

The helicopter was circling over an area of grassland known as Healey Nab which is a wooded area some 7KM away from Winter Hill. 

Mr Crook went on to say: 

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"As they've been trying to extinguish the fire, people have been seen lighting other grass fires in the vicinity," he added.

"Police are now attending that scene, to try to apprehend those arsonists.

"It absolutely astounds me."

 

The public is being urged to keep away from the area as firefighters tackle the fire, earlier today GMP warned people to stop flying drones over the area as they could come into conflict with the helicopters being used to extinguish the flames.

One man had to be rescued this morning after he ignored advice and was overcome by smoke inhalation, the man referred as 'Johnny' (Not his real name) by the police; had crossed police tape and ventured to Pike Tower.

Earlier this week on Tuesday evening, police had to warn sightseers from flooding into the area as they were causing issues with fire appliances trying to reach the fire.

Johny Photo: Chorley Police