themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Manchester's Albert Hall will reopen on Saturday with a Bavarian festival

Manchester 's Albert Hall gig venue will finally reopen this weekend , after Covid-19 forced its doors to close back in March .
The venue , situated in an old Grade II-listed Wesleyan chapel on Peter Street , will relaunch with a socially-distanced event on Saturday .
Albert 's Pop Up Musik Halle will see live music , resident DJs , and a curated selection of beers served up all day .
Billed as ' a new way to experience Albert Hall ' , the event will also introduced a pop-up street food stall serving sweet and savoury crepes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues are themed , food on offer will include bratwursts and kebabs , with Paulaner , Steigl and Pilsner Urquell to wash it all down .
Cocktails will also be served up from Albert 's Schloss below , which too will welcome back its cabaret-style performers at the weekend .
With many concert tours cancelled for the rest of the year , the venue has largely fallen silent until now .
The event listing states : `` Time and consideration has been put in to ensuring this event remains safe , socially distant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experience Albert Hall in a new way . ''
Card details will need to be provided to book a table - there 's no deposit taken , but there will be a £10 charge per person for no-shows .
The issue of no-shows has plagued the hospitality industry for years , but has become particularly problematic post-lockdown , with a new # NoMoreNoShows campaign launched to encourage people to cancel bookings they ca n't make .
Benches are mostly booked up , but limited walk-ins will be accepted on the night .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first live performance spaces to open up again in Greater Manchester .
Theatres , music venues and other entertainment hubs are allowed to welcome back live audiences from August 1 .
The guidance for these venues will be tested at Manchester 's very own Frog and Bucket comedy club tonight .

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Manchester's Albert Hall gig venue will finally reopen this weekend, after Covid-19 forced its doors to close back in March.
The venue, situated in an old Grade II-listed Wesleyan chapel on Peter Street, will relaunch with a socially-distanced event on Saturday.
Albert's Pop Up Musik Halle will see live music, resident DJs, and a curated selection of beers served up all day.
Billed as 'a new way to experience Albert Hall', the event will also introduced a pop-up street food stall serving sweet and savoury crepes.
Channelling the Bavarian culture on which both venues are themed, food on offer will include bratwursts and kebabs, with Paulaner, Steigl and Pilsner Urquell to wash it all down.
Cocktails will also be served up from Albert's Schloss below, which too will welcome back its cabaret-style performers at the weekend.
With many concert tours cancelled for the rest of the year, the venue has largely fallen silent until now.
The event listing states: "Time and consideration has been put in to ensuring this event remains safe, socially distant and responsible whilst allowing you guys to experience Albert Hall in a new way."
Card details will need to be provided to book a table - there's no deposit taken, but there will be a £10 charge per person for no-shows.
The issue of no-shows has plagued the hospitality industry for years, but has become particularly problematic post-lockdown, with a new #NoMoreNoShows campaign launched to encourage people to cancel bookings they can't make.
Benches are mostly booked up, but limited walk-ins will be accepted on the night.
The Albert Hall will be one of the first live performance spaces to open up again in Greater Manchester.
Theatres, music venues and other entertainment hubs are allowed to welcome back live audiences from August 1.
The guidance for these venues will be tested at Manchester's very own Frog and Bucket comedy club tonight.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--The Manc music legend, writer and academic who gave so much to the city

Tributes have been paid to a Manchester music legend who has died aged 70 .
Chris Lee , known as CP Lee , was born in Didsbury in 1950 and as well as music , he excelled as a writer , broadcaster , performer and university lecturer .
A student at The Manchester School of Art , CP ’ s passion for music was elevated in 1969 when he formed Greasy Bear along with his best friend Bruce Mitchell - also of The Durutti Column fame - as well as Ian Wilson , Steve Whalley and John Gibson .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2016 that their debut album , Is Adrian There ?
, finally saw the light of day after being released by Vinyl Revival .
But CP was perhaps best known for heading up satirical rock outfit Alberto y Lost Trios Paranoias with Bruce - releasing three albums in the ‘ 70s .
Their remarkable story is told in CP 's own memoir , When We Were Thin , where he reveals how he produced one side of the first Factory Records release , ate muffins with Andy Warhol and became Elvis Costello @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of many books that Chris would pen over the years - another , Shake , Rattle & Rain , is an adaption of his PhD thesis on popular music making in Manchester .
A fanatic of all things Bob Dylan , Chris attended the infamous Free Trade Hall concert ‘ Judas ’ in 1966 , of which he later wrote about in his book Like The Night ( Revisited ) .
Anyone who has frequented the Kings Arms in Salford over the years will have likely run into Chris at some point - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , music and performance events at the venue .
In more recent years he toured as CP ‘ Ukule ’ Lee in a bid to keep the Albertos legend alive by going on the road and performing his band ’ s hits .
Chris , who died suddenly on Saturday , is survived by his beloved wife Pam , 69 , and stepsons Tom , 42 , and Nick , 39 .
“ He was so generous , and funny , vastly knowledgeable about music - both playing and listening - film , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a professional violinist .
“ Chris was innovative and ahead of his time .
He shone a light on Manchester ’ s countercultural music history , and his anarchic , left-wing politics brought the past to life .
“ Our house was full of fun and while he could be crazy and hilarious , we learned a good deal from him and became slowly aware that over his lifetime our stepdad had become a legend - more than the sum of his many talents .
“ All the above is mind-boggling but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in such an unthinkable and devastating way .
“ But we ’ re working on making him immortal and our family so admire him - he was and is a legend.
” His talents spanned further than music and writing - CP ’ s perfect comic timing saw him expertly reprise all of American comedian Lord Buckley ’ s performances , and delighted audiences with his reenactments .
A man of many guises , Chris somehow found time to become a hugely popular lecturer at University of Salford , where he passed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Willis , a fellow professor and close friend , said : “ I knew of Chris before I started at Salford and when I met him I remember thinking , is this the CP Lee ?
“ He was always a real presence in the room .
When I had worked there for a couple of years we ended up sharing an office and became great friends .
“ He had an incredible appetite for knowledge .
We even wrote a book together about local actor Cliff Twemlow , which combined our interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Our work extended socially and we would often head to the King ’ s Arms and talk about our interests , along with tales of his life as a musician .
He always had great stories to tell.
” Along the way , Chris managed to accumulate a string of “ near misses ” , of which Andy fondly remembers him revelling in .
“ He loved talking about when Albertos were supposed to be on Top Of The Pops and they were cancelled last minute because there had been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never given that push into the charts , ” laughed Andy .
“ Or when his snuff-rock musical Sleak , which had done really well in the UK , was taken to New York City in 1980 - and it was cancelled after John Lennon was assassinated .
“ Then there was the time he recorded a TV show that he hoped would be a hit , and it ended up being re-edited to be a children ’ s programme.
” Andy continued : “ It wasn ’ t just his talents that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had some personally difficult moments during our time at Salford and he helped me through them .
“ It ’ s the gregarious face that you see but in the quiet moments he was a really kind human being who I will never forget.
” In 2002 , Chris became one of the founders of the groundbreaking MDMA ( Manchester and District Music Archive ) site - a digital music archive that celebrates Greater Manchester music and its social history .
Alison Surtees , who worked with Chris to launch the archive and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ He was brilliant .
Such a lovely man .
He was ahead of his time but he never got the recognition that he deserved .
“ He was underground and had incredible passion not just for music but also comedy , film and anything related to Manchester .
“ He was eclectic and prolific and became an accomplished writer and performer , as well as a pundit on various TV programmes .
He did everything .
“ I know a lot of people cite Tony Wilson as the recognisable face of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discount Chris ’ incredible contribution to the city .
”

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Tributes have been paid to a Manchester music legend who has died aged 70.
Chris Lee, known as CP Lee, was born in Didsbury in 1950 and as well as music, he excelled as a writer, broadcaster, performer and university lecturer.
A student at The Manchester School of Art, CP’s passion for music was elevated in 1969 when he formed Greasy Bear along with his best friend Bruce Mitchell - also of The Durutti Column fame - as well as Ian Wilson, Steve Whalley and John Gibson.
It would be more than 50 years later in 2016 that their debut album, Is Adrian There?, finally saw the light of day after being released by Vinyl Revival.
But CP was perhaps best known for heading up satirical rock outfit Alberto y Lost Trios Paranoias with Bruce - releasing three albums in the ‘70s.
Their remarkable story is told in CP's own memoir, When We Were Thin, where he reveals how he produced one side of the first Factory Records release, ate muffins with Andy Warhol and became Elvis Costello for a day.
This was one of many books that Chris would pen over the years - another, Shake, Rattle & Rain, is an adaption of his PhD thesis on popular music making in Manchester.
A fanatic of all things Bob Dylan, Chris attended the infamous Free Trade Hall concert ‘Judas’ in 1966, of which he later wrote about in his book Like The Night (Revisited).
Anyone who has frequented the Kings Arms in Salford over the years will have likely run into Chris at some point - here he hosted a number of film, music and performance events at the venue.
In more recent years he toured as CP ‘Ukule’ Lee in a bid to keep the Albertos legend alive by going on the road and performing his band’s hits.
Chris, who died suddenly on Saturday, is survived by his beloved wife Pam, 69, and stepsons Tom, 42, and Nick, 39.
“He was so generous, and funny, vastly knowledgeable about music - both playing and listening - film, and everything Manchester,” said Tom, a professional violinist.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
“Chris was innovative and ahead of his time. He shone a light on Manchester’s countercultural music history, and his anarchic, left-wing politics brought the past to life.
“Our house was full of fun and while he could be crazy and hilarious, we learned a good deal from him and became slowly aware that over his lifetime our stepdad had become a legend - more than the sum of his many talents.
“All the above is mind-boggling but nothing more so than Chris leaving us in such an unthinkable and devastating way.
“But we’re working on making him immortal and our family so admire him - he was and is a legend.”
His talents spanned further than music and writing - CP’s perfect comic timing saw him expertly reprise all of American comedian Lord Buckley’s performances, and delighted audiences with his reenactments.
A man of many guises, Chris somehow found time to become a hugely popular lecturer at University of Salford, where he passed on his encyclopedic knowledge about film.
Andy Willis, a fellow professor and close friend, said: “I knew of Chris before I started at Salford and when I met him I remember thinking, is this the CP Lee?
“He was always a real presence in the room. When I had worked there for a couple of years we ended up sharing an office and became great friends.
“He had an incredible appetite for knowledge. We even wrote a book together about local actor Cliff Twemlow, which combined our interest in pop culture and the north west.
“Our work extended socially and we would often head to the King’s Arms and talk about our interests, along with tales of his life as a musician. He always had great stories to tell.”
Along the way, Chris managed to accumulate a string of “near misses”, of which Andy fondly remembers him revelling in.
“He loved talking about when Albertos were supposed to be on Top Of The Pops and they were cancelled last minute because there had been a power cut, meaning their single was never given that push into the charts,” laughed Andy.
“Or when his snuff-rock musical Sleak, which had done really well in the UK, was taken to New York City in 1980 - and it was cancelled after John Lennon was assassinated.
“Then there was the time he recorded a TV show that he hoped would be a hit, and it ended up being re-edited to be a children’s programme.”
Andy continued: “It wasn’t just his talents that made him a good friend. I had some personally difficult moments during our time at Salford and he helped me through them.
“It’s the gregarious face that you see but in the quiet moments he was a really kind human being who I will never forget.”
In 2002, Chris became one of the founders of the groundbreaking MDMA (Manchester and District Music Archive) site - a digital music archive that celebrates Greater Manchester music and its social history.
Alison Surtees, who worked with Chris to launch the archive and also alongside him at university, said: “He was brilliant. Such a lovely man. He was ahead of his time but he never got the recognition that he deserved.
“He was underground and had incredible passion not just for music but also comedy, film and anything related to Manchester.
“He was eclectic and prolific and became an accomplished writer and performer, as well as a pundit on various TV programmes. He did everything.
“I know a lot of people cite Tony Wilson as the recognisable face of Manchester, but you can’t discount Chris’ incredible contribution to the city.”
https://cplee.co.uk/


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Wiley permanently suspended from Twitter over anti-Semitic posts

Twitter has apologised for not taking 'faster action ' in permanently suspending grime artist Wiley 's account .
He has been widely criticised after he posted a series of anti-Semitic tweets almost a week ago , which led to a social media blackout .
Wiley , real name is Richard Cowie , posted a series of posts on the social media site starting on Friday , and was initially given a temporary ban .
However , the majority of his offensive tweets remained visible .
After Facebook and Instagram banned Wiley from its platforms on Tuesday , Twitter has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A company spokesman said : `` Upon further investigation , our teams have permanently suspended the account in question for repeated violations of our hateful conduct policy .
`` Let us be clear : hateful conduct has absolutely no place on our service and we strongly condemn anti-Semitism .
`` We are sorry we did not move faster and are continuing to assess the situation internally . ''
It added : `` We deeply respect the concerns shared by the Jewish community and online safety advocates , and we will continue to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ society partners and our industry peers to tackle anti-Semitism on Twitter . ''
The delayed response prompted a 48-hour social media silence by the Jewish community and some politicians and actors .
Marie van der Zyl , president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews , said : `` It appears that Twitter has now suspended the account of Richard Cowie , or Wiley , six days after he began an extended anti-Semitic rant and nearly all the way through a 48-hour walkout from Twitter by the Jewish community and its allies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this , deleting his profile only yesterday .
It is just not good enough .
Social media companies have not been strong or fast enough about tackling racism , misogyny or homophobia .
`` We will be talking to Twitter today , and other social media companies and government partners over the coming days , to make sure this does not happen again .
There must be # NoSafeSpaceForJewHate . ''
The Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed the news that “ Twitter has finally listened ” , but described the action as “ too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a statement : “ It is at least a start for this deeply irresponsible social network .
“ After Twitter ’ s abysmal response to the blatant ant-Jewish incitement on its platform , last night we decided to literally shine a light on the company and project onto its London headquarters some of the hateful tweets that Twitter permits on its platform .
`` From their pitiful responses to the hate spewed daily on their platform , it is evident that social media companies will stop at nothing to make a profit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damaging and irresponsible companies to be held accountable for the hatred they help spread .
”

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Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
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Twitter has apologised for not taking 'faster action' in permanently suspending grime artist Wiley's account.
He has been widely criticised after he posted a series of anti-Semitic tweets almost a week ago, which led to a social media blackout.
Wiley, real name is Richard Cowie, posted a series of posts on the social media site starting on Friday, and was initially given a temporary ban.
However, the majority of his offensive tweets remained visible.
After Facebook and Instagram banned Wiley from its platforms on Tuesday, Twitter has said it has now permanently suspended him.
A company spokesman said: "Upon further investigation, our teams have permanently suspended the account in question for repeated violations of our hateful conduct policy.
"Let us be clear: hateful conduct has absolutely no place on our service and we strongly condemn anti-Semitism.
"We are sorry we did not move faster and are continuing to assess the situation internally."
It added: "We deeply respect the concerns shared by the Jewish community and online safety advocates, and we will continue to work closely with government, NGOs, civil society partners and our industry peers to tackle anti-Semitism on Twitter."
The delayed response prompted a 48-hour social media silence by the Jewish community and some politicians and actors.
Marie van der Zyl, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said: "It appears that Twitter has now suspended the account of Richard Cowie, or Wiley, six days after he began an extended anti-Semitic rant and nearly all the way through a 48-hour walkout from Twitter by the Jewish community and its allies.
"Instagram was also slow on this, deleting his profile only yesterday. It is just not good enough. Social media companies have not been strong or fast enough about tackling racism, misogyny or homophobia.
"We will be talking to Twitter today, and other social media companies and government partners over the coming days, to make sure this does not happen again. There must be #NoSafeSpaceForJewHate."
The Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed the news that “Twitter has finally listened”, but described the action as “too little too late”.
It said in a statement: “It is at least a start for this deeply irresponsible social network.
“After Twitter’s abysmal response to the blatant ant-Jewish incitement on its platform, last night we decided to literally shine a light on the company and project onto its London headquarters some of the hateful tweets that Twitter permits on its platform.
"From their pitiful responses to the hate spewed daily on their platform, it is evident that social media companies will stop at nothing to make a profit. It is time for these deeply damaging and irresponsible companies to be held accountable for the hatred they help spread.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Luxury spa resort opening in the Lake District following huge hotel makeover

One of the Lake District 's most recognisable boutique hotels is set to undergo a multi-million pound transformation to become a luxury spa resort .
The Swan Hotel in Newby Bridge , close to Lake Windermere , has secured a £7m investment .
The money will see the four-star hotel extended to include an extra 30 bedrooms , as well as luxury spa facilities .
Located just over an hour from Greater Manchester , it 's one of the more easily-accessed staycation spots in the Lake District .
The Cumbrian hotel will have a hydrotherapy pool , thermal rooms , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a café in its new spa facility .
The existing pool will be retained and used as a family-friendly swimming pool .
The Swan is now recruiting for 20 new full- and part-time jobs and launching an apprenticeship scheme .
Yorkshire-based property development and hotel group BH Group , also behind Hotel Indigo in Manchester city centre , have recently acquired The Swan .
James Houlston , BH Group managing director , said : `` The Swan is an established favourite in the Lakes , this investment really gives us the opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can reach its full potential as a world-class spa resort .
The proposed extension will really take the hotel to the next level , so that we can deliver that ultimate top class , luxury experience . ''
Managing director of the Swan , Sarah Gibbs , added : `` We ca n't wait for the renovations to get under way , we have some incredible plans and I think guests are going to be blown away when we get to reveal it all next year . ''
The Swan is expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next year .

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One of the Lake District's most recognisable boutique hotels is set to undergo a multi-million pound transformation to become a luxury spa resort.
The Swan Hotel in Newby Bridge, close to Lake Windermere, has secured a £7m investment.
The money will see the four-star hotel extended to include an extra 30 bedrooms, as well as luxury spa facilities.
Located just over an hour from Greater Manchester, it's one of the more easily-accessed staycation spots in the Lake District.
(Image: Publicity Picture)
The Cumbrian hotel will have a hydrotherapy pool, thermal rooms, relaxation areas and treatment rooms as well as a café in its new spa facility.
The existing pool will be retained and used as a family-friendly swimming pool.
The Swan is now recruiting for 20 new full- and part-time jobs and launching an apprenticeship scheme.
Yorkshire-based property development and hotel group BH Group, also behind Hotel Indigo in Manchester city centre, have recently acquired The Swan.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
James Houlston, BH Group managing director, said: "The Swan is an established favourite in the Lakes, this investment really gives us the opportunity to build on its success so it can reach its full potential as a world-class spa resort.
The proposed extension will really take the hotel to the next level, so that we can deliver that ultimate top class, luxury experience."
Managing director of the Swan, Sarah Gibbs, added: "We can't wait for the renovations to get under way, we have some incredible plans and I think guests are going to be blown away when we get to reveal it all next year."
The Swan is expected to open in its new guise by summer next year.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Why Borussia Dortmund might have to sell Jadon Sancho to Man United

A new report in the brand values of European football 's biggest clubs has laid bare the challenge they face in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic .
The Brand Finance Football Annual reveals that the brand value of every major club on the continent is plummeting in the wake of lost revenues .
As the report states : `` COVID-19 has caused the total value of the top 50 football brands to decrease for the first time in 6 years .
Through its effect on the three main revenue streams – Matchday , Broadcasting , and Commercial – €751million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cumulative brand value of the world ’ s top 50 most valuable football clubs . ''
But some clubs will be more resistant to the battle ahead than others .
While Manchester United remain third in the annual brand value report , behind La Liga 's big two of Real Madrid and Barcelona , Borussia Dortmund have seen 9 % wiped off their value , which for a club that ca n't rely on the same revenue streams as Real , Barcelona , United and the Premier League 's biggest clubs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way forward .
Richard Haigh , managing director of Brand Finance , said : “ Top-level football has been confronted with the largest existential threat since the Second World War .
`` Loss of income , coupled with health concerns about mass gatherings , have raised question marks about the future of the industry and the financial resilience of clubs across all levels .
`` The full damage of the COVID-19 crisis has yet to unfold and it is not inconceivable there will be casualties in the form of club bankruptcies and changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may not come to pass at the top of the game , it 's almost certainly going to have an impact on the transfer window between now and October 5 .
Some clubs will need to sell players to balance the books , while the buying clubs are only too aware that their own revenues have taken a hit and will be looking to negotiate a discount .
Almost every major deal this summer will involve a game of brinksmanship between clubs , with who blinks first key to the success of any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to a degree , with Sancho .
Dortmund are adamant they wo n't be lowering a valuation in excess of £100million and sources at United have already warned against the prospect of £100million-plus deals this summer .
A compromise will have to be reached .
United 's standing in the Brand Finance report has dropped to second , below Barcelona , but they remain a powerhouse club with significant revenues all across the globe .
As the report states in a case study about United : `` Despite an ever-increasing wage bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a healthy level of operating profit .
However , this figure is greatly reduced when accounting for the interest payments made on the large amount of debt incurred as a result of the takeover by the Glazers .
`` Manchester United has the highest EBITDA of any team in the Premier League , which serves as a testimony to the value of the Manchester United brand and the club 's ability to leverage that to generate ever-increasing commercial partnership fees all over the world .
`` The general perception of football clubs is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one in which investors should be wary of .
Indeed , according to activity around publicly traded football clubs , the share price can fluctuate substantially based on short-term on-field performances or transfer market activity .
However , the likes of Manchester City , Liverpool , and Manchester United are indicative of the fact that a long-term investment at the right price can yield excellent financial returns for those willing to take the risk . ''
United 's financial might will be boosted by a return to the Champions League but it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a decisive summer .
At the moment they have a free run on Sancho and it 's difficult to see how that changes this summer , which makes securing a deal an absolute priority .
If the window closes and United have n't prised the England winger away from Dortmund 's weakening grasp then questions will be asked .

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
A new report in the brand values of European football's biggest clubs has laid bare the challenge they face in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Brand Finance Football Annual reveals that the brand value of every major club on the continent is plummeting in the wake of lost revenues.
As the report states: "COVID-19 has caused the total value of the top 50 football brands to decrease for the first time in 6 years. Through its effect on the three main revenue streams – Matchday, Broadcasting, and Commercial – €751million or 3.7% has been knocked off the cumulative brand value of the world’s top 50 most valuable football clubs."
But some clubs will be more resistant to the battle ahead than others. While Manchester United remain third in the annual brand value report, behind La Liga's big two of Real Madrid and Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund have seen 9% wiped off their value, which for a club that can't rely on the same revenue streams as Real, Barcelona, United and the Premier League's biggest clubs, might mean player sales are the only way forward.
Richard Haigh, managing director of Brand Finance, said: “Top-level football has been confronted with the largest existential threat since the Second World War.
Sign up to our free MUFC email newsletter Get the latest breaking Manchester United transfer news and analysis every day direct to your inbox with our free MUFC newsletter Sign up here - it only takes a few seconds.
"Loss of income, coupled with health concerns about mass gatherings, have raised question marks about the future of the industry and the financial resilience of clubs across all levels.
"The full damage of the COVID-19 crisis has yet to unfold and it is not inconceivable there will be casualties in the form of club bankruptcies and changes in ownership.”
While that stark warning may not come to pass at the top of the game, it's almost certainly going to have an impact on the transfer window between now and October 5.
Some clubs will need to sell players to balance the books, while the buying clubs are only too aware that their own revenues have taken a hit and will be looking to negotiate a discount. Almost every major deal this summer will involve a game of brinksmanship between clubs, with who blinks first key to the success of any deal.
We're already seeing this, to a degree, with Sancho. Dortmund are adamant they won't be lowering a valuation in excess of £100million and sources at United have already warned against the prospect of £100million-plus deals this summer. A compromise will have to be reached.
United's standing in the Brand Finance report has dropped to second, below Barcelona, but they remain a powerhouse club with significant revenues all across the globe.
As the report states in a case study about United: "Despite an ever-increasing wage bill, the club has managed to maintain a healthy level of operating profit. However, this figure is greatly reduced when accounting for the interest payments made on the large amount of debt incurred as a result of the takeover by the Glazers.
"Manchester United has the highest EBITDA of any team in the Premier League, which serves as a testimony to the value of the Manchester United brand and the club's ability to leverage that to generate ever-increasing commercial partnership fees all over the world.
"The general perception of football clubs is that they are a volatile business and one in which investors should be wary of. Indeed, according to activity around publicly traded football clubs, the share price can fluctuate substantially based on short-term on-field performances or transfer market activity. However, the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, and Manchester United are indicative of the fact that a long-term investment at the right price can yield excellent financial returns for those willing to take the risk."
United's financial might will be boosted by a return to the Champions League but it will be tested as well in what is a decisive summer. At the moment they have a free run on Sancho and it's difficult to see how that changes this summer, which makes securing a deal an absolute priority. If the window closes and United haven't prised the England winger away from Dortmund's weakening grasp then questions will be asked.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Man United news and transfers LIVE

Man United news and transfers LIVE

Aston Villa manager Dean Smith says he will meet with the club 's hierarchy in the coming days to discuss @ @ @ @ @ the summer transfer window .
Club captain Jack Grealish netted the vital opening goal to @ @ @ @ @ the Premier League on the final day of the season but he is now expected @ @ @ @ @ the summer with Manchester United favourites to sign him .
United have until October to @ @ @ @ @ and Villa manager Smith has outlined the club 's plans ahead of a busy few @ @ @ @ @ ll sit down in the next few days with the CEO and owners .
We @ @ @ @ @ the market now , ” he said .
Elsewhere , United are pursuing Borussia Dortmund @ @ @ @ @ reports claiming Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side are increasingly confident about landing the England international @ @ @ @ @ the day for the latest United news .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Dominic Booth, Richard Fay)

Former United player Ben Thornley has written in his column for Tribal Football about David de Gea’s future and the rise of Dean Henderson:
“I have David De Gea up there with the likes of Peter Schmeichel and Edwin van der Sar as one of Manchester United’s greatest goalkeepers. And I do not believe for a second that he has become a bad goalkeeper overnight.
The mistakes he made against Chelsea were highlighted because of other errors this season, which is obviously a problem. We saw Kepa, the most expensive goalkeeper in the world, being dropped by Frank Lampard for Willy Caballero who is nearly 39 years of age. It is not a position where you can get away with mistakes, especially somebody like David De Gea, who has set a standard for himself with some match-winning performances in recent seasons.
“It is imperative that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer makes a decision on what he wants to do. Dean Henderson is obviously chomping at the bit, but he is not going to come back to Manchester United and be a number two when he knows he can perform in the Premier League as he has done with Sheffield United.
“It is a real tough decision and I don’t think Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is behind the door at making those tough decisions. He is going to look at somebody who has been one of United’s most consistent performers. In six of his nine years at the club, De Gea has been one of United’s best players.
“I don’t think there is any issue whatsoever that De Gea should be aware that there are people willing to take his spot. It shouldn’t be a problem to have some sort of competition. There is competition for places all over the pitch. Nobody should be guaranteed a spot if not playing well. He may feel that bringing in solid competition for De Gea might give him extra motivation, or make him seek pastures new.
“In saying that, I believe David has earned enough ‘tokens’, as they say, from his performances over the years. I think he has demonstrated on numerous occasions that he is a fantastic goalkeeper. I know he has made some uncharacteristic mistakes but I feel as though he deserves to carry on as Manchester United’s number one for next season.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--How Manchester United 25-man squad may look after ideal transfers

In the space of 18 months , Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already made some sweeping changes to the Manchester United squad .
Gone already are Marouane Fellaini , Ander Herrera , Romelu Lukaku , Matteo Darmian and Antonio Valencia .
Daniel James , Harry Maguire , Aaron Wan-Bissaka , Bruno Fernandes and Odion Ighalo have all come in .
Youngsters like Mason Greenwood , Brandon Williams and Tahith Chong have been promoted .
It 's been nothing short of an overhaul and it 's paid off with Champions League qualification this season .
But there is much work ahead .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Chris Smalling have been sent out on loan and MEN Sport understands United will look for permanent transfers for the trio , among others , this coming transfer window .
In terms of incomings , it is no secret that Jadon Sancho is United 's premier target for a summer window that will linger into the autumn because of the rescheduled 2019/20 season .
But how will United 's squad look when the window finally closes in October ?
They will hope to complete all their deals by the start of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an improved and streamlined squad ready to build on their third-placed finish .
United are not short of goalkeepers on their staff .
As well as David de Gea and Sergio Romero , there is Lee Grant , Nathan Bishop and Joel Pereira , all of whom would hope to battle for the title 'third choice goalkeeper ' next season .
And of course United are bracing themselves for the return of Dean Henderson after two years on loan with Sheffield United .
After such a stunning debut Premier League campaign with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 23-year-old for his first team .
Expect a battle with De Gea to ensue if Henderson is n't loaned out again , with the Spaniard under pressure after a number of errors in the past 18 months .
But if Henderson does stay at Old Trafford , it could mean Romero seeks a move elsewhere .
The Argentinian deserves better than to be a club 's third goalkeeper and has already been linked with Leeds and Everton .
Bishop could therefore move up the pecking order , though he wo n't need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Solskjaer used the 2019 window to reshape his defence , with the key signings of Maguire and Wan-Bissaka for a combined £125million .
And while United may target a left-sided centre-back if Rojo departs , they are otherwise content with their defensive options , with Victor Lindelof , Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe all among the solid central defensive options .
Both Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw need competition in the full-back areas , which may be provided by Williams and Timothy Fosu-Mensah , with a possible loan exit for Diogo Dalot .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bournemouth 's Nathan Ake would be a smart addition , or United may possibly plump for the experience of free agent Jan Vertonghen .
There may be no place for Phil Jones , or Smalling , who is likely to return to Italy .
Williams , Ethan Laird and the promising Teden Mengi do n't have to be registered as they are under 21 .
A year ago , it looked very much like United 's midfield needed serious surgery .
Nemanja Matic appeared to be a fading force , doubt surrounded Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's exit there was little trust in the existing options of Fred , Scott McTominay and Andreas Pereira .
Now , however , the situation is very different .
Pogba is fit and focussed , boosted by the arrival of Bruno Fernandes ; Fred and McTominay have kicked on , while Matic has rediscovered his best form .
United may make a small addition to their attacking midfield reserves if they can land Jack Grealish , but otherwise it may be about offloading one of Pereira , Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final year of his contract and Solskjaer has loyalty to Pereira and Lingard .
Youngsters James Garner and Dylan Levitt do n't have to be registered but they may be loaned out in any case .
Most of the United forward line has picked itself for the past year , with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford at the forefront and Solskjaer selecting either Daniel James or Mason Greenwood as the third member of his attacking trio .
Greenwood , despite still being 18 , is now very much a first team option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , providing United can clinch a deal for the Dortmund star .
It seems bizarre that neither player will have to be registered but that just speaks volumes about their incredible ability and potential .
Tahith Chong and Odion Ighalo will remain backup and rotation options in Solskjaer 's squad until January , providing the former is not loaned out .
United officially registered 23 players above the age of 21 last season and could be in a position to do exactly the same again , with at least six ready-made youngsters to @ @ @ @ @ @

In the space of 18 months, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already made some sweeping changes to the Manchester United squad.
Gone already are Marouane Fellaini, Ander Herrera, Romelu Lukaku, Matteo Darmian and Antonio Valencia. Daniel James, Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Bruno Fernandes and Odion Ighalo have all come in. Youngsters like Mason Greenwood, Brandon Williams and Tahith Chong have been promoted. It's been nothing short of an overhaul and it's paid off with Champions League qualification this season.
But there is much work ahead. Others like Marcos Rojo, Alexis Sanchez and Chris Smalling have been sent out on loan and MEN Sport understands United will look for permanent transfers for the trio, among others, this coming transfer window.
In terms of incomings, it is no secret that Jadon Sancho is United's premier target for a summer window that will linger into the autumn because of the rescheduled 2019/20 season.
But how will United's squad look when the window finally closes in October? They will hope to complete all their deals by the start of the new season on September 12 and boast an improved and streamlined squad ready to build on their third-placed finish.
Goalkeepers
United are not short of goalkeepers on their staff. As well as David de Gea and Sergio Romero, there is Lee Grant, Nathan Bishop and Joel Pereira, all of whom would hope to battle for the title 'third choice goalkeeper' next season.
And of course United are bracing themselves for the return of Dean Henderson after two years on loan with Sheffield United. After such a stunning debut Premier League campaign with the Blades, Solskjaer ought to be considering the 23-year-old for his first team. Expect a battle with De Gea to ensue if Henderson isn't loaned out again, with the Spaniard under pressure after a number of errors in the past 18 months.
But if Henderson does stay at Old Trafford, it could mean Romero seeks a move elsewhere. The Argentinian deserves better than to be a club's third goalkeeper and has already been linked with Leeds and Everton. Bishop could therefore move up the pecking order, though he won't need to be registered, as a 20-year-old.
Three picks: David de Gea, Dean Henderson, Lee Grant.
Defenders
Solskjaer used the 2019 window to reshape his defence, with the key signings of Maguire and Wan-Bissaka for a combined £125million.
And while United may target a left-sided centre-back if Rojo departs, they are otherwise content with their defensive options, with Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe all among the solid central defensive options.
Both Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw need competition in the full-back areas, which may be provided by Williams and Timothy Fosu-Mensah, with a possible loan exit for Diogo Dalot.
In terms of the left-sided centre-back, Bournemouth's Nathan Ake would be a smart addition, or United may possibly plump for the experience of free agent Jan Vertonghen. There may be no place for Phil Jones, or Smalling, who is likely to return to Italy. Williams, Ethan Laird and the promising Teden Mengi don't have to be registered as they are under 21.
Eight picks: Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Nathan Ake, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw, Eric Bailly, Timothy Fosu-Mensah, Axel Tuanzebe.
(Image: 2019 Manchester United FC)
Midfielders
A year ago, it looked very much like United's midfield needed serious surgery. Nemanja Matic appeared to be a fading force, doubt surrounded Paul Pogba's future, while after Herrera's exit there was little trust in the existing options of Fred, Scott McTominay and Andreas Pereira.
Now, however, the situation is very different. Pogba is fit and focussed, boosted by the arrival of Bruno Fernandes; Fred and McTominay have kicked on, while Matic has rediscovered his best form.
United may make a small addition to their attacking midfield reserves if they can land Jack Grealish, but otherwise it may be about offloading one of Pereira, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata and keeping the rest. Mata is into the final year of his contract and Solskjaer has loyalty to Pereira and Lingard.
Youngsters James Garner and Dylan Levitt don't have to be registered but they may be loaned out in any case.
Eight choices: Fred, Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Bruno Fernandes, Jack Grealish, Andreas Pereira, Jesse Lingard.
Forwards
Most of the United forward line has picked itself for the past year, with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford at the forefront and Solskjaer selecting either Daniel James or Mason Greenwood as the third member of his attacking trio.
Greenwood, despite still being 18, is now very much a first team option, and Sancho would be as well, providing United can clinch a deal for the Dortmund star. It seems bizarre that neither player will have to be registered but that just speaks volumes about their incredible ability and potential.
Tahith Chong and Odion Ighalo will remain backup and rotation options in Solskjaer's squad until January, providing the former is not loaned out.
United officially registered 23 players above the age of 21 last season and could be in a position to do exactly the same again, with at least six ready-made youngsters to feature in the 2020/21 campaign.
Possible United 25 man squad:
De Gea, Henderson, Grant, Maguire, Lindelof, Ake/Vertonghen, Wan-Bissaka, Shaw, Bailly, Fosu-Mensah, Tuanzebe, Fred, McTominay, Pogba, Matic, Fernandes, Grealish, Pereira, Lingard, Ighalo, Rashford, Martial, James.
Players Under-21: Bishop, Mengi, Williams, Chong, Sancho, Greenwood.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--UK signs fourth potential coronavirus vaccine deal

The UK has signed its fourth potential coronavirus vaccine deal .
The latest deal brings the total number of doses agreed for the UK up to 250 million .
The vaccine is being developed by pharmaceutical giants GlaxoSmithKline ( GSK ) and Sanofi Pasteur , and the government has signed for 60 million doses .
It is based on the existing DNA-based technology used to produce Sanofi ’ s seasonal flu vaccine .
Frontline health workers and those most vulnerable to Covid-19 could be vaccinated as early as the first half of next year if trials are a success , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Industrial Strategy ( BEIS ) said .
Human clinical studies of the vaccine will begin in September followed by a phase three study in December .
Roger Connor , president of GSK Vaccines , said : “ We believe that this adjuvanted vaccine candidate has the potential to play a significant role in overcoming the Covid-19 pandemic , both in the UK and around the world .
“ We thank the UK Government for confirmation of purchasing intent , which supports the significant investment we are already making as a company to scale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Kate Bingham , chairwoman of the government ’ s Vaccines Taskforce , warned that there are no guarantees the vaccine will be successful but said the agreement was `` very good news '' .
“ This diversity of vaccine types is important because we do not yet know which , if any , of the different types of vaccine will prove to generate a safe and protective response to Covid-19 , '' she said .
“ Whilst this agreement is very good news , we mustn ’ t be complacent or over-optimistic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never get a vaccine and , if we do get one , we have to be prepared that it may not be a vaccine which prevents getting the virus , but rather one that reduces symptoms.
” Business secretary Alok Sharma added : “ Our scientists and researchers are racing to find a safe and effective vaccine at a speed and scale never seen before .
“ While this progress is truly remarkable , the fact remains that there are no guarantees .
“ In the meantime , it is important that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of promising vaccine candidates , like GSK and Sanofi , to increase our chances of finding one that works so we can protect the public and save lives.
” Earlier this month , the government agreed deals with BioNTech , which is working with Pfizer and Valneva for access to their vaccines .
A further agreement has been signed with AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford for their jab , which could produce 100 million doses for the UK .
Meanwhile ministers are encouraging people to sign up to receive information about joining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Almost 72,000 people have volunteered in the past week , the government said , but many more are needed .
It is hoped that half a million volunteers will come forward for the trials .
People can sign up for the NHS Covid-19 vaccine research registry here .

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The UK has signed its fourth potential coronavirus vaccine deal.
The latest deal brings the total number of doses agreed for the UK up to 250 million.
The vaccine is being developed by pharmaceutical giants GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Sanofi Pasteur, and the government has signed for 60 million doses.
It is based on the existing DNA-based technology used to produce Sanofi’s seasonal flu vaccine.
Frontline health workers and those most vulnerable to Covid-19 could be vaccinated as early as the first half of next year if trials are a success, the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) said.
Human clinical studies of the vaccine will begin in September followed by a phase three study in December.
Roger Connor, president of GSK Vaccines, said: “We believe that this adjuvanted vaccine candidate has the potential to play a significant role in overcoming the Covid-19 pandemic, both in the UK and around the world.
“We thank the UK Government for confirmation of purchasing intent, which supports the significant investment we are already making as a company to scale up development and production of this vaccine.”
Kate Bingham, chairwoman of the government’s Vaccines Taskforce, warned that there are no guarantees the vaccine will be successful but said the agreement was "very good news".
“This diversity of vaccine types is important because we do not yet know which, if any, of the different types of vaccine will prove to generate a safe and protective response to Covid-19," she said.
“Whilst this agreement is very good news, we mustn’t be complacent or over-optimistic.
“The fact remains we may never get a vaccine and, if we do get one, we have to be prepared that it may not be a vaccine which prevents getting the virus, but rather one that reduces symptoms.”
Business secretary Alok Sharma added: “Our scientists and researchers are racing to find a safe and effective vaccine at a speed and scale never seen before.
“While this progress is truly remarkable, the fact remains that there are no guarantees.
“In the meantime, it is important that we secure early access to a diverse range of promising vaccine candidates, like GSK and Sanofi, to increase our chances of finding one that works so we can protect the public and save lives.”
Earlier this month, the government agreed deals with BioNTech, which is working with Pfizer and Valneva for access to their vaccines.
A further agreement has been signed with AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford for their jab, which could produce 100 million doses for the UK.
Meanwhile ministers are encouraging people to sign up to receive information about joining clinical studies to find a vaccine.
Almost 72,000 people have volunteered in the past week, the government said, but many more are needed.
It is hoped that half a million volunteers will come forward for the trials.
People can sign up for the NHS Covid-19 vaccine research registry here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Why cyclists don't think £2billion is enough for a true two-wheeled revolution

Bike campaigners in Greater Manchester have welcomed Boris ' £2bn plan to overhaul cycling and walking in England - but say more cash will be needed to make it work .
The Prime Minister 's plan includes thousands of miles of new protected bike lanes , cycle training for everyone and bikes available on prescription from your GP .
It 's geared toward building on the cycling boom during the pandemic - with weekday peaks reaching 20,000 trips in the region , an average increase of 16 per cent when compared to pre-lockdown levels .
Nick Hubble , founding member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` With changes to the Highway Code and communities having a say on local travel in their areas , it 's actually pretty far-reaching .
`` It 's a very substantial statement of how the Government believe transport should evolve coming out of the Covid crisis and into the climate emergency . ''
But he said the funding was not enough , adding : `` Given that earlier in the year they announced £27bn for roads , this is n't nearly enough .
`` We should really be seeing a more realistic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have a target of 10 per cent of journeys on bikes then at least 10 pc of the transport budget should be focused on enabling that shift .
It should be proportionate to the level of ambition in terms of shifting journeys out of cars and into more sustainable modes . ''
He said there was a big difference between local authorities in terms of how they were embracing cycling - with 'some getting behind it , some taking tentative steps , some completely ignoring it ' .
He added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enable people to cycle safely into the city centre .
Places like Bolton and Bury are being bolder than they have been in the past .
`` They are good examples of authorities that have n't traditionally been pioneering on this stuff but are now coming to see benefits and taking the first radical steps . ''
In Greater Manchester , Chris Boardman , cycling and walking commissioner , has been leading efforts to build the Bee Network to promote cycling .
Mr Boardman said : `` Creating a true cultural shift where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to travel and parents are happy for their children to ride to school , requires far more than simply building bike lanes and the variety of measures laid out in these plans reflect the importance of increasing access to bikes , making local roads safer and improving air quality . ''
The £2bn funding will be spent on more cycle racks at places including transport hubs , cycle training , new cycle routes in towns and cities , boosted investment in a long-term cycling programme , safer streets , low traffic areas to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ e-bikes - and bikes available on prescription from your GP .

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Bike campaigners in Greater Manchester have welcomed Boris' £2bn plan to overhaul cycling and walking in England - but say more cash will be needed to make it work.
The Prime Minister's plan includes thousands of miles of new protected bike lanes, cycle training for everyone and bikes available on prescription from your GP.
It's geared toward building on the cycling boom during the pandemic - with weekday peaks reaching 20,000 trips in the region, an average increase of 16 per cent when compared to pre-lockdown levels.
Nick Hubble, founding member of Walk Ride Greater Manchester, said: "With changes to the Highway Code and communities having a say on local travel in their areas, it's actually pretty far-reaching.
(Image: TFGM)
"It's a very substantial statement of how the Government believe transport should evolve coming out of the Covid crisis and into the climate emergency."
But he said the funding was not enough, adding: "Given that earlier in the year they announced £27bn for roads, this isn't nearly enough.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
"We should really be seeing a more realistic ratio between those amounts.
"If they have a target of 10 per cent of journeys on bikes then at least 10 pc of the transport budget should be focused on enabling that shift. It should be proportionate to the level of ambition in terms of shifting journeys out of cars and into more sustainable modes."
(Image: TfGM)
He said there was a big difference between local authorities in terms of how they were embracing cycling - with 'some getting behind it, some taking tentative steps, some completely ignoring it'.
He added: "Manchester is being obstinate by refusing to enable people to cycle safely into the city centre. Places like Bolton and Bury are being bolder than they have been in the past.
"They are good examples of authorities that haven't traditionally been pioneering on this stuff but are now coming to see benefits and taking the first radical steps."
In Greater Manchester, Chris Boardman, cycling and walking commissioner, has been leading efforts to build the Bee Network to promote cycling.
Mr Boardman said: "Creating a true cultural shift where cycling and walking is the default way to travel and parents are happy for their children to ride to school, requires far more than simply building bike lanes and the variety of measures laid out in these plans reflect the importance of increasing access to bikes, making local roads safer and improving air quality."
The £2bn funding will be spent on more cycle racks at places including transport hubs, cycle training, new cycle routes in towns and cities, boosted investment in a long-term cycling programme, safer streets, low traffic areas to include air quality, increased access to e-bikes - and bikes available on prescription from your GP.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--The PM is looking for a new spokesperson - this is how much they'll earn

The Prime Minister has officially begun his hunt for a new spokesperson - and it comes with a hefty wage .
The role is being described by the Conservative Party as a `` unique opportunity to work at the centre of government , and communicate with the nation on behalf of the Prime Minister . ''
The spokesperson will be tasked with giving regular on-the-record White House-style televised briefings .
Number 10 wants someone who has already held senior roles as a spokesperson or journalist and the successful applicant will become a `` trusted political adviser '' .
The job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government and the Prime Minister to an audience of millions on a daily basis , across the main broadcast channels and social media , and have the chance to influence and shape public opinion .
`` You will speak directly to the public on the issues they care most about , explaining the government ’ s position , reassuring people that we are taking action on their priorities and driving positive changes . ''
It also says : `` The demands of the post are high and it will appeal to an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enjoy working on camera and with senior ministers , political advisers , officials and journalists ; who would relish the challenge and pace of televised briefing ; and who has a strong grasp of foreign and domestic policy issues . ''
Reports suggested the taxpayer-funded post could pay around £100,000 a year however , the job ad says the salary is `` to be determined based on experience . ''
Those who want to apply for the position have until August 21 and must email a CV and statement of suitability .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the job ad was published .
These are on-the-record , meaning they can be quoted and attributed to Number 10 , but are not broadcast .
New proposals set out earlier this year , which will see the afternoon sessions filmed at 9 Downing Street , while the morning briefing will continue to be held behind closed doors .
Mr Johnson has suggested the changes will build on the experience of the coronavirus press conference which gave people `` more direct , detailed information from the government '' .

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The Prime Minister has officially begun his hunt for a new spokesperson - and it comes with a hefty wage.
The role is being described by the Conservative Party as a "unique opportunity to work at the centre of government, and communicate with the nation on behalf of the Prime Minister."
The spokesperson will be tasked with giving regular on-the-record White House-style televised briefings.
Number 10 wants someone who has already held senior roles as a spokesperson or journalist and the successful applicant will become a "trusted political adviser".
The job advert states: "You will represent the government and the Prime Minister to an audience of millions on a daily basis, across the main broadcast channels and social media, and have the chance to influence and shape public opinion.
"You will speak directly to the public on the issues they care most about, explaining the government’s position, reassuring people that we are taking action on their priorities and driving positive changes."
It also says: "The demands of the post are high and it will appeal to an experienced and confident media operator who would enjoy working on camera and with senior ministers, political advisers, officials and journalists; who would relish the challenge and pace of televised briefing; and who has a strong grasp of foreign and domestic policy issues."
Reports suggested the taxpayer-funded post could pay around £100,000 a year however, the job ad says the salary is "to be determined based on experience."
Those who want to apply for the position have until August 21 and must email a CV and statement of suitability.
There has been focus on the briefings after the job ad was published.
These are on-the-record, meaning they can be quoted and attributed to Number 10, but are not broadcast.
New proposals set out earlier this year, which will see the afternoon sessions filmed at 9 Downing Street, while the morning briefing will continue to be held behind closed doors.
Mr Johnson has suggested the changes will build on the experience of the coronavirus press conference which gave people "more direct, detailed information from the government".


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Stepping Hill says it has 'no plans' to permanently close stroke rehab ward

Stepping Hill Hospital says it has ‘ no plans ’ to permanently close its stroke rehabilitation ward after concerns were raised over its long term future .
The 31-bed ward - part of the hospital ’ s award winning stroke unit - ceased operating as a specialist facility in March , as bosses moved to ‘ radically and rapidly ’ reorganise as the coronavirus pandemic took hold .
It has since been deployed as a general ward although the part of the unit which provides initial treatment for stroke patients continues to run as previously .
The hospital says it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the most urgent medical treatment following a stroke , while also trying to cope with the demands of the pandemic .
This has meant specialist staff providing rehabilitation in the most appropriate , and safe , place for each patient - whether this in hospital , a care home , a specialist centre , or at a person 's own home .
Stockport NHSWatch and local charity Strokeinformation have both voiced fears that the ward will not reopen - leading to a reduction in the quality of care available for stroke survivors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirm when the ward will revert to its former purpose , the hospital says this is not the case .
A spokesman said : “ The stroke rehabilitation team is a vital part of the unit , and we have no plans to close the rehabilitation ward permanently .
“ However , in line with other NHS organisations across the country we have had to radically and rapidly restructure our hospital to cope with the demands of Covid-19 and care for those with the virus , as well as non-Covid patients needing urgent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes have impacted on every ward in the hospital , including the stroke rehabilitation ward .
“ At the peak of the pandemic we saw a decrease in the number of stroke patients needing to be admitted to hospital , but we have continued to provide hospital care for those patients requiring the most urgent medical treatment following a stroke.
” Bosses also say the hospital is now working on plans to get back to bring back a number of services that were changed or put on hold as a result of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-Covid services we will be constantly reviewing the use and purpose of our wards to best meet the needs of all of our patients , including those who have had a stroke , ” a spokesman added .
However Nick Clarke founder of the charity Strokeinformation and a stroke survivor himself , was not totally convinced by the hospital ’ s assurances .
“ The response from the trust is to be expected to be fair under the current circumstances , however it remains very wooly , ” said the one time Stockport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are in unprecedented times with the COVID pandemic , however a stroke is a medical emergency just as with someone enduring COVID .
`` The fact remains that whilst the importance is to get the stroke patient treated quickly to save damage brain cells , the recovery journey is one that can ’ t just happen overnight or within a few days and indeed the old adage of time being a great healer.
” He added : “ Globally there are 17 million strokes each and every single year , so with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this move to reduce stroke services is not a wise one given the facts .
Maybe some of the funds given to establishments could also passed onto the community as we could really make a difference.
” Campaign group Stockport NHS Watch ( SNHSW ) stressed it was grateful for the sacrifices made by NHS staff , but had concerns over the impact ‘ underfunding ’ and the coronavirus pandemic could ultimately have on services such as stroke rehabilitation .
Phil Weldrake of SNHSW said : “ Our concern is that there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were not aware what has happened to Stockport services .
“ To the best of our knowledge no risk assessment was carried out and if one was produced we have never seen it .
`` It was never made prominent and public .
The management indicated some mitigation has taken place but there ’ s very little information on what is actually being provided.
” The group is also concerned about the lack of scrutiny being applied to decisions which could reduce the quality and level of care across the NHS .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the public being kept in the dark they are unable to raise the matter with their legal representatives and ask them to take action to hold the government to account and protect the NHS.
” He encouraged anyone with concerns over possible cuts or significant changes to the quality of service to alert SNHSW or Greater Manchester Keep Our NHS Public .

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Stepping Hill Hospital says it has ‘no plans’ to permanently close its stroke rehabilitation ward after concerns were raised over its long term future.
The 31-bed ward - part of the hospital’s award winning stroke unit - ceased operating as a specialist facility in March, as bosses moved to ‘radically and rapidly’ reorganise as the coronavirus pandemic took hold.
It has since been deployed as a general ward although the part of the unit which provides initial treatment for stroke patients continues to run as previously.
The hospital says it is still caring for patients in need of the most urgent medical treatment following a stroke, while also trying to cope with the demands of the pandemic.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
This has meant specialist staff providing rehabilitation in the most appropriate, and safe, place for each patient - whether this in hospital, a care home, a specialist centre, or at a person's own home.
Stockport NHSWatch and local charity Strokeinformation have both voiced fears that the ward will not reopen - leading to a reduction in the quality of care available for stroke survivors.
However, while not able to confirm when the ward will revert to its former purpose, the hospital says this is not the case.
A spokesman said: “The stroke rehabilitation team is a vital part of the unit, and we have no plans to close the rehabilitation ward permanently.
“However, in line with other NHS organisations across the country we have had to radically and rapidly restructure our hospital to cope with the demands of Covid-19 and care for those with the virus, as well as non-Covid patients needing urgent treatment for other conditions.
“These changes have impacted on every ward in the hospital, including the stroke rehabilitation ward.
“At the peak of the pandemic we saw a decrease in the number of stroke patients needing to be admitted to hospital, but we have continued to provide hospital care for those patients requiring the most urgent medical treatment following a stroke.”
Bosses also say the hospital is now working on plans to get back to bring back a number of services that were changed or put on hold as a result of the pandemic.
“As we reintroduce more non-Covid services we will be constantly reviewing the use and purpose of our wards to best meet the needs of all of our patients, including those who have had a stroke,” a spokesman added.
However Nick Clarke founder of the charity Strokeinformation and a stroke survivor himself, was not totally convinced by the hospital’s assurances.
“The response from the trust is to be expected to be fair under the current circumstances, however it remains very wooly,” said the one time Stockport County footballer.
“Whilst I agree we are in unprecedented times with the COVID pandemic, however a stroke is a medical emergency just as with someone enduring COVID.
"The fact remains that whilst the importance is to get the stroke patient treated quickly to save damage brain cells, the recovery journey is one that can’t just happen overnight or within a few days and indeed the old adage of time being a great healer.”
He added: “Globally there are 17 million strokes each and every single year, so with the greatest of respect to other conditions this move to reduce stroke services is not a wise one given the facts.
Maybe some of the funds given to establishments could also passed onto the community as we could really make a difference.”
Campaign group Stockport NHS Watch (SNHSW) stressed it was grateful for the sacrifices made by NHS staff, but had concerns over the impact ‘underfunding’ and the coronavirus pandemic could ultimately have on services such as stroke rehabilitation.
Phil Weldrake of SNHSW said: “Our concern is that there was no effective public consultation and the public were not aware what has happened to Stockport services.
“To the best of our knowledge no risk assessment was carried out and if one was produced we have never seen it.
"It was never made prominent and public. The management indicated some mitigation has taken place but there’s very little information on what is actually being provided.”
The group is also concerned about the lack of scrutiny being applied to decisions which could reduce the quality and level of care across the NHS.
Mr Weldrake added: “As a result of the public being kept in the dark they are unable to raise the matter with their legal representatives and ask them to take action to hold the government to account and protect the NHS.”
He encouraged anyone with concerns over possible cuts or significant changes to the quality of service to alert SNHSW or Greater Manchester Keep Our NHS Public.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Fix Your Bike voucher website taken offline after 'extreme volumes of traffic'

People trying to get their hands on a £50 bike repair voucher were left disappointed after the website crashed on its launch .
Boris Johnson ’ s ambitious plan to get Brits cycling got off to a rocky start due to the 'extreme volumes ' of people trying to register for the voucher scheme .
Hopeful cyclists were met with an 'Error 404 ' message as they tried to log onto the website when it launched at 11.45pm on Tuesday .
The government has made 50,000 Fix Your Bike vouchers worth up to £50 available to be used for standard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a £2bn scheme to boost active travel .
Those who managed to access the website were told : “ Due to extreme volumes of traffic this resource has been temporarily paused whilst we take action to improve performance for users .
Please try again later today.
” On Wednesday morning , the website displayed a message saying there were no vouchers currently available - but more are expected to be released .
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said : “ The Fix Your Bike voucher scheme website was taken offline by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high levels of interest .
“ Vouchers are being released gradually to reflect the capacity of cycle repairers signed up to the scheme and more will be available soon.
” Cyclists took to social media to express their disappointment and the volume of complaints was such that the hashtag # FixYourBikeVoucherScheme became the number one trend on Twitter in the UK within 90 minutes of the site ’ s scheduled launch .
Those who manage to get hold of a voucher can use it at any bike repair shop participating in the scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cost of making a bike safe for use on public roads - however , upgrading roadworthy parts or buying removable accessories such as lights or helmets are not included .
The £2bn investment in greener travel , announced in February , also includes thousands of miles of new protected cycle lanes , cycle training , making electric bikes more accessible and creating the UK ’ s first zero-emissions transport city .

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People trying to get their hands on a £50 bike repair voucher were left disappointed after the website crashed on its launch.
Boris Johnson’s ambitious plan to get Brits cycling got off to a rocky start due to the 'extreme volumes' of people trying to register for the voucher scheme.
Hopeful cyclists were met with an 'Error 404' message as they tried to log onto the website when it launched at 11.45pm on Tuesday.
The government has made 50,000 Fix Your Bike vouchers worth up to £50 available to be used for standard servicing and replacing components as part of a £2bn scheme to boost active travel.
Those who managed to access the website were told: “Due to extreme volumes of traffic this resource has been temporarily paused whilst we take action to improve performance for users. Please try again later today.”
On Wednesday morning, the website displayed a message saying there were no vouchers currently available - but more are expected to be released.
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said: “The Fix Your Bike voucher scheme website was taken offline by the Energy Saving Trust this morning following high levels of interest.
“Vouchers are being released gradually to reflect the capacity of cycle repairers signed up to the scheme and more will be available soon.”
Cyclists took to social media to express their disappointment and the volume of complaints was such that the hashtag #FixYourBikeVoucherScheme became the number one trend on Twitter in the UK within 90 minutes of the site’s scheduled launch.
Those who manage to get hold of a voucher can use it at any bike repair shop participating in the scheme.
The vouchers can be used towards the cost of making a bike safe for use on public roads - however, upgrading roadworthy parts or buying removable accessories such as lights or helmets are not included.
The £2bn investment in greener travel, announced in February, also includes thousands of miles of new protected cycle lanes, cycle training, making electric bikes more accessible and creating the UK’s first zero-emissions transport city.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--CAS report reveals ongoing Man City complaint into UEFA investigation

Manchester City could yet score another victory in their battle with UEFA after it emerged that they have complained to the organisation 's disciplinary body over information leaking out of the investigation into the club .
The Court of Arbitration for Sport ( CAS ) this month overturned a two-year Champions League ban as the independent hearing found that the Blues `` did not disguise equity funding as sponsorship '' .
A £9m fine was handed out , reduced from £27m , as a result of City being deemed to have not co-operated with the initial investigation ; the full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the evidence presented to CAS been made available in the first place , an appeal may not have been necessary .
However , City were so concerned with the initial investigation that they made the unprecedented step of going to CAS before a decision had been reached to contest leaks to the media that they alleged to have come from the Investigatory Chamber .
And while the appeal was rejected because no punishment had yet been handed out , the hearing described the leaks as `` worrisome '' and said it was puzzling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the chief investigator of the Club Financial Control Body when they clearly had merit .
The latest report reveals that on January 21 , 2020 - six weeks after the first CAS decision - City took their complaint about the alleged leaks from the Investigatory Chamber to UEFA 's Control , Ethics and Disciplinary Body ( CEDB ) with proceedings still pending .
The CEDB `` consists of a chairman , two vice-chairmen and thirteen other members .
As a rule , it reaches decisions in the presence of all its members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take a decision if at least three of its members are present and in certain circumstances the chairman , one of the vice-chairmen or one of the other members may take a decision as a judge sitting alone '' .
It normally makes decisions monthly but there have been no meetings since the end of March , a time when the impact of the pandemic was becoming clearer .

Manchester City could yet score another victory in their battle with UEFA after it emerged that they have complained to the organisation's disciplinary body over information leaking out of the investigation into the club.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) this month overturned a two-year Champions League ban as the independent hearing found that the Blues "did not disguise equity funding as sponsorship".
A £9m fine was handed out, reduced from £27m, as a result of City being deemed to have not co-operated with the initial investigation; the full report released this week suggested that had the evidence presented to CAS been made available in the first place, an appeal may not have been necessary.
However, City were so concerned with the initial investigation that they made the unprecedented step of going to CAS before a decision had been reached to contest leaks to the media that they alleged to have come from the Investigatory Chamber.
And while the appeal was rejected because no punishment had yet been handed out, the hearing described the leaks as "worrisome" and said it was puzzling how they could be described as groundless by the chief investigator of the Club Financial Control Body when they clearly had merit.
The latest report reveals that on January 21, 2020 - six weeks after the first CAS decision - City took their complaint about the alleged leaks from the Investigatory Chamber to UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) with proceedings still pending.
The CEDB "consists of a chairman, two vice-chairmen and thirteen other members. As a rule, it reaches decisions in the presence of all its members. It is, however, entitled to take a decision if at least three of its members are present and in certain circumstances the chairman, one of the vice-chairmen or one of the other members may take a decision as a judge sitting alone".
It normally makes decisions monthly but there have been no meetings since the end of March, a time when the impact of the pandemic was becoming clearer.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Bury Market traders pay '50% more' rent due to Covid relief scheme

Many market traders are missing out on the coronavirus business rates relief scheme which they say is costing them around 50 % extra in rent .
The government ’ s Covid-19 business rates relief has benefited some traders in Bury Market – but only indoor market traders are eligible for the scheme .
This is because under the rules , local authorities are not entitled to rates relief so the council , which owns the market , is still paying rates for some stalls .
While indoor stalls are treated as separate units , making them eligible for the scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as one unit by the valuation office agency , making the council liable for paying the rates as its landlord .
Bury Council passes on the cost of business rates for the outdoor market stalls to traders , who say this makes up around a third of their bills in rent .
A council spokesman said : “ We have always valued our famous market , and recognised the difficulties traders have had since the lockdown .
“ We have distributed £1m of small business grants and discretionary funding to traders , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mid-March until July at a cost to the council of £720,000 .
“ Bury gave a total of 14 weeks rent concession to traders , far more than has been provided elsewhere across Greater Manchester , and this has been warmly welcomed by the majority of traders , who are happy to be back in business .
“ The council is also processing and allocating discretionary government funding to traders who are leaseholders , based on annual rent payments .
Daily licence traders who do not qualify will be awarded the equivalent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” It is understood that other council-owned properties , such as Radcliffe Market and Bradley Fold Trading Estate may also be affected .
Conservative councillors have asked the borough ’ s two Tory MPs to tell the government to change the rules to allow local authorities to benefit from business rates relief as landlords – but they have been unsuccessful so far .
Labour councillor Jane Black is the cabinet member for the cultural economy .
She said : “ At a time when budgets are stretched because of years of austerity and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far more than many other market towns to support and protect market traders , and to develop a strong vision for its long term future .
“ Work has already started on a £1.3m programme which includes refurbishment of the Market Hall toilets , replacement of Market Hall lifts , improvement signage and additional security measures .
“ Councillors have approved a further £50,000 to draw up a masterplan for the market and for the surrounding town centre .
“ Long-term options could include a multi-use ‘ flexi hall ’ which would provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a seven day a week cultural , food and entertainment venue .
“ This development could be adjacent to the Interchange site , which itself will be subject to major redevelopment .
“ Shorter-term options include reviewing trading days , parking charges , internet access for traders and linking in with events held during Bury ’ s year as the first Greater Manchester Town of Culture .
”

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Joseph Timan, Seamus McDonnell)

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Many market traders are missing out on the coronavirus business rates relief scheme which they say is costing them around 50% extra in rent.
The government’s Covid-19 business rates relief has benefited some traders in Bury Market – but only indoor market traders are eligible for the scheme.
This is because under the rules, local authorities are not entitled to rates relief so the council, which owns the market, is still paying rates for some stalls.
While indoor stalls are treated as separate units, making them eligible for the scheme, the outdoor market has been assessed as one unit by the valuation office agency, making the council liable for paying the rates as its landlord.
Bury Council passes on the cost of business rates for the outdoor market stalls to traders, who say this makes up around a third of their bills in rent.
A council spokesman said: “We have always valued our famous market, and recognised the difficulties traders have had since the lockdown.
“We have distributed £1m of small business grants and discretionary funding to traders, and given them all a rent holiday from mid-March until July at a cost to the council of £720,000.
“Bury gave a total of 14 weeks rent concession to traders, far more than has been provided elsewhere across Greater Manchester, and this has been warmly welcomed by the majority of traders, who are happy to be back in business.
“The council is also processing and allocating discretionary government funding to traders who are leaseholders, based on annual rent payments. Daily licence traders who do not qualify will be awarded the equivalent of three months’ rent by the council.”
It is understood that other council-owned properties, such as Radcliffe Market and Bradley Fold Trading Estate may also be affected.
Conservative councillors have asked the borough’s two Tory MPs to tell the government to change the rules to allow local authorities to benefit from business rates relief as landlords – but they have been unsuccessful so far.
Labour councillor Jane Black is the cabinet member for the cultural economy.
She said: “At a time when budgets are stretched because of years of austerity and a pandemic, this council has done far more than many other market towns to support and protect market traders, and to develop a strong vision for its long term future.
“Work has already started on a £1.3m programme which includes refurbishment of the Market Hall toilets, replacement of Market Hall lifts, improvement signage and additional security measures.
“Councillors have approved a further £50,000 to draw up a masterplan for the market and for the surrounding town centre.
“Long-term options could include a multi-use ‘flexi hall’ which would provide an enhanced visitor experience on market days and a seven day a week cultural, food and entertainment venue.
“This development could be adjacent to the Interchange site, which itself will be subject to major redevelopment.
“Shorter-term options include reviewing trading days, parking charges, internet access for traders and linking in with events held during Bury’s year as the first Greater Manchester Town of Culture.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-07-29--Radcliffe drive-thru coffee shop in Asda car park approved

A new drive-thru coffee shop can be built on an Asda car park at the cost of 66 spaces , Bury Council ’ s planning committee has ruled .
Euro Garages , owned by the billionaire Issa brothers from Blackburn , has been granted planning permission for the new coffee shop at the Asda site in Radcliffe .
The company has recently received planning permission for 37 new roadside services with petrol stations and drive-thrus including a Starbucks in Bolton .
But the location of the new coffee shop at the store ’ s car park in Pilkington Way will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and create only 12 new ones .
Radcliffe West councillor Mike Smith told the planning committee on Tuesday that this goes against the council ’ s plans to expand parking in the town as part of its recently released strategic regeneration framework ( SRF ) for the area .
He said : “ On the one hand , Radcliffe ’ s got inadequate parking , and on the other hand , developments are removing parking .
I just fail to see the logic.
” The ward councillor also said the development would “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hosts a McDonalds drive-thru and the Asda supermarket .
Radcliffe East councillor Rhyse Cathcart , who chairs the town ’ s regeneration group , also expressed concerns that the application “ does not fall in line ” with the council ’ s proposals which are currently undergoing a public consultation .
He asked the committee to delay a decision until the consultation is complete .
But the council ’ s planning chief David Marno warned the committee to not overvalue a document that holds “ no legal weight ” in planning law .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It doesn ’ t seem right .
If we approve this application tonight , we ’ re removing parking spaces from the town centre when part of the SRF plan is to up the parking availability to try to bring more people into the centre .
“ You ’ re sort of taking away and then giving back .
We ’ re not going to gain anything .
But I understand what the planning rules are and we ’ ve got to go with that.
” Radcliffe West councillor Tony Cummings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he was in the same “ quandary ” as his colleagues .
He said : “ The only thing is , if we were to turn it down it would then be open to appeal by Euro Garages and I suspect that maybe the balance would be on their side because in planning law I can ’ t see any real reason for turning it down.
” The application was approved at a virtual meeting of the planning committee with all councillors except for James Mason voting in support of the plans @

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A new drive-thru coffee shop can be built on an Asda car park at the cost of 66 spaces, Bury Council’s planning committee has ruled.
Euro Garages, owned by the billionaire Issa brothers from Blackburn, has been granted planning permission for the new coffee shop at the Asda site in Radcliffe.
The company has recently received planning permission for 37 new roadside services with petrol stations and drive-thrus including a Starbucks in Bolton.
But the location of the new coffee shop at the store’s car park in Pilkington Way will result in the removal of 78 spaces and create only 12 new ones.
Radcliffe West councillor Mike Smith told the planning committee on Tuesday that this goes against the council’s plans to expand parking in the town as part of its recently released strategic regeneration framework (SRF) for the area.
He said: “On the one hand, Radcliffe’s got inadequate parking, and on the other hand, developments are removing parking. I just fail to see the logic.”
The ward councillor also said the development would “magnify” congestion on the site already hosts a McDonalds drive-thru and the Asda supermarket.
Radcliffe East councillor Rhyse Cathcart, who chairs the town’s regeneration group, also expressed concerns that the application “does not fall in line” with the council’s proposals which are currently undergoing a public consultation.
He asked the committee to delay a decision until the consultation is complete.
But the council’s planning chief David Marno warned the committee to not overvalue a document that holds “no legal weight” in planning law.
Radcliffe North councillor Sharon Briggs said: “It doesn’t seem right. If we approve this application tonight, we’re removing parking spaces from the town centre when part of the SRF plan is to up the parking availability to try to bring more people into the centre.
“You’re sort of taking away and then giving back. We’re not going to gain anything. But I understand what the planning rules are and we’ve got to go with that.”
Radcliffe West councillor Tony Cummings, another member of the planning committee, said he was in the same “quandary” as his colleagues.
He said: “The only thing is, if we were to turn it down it would then be open to appeal by Euro Garages and I suspect that maybe the balance would be on their side because in planning law I can’t see any real reason for turning it down.”
The application was approved at a virtual meeting of the planning committee with all councillors except for James Mason voting in support of the plans.