themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Government U-turn on free school meal scheme thanks to Marcus Rashford campaign

Boris Johnson has U-turned on his decision not to award free school meal vouchers over the summer holidays in England .
The government will now fund a scheme – for which nearly 1.3 million children are eligible – following a campaign by Manchester United star Marcus Rashford .
In a tweet , Rashford said : `` I don ’ t even know what to say .
Just look at what we can do when we come together , THIS is England in 2020 . ''
In an emotional letter , Rashford called on MPs to reverse the government 's decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ familes .
The England striker said the letter was 'written from the heart ' and pleaded for authorities to let vulnerable children to continue receiving the free school means during summer .
The Prime Minister and Department for Education initially said the scheme would end with the school term .
Now , the government has U-turned and poured an extra £120m into a one-off 'COVID summer food fund ' .
The prime minister ’ s official spokesperson said on Tuesday : “ Owing to the coronavirus pandemic the prime minister fully understands that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation over the summer .
“ To reflect this we will be providing a Covid summer food fund , this will provide food vouchers over the six week summer holiday period .
“ This is a specific measure to reflect the unique circumstances of the pandemic .
The scheme will not continue beyond the summer.
” The scheme , which is £120m additional funding , will benefit around 15 % of state school pupils .
Ministers extended the £15-a-week free school meals voucher scheme to cover Easter and May holidays amid the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it to the summer break .
The vouchers will then come firmly to an end in September , by which time the government hopes all school pupils will be back in the classroom .
All those who currently qualify for free school meals due to their household income will qualify - the same criteria as there are now .
Boris Johnson announced the change in a meeting of the Cabinet - hours after his own ministers Grant Shapps and Therese Coffey refused to budge .
His campaign was supported by the Labour Party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Gary Lineker and Piers Morgan .
The 22-year-old followed up his open letter with a column in The Times newspaper today and asked the government why children in poverty and their future 'does not matter ' .
In the column , he said he was focusing 'on a trophy that stands for something much bigger than football ' - combating child poverty .
He added : `` I do n't claim to have the education of an MP in parliament , but I do have a social education .
`` I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision would make on the 1.3 million vulnerable children across the UK who are registered for free school meals because ten years ago I was one of them .
`` I know what it feels like to be hungry .
I ’ m well aware that at times my friends only invited me to eat at their houses for their parents ’ reassurance that I was eating that evening .
`` That was my community , the community that made the Marcus Rashford you see before you today asking for your help : @ @ @ @ @ @

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Boris Johnson has U-turned on his decision not to award free school meal vouchers over the summer holidays in England.
The government will now fund a scheme – for which nearly 1.3 million children are eligible – following a campaign by Manchester United star Marcus Rashford.
In a tweet, Rashford said: "I don’t even know what to say. Just look at what we can do when we come together, THIS is England in 2020."
In an emotional letter, Rashford called on MPs to reverse the government's decision to end free school meals for low-income familes.
The England striker said the letter was 'written from the heart' and pleaded for authorities to let vulnerable children to continue receiving the free school means during summer.
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
The Prime Minister and Department for Education initially said the scheme would end with the school term.
Now, the government has U-turned and poured an extra £120m into a one-off 'COVID summer food fund'.
The prime minister’s official spokesperson said on Tuesday: “Owing to the coronavirus pandemic the prime minister fully understands that children and parents face an entirely unprecedented situation over the summer.
(Image: Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)
“To reflect this we will be providing a Covid summer food fund, this will provide food vouchers over the six week summer holiday period.
“This is a specific measure to reflect the unique circumstances of the pandemic. The scheme will not continue beyond the summer.”
The scheme, which is £120m additional funding, will benefit around 15 per cent of state school pupils.
Ministers extended the £15-a-week free school meals voucher scheme to cover Easter and May holidays amid the coronavirus crisis, but had refused to extend it to the summer break.
The vouchers will then come firmly to an end in September, by which time the government hopes all school pupils will be back in the classroom.
All those who currently qualify for free school meals due to their household income will qualify - the same criteria as there are now.
Boris Johnson announced the change in a meeting of the Cabinet - hours after his own ministers Grant Shapps and Therese Coffey refused to budge.
(Image: PA)
His campaign was supported by the Labour Party and a number of prominent figures, including Gary Lineker and Piers Morgan.
The 22-year-old followed up his open letter with a column in The Times newspaper today and asked the government why children in poverty and their future 'does not matter'.
In the column, he said he was focusing 'on a trophy that stands for something much bigger than football' - combating child poverty.
He added: "I don't claim to have the education of an MP in parliament, but I do have a social education.
"I am clued up on the difference a U-turn decision would make on the 1.3 million vulnerable children across the UK who are registered for free school meals because ten years ago I was one of them.
"I know what it feels like to be hungry. I’m well aware that at times my friends only invited me to eat at their houses for their parents’ reassurance that I was eating that evening.
"That was my community, the community that made the Marcus Rashford you see before you today asking for your help: an England international footballer."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Moment girl, 9, hugs grandparents for first time after 81 days of lockdown

This is the touching moment a nine-year-old girl finally hugged her grandparents for the first time - after 81 days apart due to coronavirus lockdown .
Terri-Lea Cook said she had `` lost count of the days '' she ’ d been away from her grandparents after they were forced to separate following the start of lockdown on 23 March , like many families across the UK .
Although they live in neighbouring streets in Warrington , Cheshire , just 60 metres apart they had been kept apart due to the strict lockdown .
But after 12 weeks , Terri-Lea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , both 54 , who have brought her up along with her mum Samantha Cook , on Saturday , as restrictions were eased allowing families to form a social bubble .
As soon as Terri-Lea heard her grandparents approach , she sprinted out of her house and ran down the road to meet them before embracing her grandmother .
Terri-Lea said she had missed her grandparents `` lots and lots and lots . ''
“ I saw them every day of my life and I didn ’ t know how to feel after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she said .
“ I love hugs and kisses and mummy ’ s hugs and kisses are nice , but everyone has a different hug and I missed grandpa and grandma 's hugs .
“ Now I can hug them every day and I ’ m never letting them go .
“ I told them we have to hug at least once a day because I don ’ t know if we ’ ll be locked down again and I won ’ t be able to cuddle with them.
” The close-knit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12 long weeks when lockdown began .
Samantha , 37 , said she burst into tears when the support bubbles were announced - which allowed people from single-parent households to pair up with another household .
She said : “ We had an emotional goodbye but we didn ’ t know how long it would be - we never expected it to be 81 days .
“ It ’ s been so hard for my girl because she just wants to hug her grandparents all the time .
“ When I saw the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into tears .
“ Terri-Lea was crying her eyes out as well because we both knew we could finally see my parents .
“ It was the best news we could have wished for.
” Grandparents Tracy and Mike , live just a street away - barely 60m from their front gate - which made it even more difficult to resist the urge to pay them a visit .
Samantha added : “ They live right on the next street so as soon as Terri-Lea heard them she sprinted out .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were so close by we had to fight off the urge to go see them .
“ We are a really close family .
I work full-time so my parents were like Terri-Lea ’ s parents , they spent each day with her , picked her up from school and played together .
“ It ’ s just been so different and strange for us , especially for Terri-Lea , and I think we needed this support .
“ She had never spent more than a few days away from her grandparents , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mum a cuppa has been odd.
” Retired nurse Tracy says she couldn ’ t sleep the night before as she knew she ’ d finally get to see her granddaughter after their “ heartbreaking ” time apart .
She said was glued to the news each night hoping and praying for an announcement .
The web designer said : “ It was so emotional .
I didn ’ t sleep at all the night before because I knew I ’ d be seeing her .
“ It was dreadful being away , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days a week for as long as she ’ s been alive .
“ I was at her birth , I must have been the third person to touch her beautiful head .
“ She sleeps over all of the time , she ’ s even got her own bedroom .
To suddenly not be able to see her for months was heartbreaking .
“ I watched the news every night just to see if they ’ d change things so we could see each other .
“ I missed her singing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playful and joyful .
“ We do a lot of hugging and cuddling in our family and now that we can she rings me each day to ask me to come round for a cuddle.
” She added : “ She told me she wants me to hug her every day because we don ’ t know if we might not be able to again .
”

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Joe Pagnelli, Helen Carter)

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This is the touching moment a nine-year-old girl finally hugged her grandparents for the first time - after 81 days apart due to coronavirus lockdown.
Terri-Lea Cook said she had "lost count of the days" she’d been away from her grandparents after they were forced to separate following the start of lockdown on 23 March, like many families across the UK.
Although they live in neighbouring streets in Warrington, Cheshire, just 60 metres apart they had been kept apart due to the strict lockdown.
But after 12 weeks, Terri-Lea got to see Tracy and Mike Brown, both 54, who have brought her up along with her mum Samantha Cook, on Saturday, as restrictions were eased allowing families to form a social bubble.
As soon as Terri-Lea heard her grandparents approach, she sprinted out of her house and ran down the road to meet them before embracing her grandmother.
(Image: Samantha Cook / SWNS)
Terri-Lea said she had missed her grandparents "lots and lots and lots."
“I saw them every day of my life and I didn’t know how to feel after not seeing them for so long," she said.
“I love hugs and kisses and mummy’s hugs and kisses are nice, but everyone has a different hug and I missed grandpa and grandma's hugs.
“Now I can hug them every day and I’m never letting them go.
“I told them we have to hug at least once a day because I don’t know if we’ll be locked down again and I won’t be able to cuddle with them.”
(Image: Samantha Cook / SWNS)
The close-knit family never expected to be apart for 12 long weeks when lockdown began.
Samantha, 37, said she burst into tears when the support bubbles were announced - which allowed people from single-parent households to pair up with another household.
She said: “We had an emotional goodbye but we didn’t know how long it would be - we never expected it to be 81 days.
“It’s been so hard for my girl because she just wants to hug her grandparents all the time.
“When I saw the news about the support bubble I burst into tears.
“Terri-Lea was crying her eyes out as well because we both knew we could finally see my parents.
“It was the best news we could have wished for.”
(Image: Samantha Cook / SWNS)
Grandparents Tracy and Mike, live just a street away - barely 60m from their front gate - which made it even more difficult to resist the urge to pay them a visit.
Samantha added: “They live right on the next street so as soon as Terri-Lea heard them she sprinted out.
“It made it harder really, because they were so close by we had to fight off the urge to go see them.
“We are a really close family. I work full-time so my parents were like Terri-Lea’s parents, they spent each day with her, picked her up from school and played together.
“It’s just been so different and strange for us, especially for Terri-Lea, and I think we needed this support.
“She had never spent more than a few days away from her grandparents, and not being able to make my mum a cuppa has been odd.”
Retired nurse Tracy says she couldn’t sleep the night before as she knew she’d finally get to see her granddaughter after their “heartbreaking” time apart.
She said was glued to the news each night hoping and praying for an announcement.
The web designer said: “It was so emotional. I didn’t sleep at all the night before because I knew I’d be seeing her.
“It was dreadful being away, I have been looking after her five days a week for as long as she’s been alive.
“I was at her birth, I must have been the third person to touch her beautiful head.
“She sleeps over all of the time, she’s even got her own bedroom. To suddenly not be able to see her for months was heartbreaking.
“I watched the news every night just to see if they’d change things so we could see each other.
“I missed her singing and dancing so much - she was so playful and joyful.
“We do a lot of hugging and cuddling in our family and now that we can she rings me each day to ask me to come round for a cuddle.”
She added: “She told me she wants me to hug her every day because we don’t know if we might not be able to again.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Man charged after police officers racially abused in city centre

A man has been charged after police officers were spat at and racially abused in Manchester city centre .
The officers were called to Piccadilly after a man was seen making threats towards members of the public at around 8pm on Monday , June 15 .
When they approached the man he became aggressive .
He then racially abused and spat at the officers .
Then man went onto to cause damage to a police vehicle .
John Rose , 32 , of Rome Road , Collyhurst , has been charged following the incident .
He has been charged with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a police officer , one count of criminal damage and one count of racially aggravated threatening behaviour .
Rose has been remanded to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates ’ Court on Tuesday , June 16 .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
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A man has been charged after police officers were spat at and racially abused in Manchester city centre.
The officers were called to Piccadilly after a man was seen making threats towards members of the public at around 8pm on Monday, June 15.
When they approached the man he became aggressive.
He then racially abused and spat at the officers.
Then man went onto to cause damage to a police vehicle.
John Rose, 32, of Rome Road, Collyhurst, has been charged following the incident.
He has been charged with four counts of racially aggravated common assault on a police officer, one count of criminal damage and one count of racially aggravated threatening behaviour.
Rose has been remanded to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, June 16.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here. And you can follow us on Facebook here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Manchester United news and transfers LIVE

Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a fresh injury blow and will be without young defender Japhet Tanganga for their match against @ @ @ @ @ After a break of over three months due to the coronavirus pandemic the Premier League @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday and United will face Jose Mourinho 's Spurs side at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium @ @ @ @ @ game back in action .
However , Tottenham will be without highly-rated defender Tanganga after @ @ @ @ @ in his back during preparations for the return , according to the Telegraph .
Dele @ @ @ @ @ out .
On the transfer front , United have been told they will have to @ @ @ @ @ to buy Kai Havertz this summer , according to reports .
They are also interested @ @ @ @ @ it 's been claimed that Real Madrid are pulling out of the race to sign @ @ @ @ @ who has also been linked with United .
Stay with us for the latest United @ @ @ @ @

Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a fresh injury blow and will be without young defender Japhet Tanganga for their match against Manchester United this week.
After a break of over three months due to the coronavirus pandemic the Premier League is set to resume on Wednesday and United will face Jose Mourinho's Spurs side at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Friday for their first game back in action.
However, Tottenham will be without highly-rated defender Tanganga after he suffered a stress fracture in his back during preparations for the return, according to the Telegraph. Dele Alli has also been ruled out.
On the transfer front, United have been told they will have to pay £90million if they want to buy Kai Havertz this summer, according to reports. They are also interested in Jadon Sancho, while it's been claimed that Real Madrid are pulling out of the race to sign Donny van de Beek, who has also been linked with United.
Recap the latest United news.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Update for driving instructors and learners waiting to take test

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency ( DVSA ) has issued an update to driving instructors and learner drivers waiting to take their test amid the coronavirus pandemic .
In March , driving tests were suspended in the UK as the country went into lockdown .
Only critical workers have been allowed to take lessons and emergency tests during this time .
The DVSA has said that there is still no official date for tests to begin again but further guidance will be issued to instructors on how they can begin teaching again in the near future .
Advice for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anyone who had a test booked will have had an email telling them their test has been cancelled .
You may also have bee given a rescheduled test date .
However , the DVSA has now said that rescheduled tests will also not be going ahead .
Instead , anyone who had a test booked will now be asked to go online to choose a preferred date and time for their rescheduled test .
If you no longer want to take your test , you can email the DVSA to get a full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worker , for example if you work in health and social care or transport , you may be eligible for an emergency test .
Driving instructors have been unable to resume lessons because the risk of transmission of the virus in vehicles is high .
The DVSA has said that driving instruction and tests will only restart when the government is confident that the assessment of risk warrants it .
In the meantime , driving lessons should be limited to critical workers who are preparing for an emergency driving test .
An official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to restart has not yet been given .
Guidance around personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , greeting candidates and cleaning will be issued in the coming days , according to the DVSA .
PPE including face coverings and gloves has been ordered for all instructors .
Test candidates who have had tests cancelled will be asked to go online and choose their preferred date and time .
They will be invited to do this in batches , based on when their test should have originally taken place .
Driving instructors will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make pupils aware of what ’ s happening .

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The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued an update to driving instructors and learner drivers waiting to take their test amid the coronavirus pandemic.
In March, driving tests were suspended in the UK as the country went into lockdown.
Only critical workers have been allowed to take lessons and emergency tests during this time.
The DVSA has said that there is still no official date for tests to begin again but further guidance will be issued to instructors on how they can begin teaching again in the near future.
Advice for learner drivers waiting to take a test
Anyone who had a test booked will have had an email telling them their test has been cancelled.
You may also have bee given a rescheduled test date.
However, the DVSA has now said that rescheduled tests will also not be going ahead.
Instead, anyone who had a test booked will now be asked to go online to choose a preferred date and time for their rescheduled test.
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
If you no longer want to take your test, you can email the DVSA to get a full refund.
If you are a critical worker, for example if you work in health and social care or transport, you may be eligible for an emergency test.
Advice for driving instructors
Driving instructors have been unable to resume lessons because the risk of transmission of the virus in vehicles is high.
The DVSA has said that driving instruction and tests will only restart when the government is confident that the assessment of risk warrants it.
In the meantime, driving lessons should be limited to critical workers who are preparing for an emergency driving test.
An official date for driving lessons and driving tests to restart has not yet been given.
Guidance around personal protective equipment (PPE), greeting candidates and cleaning will be issued in the coming days, according to the DVSA.
PPE including face coverings and gloves has been ordered for all instructors.
Test candidates who have had tests cancelled will be asked to go online and choose their preferred date and time.
They will be invited to do this in batches, based on when their test should have originally taken place.
Driving instructors will be contacted prior to this so they can make pupils aware of what’s happening.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Roadworks to begin this week on one of south Manchester's busiest roads

Roadworks on one of south Manchester ’ s busiest roads will begin tomorrow ( June 17 ) as part of a two-week phased project .
The surface of Burton Road , which connects Didsbury and Withington via Old Moat , will be removed and replaced , while adjustments to the carriageway ironwork will also take place .
The planned work will take place through four phases .
From June 17-20 , Burton Road will be closed to traffic between Palatine Road and Abberton Road .
The section will be closed to all traffic during this time , with residential access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Burton Road from Old Moat Lane to Abberton Road will then be closed from June 21-24 .
The rest of the road between Lapwing Lane and Abberton Road and between Old Moat Lane and Palatine Road will remain open during this time for access only .
During June 25 and 26 , Burton Road will be closed to traffic between Abberton Road and the Burton Road tram stop .
Between June 27 and 28 , Burton Road tram stop through to the Lapwing Lane and Cavendish Road junction will be closed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under two way traffic signal control during this time with signed diversions in place for the closed sections .
Old Moat Councillor Gavin White said the roadworks would help to improve the area .
`` Resurfacing works start tomorrow on Burton Road in Old Moat , '' he tweeted .
The resurfacing work is part of Manchester City Council ’ s £100 million investment to improve the city ’ s roads and pavements .

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Roadworks on one of south Manchester’s busiest roads will begin tomorrow (June 17) as part of a two-week phased project.
The surface of Burton Road, which connects Didsbury and Withington via Old Moat, will be removed and replaced, while adjustments to the carriageway ironwork will also take place.
The planned work will take place through four phases.
From June 17-20, Burton Road will be closed to traffic between Palatine Road and Abberton Road. The section will be closed to all traffic during this time, with residential access available via Lapwing Lane.
The section of Burton Road from Old Moat Lane to Abberton Road will then be closed from June 21-24.
The rest of the road between Lapwing Lane and Abberton Road and between Old Moat Lane and Palatine Road will remain open during this time for access only.
During June 25 and 26, Burton Road will be closed to traffic between Abberton Road and the Burton Road tram stop.
Between June 27 and 28, Burton Road tram stop through to the Lapwing Lane and Cavendish Road junction will be closed to all traffic.
Burton Road will operate under two way traffic signal control during this time with signed diversions in place for the closed sections.
Old Moat Councillor Gavin White said the roadworks would help to improve the area.
"Resurfacing works start tomorrow on Burton Road in Old Moat," he tweeted.
"These improvements are badly needed."
The resurfacing work is part of Manchester City Council’s £100 million investment to improve the city’s roads and pavements.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--McDonald's new rules as walk-in restaurants reopen from tomorrow

McDonald 's will welcome customers back into its restaurants from tomorrow as branches reopen for takeaway orders and collection .
The fast food giant has already reopened all its drive-thrus and resumed delivery from hundreds of sites , after closing its entire estate back in March .
People will be allowed back inside to order and collect in person at 11 service station branches from June 17 .
The walk-in service will then be rolled out across the country from June 24 .
Customers wo n't be able to dine in just yet , with the Government working towards a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers inside .
And they 'll have to follow strict safety measures that are being put in place , including sanitising their hands on arrival at designated cleaning stations .
A one way system and spacing measures will be in place , marked out by floor stickers .
The number of people allowed inside will also be capped , with the limit depending on the size of the restaurant .
McDonald 's is asking that only one person per household goes inside to collect , to free up space .
Children will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas and digital play screens will be shut off , and crayons and colouring in sheets will not be available .
Seating areas will remain closed , along with toilets and lifts .
Recycling stations will not be in use , and customers will be asked to take any rubbish home with them .
Customers will still be able to place orders via touch screens - which will be sanitised every 30 minutes - but fewer of them will be switched on .
The My McDonald 's app can also be used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ menu already offered to drive-thru and delivery customers will remain in place .
Orders will remain capped at £25 and customers are asked to use contactless payment methods .
Protective screens have also been installed at service areas , in kitchens and at drive-thru windows , and staff will also have their temperatures checked every day .
McDonald 's is also trialling breakfast service for the first time since lockdown at a small number of sites from June 24 - the same day the walk-in reopening begins to be rolled out .

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McDonald's will welcome customers back into its restaurants from tomorrow as branches reopen for takeaway orders and collection.
The fast food giant has already reopened all its drive-thrus and resumed delivery from hundreds of sites, after closing its entire estate back in March.
People will be allowed back inside to order and collect in person at 11 service station branches from June 17. The walk-in service will then be rolled out across the country from June 24.
Customers won't be able to dine in just yet, with the Government working towards a July 4 reopening date for restaurants serving customers inside.
And they'll have to follow strict safety measures that are being put in place, including sanitising their hands on arrival at designated cleaning stations.
A one way system and spacing measures will be in place, marked out by floor stickers. The number of people allowed inside will also be capped, with the limit depending on the size of the restaurant.
(Image: 2020 Getty Images)
McDonald's is asking that only one person per household goes inside to collect, to free up space. Children will be allowed in if necessary, but play areas and digital play screens will be shut off, and crayons and colouring in sheets will not be available.
Seating areas will remain closed, along with toilets and lifts. Recycling stations will not be in use, and customers will be asked to take any rubbish home with them.
Customers will still be able to place orders via touch screens - which will be sanitised every 30 minutes - but fewer of them will be switched on. The My McDonald's app can also be used to place orders in advance.
The limited menu already offered to drive-thru and delivery customers will remain in place. Orders will remain capped at £25 and customers are asked to use contactless payment methods.
Protective screens have also been installed at service areas, in kitchens and at drive-thru windows, and staff will also have their temperatures checked every day.
McDonald's is also trialling breakfast service for the first time since lockdown at a small number of sites from June 24 - the same day the walk-in reopening begins to be rolled out.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Marcus Rashford highlights child poverty in Bolton in free meals campaign

Manchester United and England striker Marcus Rashford referenced the levels of child poverty in some parts of Bolton as he won a stunning victory to persuade the government to provide free school meals over summer .
In an open letter , the 22-year-old asked MPs to reconsider plans to not extend the current food voucher scheme and spoke about his own experiences of receiving free school meals .
Rashford , who has raised £20m to boost food distribution with the charity FareShare , tweeted last night : `` There are 2 postcodes in the Bolton South East contingency that have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50 % according to Child Poverty Action Group .
50 % !
!
# maketheuturn `` .
And after the Prime Minister and Department for Education said the scheme will not be extended into the summer , the government performed a dramatic u-turn this afternoon .
A Department for Education spokesman had said : “ Free schools meals are ordinarily term time only , and the national voucher scheme will not run during the summer holidays.
” But at 1pm today it emerged that the government would change its mind as support grew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP Yasmin Qureshi described Rashford 's charity work with FareShare as an `` incredible achievement '' but said that it should `` not be necessary '' .
She wrote : `` It is a scandal in one of the richest countries in the world and I am delighted that you have stepped up your campaign to highlight this .
It should not rely on the goodwill of others like you to fix this problem , but it is up to us as politicians to step up and use our power to provide long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a proudly diverse community of working class people from all backgrounds .
`` Bolton has high levels of child poverty with the overall rate of child poverty as of 2019 at 36.8pc after housing costs , which is 27,291 children living in poverty .
The situation is worse in some areas - two postcodes in my constituency have the level of child poverty at over 50pc .
`` Since the outbreak of the coronavirus , I have been contacted by countless struggling families and I have seen the same gaps in the safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter .
`` Many local volunteers from churches , mosques , community groups and charities have , like you , stepped up to fill the gap but they can only do so much .
Community spirit is vitally important but it needs to be supported by the Government . ''
Mrs Qureshi added that she has written to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to ask him to 'reconsider ' and confirmed that she will continue to campaign for more support in the community to help vulnerable people .

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Manchester United and England striker Marcus Rashford referenced the levels of child poverty in some parts of Bolton as he won a stunning victory to persuade the government to provide free school meals over summer.
In an open letter , the 22-year-old asked MPs to reconsider plans to not extend the current food voucher scheme and spoke about his own experiences of receiving free school meals.
Rashford, who has raised £20m to boost food distribution with the charity FareShare, tweeted last night: "There are 2 postcodes in the Bolton South East contingency that have the level of child poverty at over 50% according to Child Poverty Action Group. 50% !! #maketheuturn ".
And after the Prime Minister and Department for Education said the scheme will not be extended into the summer, the government performed a dramatic u-turn this afternoon.
A Department for Education spokesman had said: “Free schools meals are ordinarily term time only, and the national voucher scheme will not run during the summer holidays.”
But at 1pm today it emerged that the government would change its mind as support grew for the campaign.
Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi described Rashford's charity work with FareShare as an "incredible achievement" but said that it should "not be necessary".
She wrote: "It is a scandal in one of the richest countries in the world and I am delighted that you have stepped up your campaign to highlight this. It should not rely on the goodwill of others like you to fix this problem, but it is up to us as politicians to step up and use our power to provide long term sustainable support.
(Image: Copyright Unknown)
"I represent a proudly diverse community of working class people from all backgrounds.
"Bolton has high levels of child poverty with the overall rate of child poverty as of 2019 at 36.8pc after housing costs, which is 27,291 children living in poverty. The situation is worse in some areas - two postcodes in my constituency have the level of child poverty at over 50pc.
"Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, I have been contacted by countless struggling families and I have seen the same gaps in the safety net that you have highlighted in your letter.
"Many local volunteers from churches, mosques, community groups and charities have, like you, stepped up to fill the gap but they can only do so much. Community spirit is vitally important but it needs to be supported by the Government."
Mrs Qureshi added that she has written to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to ask him to 'reconsider' and confirmed that she will continue to campaign for more support in the community to help vulnerable people.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--150 jobs under threat as major food firm plans to relocate

A major employer could axe as many as 150 jobs as it announces plans to pull out of its Bolton depot .
Oliver Kay Produce runs a large warehouse at the business park on Britannia Way but bosses have revealed plans to relocate operations to Bradford .
Ian Stuart , managing director of produce at parent company Bidfresh , said the move was the result of financial pressures brought on by the coronavirus crisis .
The company says it is in talks with staff to try to `` mitigate '' job losses but it is believed that as many as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In a statement , Mr Stuart said : `` Following the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the hospitality sector , Oliver Kay Produce is currently undertaking a number of structural and operational changes within its business .
`` This will not only secure the future of the company , but also enable it to remain agile and adapt to customers ’ changing needs during these uncertain times .
`` Part of the restructure plan will see Oliver Kay relocate from its previous premises in Bolton to a new home in larger premises in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new northern hub , known as Oliver Kay Bradford , cementing our position as the fresh produce specialist for the wider Bidfood group , and creating new supply opportunities and synergies that will fuel future growth . ''
While Mr Stuart did not say how many jobs would be lost in the move , he did confirm that some roles were under threat .
`` Whilst we are unable to sustain our team at its current size , we are working hard to do our utmost to support those affected , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we will be consulting with elected employee representatives to look at ways of avoiding , mitigating and reducing the impact of these changes .
`` No one could ’ ve anticipated the impact Covid-19 would have on our business , and whilst this is a difficult time , we take the future of our employees very seriously and are committed to supporting those affected as best we can . ''
Oliver Kay Produce ships fresh fruit and vegetables around the country , mainly to restaurants and hotels .
The company was set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was initially a family firm , but was sold to South African-based company Bidfresh in 2012 .

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A major employer could axe as many as 150 jobs as it announces plans to pull out of its Bolton depot.
Oliver Kay Produce runs a large warehouse at the business park on Britannia Way but bosses have revealed plans to relocate operations to Bradford.
Ian Stuart, managing director of produce at parent company Bidfresh, said the move was the result of financial pressures brought on by the coronavirus crisis.
The company says it is in talks with staff to try to "mitigate" job losses but it is believed that as many as 150 roles could be under threat.
In a statement, Mr Stuart said: "Following the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the hospitality sector, Oliver Kay Produce is currently undertaking a number of structural and operational changes within its business.
"This will not only secure the future of the company, but also enable it to remain agile and adapt to customers’ changing needs during these uncertain times.
"Part of the restructure plan will see Oliver Kay relocate from its previous premises in Bolton to a new home in larger premises in Bradford.
"This site will become a new northern hub, known as Oliver Kay Bradford, cementing our position as the fresh produce specialist for the wider Bidfood group, and creating new supply opportunities and synergies that will fuel future growth."
While Mr Stuart did not say how many jobs would be lost in the move, he did confirm that some roles were under threat.
"Whilst we are unable to sustain our team at its current size, we are working hard to do our utmost to support those affected," he said.
"To this end, we will be consulting with elected employee representatives to look at ways of avoiding, mitigating and reducing the impact of these changes.
"No one could’ve anticipated the impact Covid-19 would have on our business, and whilst this is a difficult time, we take the future of our employees very seriously and are committed to supporting those affected as best we can."
Oliver Kay Produce ships fresh fruit and vegetables around the country, mainly to restaurants and hotels. The company was set up in Bolton 25 years ago.
It was initially a family firm, but was sold to South African-based company Bidfresh in 2012.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Grenfell-style cladding will finally be removed from nine tower blocks

Grenfell-style cladding will be finally be removed from nine Salford high-rises - three years after the deadly fire in London .
Salford council has announced that funding for the replacement works had been secured after years of deadlock .
The project will take two years to complete .
Tenants have been waiting since 2017 for the unsafe material on their buildings to be fully removed .
One resident of Spruce Court , Julie Eddison , told the Local Democracy Reporting Service back in 2018 that she and her neighbours live in a ‘ perpetual state of fear ’ after discovering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ material to Grenfell Tower .
“ Do I feel safe ?
No , ” she said at the time .
A week after 72 people lost their lives at Grenfell Tower in June 2017 , people in nine towers in central Salford were told the ACM cladding that coated their homes would be stripped and replaced .
The material - which failed fire safety tests - was removed from the first three storeys of all of the nine buildings - which are owned by the council , but managed by Pendleton Together ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the replacement and works came to a standstill .
Salford council said the government barred them from lending PTOL £25m to complete the project .
PTOL were told that as a PFI contractor , they weren ’ t eligible for the £400m pot set up by Theresa May ’ s government in the wake of the tragedy to fund the removal of unsafe material .
Now Salford council has confirmed PTOL has secured a deal - one which has been approved by the government .
Deputy city mayor , councillor John Merry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our Salford tenants who have been incredibly patient during the last three years as we worked with PTOL as they developed a financial model to pay for the works and to secure funding to make homes safer .
“ The council was initially prepared to loan PTOL the money needed but those plans were blocked .
The PFI scheme was also not eligible for national remediation funds that other local authorities and housing associations have used .
“ The good news is that the legal agreement we reached with Pendleton Together Operating Limited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been given government approval .
The full programme will take more than two years to complete.
” Salford council said that it also is funding the installation of new sprinkler systems in all blocks at a cost in the region of £4 million .
Tom Miskell , Chair of PTOL , said : “ We ’ re delighted that our plans have now been approved and work has already started on works to remove the cladding .
“ Contractors have continued to work safely during the recent restrictions and they are on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before the end of the year .
We ’ re aware that this has been a troubling time for residents and we ’ re pleased that the important work can progress.
” Read more of today 's top stories here Julie , the resident at one of Pendleton Together ’ s high-rises , spoke again to the LDRS earlier this month when the deal was first suggested .
She said : “ The cladding on my floor has been taken off and it 's down to the original brick work .
So it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government side of things - well , they allowed us to wait in conditions of danger to our physical selves and mental anxieties . ''
But she added : “ My mind is a bit more peaceful with the threat of fire now slowly receding .
We are now allowing our minds to come to terms with the fact we were left by our government to have a chance of dying in such a way without them caring for anyone .
At least now our minds hopefully can be eased with time in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than we were.
” Salford council said that in the interim period , a series of safety measures had been introduced in the blocks , including 24 hour fire marshals , safe and well visits , fire alarms in communal areas replaced and tested weekly .

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Grenfell-style cladding will be finally be removed from nine Salford high-rises - three years after the deadly fire in London.
Salford council has announced that funding for the replacement works had been secured after years of deadlock.
The project will take two years to complete.
Tenants have been waiting since 2017 for the unsafe material on their buildings to be fully removed.
One resident of Spruce Court, Julie Eddison, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service back in 2018 that she and her neighbours live in a ‘perpetual state of fear’ after discovering that their homes were clad in similar material to Grenfell Tower.
“Do I feel safe? No,” she said at the time.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
A week after 72 people lost their lives at Grenfell Tower in June 2017, people in nine towers in central Salford were told the ACM cladding that coated their homes would be stripped and replaced.
The material - which failed fire safety tests - was removed from the first three storeys of all of the nine buildings - which are owned by the council, but managed by Pendleton Together (PTOL).
Disputes over funding held up the replacement and works came to a standstill.
Salford council said the government barred them from lending PTOL £25m to complete the project.
PTOL were told that as a PFI contractor, they weren’t eligible for the £400m pot set up by Theresa May’s government in the wake of the tragedy to fund the removal of unsafe material.
Now Salford council has confirmed PTOL has secured a deal - one which has been approved by the government.
Deputy city mayor, councillor John Merry said: “My gratitude goes to our Salford tenants who have been incredibly patient during the last three years as we worked with PTOL as they developed a financial model to pay for the works and to secure funding to make homes safer.
“The council was initially prepared to loan PTOL the money needed but those plans were blocked. The PFI scheme was also not eligible for national remediation funds that other local authorities and housing associations have used.
“The good news is that the legal agreement we reached with Pendleton Together Operating Limited (PTOL) and private sector funders has been given government approval. The full programme will take more than two years to complete.”
Salford council said that it also is funding the installation of new sprinkler systems in all blocks at a cost in the region of £4 million.
Tom Miskell, Chair of PTOL, said: “We’re delighted that our plans have now been approved and work has already started on works to remove the cladding.
“Contractors have continued to work safely during the recent restrictions and they are on schedule to have all the cladding removed before the end of the year. We’re aware that this has been a troubling time for residents and we’re pleased that the important work can progress.”
Julie, the resident at one of Pendleton Together’s high-rises, spoke again to the LDRS earlier this month when the deal was first suggested.
She said: “The cladding on my floor has been taken off and it's down to the original brick work. So it has begun in earnest . On the government side of things - well, they allowed us to wait in conditions of danger to our physical selves and mental anxieties."
But she added: “My mind is a bit more peaceful with the threat of fire now slowly receding. We are now allowing our minds to come to terms with the fact we were left by our government to have a chance of dying in such a way without them caring for anyone. At least now our minds hopefully can be eased with time in the knowledge that we are indeed safer than we were.”
Salford council said that in the interim period, a series of safety measures had been introduced in the blocks, including 24 hour fire marshals, safe and well visits, fire alarms in communal areas replaced and tested weekly.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Second chance helped Man United's Marcus Rashford become Pride of Manchester

When the football season was suspended in the middle of March , Marcus Rashford was given a second chance .
The Manchester United striker thought his season was over and his participation in Euro 2020 was in doubt thanks to a double stress fracture in his back .
Now he had a chance to return if the campaign went into overtime , with the European Championships pushed back a year .
It was an unexpected opportunity for Rashford , tinged with sadness by arriving as the country got to grips with the coronavirus pandemic that has decimated lives .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his attention to those who needed it , as he always does .
In between fitness work and group sessions on Zoom , getting himself fit should football return , as we now know it will do next week , he campaigned for others .
When schools closed and the country approached lockdown , Rashford knew he had to act .
On March 19 he announced on Twitter he was teaming up with FareShare to distribute food to children who would normally have access to free school meals .
He appealed for donations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with FareShare distributing food to 10,943 charities including schools , community centres and breakfast clubs .
Rashford set a target of raising £100,000 to support FairShare and feed children who badly needed it .
The fundraising has now gone past the £20m mark in terms of financial and food contributions and meals are being provided to almost three million children a week .
It 's a staggering success story in a time of great sadness .
Now he 's taking on the goverment over free school meal vouchers for kids in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept his Twitter followers up-to-date with the progress of FairShare , but at the heart of his efforts are memories of his own childhood and a mindset that means the 22-year-old will never forget his own roots .
Speaking to the UTD Podcast in April , Rashford said : “ We do n't know how long this is going to go on for .
If this would have happened 10 or 15 years ago , it definitely would have affected myself as a kid in the position I was in .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a way to try and help people and kids especially , let 's just try and do it.
” Rashford is n't about to ease up now he 's back in full training and the Premier League is about to restart either .
With the news that the government wo n't be running the free school meal voucher scheme over the summer , Rashford posted on social media wondering who was best to speak to about that .
Rashford , born and raised in Wythenshawe , has n't forgotten what his life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his mum Melanie made and the struggles his friends often went through .
That is behind his desire to help .
`` I know the problem is for real , '' Rashford told The Times in April .
`` There was a breakfast club I could go to at the school that was free .
`` I used to have school meals and a little snack in an after-school club , there were 30-40 kids in that , and that was all free , but that would be it until my mum came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at about 6pm , have to get the bus home , so I would n't see her until 7.30pm and then she 'd start cooking straight away .
It 's a long time . ''
Feeding the most vulnerable children is n't all Rashford has helped with during lockdown .
He 's been an active presence on social media , encouraging dialogue with his followers and retweeting youngsters , while he 's also uploaded his own home workout video for children to do .
Rashford 's contribution to the cause during the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national attention , but to the people of Greater Manchester it is no surprise that the homegrown superstar with a big heart has used his profile to help others .
There are countless examples of Rashford 's generosity and kindness online , such as learning sign language so he can present poetry awards to deaf children in Manchester .
In October last year the forward launched his In the Box campaign with Selfridges , aimed at providing boxes of essential items to the city 's homeless over Christmas .
Rashford and his mum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the boxes and his family also sent items to the St Christopher ’ s Children ’ s Home in St Kitts , the island where Rashford 's roots emanate .
At 22 Rashford has matured on and off the pitch .
This has been his best season for United as a footballer and he 's emerged as a genuine leader for the club .
Away from the game those performances have strengthened his own voice , as a proud Mancunian , he 's almost become the social conscience of the football club , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are more aware than ever of how they can force change and influence others .
Last week Rashford posted a powerful , articulate and thought-provoking Black Lives Matter message on Instagram , in response to the police killing of George Floyd in the United States of America .
During the coronavirus pandemic footballers have been an easy target for politicians and the public , as they always are .
Yet two of the game 's strongest moral voices are players representing Manchester United , in Rashford , and Manchester City 's Raheem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and raised in London has found his voice in this city .
Rashford has never hidden his own pride in his roots .
Launching In the Box last year , he said : `` I 'm extremely proud of where I 'm from .
I love this city and appreciate all of the support the city has given me over the years . ''
The proud Mancunian continues to do all Mancunians proud .

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When the football season was suspended in the middle of March, Marcus Rashford was given a second chance. The Manchester United striker thought his season was over and his participation in Euro 2020 was in doubt thanks to a double stress fracture in his back. Now he had a chance to return if the campaign went into overtime, with the European Championships pushed back a year.
It was an unexpected opportunity for Rashford, tinged with sadness by arriving as the country got to grips with the coronavirus pandemic that has decimated lives.
But rather than focus on himself Rashford turned his attention to those who needed it, as he always does. In between fitness work and group sessions on Zoom, getting himself fit should football return, as we now know it will do next week, he campaigned for others.
When schools closed and the country approached lockdown, Rashford knew he had to act. On March 19 he announced on Twitter he was teaming up with FareShare to distribute food to children who would normally have access to free school meals.
He appealed for donations and called on food companies to help, with FareShare distributing food to 10,943 charities including schools, community centres and breakfast clubs.
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.
Rashford set a target of raising £100,000 to support FairShare and feed children who badly needed it. The fundraising has now gone past the £20m mark in terms of financial and food contributions and meals are being provided to almost three million children a week. It's a staggering success story in a time of great sadness.
Now he's taking on the goverment over free school meal vouchers for kids in the summer.
The United striker has constantly kept his Twitter followers up-to-date with the progress of FairShare, but at the heart of his efforts are memories of his own childhood and a mindset that means the 22-year-old will never forget his own roots.
Speaking to the UTD Podcast in April, Rashford said: “We don't know how long this is going to go on for. If this would have happened 10 or 15 years ago, it definitely would have affected myself as a kid in the position I was in.
“It's just something I thought if there's a way to try and help people and kids especially, let's just try and do it.”
Rashford isn't about to ease up now he's back in full training and the Premier League is about to restart either. With the news that the government won't be running the free school meal voucher scheme over the summer, Rashford posted on social media wondering who was best to speak to about that.
Rashford, born and raised in Wythenshawe, hasn't forgotten what his life was like growing up, the sacrifices his mum Melanie made and the struggles his friends often went through. That is behind his desire to help.
"I know the problem is for real," Rashford told The Times in April. "There was a breakfast club I could go to at the school that was free.
"I used to have school meals and a little snack in an after-school club, there were 30-40 kids in that, and that was all free, but that would be it until my mum came from home. She'd finish work at about 6pm, have to get the bus home, so I wouldn't see her until 7.30pm and then she'd start cooking straight away. It's a long time."
Feeding the most vulnerable children isn't all Rashford has helped with during lockdown. He's been an active presence on social media, encouraging dialogue with his followers and retweeting youngsters, while he's also uploaded his own home workout video for children to do.
Rashford's contribution to the cause during the UK's battle with COVID-19 might have caught national attention, but to the people of Greater Manchester it is no surprise that the homegrown superstar with a big heart has used his profile to help others.
There are countless examples of Rashford's generosity and kindness online, such as learning sign language so he can present poetry awards to deaf children in Manchester.
In October last year the forward launched his In the Box campaign with Selfridges, aimed at providing boxes of essential items to the city's homeless over Christmas. Rashford and his mum visited homeless shelters personally to hand out the boxes and his family also sent items to the St Christopher’s Children’s Home in St Kitts, the island where Rashford's roots emanate.
At 22 Rashford has matured on and off the pitch. This has been his best season for United as a footballer and he's emerged as a genuine leader for the club.
Away from the game those performances have strengthened his own voice, as a proud Mancunian, he's almost become the social conscience of the football club, in a young squad in a generation that are more aware than ever of how they can force change and influence others.
Last week Rashford posted a powerful, articulate and thought-provoking Black Lives Matter message on Instagram, in response to the police killing of George Floyd in the United States of America.
During the coronavirus pandemic footballers have been an easy target for politicians and the public, as they always are. Yet two of the game's strongest moral voices are players representing Manchester United, in Rashford, and Manchester City's Raheem Sterling, who while born in Jamaica and raised in London has found his voice in this city.
Rashford has never hidden his own pride in his roots. Launching In the Box last year, he said: "I'm extremely proud of where I'm from. I love this city and appreciate all of the support the city has given me over the years."
The proud Mancunian continues to do all Mancunians proud.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Man United might be about to expose Tottenham's Fernandes transfer mistake

The pressure is all on Tottenham as they prepare to welcome Manchester United in the Premier League later this week .
Jose Mourinho has had three months to deliberate his tactical approach for the encounter , and he knows nothing less than a win will do against his former side on Friday night .
Spurs remain one of United 's many challengers for Champions League qualification next season but time is running out if the chasing pack are to close in on the top-four and keep their dreams of conquering the continent alive .
Much of the pre-match build-up has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul Pogba now back in contention , but it is former Tottenham target Bruno Fernandes who perhaps possesses the most fascinating storyline heading into the game .
The Portuguese midfielder could quite have easily joined Tottenham last summer had they matched Sporting Lisbon 's asking price , but a bid was rejected because of the complicated add-on fees proposed .
The rest as they say , is history .
`` We prepared for his sale by putting a fair price on his worth , and we had bids , but only a serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plus 20m in add-ons ; winning the Premier League and the Champions League , '' Sporting president Frederico Varandas said at the time .
`` Finding these add-ons difficult , I decided not to accept . ''
Reports at the time suggested Tottenham had 'doubts over his ability ' and questioned the huge fee required to bring him to the Premier League .
His impact since arriving in Manchester suggests there was no reason for them to worry .
Since his Premier League debut Fernandes has been involved in more goals in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 goals , 3 assists ) , while he ’ s also created the most chances ( 11 ) and had the most shots ( 19 ) of any player at the club .
On a night where chances could be at a premium his creativity could prove the difference on Friday , and it would be even sweeter at the expense of a club who questioned his transfer worth last summer .
`` The first club that was close to signing me was Tottenham , '' Fernandes admitted earlier this month .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ know maybe they thought the amount Sporting wanted was too much so in that moment Sporting decide they don ’ t want to sell . ''
The 25-year-old insists his heart was always on United and his attitude since joining has acted as strong evidence for the affection he claims to have always held for the club .
After a three-month break many critics will be questioning whether or not Fernandes is the real deal , and he still has a lot to prove if he is to justify much of the hype @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in English football .
Fernandes always wanted the chance to prove himself playing on the biggest stage of them all , and now it is down to him to repay United 's faith and show Tottenham exactly what they 're missing .

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The pressure is all on Tottenham as they prepare to welcome Manchester United in the Premier League later this week.
Jose Mourinho has had three months to deliberate his tactical approach for the encounter, and he knows nothing less than a win will do against his former side on Friday night.
Spurs remain one of United's many challengers for Champions League qualification next season but time is running out if the chasing pack are to close in on the top-four and keep their dreams of conquering the continent alive.
Much of the pre-match build-up has been surrounding the United midfield selection with Paul Pogba now back in contention, but it is former Tottenham target Bruno Fernandes who perhaps possesses the most fascinating storyline heading into the game.
The Portuguese midfielder could quite have easily joined Tottenham last summer had they matched Sporting Lisbon's asking price, but a bid was rejected because of the complicated add-on fees proposed. The rest as they say, is history.
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"We prepared for his sale by putting a fair price on his worth, and we had bids, but only a serious offer from Tottenham that was 45m euros plus 20m in add-ons; winning the Premier League and the Champions League," Sporting president Frederico Varandas said at the time.
"Finding these add-ons difficult, I decided not to accept."
Reports at the time suggested Tottenham had 'doubts over his ability' and questioned the huge fee required to bring him to the Premier League. His impact since arriving in Manchester suggests there was no reason for them to worry.
Since his Premier League debut Fernandes has been involved in more goals in the competition than any other United player (2 goals, 3 assists), while he’s also created the most chances (11) and had the most shots (19) of any player at the club.
On a night where chances could be at a premium his creativity could prove the difference on Friday, and it would be even sweeter at the expense of a club who questioned his transfer worth last summer.
"The first club that was close to signing me was Tottenham," Fernandes admitted earlier this month.
"With Pochettino…But I don’t know maybe they thought the amount Sporting wanted was too much so in that moment Sporting decide they don’t want to sell."
The 25-year-old insists his heart was always on United and his attitude since joining has acted as strong evidence for the affection he claims to have always held for the club.
After a three-month break many critics will be questioning whether or not Fernandes is the real deal, and he still has a lot to prove if he is to justify much of the hype which has surrounded him since his arrival in English football.
Fernandes always wanted the chance to prove himself playing on the biggest stage of them all, and now it is down to him to repay United's faith and show Tottenham exactly what they're missing.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--City may be odds on but there's one standout bet at the Etihad

And so is one-time City favourite Mikel Arteta , this time in the away team dug-out as Premier League football returns with a heavyweight showdown between champions Manchester City and Champions League chasing Arsenal .
With the absence of any supporters in the stadium no-one knows quite what to expect , especially punters planning a first wager since the restart .
So we asked our City expert Simon Bajkowski for some specialist insight .
City win .
It has been a long time since Guardiola 's side were outplayed or outfought by Arsenal .
Mikel Arteta may be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would still be a surprise were Arsenal to pick anything up from the game .
That 's why City are a slim 1/3 with thepools.com to win , but there are other more appealing prices out there .
If in doubt , say Aguero - at 23/10 first scorer and 8/15 to score at anytime .
Raheem Sterling will be determined to get a goal having admitted he has n't scored as many as he should .
The suspension of football has extended the amount of time he has n't scored for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scoring and 19/20 anytime .
While Gabriel Jesus has been working extremely hard during lockdown and started at Real Madrid .
He is a tempting 3/1 first goal and 3/4 anytime , but Aguero is still the go-to .
Pass !
Probably Kevin De Bruyne ( he stepped up and took one against Real Madrid ) , possibly Aguero ( if his last miss was deemed a blip ) .
Or maybe that 's why the new assistant coach was brought in and he is going to take them !
You ca n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can get 6/1 on De Bruyne to open the scoring which is appealing .
City have been leakier than usual this season and Arsenal have not had a problem with either scoring or conceding in recent friendlies so both teams getting on the scoresheet would not be a surprise .
Both Teams To Score is 8/13 but City to win and both teams to score is a stand-out 11/8 and the best bet of the day .
Will the absence of fans help or hinder ?
It can only hinder the home team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a different matter but unless fans made it difficult to play in the stadium it seems difficult to imagine how it could be better to play without them .

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After a 100-day gap, it's back.
And so is one-time City favourite Mikel Arteta, this time in the away team dug-out as Premier League football returns with a heavyweight showdown between champions Manchester City and Champions League chasing Arsenal.
With the absence of any supporters in the stadium no-one knows quite what to expect, especially punters planning a first wager since the restart. So we asked our City expert Simon Bajkowski for some specialist insight.
Win, lose or draw?
City win. It has been a long time since Guardiola's side were outplayed or outfought by Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta may be able to close the gulf between the teams but it would still be a surprise were Arsenal to pick anything up from the game.
(Image: David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
That's why City are a slim 1/3 with thepools.com to win, but there are other more appealing prices out there.
Who's a good bet for first scorer?
If in doubt, say Aguero - at 23/10 first scorer and 8/15 to score at anytime . Raheem Sterling will be determined to get a goal having admitted he hasn't scored as many as he should. The suspension of football has extended the amount of time he hasn't scored for.
He is 15/4 to open the scoring and 19/20 anytime .
While Gabriel Jesus has been working extremely hard during lockdown and started at Real Madrid. He is a tempting 3/1 first goal and 3/4 anytime , but Aguero is still the go-to.
Who's on pens?
Pass! Probably Kevin De Bruyne (he stepped up and took one against Real Madrid), possibly Aguero (if his last miss was deemed a blip). Or maybe that's why the new assistant coach was brought in and he is going to take them! You can't get odds on that - but you can get 6/1 on De Bruyne to open the scoring which is appealing.
Will City keep a clean sheet?
City have been leakier than usual this season and Arsenal have not had a problem with either scoring or conceding in recent friendlies so both teams getting on the scoresheet would not be a surprise. Both Teams To Score is 8/13 but City to win and both teams to score is a stand-out 11/8 and the best bet of the day.
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Will the absence of fans help or hinder?
It can only hinder the home team, can't it? How much is a different matter but unless fans made it difficult to play in the stadium it seems difficult to imagine how it could be better to play without them.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Pep Guardiola press conference LIVE with Man City team news update for Arsenal

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is holding a press conference ahead of tomorrow night 's Premier League restart match against @ @ @ @ @ last in action before the enforced lockdown in March , but have been preparing for @ @ @ @ @ at the Etihad Stadium since full training was reintroduced a few weeks ago .
City @ @ @ @ @ League table , but 25 points behind leaders Liverpool who are all set to clinch @ @ @ @ @ trailing behind their rivals in the race for a top-four place .
They 're currently @ @ @ @ @ , eight points behind fourth-placed Chelsea .
Tomorrow 's fixture , however , represents a @ @ @ @ @ sides , which means that all Premier League clubs will start the weekend 's round @ @ @ @ @ Follow live updates from Pep Guardiola 's press conference - which starts at 1.30pm - @ @

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is holding a press conference ahead of tomorrow night's Premier League restart match against Arsenal.
The Blues were last in action before the enforced lockdown in March, but have been preparing for the clash against the Gunners at the Etihad Stadium since full training was reintroduced a few weeks ago.
City lie second in the Premier League table, but 25 points behind leaders Liverpool who are all set to clinch the title.
Arsenal are trailing behind their rivals in the race for a top-four place. They're currently in ninth on 40 points, eight points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.
Tomorrow's fixture, however, represents a game in hand for both sides, which means that all Premier League clubs will start the weekend's round on 29 games played.
Follow live updates from Pep Guardiola's press conference - which starts at 1.30pm - below.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Death of man, 20, at illegal lockdown rave passed to coroners

Tests are being carried out to establish how a man died at one of two lockdown raves at the weekend .
There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of the 20-year-old man , say Greater Manchester Police .
A file on the case has been sent to Manchester South Coroners ' Court in Stockport .
Police said the man died of a suspected drugs overdose at an event attended by 4,000 people at Daisy Nook on Saturday .
A spokeswoman for the Coroner 's Office said : `` At this time I can confirm we have received notification and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' No date has yet been fixed for an opening of the inquest as tests are being carried out to establish whether or not the cause of death was due to natural causes .
If it was due to natural causes , there will be no inquest .
If a toxicology report is required it could take several months before a definitive cause of death is established .
The event at Daisy Nook was one of two illegal raves which took place at the weekend in Greater Manchester .
The other , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was marred by serious violence .
Three men were stabbed and an 18-year-old woman was raped at that event .
Both events breached government legislation regarding gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic .
The Carrington rave was described as `` wild '' by a senior police source but there was more organisation to the Daisy Nook event .
Police seized a knife , an axe and an air-powered BB gun from the Carrington site .
Police managed to stop a third rave which was planned for the Hattersley area .
They did not find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were underway .
The M.E.N .
understands that the force was made aware on Saturday afternoon of an event taking place a ’ 20 minutes drive from Salford ’ which was entirely ambiguous .

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Tests are being carried out to establish how a man died at one of two lockdown raves at the weekend.
There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of the 20-year-old man, say Greater Manchester Police.
A file on the case has been sent to Manchester South Coroners' Court in Stockport.
Police said the man died of a suspected drugs overdose at an event attended by 4,000 people at Daisy Nook on Saturday.
A spokeswoman for the Coroner's Office said: "At this time I can confirm we have received notification and the Coroner is undertaking initial enquiries."
(Image: MEN Media)
No date has yet been fixed for an opening of the inquest as tests are being carried out to establish whether or not the cause of death was due to natural causes. If it was due to natural causes, there will be no inquest.
If a toxicology report is required it could take several months before a definitive cause of death is established.
The event at Daisy Nook was one of two illegal raves which took place at the weekend in Greater Manchester.
The other, at Carrington, attended by 2,000 peole, was marred by serious violence.
Three men were stabbed and an 18-year-old woman was raped at that event.
Both events breached government legislation regarding gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Carrington rave was described as "wild" by a senior police source but there was more organisation to the Daisy Nook event.
Police seized a knife, an axe and an air-powered BB gun from the Carrington site.
Police managed to stop a third rave which was planned for the Hattersley area.
They did not find out about Daisy Nook or Carrington until they were underway.
The M.E.N. understands that the force was made aware on Saturday afternoon of an event taking place a ’20 minutes drive from Salford’ which was entirely ambiguous.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--More thunderstorm warnings issued by Met Office for Greater Manchester

Further storms and downpours are expected to hit Greater Manchester .
It comes after thunder and lightning erupted in some parts of the region on Monday , while flash floods caused traffic chaos on the roads .
The Met Office has issued two new yellow alerts warning of thunderstorms .
It warns of thunder and lightening from 1pm today until 6am on Wednesday morning .
According to forecasters , there will be slow-moving heavy showers on Tuesday aftermoon .
Some places may miss them , but where they do occur there will be torrential downpours with 25 to 35mm rain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be 40 to 50mm over two to three hours in some areas .
A statement on the Met Office website said : `` Lightning and hail will be additional hazards .
`` These showers and thunderstorms will only slowly die out through the evening , but may persist across northwest England , southwest Scotland and perhaps eastern Northern Ireland into the early hours of Wednesday morning . ''
A second yellow thunder warning is in place from 12pm until 9pm on Wednesday , June 17 .
Again , forecasters have said there will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the region .
Torrential rain will fall in some areas , with perhaps 50mm of rainfall expected to fall in one or two places over a three hour period .
The Met Office warns there is a small chance some homes and businesses could be `` flooded quickly '' , with damage to some buildings caused by `` floodwater , lightning strikes , hail or strong winds '' .
There is a chance the weather conditions could cause delays or cancellations to bus or train services .
Forecasters have said driving conditions could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while power cuts could occur in some areas .
As the week continues , the unsettled weather is expected to remain with locally , heavy and thundery rain forecast for Friday .
However , drier conditions are expected on Friday an Saturday when sunny spells and a few showers have been forecast .

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Further storms and downpours are expected to hit Greater Manchester.
It comes after thunder and lightning erupted in some parts of the region on Monday, while flash floods caused traffic chaos on the roads.
The Met Office has issued two new yellow alerts warning of thunderstorms.
It warns of thunder and lightening from 1pm today until 6am on Wednesday morning.
According to forecasters, there will be slow-moving heavy showers on Tuesday aftermoon.
Some places may miss them, but where they do occur there will be torrential downpours with 25 to 35mm rain falling in a hour.
There could be 40 to 50mm over two to three hours in some areas.
(Image: Helen Ball)
A statement on the Met Office website said: "Lightning and hail will be additional hazards.
"These showers and thunderstorms will only slowly die out through the evening, but may persist across northwest England, southwest Scotland and perhaps eastern Northern Ireland into the early hours of Wednesday morning."
A second yellow thunder warning is in place from 12pm until 9pm on Wednesday, June 17.
(Image: Met Office)
Again, forecasters have said there will be slow-moving heavy showers and thunderstorms across the region.
Torrential rain will fall in some areas, with perhaps 50mm of rainfall expected to fall in one or two places over a three hour period.
The Met Office warns there is a small chance some homes and businesses could be "flooded quickly", with damage to some buildings caused by " floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds".
There is a chance the weather conditions could cause delays or cancellations to bus or train services.
Forecasters have said driving conditions could become difficult by spray and sudden flooding, while power cuts could occur in some areas.
As the week continues, the unsettled weather is expected to remain with locally, heavy and thundery rain forecast for Friday.
However, drier conditions are expected on Friday an Saturday when sunny spells and a few showers have been forecast.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Man City to wear new shirt vs Arsenal in aid of charity campaign

Manchester City players will wear a new name on the front of their shirts for their first Premier League game back on Wednesday night to promote the launch of a charity initiative .
The Blues have taken a number of measures to help the local community in light of the pandemic , including striking up a long-term partnership with the NHS and donating to local foodbanks .
City Football Group ( CFG ) , the parent company that is responsible for a further eight clubs around the world , has contributed almost £1,000,000 of donations , in-kind support and loaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restart of the Premier League , CFG is aiming to raise at least another million through Cityzens Giving for Recovery , which will aim to support communities globally .
Every employee will be allowed to spend a day volunteering as part of the scheme , while CFG will also be matching donations for the funding of nine recovery-linked projects near to each of its clubs ; an extension of the traditional annual Cityzens Giving campaign .
And Etihad Airways , a group partner , has allowed their name on the front of City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign logo for the Arsenal game .
“ Front line workers around the world have heroically responded to the immediate threat of COVID-19 .
At CFG , we have been privileged to play our own small part in helping to address that immediate threat , '' club CEO Ferran Soriano said .
“ Now is the time for us to look forward , committing to meeting our responsibility to help our communities recover .
“ For the first time , we are harnessing the global resources of our nine clubs , our entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and coaches to focus our efforts on recovery .
“ This multi-faceted campaign is going to use our expertise , our facilities , our platform and our voice to help people and our communities to heal and recover .
And we will do it together .
We are calling on our global community of Cityzens to help us to give and to help as many people as we can to recover.
” All Premier League clubs have been given the green light to replace player names with the slogan Black Lives Matter for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the movement , as well as the logo being placed onto shirt next to one supporting the NHS and key workers .

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Manchester City players will wear a new name on the front of their shirts for their first Premier League game back on Wednesday night to promote the launch of a charity initiative.
The Blues have taken a number of measures to help the local community in light of the pandemic, including striking up a long-term partnership with the NHS and donating to local foodbanks. City Football Group (CFG), the parent company that is responsible for a further eight clubs around the world, has contributed almost £1,000,000 of donations, in-kind support and loaning of facilities.
In time for the restart of the Premier League, CFG is aiming to raise at least another million through Cityzens Giving for Recovery, which will aim to support communities globally.
Every employee will be allowed to spend a day volunteering as part of the scheme, while CFG will also be matching donations for the funding of nine recovery-linked projects near to each of its clubs; an extension of the traditional annual Cityzens Giving campaign.
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And Etihad Airways, a group partner, has allowed their name on the front of City's shirt to be replaced with the campaign logo for the Arsenal game.
“We are hugely grateful to our partners at Etihad for enabling us to use our most visible and significant asset to promote Cityzens Giving For Recovery. As ever, it demonstrates the enduring depth and value of our partnership," said club COO Omar Berrada.
“At a time when so many around the world have suffered enormous loss, we are proud to be introducing our new campaign to help our communities around the world get back on their feet.”
“Front line workers around the world have heroically responded to the immediate threat of COVID-19. At CFG, we have been privileged to play our own small part in helping to address that immediate threat," club CEO Ferran Soriano said.
“Now is the time for us to look forward, committing to meeting our responsibility to help our communities recover.
“For the first time, we are harnessing the global resources of our nine clubs, our entire network of offices, staff, players and coaches to focus our efforts on recovery.
“This multi-faceted campaign is going to use our expertise, our facilities, our platform and our voice to help people and our communities to heal and recover. And we will do it together. We are calling on our global community of Cityzens to help us to give and to help as many people as we can to recover.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Ant Middleton insists 'I am not racist' after Black Lives Matter tweet

Ant Middleton has apologised over a tweet he published that branded Black Lives Matters protesters as ‘ scum ’ .
The SAS Who Dares Wins host spoke out following the clash between far-right groups and anti-racism protesters in London , which led to violence .
Black Lives Matter has hosted various marches of solidarity across the UK and the world after the death of George Floyd in police custody on May 25 .
But over the weekend , more than 100 far-right protesters were arrested after attacking Met Police officers and those supporting Black Lives Matter ( BLM ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ scum ” in a tweet - although this has since been deleted .
He blasted : “ The extreme left against the extreme right .
When did two wrongs make a right .
It was only a matter of time .
BLM and EDL are not welcome on our streets , absolute scum .
“ What a great example you are to your future generation .
Bravo.
” Ant has since been forced to apologise for his comments after a backlash from followers , and he clarified that he was not directing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was purely pointing the finger at those who were violent .
He said in a video : “ I ’ d just like to clarify a tweet I ’ d put out at the weekend and deleted straight away once I ’ d re-read it and realised that it could cause offence .
“ I put out a tweet or retweeted a video of the violence , the terror and the chaos that was happening on the streets of London .
“ Within that tweet I mentioned the BLM and EDL and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no point was I calling BLM scum and comparing the two organisations .
I want to make that really , really clear .
“ The word scum was used to describe the people in the video that were violent , that were causing terror on the streets of London and setting a bad example for our future generations .
“ I was angry and just wanted to get that tweet out to say that that was unacceptable.
” Ant went on to say apologise for any offence caused , adding that he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change ” .
“ For those of you who know me , I am a people ’ s person , I love people , I ’ m anti-racist and I ’ m anti-violence having seen what violence does to people and cities and countries , ” he said .
“ So I apologise if my tweet came across as offensive , I never meant that .
I ’ m here to push positive change .
”

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Ant Middleton has apologised over a tweet he published that branded Black Lives Matters protesters as ‘scum’.
The SAS Who Dares Wins host spoke out following the clash between far-right groups and anti-racism protesters in London, which led to violence.
Black Lives Matter has hosted various marches of solidarity across the UK and the world after the death of George Floyd in police custody on May 25.
But over the weekend, more than 100 far-right protesters were arrested after attacking Met Police officers and those supporting Black Lives Matter (BLM).
Ant criticised both sides, branding them “scum” in a tweet - although this has since been deleted.
(Image: Ant Middleton/Twitter)
He blasted: “The extreme left against the extreme right. When did two wrongs make a right. It was only a matter of time. BLM and EDL are not welcome on our streets, absolute scum.
“What a great example you are to your future generation. Bravo.”
Ant has since been forced to apologise for his comments after a backlash from followers, and he clarified that he was not directing his venom at BLM.
He said he was purely pointing the finger at those who were violent.
(Image: Channel 4)
He said in a video: “I’d just like to clarify a tweet I’d put out at the weekend and deleted straight away once I’d re-read it and realised that it could cause offence.
“I put out a tweet or retweeted a video of the violence, the terror and the chaos that was happening on the streets of London.
“Within that tweet I mentioned the BLM and EDL and the word ‘scum’. At no point was I calling BLM scum and comparing the two organisations. I want to make that really, really clear.
“The word scum was used to describe the people in the video that were violent, that were causing terror on the streets of London and setting a bad example for our future generations.
“I was angry and just wanted to get that tweet out to say that that was unacceptable.”
Ant went on to say apologise for any offence caused, adding that he is anti-racist and “here to push positive change”.
“For those of you who know me, I am a people’s person, I love people, I’m anti-racist and I’m anti-violence having seen what violence does to people and cities and countries,” he said.
“So I apologise if my tweet came across as offensive, I never meant that. I’m here to push positive change.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-16--Morrisons launches £6 picnic platters you can order online

Morrisons has launched its own picnic platters you can order online .
With restaurants still closed and parents yearning for someone else to make lunch for once , the new range is already proving a big hit .
The kids ' platter costs £6 for two children and includes ham and cheese spread sandwiches , gingerbread men , a butterfly bun , satsuma , Babybel cheese , snack pork rolls with carrot and cucumber batons for sharing .
While the adult version costs £10 and contains jam and cream scones , ham and tuna and sweetcorn sandwiches , mini pork @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , strawberries and a salad .
And if you 've got even more mouths to fill , you can order a classic sandwich platter , which contains 20 pieces and feeds six to eight .
Costing £6 , it includes four each of three-cheese and onion , chicken mayonnaise , ham , tuna and sweetcorn , egg mayonnaise and cress .
Other items in the range include a selection of 50 savoury treats for £6 , or fruit and cheese platters for £10 each .
The food has to be ordered three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great option if you 're planning a picnic with the family over the weekend .
To order , simply go on Morrisons website here and add the items you 'd like to your basket .
You can then choose your nearest store and a one-hour time slot to collect your order before you pay .
Shoppers can pick up the orders in store for free .

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Morrisons has launched its own picnic platters you can order online.
With restaurants still closed and parents yearning for someone else to make lunch for once, the new range is already proving a big hit.
The kids' platter costs £6 for two children and includes ham and cheese spread sandwiches, gingerbread men, a butterfly bun, satsuma, Babybel cheese, snack pork rolls with carrot and cucumber batons for sharing.
(Image: Morrisons)
While the adult version costs £10 and contains jam and cream scones, ham and tuna and sweetcorn sandwiches, mini pork pies, quiche Lorraine, cherry bakewells, strawberries and a salad.
And if you've got even more mouths to fill, you can order a classic sandwich platter, which contains 20 pieces and feeds six to eight.
Costing £6, it includes four each of three-cheese and onion, chicken mayonnaise, ham, tuna and sweetcorn, egg mayonnaise and cress.
Other items in the range include a selection of 50 savoury treats for £6, or fruit and cheese platters for £10 each.
(Image: Morrisons)
The food has to be ordered three days in advance, but it's a great option if you're planning a picnic with the family over the weekend.
To order, simply go on Morrisons website here and add the items you'd like to your basket.
You can then choose your nearest store and a one-hour time slot to collect your order before you pay. Shoppers can pick up the orders in store for free.