themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--'The last 12 months have been a living hell': Yousef Makki's sister speaks out on the anniversary of

'The last 12 months have been a living hell': Yousef Makki's sister speaks out on the anniversary of his death

The last 12 months have been a 'living hell ' for Yousef Makki 's family , his distraught sister said on the anniversary of his death .
The 17-year-old , from Burnage , was stabbed in the heart in Hale Barns on March 2 last year .
His sister Jade Akoum and brother-in-law Mazen Akoum held a press conference today - one year on from the tragedy .
It was held just days after teenager Joshua Molnar , who stabbed Manchester Grammar School pupil Yousef to death , was released from custody .
Yousef 's mum Debbie was too upset @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early release and the anniversary of Yousef 's death had 'knocked her ' , Jade said .
Molnar , a wealthy private school pupil from Hale , was cleared of murder and manslaughter in July last year by a jury on the basis of self-defence .
But he admitted possessing the knife which caused Yousef ’ s fatal wound , and perverting the course of justice .
He was sentenced to a 16-month detention and training order - and was released in February .
People typically serve half their sentence - which in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , March .
Adam Chowdhary was handed a four-month detention and training order after he admitted possessing a flick-knife .
He was acquitted of perverting the course of justice and conspiracy to rob .
He was released in September - half way through his sentence .
During the press conference , Jade spoke of the pain of the last year - how there were still unanswered questions about the moments leading up to Yousef 's death , and concerns about the way the family were treated during the trial .
She said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the anniversary of his death , but thought that speaking out now was the perfect time to show they would 'never give up ' .
Today Jade spoke of the 'injustice ' the family faced in their quest to seek further answers .
Speaking at Lancashire Cricket Ground , Yousef 's sister Jade reflected on the moments leading up to Yousef 's death and the horrific year that followed .
She said Chowdhary , who was a fee-paying pupil at Manchester Grammar School , was a good friend of Yousef 's and they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never had any need to worry about him visiting him in Hale Barns , she said .
`` Adam used to enjoy being around our family , and Yousef used to secretly be in awe of the big cars that came to pick up Adam when it was time to go home . ''
She recalled Yousef 's last moments speaking with the family .
He had previously stayed the night at Adam 's house and said he would be home for tea .
`` Some time later there was a knock at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a clearly flustered police officer .
'You need to come with me now ' .
`` It was in the following minutes that we learned Yousef had been stabbed and had collapsed in Hale near to Adam 's house .
One fatal blow to the heart had killed our beloved Yousef . ''
Jade said the family feel they have been left with a number of unanswered questions following Yousef 's death .
She said the family were overwhelmed by the character references provided to the court by Yousef 's teacher , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She said : `` Yousef had a real desire to help others .
He was no more selfish than any other teenage boy , perhaps considerably less so . ''
Jade said she felt the portrayal of Yousef in court as a 'middle-class gangster ' was inaccurate .
She said she wanted to set the record straight about what he was like - a kind , straight-A student from an estate who would help out other pupils with their homework after school and would encourage younger boxers at his local boxing club .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ downstairs during the trial and could n't hear properly , she said .
`` The justice system completely failed normal , average families like us .
At every step , things need to change .
`` We still do n't truly understand what events that happened in the lead up to and on the night of Yousef 's death and it 's incredibly difficult to focus on what 's next , '' she said .
Jade said she wants the family to have the opportunity to speak to Adam Chowdhary directly - to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night of Yousef 's death .
Jade said she 'remained hopeful ' that Chowdhary would engage with the family .
`` We are ready to speak to Adam whenever he is ready to talk '' , Jade said .
Jade said the family had no prior warning that Molnar was due to be released in February , which came as a shock .
They were told on the morning of the release .
`` We were getting mentally prepared for mid-march , after the anniversary .
`` We thought 'we will get past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with that ' . ''
Her partner Mazen Akoum said : `` Him being released was the third knife through our heart .
The first knife was in Yousef 's heart , the second knife was the verdict and third knife was this shock . ''
They said they have n't been told of the conditions of his release , only that he has been told not to contact the family .
She said Joshua Molnar and Adam Chowdhary get to 'start over ' .
They can disappear from the public eye and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things that normal every day families have to worry about . '
The family are exploring the possibility of taking civil action against Molnar .
They are currently awaiting the outcome of investigations into two police forces .
Both Greater Manchester Police ( GMP ) and Cheshire Constabulary have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct ( IOPC ) .
A pre-inquest review at Stockport Coroners ’ Court on Monday heard the IOPC investigations could take up to three months to complete .
The family are also hoping for a full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We must continue to be strong for Yousef , our family , legal team and hundreds of supporters will not give up in our collective efforts to get the justice he deserves . ''
Jade said that during a private event on Sunday night , mayor Andy Burnham had come out in support of the family 's fight for answers .
She said that having the support of Mr Burnham gave them a 'renewed sense of hope ' .
The family , who are calling for tougher sentences for knife crime , plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'gifted boy ' .
They are hoping to get involved in campaigns about knife crime .
`` We do n't want another family to go through what we 've been through '' , she said .

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The last 12 months have been a 'living hell' for Yousef Makki's family, his distraught sister said on the anniversary of his death.
The 17-year-old, from Burnage, was stabbed in the heart in Hale Barns on March 2 last year.
His sister Jade Akoum and brother-in-law Mazen Akoum held a press conference today - one year on from the tragedy.
It was held just days after teenager Joshua Molnar, who stabbed Manchester Grammar School pupil Yousef to death, was released from custody.
Yousef's mum Debbie was too upset to attend the press conference.
The early release and the anniversary of Yousef's death had 'knocked her', Jade said.
(Image: PA)
Molnar, a wealthy private school pupil from Hale, was cleared of murder and manslaughter in July last year by a jury on the basis of self-defence.
But he admitted possessing the knife which caused Yousef’s fatal wound, and perverting the course of justice.
He was sentenced to a 16-month detention and training order - and was released in February. People typically serve half their sentence - which in this case would have been this month, March.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Adam Chowdhary was handed a four-month detention and training order after he admitted possessing a flick-knife.
He was acquitted of perverting the course of justice and conspiracy to rob.
He was released in September - half way through his sentence.
During the press conference, Jade spoke of the pain of the last year - how there were still unanswered questions about the moments leading up to Yousef's death, and concerns about the way the family were treated during the trial.
(Image: MEN MEDIA)
She said the family wanted to 'hide away' on the anniversary of his death, but thought that speaking out now was the perfect time to show they would 'never give up'.
Today Jade spoke of the 'injustice' the family faced in their quest to seek further answers.
Speaking at Lancashire Cricket Ground, Yousef's sister Jade reflected on the moments leading up to Yousef's death and the horrific year that followed.
She said Chowdhary, who was a fee-paying pupil at Manchester Grammar School, was a good friend of Yousef's and they would regularly spend time together.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
They never had any need to worry about him visiting him in Hale Barns, she said.
"Adam used to enjoy being around our family, and Yousef used to secretly be in awe of the big cars that came to pick up Adam when it was time to go home."
She recalled Yousef's last moments speaking with the family. He had previously stayed the night at Adam's house and said he would be home for tea.
"Some time later there was a knock at the door. 'Come quickly' said a clearly flustered police officer. 'You need to come with me now'.
"It was in the following minutes that we learned Yousef had been stabbed and had collapsed in Hale near to Adam's house. One fatal blow to the heart had killed our beloved Yousef."
Jade said the family feel they have been left with a number of unanswered questions following Yousef's death.
She said the family were overwhelmed by the character references provided to the court by Yousef's teacher, but that they weren't read out.
She said: "Yousef had a real desire to help others. He was no more selfish than any other teenage boy, perhaps considerably less so."
Jade said she felt the portrayal of Yousef in court as a 'middle-class gangster' was inaccurate.
She said she wanted to set the record straight about what he was like - a kind, straight-A student from an estate who would help out other pupils with their homework after school and would encourage younger boxers at his local boxing club.
The family weren't able to sit downstairs during the trial and couldn't hear properly, she said.
"The justice system completely failed normal, average families like us. At every step, things need to change.
"We still don't truly understand what events that happened in the lead up to and on the night of Yousef's death and it's incredibly difficult to focus on what's next," she said.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Jade said she wants the family to have the opportunity to speak to Adam Chowdhary directly - to find out what really happened on the night of Yousef's death.
Jade said she 'remained hopeful' that Chowdhary would engage with the family.
"We are ready to speak to Adam whenever he is ready to talk", Jade said.
Jade said the family had no prior warning that Molnar was due to be released in February, which came as a shock. They were told on the morning of the release.
"We were getting mentally prepared for mid-march, after the anniversary.
"We thought 'we will get past the anniversary and then we will deal with that'."
Her partner Mazen Akoum said: "Him being released was the third knife through our heart. The first knife was in Yousef's heart, the second knife was the verdict and third knife was this shock."
They said they haven't been told of the conditions of his release, only that he has been told not to contact the family.
She said Joshua Molnar and Adam Chowdhary get to 'start over'.
They can disappear from the public eye and 'don't have to worry about the things that normal every day families have to worry about.'
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The family are exploring the possibility of taking civil action against Molnar.
They are currently awaiting the outcome of investigations into two police forces.
Both Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and Cheshire Constabulary have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
A pre-inquest review at Stockport Coroners’ Court on Monday heard the IOPC investigations could take up to three months to complete. The family are also hoping for a full inquest into Yousef's death.
"We must continue to be strong for Yousef, our family, legal team and hundreds of supporters will not give up in our collective efforts to get the justice he deserves."
Jade said that during a private event on Sunday night, mayor Andy Burnham had come out in support of the family's fight for answers.
She said that having the support of Mr Burnham gave them a 'renewed sense of hope'.
The family, who are calling for tougher sentences for knife crime, plan to leave behind a legacy for their 'gifted boy'. They are hoping to get involved in campaigns about knife crime.
"We don't want another family to go through what we've been through", she said.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Six men have admitted taking part in a violent brawl outside the Factory nightclub in Manchester Cit

Six men have admitted taking part in a violent brawl outside the Factory nightclub in Manchester City centre

Six men have admitted being part of a brawl outside the Factory nightclub in Manchester City centre .
Rugby player Joe Sharratt was hospitalised after being attacked outside the club back in December 2018 .
He is now permanently deaf in one ear as a result and suffered two bleeds to the brain .
Mr Sharratt , who plays rugby for St Helen 's Academy , was out with his friend Leon Cooper on the night of December 2 , 2018 .
Mr Cooper was also taken to hospital following the attack , though he suffered no serious injuries , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 42 , Imran Ilyas , 41 , Mohammed Saleem , 22 , Javad Soliman-Bolagh , 25 , Amjad Yasin , 38 , and Gareth Carr have all pleaded guilty to affray .
Carr , 21 , of Denbigh Road , Denton , has also admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm .
Clark , of Epson Avenue , Sale ; Ilyas , of Gainsborough Avenue , Oldham ; Saleem , of Kingsway , Manchester ; Soliman-Bolagh , of Higher Lane , Whitefield ; Yasin , of Latimer Street , Oldham and Carr are due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carr and Soliman-Bolagh were due to stand trial today ( Monday ) but instead pleaded guilty to the offences .
Each of the six men have been warned that they could face jail .
The Crown Prosecution Service are no longer pursuing charges against a seventh man , who was also due to stand trial today .
At around 3.20am on Sunday December 2 , 2018 , police were called to reports that a man had been assaulted outside the nightclub on Princess Street .
Officers attended and Mr Sharratt , then 18 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious head injury .
Footage of the assault , which had been shared on social media and taken from CCTV , was shown in court today .
It shows several men attacking Mr Sharratt and Mr Cooper with kicks and punches .
Mr Sharratt can then be seen on the ground , unconscious .
Prosecutor Hugh McKee said : “ We would say all six attacked both Mr Sharratt and Mr Cooper.
” Mr McKee said Mr Sharratt was “ knocked to the ground ” and suffered two bleeds - a sub-arachnoid and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ permanent hearing loss completely in one ear.
” The prosecutor added : “ Of course none of them go to the aid of Mr Sharratt as they should have done .
”

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Six men have admitted being part of a brawl outside the Factory nightclub in Manchester City centre.
Rugby player Joe Sharratt was hospitalised after being attacked outside the club back in December 2018.
He is now permanently deaf in one ear as a result and suffered two bleeds to the brain.
Mr Sharratt, who plays rugby for St Helen's Academy, was out with his friend Leon Cooper on the night of December 2, 2018.
Mr Cooper was also taken to hospital following the attack, though he suffered no serious injuries, Manchester Crown Court heard.
Lee Clark, 42, Imran Ilyas, 41, Mohammed Saleem, 22, Javad Soliman-Bolagh, 25, Amjad Yasin, 38, and Gareth Carr have all pleaded guilty to affray.
Carr, 21, of Denbigh Road, Denton, has also admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm.
(Image: Faye Brown)
Clark, of Epson Avenue, Sale; Ilyas, of Gainsborough Avenue, Oldham; Saleem, of Kingsway, Manchester; Soliman-Bolagh, of Higher Lane, Whitefield; Yasin, of Latimer Street, Oldham and Carr are due to be sentenced on March 30.
Carr and Soliman-Bolagh were due to stand trial today (Monday) but instead pleaded guilty to the offences.
Each of the six men have been warned that they could face jail.
The Crown Prosecution Service are no longer pursuing charges against a seventh man, who was also due to stand trial today.
At around 3.20am on Sunday December 2, 2018, police were called to reports that a man had been assaulted outside the nightclub on Princess Street.
(Image: MEN Media)
Officers attended and Mr Sharratt, then 18, was taken to hospital with a serious head injury.
Footage of the assault, which had been shared on social media and taken from CCTV, was shown in court today.
It shows several men attacking Mr Sharratt and Mr Cooper with kicks and punches.
Mr Sharratt can then be seen on the ground, unconscious.
Prosecutor Hugh McKee said: “We would say all six attacked both Mr Sharratt and Mr Cooper.”
Mr McKee said Mr Sharratt was “knocked to the ground” and suffered two bleeds - a sub-arachnoid and a sub-dural hemorrhage.
“He has permanent hearing loss completely in one ear.”
The prosecutor added: “Of course none of them go to the aid of Mr Sharratt as they should have done.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Disabled woman had to crawl on floor and 'barricade' herself in bedroom after carer sexually assault

Disabled woman had to crawl on floor and 'barricade' herself in bedroom after carer sexually assaulted her

A carer who sexually assaulted a vulnerable disabled woman at a respite centre has been jailed .
Frank Iyamu , 56 , put his hand down the top of his victim – who has cerebral palsy - and touched her breast before putting his hand between her legs over her clothing .
Iyamu claims that he took no sexual gratification from the attack .
Instead he was attempting to humiliate the victim after becoming “ impatient ” , Manchester Crown Court heard .
But a judge said the motive made no difference and jailed Iyamu for two and a half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jury of one count of sexual assault .
The victim , who needs a wheelchair or walking frame to move about , had “ crawled ” to “ barricade ” herself in a bedroom in the wake of the assault , the court heard .
Iyamu was the only staff member on duty at the time of the attack and was in fact working his first shift as an agency worker at the centre , in north Manchester .
Prosecutor Darren Preston said the centre has provided the victim and her mother with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she eventually felt unable to return after the assault because she had lost confidence .
In a victim personal statement , the victim ’ s mother said her daughter came home crying immediately after the assault and her behaviour changed .
“ She was not her usually bubbly self , ” she said .
The mother said the victim used to bottle up her emotions when she was younger and that behaviour has resurfaced and she has started to “ lash out , which is totally out of character ” .
The victim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a day centre since the attack because “ it reminded her of what had happened ” .
The court heard how both mother and daughter have since left Manchester as a direct result of the assault by Iyamu .
“ I refuse to let his actions spoil her life any more than he has already done , ” the victim ’ s mother said in a statement read out in court .
“ He was supposed to be a carer , not an attacker and I can ’ t understand how he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I hope he has some remorse for his actions .
“ I hope he never gets the opportunity to work with vulnerable adults again so he can ’ t put anyone else through it.
” Mr Preston added : “ This offence may not have been committed for sexual effect but rather cruelty and a desire to punish.
” The court heard how the victim struggles with mobility and is unable to walk , instead using a walking frame or wheelchair .
In the moments after the attack she had “ crawled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and put her weight against the door to stop Iyamu entering some time later .
He made allegations that the victim had made “ sexual overtones ” towards him by pulling up her top on the day of the assault .
William Staunton , defending , said there was no suggestion that the victim was trying to escape further physical intrusion .
The offence , he said , was “ momentary ” and it was not committed for sexual purposes but rather “ humiliation ” after becoming “ impatient ” .
The barrister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pursue a career in the caring profession - is at a low risk of re-offending .
“ He knows he has damaged her and that she has been harmed by this experience , ” he added .
“ He ’ s destroyed his own ambition .
He has lost everything through his actions .
Judge Suzanne Goddard QC jailed Iyamu , from Gorton , for two and a half years .
She said : “ I ’ m not certain what your motivation was .
Whether you just struck out in anger out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this was a sexual assault.
” Describing the case as an “ abuse of trust ” the judge said Iyamu is “ not fit to work with vulnerable people ” and has “ limited understanding for their difficulties ” .
“ This is a serious matter , ” she added .
“ You were a care worker .
You must have known that this sort of behaviour was clearly unacceptable.
” Judge Goddard QC also made a sexual harm prevention order , preventing Iyamu from working with children or adults with a physical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ten years .
He is also banned from contact with the victim and her mother and can not go within 100m of the respite centre , also for ten years .

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A carer who sexually assaulted a vulnerable disabled woman at a respite centre has been jailed.
Frank Iyamu, 56, put his hand down the top of his victim – who has cerebral palsy - and touched her breast before putting his hand between her legs over her clothing.
Iyamu claims that he took no sexual gratification from the attack.
Instead he was attempting to humiliate the victim after becoming “impatient”, Manchester Crown Court heard.
But a judge said the motive made no difference and jailed Iyamu for two and a half years after he was convicted by a jury of one count of sexual assault.
The victim, who needs a wheelchair or walking frame to move about, had “crawled” to “barricade” herself in a bedroom in the wake of the assault, the court heard.
Iyamu was the only staff member on duty at the time of the attack and was in fact working his first shift as an agency worker at the centre, in north Manchester.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Prosecutor Darren Preston said the centre has provided the victim and her mother with respite care for many years.
But she eventually felt unable to return after the assault because she had lost confidence.
In a victim personal statement, the victim’s mother said her daughter came home crying immediately after the assault and her behaviour changed.
“She was not her usually bubbly self,” she said.
The mother said the victim used to bottle up her emotions when she was younger and that behaviour has resurfaced and she has started to “lash out, which is totally out of character”.
The victim has stopped using both the respite centre and a day centre since the attack because “it reminded her of what had happened”.
The court heard how both mother and daughter have since left Manchester as a direct result of the assault by Iyamu.
“I refuse to let his actions spoil her life any more than he has already done,” the victim’s mother said in a statement read out in court.
“He was supposed to be a carer, not an attacker and I can’t understand how he acted in such a vile way.
“I hope he has some remorse for his actions.
(Image: MEN Media)
“I hope he never gets the opportunity to work with vulnerable adults again so he can’t put anyone else through it.”
Mr Preston added: “This offence may not have been committed for sexual effect but rather cruelty and a desire to punish.”
The court heard how the victim struggles with mobility and is unable to walk, instead using a walking frame or wheelchair.
In the moments after the attack she had “crawled” to another room, was upset and put her weight against the door to stop Iyamu entering some time later.
Iyamu denied touching the victim and ran a trial.
He made allegations that the victim had made “sexual overtones” towards him by pulling up her top on the day of the assault.
William Staunton, defending, said there was no suggestion that the victim was trying to escape further physical intrusion.
The offence, he said, was “momentary” and it was not committed for sexual purposes but rather “humiliation” after becoming “impatient”.
The barrister said Iyamu – who can no longer pursue a career in the caring profession - is at a low risk of re-offending.
“He knows he has damaged her and that she has been harmed by this experience,” he added.
“He’s destroyed his own ambition. He has lost everything through his actions.
“This is not a dangerous sexual predator.”
Judge Suzanne Goddard QC jailed Iyamu, from Gorton, for two and a half years.
She said: “I’m not certain what your motivation was. Whether you just struck out in anger out of the desire to punish - but this was a sexual assault.”
Describing the case as an “abuse of trust” the judge said Iyamu is “not fit to work with vulnerable people” and has “limited understanding for their difficulties”.
“This is a serious matter,” she added.
“You were a care worker. You must have known that this sort of behaviour was clearly unacceptable.”
Judge Goddard QC also made a sexual harm prevention order, preventing Iyamu from working with children or adults with a physical or mental disability for a period of ten years.
He is also banned from contact with the victim and her mother and cannot go within 100m of the respite centre, also for ten years.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Kisstory: The Blast Off Tour at Manchester Arena - who's playing, tickets and more

The long-awaited Kisstory Blast Off tour will arrive in Manchester this week , with a line up of R & B artists that will throwback to the 1990s and 2000s .
The massive bill includes Nelly , Shaggy , Blu Cantrell , Salt N Pepa and Lisa Maffia , all hosted by Fatman Scoop himself .
The one-of-a-kind tour will travel to Leeds , London , Birmingham , Liverpool , Glasgow , Newcastle , Dublin , Nottingham and Cardiff as well as Manchester .
The Manchester date is on Friday March 6 at Manchester Arena - quite the way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a seriously nostalgic night across Manchester on Friday - A1 and 5ive are also playing together across town at the Apollo .
Are you going to the Kisstory Blast Off Tour ?
Tag us in your pictures and videos on Twitter @ CityLifeManc and Instagram @ citylifemanchester .
The biggest name on the bill is surely Nelly .
The rapper was behind massive singles like Ride Wit Me , Hot In Herre and Just A Dream , as well as collaborating with Kelly Rowland on the huge song Dilemma .
Nelly has n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whopping seven albums - in the city since he last toured in 2017 .
Grammy award-winning Reggae star Shaggy will be joining the bill this Friday .
He 's steadily released music since his debut album in 1993 , bringing his total number of albums released to 12 .
With such a busy schedule ahead , it 's likely he 'll stick to the big hits - Oh Carolina , Boombastic , It Was n't Me , Angel , and Me Julie .
The hip-hop girl group behind Push It are going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Salt N Pepa said at the time of the gig announcement : `` It ’ s been over 30 years since we first got together , and we still out here .
We can ’ t put into words how much we ’ re looking forward to coming over to the UK to perform on this tour .
`` The bill is incredible , and we ’ re so excited to get up on stage and play some songs for y ’ all . ''
Breathe singer Blu Cantrell has taken many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she 'll be back on Friday in Manchester .
She said : “ When I was asked about this tour , saying no just wasn ’ t an option .
Performing alongside some of my oldest friends and singing some of my favourite songs is going to be so much fun !
`` I have so much love for the UK , and I can ’ t wait to come back and perform for you all . ''
Fatman Scoop will be hosting the night , and if his opening statement is anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a fun night .
The rapper said : `` This tour is gon na be DOPE .
I ’ ve always felt welcome in the UK , and I ’ m honoured to be hosting such a huge bill .
`` This is gon na be legendary , everyone involved with this tour is gon na kill it every single night . ''
Eve is perhaps best known for hits including Who 's That Girl and Tambourine as well as her collaborations with Gwen Stefani on Rich Girl and Let Me Blow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So Solid Crew member Lisa Maffia has said : `` There ’ s nowhere I love playing more than my UK home , and what better way to play it than with a ton of the biggest and best in Garage ? ''
There are still a few tickets left for Friday 's gig at the Manchester Arena , at the time of writing .
Seated tickets are available in blocks 115 , 214 , 110 , 108 and 107 , priced at £39.30 each .
Tickets for Kisstory 's Blast Off Tour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SeeTickets .
Doors on Friday will open at 6pm - remember , as always , to leave plenty of time to get through security , which is strict at the Arena .
The stage times for Manchester have n't been announced yet , and likely wo n't be until the day of the event .
We can make an educated guess using the timings given at other venues though - in Nottingham , Fatman Scoop began his hosting duties at 6.15pm , with a curfew of 10.40pm .
What happens in between those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of non-stop 90s R & B .
Make sure you get down there early if you 're going .
The seating plan can change frequently to suit the variety of shows , concerts and sports events that take place at the arena .
The floor area will be standing for the Kisstory Blast Off concert , as shown below .
The arena bowl has fixed tiered seating .
For standard shows this starts at block 102 and goes round in an anticlockwise direction to block 115 .
Seats are numbered from 1 upwards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the stage for blocks 102 to 105 and 202 to 205 - but furthest from the stage for blocks 112 to 115 and 212 to 215 .
The floor blocks are normally numbered 1 to 18 , left to right , when facing the stage .
How to get to Manchester Arena and where to park Manchester Arena is situated right next to Victoria Station and within spitting distance of Shudehill Interchange , making getting there by train , tram or bus a doddle .
Take a look at the Transport for Greater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you 're driving , you can find a list of the nearest car parks here .
Where to eat and drink before the show There are fast food outlets inside the arena selling snacks such as hot dogs and nachos , along with bars selling soft drinks and a selection of alcohol .
The bars accept contactless payment .
If you 're looking for something more substantial to fuel yourself up before the show , we 've got you covered .
Take a look at our guide to the best restaurants and @ @ @ @ @

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The long-awaited Kisstory Blast Off tour will arrive in Manchester this week, with a line up of R&B artists that will throwback to the 1990s and 2000s.
The massive bill includes Nelly, Shaggy, Blu Cantrell, Salt N Pepa and Lisa Maffia, all hosted by Fatman Scoop himself.
The one-of-a-kind tour will travel to Leeds, London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Glasgow, Newcastle, Dublin, Nottingham and Cardiff as well as Manchester.
The Manchester date is on Friday March 6 at Manchester Arena - quite the way to see in the weekend.
It's a seriously nostalgic night across Manchester on Friday - A1 and 5ive are also playing together across town at the Apollo.
Are you going to the Kisstory Blast Off Tour? Tag us in your pictures and videos on Twitter @CityLifeManc and Instagram @citylifemanchester .
Who's performing?
Nelly
The biggest name on the bill is surely Nelly.
The rapper was behind massive singles like Ride Wit Me, Hot In Herre and Just A Dream, as well as collaborating with Kelly Rowland on the huge song Dilemma.
Nelly hasn't performed his tracks - drawn from a whopping seven albums - in the city since he last toured in 2017.
Shaggy
(Image: PA)
Grammy award-winning Reggae star Shaggy will be joining the bill this Friday.
He's steadily released music since his debut album in 1993, bringing his total number of albums released to 12.
With such a busy schedule ahead, it's likely he'll stick to the big hits - Oh Carolina, Boombastic, It Wasn't Me, Angel, and Me Julie.
Salt N Pepa
(Image: Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)
The hip-hop girl group behind Push It are going to be making a big appearance this week.
Salt N Pepa said at the time of the gig announcement: "It’s been over 30 years since we first got together, and we still out here. We can’t put into words how much we’re looking forward to coming over to the UK to perform on this tour.
"The bill is incredible, and we’re so excited to get up on stage and play some songs for y’all."
Blu Cantrell
Breathe singer Blu Cantrell has taken many years away from the spotlight - but she'll be back on Friday in Manchester.
She said: “ When I was asked about this tour, saying no just wasn’t an option. Performing alongside some of my oldest friends and singing some of my favourite songs is going to be so much fun!
"I have so much love for the UK, and I can’t wait to come back and perform for you all."
Fatman Scoop
Fatman Scoop will be hosting the night, and if his opening statement is anything to go by, we're in for a fun night.
The rapper said: "This tour is gonna be DOPE. I’ve always felt welcome in the UK, and I’m honoured to be hosting such a huge bill.
"This is gonna be legendary, everyone involved with this tour is gonna kill it every single night."
Eve
Eve is perhaps best known for hits including Who's That Girl and Tambourine as well as her collaborations with Gwen Stefani on Rich Girl and Let Me Blow Ya Mind.
Lisa Maffia
(Image: Carl Sukonik)
Garage star and former So Solid Crew member Lisa Maffia has said: "There’s nowhere I love playing more than my UK home, and what better way to play it than with a ton of the biggest and best in Garage?"
Tickets
There are still a few tickets left for Friday's gig at the Manchester Arena, at the time of writing.
Seated tickets are available in blocks 115, 214, 110, 108 and 107, priced at £39.30 each.
Tickets for Kisstory's Blast Off Tour are now on sale via Ticketmaster and SeeTickets .
Stage times
Doors on Friday will open at 6pm - remember, as always, to leave plenty of time to get through security, which is strict at the Arena.
The stage times for Manchester haven't been announced yet, and likely won't be until the day of the event.
We can make an educated guess using the timings given at other venues though - in Nottingham, Fatman Scoop began his hosting duties at 6.15pm, with a curfew of 10.40pm.
What happens in between those times? We imagine four plus hours of non-stop 90s R&B.
Make sure you get down there early if you're going.
Full tour dates
Mon 2 Mar – Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff
Tue 3 Mar – Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham
Fri 6 Mar – Manchester Arena
Sat 7 Mar – Utilita Arena, Newcastle
Sun 8 Mar – The SSE Hydro, Glasgow
Tue 10 Mar – M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool
Wed 11 Mar – The O2, London
Thu 12 Mar – Resorts World Arena, Birmingham
Manchester Arena seating plan
The seating plan can change frequently to suit the variety of shows, concerts and sports events that take place at the arena.
The floor area will be standing for the Kisstory Blast Off concert, as shown below.
The arena bowl has fixed tiered seating. For standard shows this starts at block 102 and goes round in an anticlockwise direction to block 115.
Seats are numbered from 1 upwards, meaning seat 1 is nearest to the stage for blocks 102 to 105 and 202 to 205 - but furthest from the stage for blocks 112 to 115 and 212 to 215. The floor blocks are normally numbered 1 to 18, left to right, when facing the stage.
How to get to Manchester Arena and where to park
Manchester Arena is situated right next to Victoria Station and within spitting distance of Shudehill Interchange, making getting there by train, tram or bus a doddle.
Take a look at the Transport for Greater Manchester website to plan your journey.
If you're driving, you can find a list of the nearest car parks here .
Where to eat and drink before the show
There are fast food outlets inside the arena selling snacks such as hot dogs and nachos, along with bars selling soft drinks and a selection of alcohol. The bars accept contactless payment.
If you're looking for something more substantial to fuel yourself up before the show, we've got you covered. Take a look at our guide to the best restaurants and bars near Manchester Arena .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Rene Meulensteen's message to Jesse Lingard to get his Manchester United career back on track

Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has revealed that he has texted United midfielder Jesse Lingard in a bid to help the England international rediscover some confidence .
The United academy graduate , though often a regular under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this term , has struggled for form and consistency .
His form and contributions this season , in terms of goals scored and assists , as well as being represented by new agent Mino Raiola , have led to some questions being asked about his future at Old Trafford beyond this season .
Some supporters have become frustrated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but he played well against Club Brugge and there is hope he can get back to his old form .
In a bid to try and get his confidence back , former United coach Meulensteen , who worked with Lingard during his rise through the club 's academy system , has sent him a message in an attempt to get his United career back on track .
Meulensteen told The Athletic : `` I sent Jesse a text recently .
I told him , ‘ Don ’ t overcomplicate things .
Go back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about your best moments for Man United .
Try to rediscover that feeling , take it back to the training ground next week and start putting it back together .
`` That way you ’ ll get back to your best . ''
Meulensteen went on to add that he thinks Lingard , who joined United at the age of just seven , could have become a little bit 'unstuck ' during his United career .
He added : `` It hasn ’ t been the Jesse we know , saying ‘ Give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll play through the gaps . '
`` Footballers do sometimes go through these lesser spells .
`` You ’ re not telling me good players just become bad players , but he has maybe become a little bit unstuck . ''
`` When I ’ ve seen him playing lately , I see him looking somehow a bit lost .
`` I don ’ t know why that is .
I just know that , when players are in that situation , they need support . ''

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Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has revealed that he has texted United midfielder Jesse Lingard in a bid to help the England international rediscover some confidence.
The United academy graduate, though often a regular under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this term, has struggled for form and consistency.
His form and contributions this season, in terms of goals scored and assists, as well as being represented by new agent Mino Raiola, have led to some questions being asked about his future at Old Trafford beyond this season.
Some supporters have become frustrated with his performance levels and lack of consistency but he played well against Club Brugge and there is hope he can get back to his old form.
In a bid to try and get his confidence back, former United coach Meulensteen, who worked with Lingard during his rise through the club's academy system, has sent him a message in an attempt to get his United career back on track.
Meulensteen told The Athletic: "I sent Jesse a text recently. I told him, ‘Don’t overcomplicate things. Go back into your memory bank.
"Think about your best moments for Man United. Try to rediscover that feeling, take it back to the training ground next week and start putting it back together.
"That way you’ll get back to your best."
Meulensteen went on to add that he thinks Lingard, who joined United at the age of just seven, could have become a little bit 'unstuck' during his United career.
He added: "It hasn’t been the Jesse we know, saying ‘Give the ball to me, I’ll play through the gaps.'
"Footballers do sometimes go through these lesser spells.
"You’re not telling me good players just become bad players, but he has maybe become a little bit unstuck."
"When I’ve seen him playing lately, I see him looking somehow a bit lost.
"I don’t know why that is. I just know that, when players are in that situation, they need support."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Man blinded in one eye after horror unprovoked attack...police have now released video of a gang the

Man blinded in one eye after horror unprovoked attack...police have now released video of a gang they want to speak to

Police have released CCTV of a number of people they want to speak to in relation to an `` unprovoked attack '' which left a man blind in one eye .
Greater Manchester Police said the victim , a 30-year-old man with learning difficulties , was verbally abused by six youths as he walked down Propps Hall Drive in Failsworth on December 26 , 2019 .
The youths proceeded to assault the victim , repeatedly punching him in the face and smashing his glasses , rupturing his eye .
They then made off on foot .
The victim was taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has since been discharged but has been left partially-sighted .
No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing .
Detective Constable Zahir Hussain , of GMP ’ s Oldham District , said : “ This was an unprovoked attack which has left a man blind in one eye .
`` This type of criminal behaviour is completely unacceptable and we are doing all we can to trace those responsible .
“ I appreciate that this incident took place a while ago , but I would like to stress that we have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us searching through several CCTV opportunities .
`` As a result , we have been able to release this footage in the hope of talking to the people shown .
“ If anyone has any information at all that could help us in identify the people in this footage , please contact police as soon as possible.
” Anyone with any information can contact police on 0161 856 1382 referring to incident number 1796 of 26/12/2019 or alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers , anonymously , on 0800 555 111 .

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Police have released CCTV of a number of people they want to speak to in relation to an "unprovoked attack" which left a man blind in one eye.
Greater Manchester Police said the victim, a 30-year-old man with learning difficulties, was verbally abused by six youths as he walked down Propps Hall Drive in Failsworth on December 26, 2019.
The youths proceeded to assault the victim, repeatedly punching him in the face and smashing his glasses, rupturing his eye. They then made off on foot.
The victim was taken to hospital with severe injuries. He has since been discharged but has been left partially-sighted.
No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.
Detective Constable Zahir Hussain, of GMP’s Oldham District, said: “This was an unprovoked attack which has left a man blind in one eye.
"This type of criminal behaviour is completely unacceptable and we are doing all we can to trace those responsible.
(Image: GMP)
“I appreciate that this incident took place a while ago, but I would like to stress that we have been following every line of enquiry available to us searching through several CCTV opportunities.
"As a result, we have been able to release this footage in the hope of talking to the people shown.
“If anyone has any information at all that could help us in identify the people in this footage, please contact police as soon as possible.”
Anyone with any information can contact police on 0161 856 1382 referring to incident number 1796 of 26/12/2019 or alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--School in Wigan warns parents that a woman knocking on doors to ask for donations is 'not acting' on

School in Wigan warns parents that a woman knocking on doors to ask for donations is 'not acting' on their behalf

St Jude 's Catholic Primary School in Wigan has sent a message to parents warning them that a woman knocking on doors and asking for money is not acting as a representative of the school .
According to the school , the woman has been going around the Newtown and Little Lane area of Wigan claiming to be a representative of the school and showing a letter with the school 's letterhead .
They say she claims the school has been denied funding and has no resources .
The school is urging people not to give her money and anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
In a Facebook post earlier today , the school said : `` We have received several reports of a woman who has been knocking on doors and asking for money around the Newtown and Little Lane area .
We have been told that she shows a letter on St Jude 's letterhead and asks for donations for school .
She claims to be a representative of school and says the school has been denied funding and has no resources .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is NOT acting as a representative of our school .
We are funded just like all other schools and we would never endorse such fundraising activities .
`` If this woman knocks at your door DO NOT GIVE HER ANY MONEY .
If you have a visit from this woman , or a similar experience , you should report it to the police by calling 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
`` For information - we are encouraging children to participate in a 'Sponsored Read ' , as it is World @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legitimate school fundraising and is to encourage children to read whilst raising money through their immediate family and friends .
Children ( or parents ) should not be going door-to-door to raise money . ''

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St Jude's Catholic Primary School in Wigan has sent a message to parents warning them that a woman knocking on doors and asking for money is not acting as a representative of the school.
According to the school, the woman has been going around the Newtown and Little Lane area of Wigan claiming to be a representative of the school and showing a letter with the school's letterhead.
They say she claims the school has been denied funding and has no resources.
The school is urging people not to give her money and anyone who has been contacted by the woman to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
In a Facebook post earlier today, the school said: "We have received several reports of a woman who has been knocking on doors and asking for money around the Newtown and Little Lane area. We have been told that she shows a letter on St Jude's letterhead and asks for donations for school. She claims to be a representative of school and says the school has been denied funding and has no resources.
"We can confirm that this woman is NOT acting as a representative of our school. We are funded just like all other schools and we would never endorse such fundraising activities.
"If this woman knocks at your door DO NOT GIVE HER ANY MONEY. If you have a visit from this woman, or a similar experience, you should report it to the police by calling 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
"For information - we are encouraging children to participate in a 'Sponsored Read', as it is World Book Day this week. This is legitimate school fundraising and is to encourage children to read whilst raising money through their immediate family and friends. Children (or parents) should not be going door-to-door to raise money."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--M&S has revealed its Easter food range for 2020 - and it includes a chocolate sloth

Last month , the internet was taken aback when M & S revealed the news that Colin the Caterpillar had transformed into a bunny rabbit for Easter .
Unfortunately , Colin 's new look went viral for all the wrong reasons , as people decided he looked more like something from their nightmares than a fluffy bunny .
Poor Colin .
Fortunately , the rest of M & S ' Easter offering is n't quite so 'creepy ' , and it 's already proving popular with shoppers .
Included in the line-up you 'll find a chocolate sloth , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and even Easter Sundaes .
Delightful , I know .
Prices start at £4 for the Percy Pig offering , with the more luxurious eggs costing a little more at £12 .
Here 's all the best eggs you 'll find in M & S for Easter 2020 .
Let 's be honest - it would n't be an M & S Easter collection without a Percy Pig product , and here it is !
When Colin 's not dressed like an Easter Bunny , he 's having eggs designed in his honour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cake .
Seth 's a cutie , is n't he ?
If you can actually bring yourself to eat him , you 're a better person than me .
It 's pink , it 's tropical , and best of all it 's made entirely out of chocolate .
The extra thick milk chocolate shell has been packed with delicious chunks of biscuit for a crunchy finish .
The egg may be hollow , but it 's topped with lashings of freeze-dried raspberries and jelly beans that will create a fruity party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ egg is finished with chocolate-covered pretzels , fudge and caramel pieces for an indulgent treat .
It 's thick , it 's creamy and it 's delicious .
What more could you possibly want from an Easter egg ?
And blondes do have more fun , after all .

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Last month, the internet was taken aback when M&S revealed the news that Colin the Caterpillar had transformed into a bunny rabbit for Easter.
Unfortunately, Colin's new look went viral for all the wrong reasons, as people decided he looked more like something from their nightmares than a fluffy bunny. Poor Colin.
Fortunately, the rest of M&S' Easter offering isn't quite so 'creepy', and it's already proving popular with shoppers.
Included in the line-up you'll find a chocolate sloth, a chocolate flamingo, a Percy Pig egg and even Easter Sundaes. Delightful, I know.
Prices start at £4 for the Percy Pig offering, with the more luxurious eggs costing a little more at £12.
Here's all the best eggs you'll find in M&S for Easter 2020.
Percy Pig Milk Chocolate Egg and Sweets - £4
(Image: M&S)
Let's be honest - it wouldn't be an M&S Easter collection without a Percy Pig product, and here it is!
Colin the Caterpillar Milk Chocolate Hollow Egg - £5
(Image: M&S)
When Colin's not dressed like an Easter Bunny, he's having eggs designed in his honour. The ideal accompaniment to a slab of cake.
Seth The Sloth - £5
(Image: M&S)
Seth's a cutie, isn't he? If you can actually bring yourself to eat him, you're a better person than me.
Flameggo - £5
(Image: M&S)
It's pink, it's tropical, and best of all it's made entirely out of chocolate.
Extremely Chocolatey Biscuit Egg - £8
(Image: M&S)
The extra thick milk chocolate shell has been packed with delicious chunks of biscuit for a crunchy finish.
Fruity Easter Sundae - £10
(Image: M&S)
The egg may be hollow, but it's topped with lashings of freeze-dried raspberries and jelly beans that will create a fruity party in your mouth.
Caramel and Fudge Easter Sundae - £10
(Image: M&S)
The hollow milk egg is finished with chocolate-covered pretzels, fudge and caramel pieces for an indulgent treat.
Collection Extra Thick White and Blonde Chocolate Egg - £12
(Image: M&S)
It's thick, it's creamy and it's delicious. What more could you possibly want from an Easter egg? And blondes do have more fun, after all.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Alton Towers waterpark closed after staff and guests suffer 'throat and eye irritation'

Alton Towers closed its waterpark after a number of staff members and guests complained of irritation to their eyes and throat .
Fire officers , medics and an air ambulance were called to the Staffordshire resort this afternoon .
An investigation is now underway to find out what caused the symptoms after 39 people - including six children - were assessed by paramedics and then discharged without treatment .
A spokesman for Alton Towers said a decision was taken to close at about 1pm after a “ small number of people reported irritation of the eyes and throat ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , WMAS and Staffordshire Police attended the resort , as is standard for any site where chemicals are used .
“ Thirty-nine people , including six children , were assessed by medical staff but all have been discharged with no treatment required .
“ We are helping the fire brigade with their ongoing investigation.
” Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the site at about 1.50pm after reports of both staff and guests “ with irritation to the eyes and throat ” .
At the time , a fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out an assessment ” .
Staffordshire Police confirmed their officers attended after being alerted at 1.45pm by West Midlands Ambulance Service ( WMAS ) .
Medics arrived at about 1.30pm and an air ambulance was sent to the scene as a precaution .
The Alton Tower theme park has been closed for the winter and is due to open again at the end of March , while the resort 's waterpark , which features slides , water cannons and pools , has been open daily from 10am-1pm .
Last week , the owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced that it was 'restricting ' its employees ’ travel to countries with a high risk of coronavirus ahead of the park 's reopening .
The company has also introduced 'enhanced cleaning regimes ' on its sites , which include Legoland , Thorpe Park and the Blackpool Tower Eye , as well as Alton Towers .
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Alton Towers closed its waterpark after a number of staff members and guests complained of irritation to their eyes and throat.
Fire officers, medics and an air ambulance were called to the Staffordshire resort this afternoon.
An investigation is now underway to find out what caused the symptoms after 39 people - including six children - were assessed by paramedics and then discharged without treatment.
A spokesman for Alton Towers said a decision was taken to close at about 1pm after a “small number of people reported irritation of the eyes and throat”.
They added: “The fire brigade, WMAS and Staffordshire Police attended the resort, as is standard for any site where chemicals are used.
“Thirty-nine people, including six children, were assessed by medical staff but all have been discharged with no treatment required.
“We are helping the fire brigade with their ongoing investigation.”
(Image: PA)
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the site at about 1.50pm after reports of both staff and guests “with irritation to the eyes and throat”.
At the time, a fire service spokesman said crews were “carrying out an assessment”.
Staffordshire Police confirmed their officers attended after being alerted at 1.45pm by West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS).
Medics arrived at about 1.30pm and an air ambulance was sent to the scene as a precaution.
The Alton Tower theme park has been closed for the winter and is due to open again at the end of March, while the resort's waterpark, which features slides, water cannons and pools, has been open daily from 10am-1pm.
Last week, the owners of Alton Towers, Merlin Entertainments, announced that it was 'restricting' its employees’ travel to countries with a high risk of coronavirus ahead of the park's reopening.
The company has also introduced 'enhanced cleaning regimes' on its sites, which include Legoland, Thorpe Park and the Blackpool Tower Eye, as well as Alton Towers.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram .
If you are on the go, the M.E.N. app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live. Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor-made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Breaking news, the latest on your football club, the pick of the week’s events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Bomb squad descends on Bury after 'suspicious object' found...it turned out to be an old piece of in

Bomb squad descends on Bury after 'suspicious object' found...it turned out to be an old piece of industrial equipment

A bomb squad descended on a beauty spot in Bury amid fears of a 'suspicious object ' being found .
Police and bomb disposal officers were called to Kirklees Brook , near Island Lodge in Bury , at about 12.20pm on Monday .
Eyewitnesses said an area near to the lodge was sealed off for about an hour while the object was assessed .
However , it was deemed to be a non-viable device and is understood to have been an old piece of industrial equipment .
Images shared on social media showed the bomb squad on Mill Street in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police said : `` Today ( Monday 2 March 2020 ) at around 12:20pm , Police were called to reports of a suspicious object near to the Irwell Trail , Bury .
`` Bomb disposal attended to make an assessment of the object .
`` The object has not been found to be a viable device .
`` GMP would like to thank those vigilant members of the public who reported this to police . ''
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .

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A bomb squad descended on a beauty spot in Bury amid fears of a 'suspicious object' being found.
Police and bomb disposal officers were called to Kirklees Brook, near Island Lodge in Bury, at about 12.20pm on Monday.
Eyewitnesses said an area near to the lodge was sealed off for about an hour while the object was assessed.
However, it was deemed to be a non-viable device and is understood to have been an old piece of industrial equipment.
Images shared on social media showed the bomb squad on Mill Street in Greenmount.
(Image: MEN)
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said : "Today (Monday 2 March 2020) at around 12:20pm, Police were called to reports of a suspicious object near to the Irwell Trail, Bury.
"Bomb disposal attended to make an assessment of the object.
"The object has not been found to be a viable device.
"GMP would like to thank those vigilant members of the public who reported this to police."
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--2020-03-02--Arsenal FC great sends Manchester United and Man City transfer message over Jack Grealish

Former Arsenal star Robert Pires believes Manchester United target Jack Grealish reminds him of Dennis Bergkamp and believes Pep Guardiola should attempt to sign the 24-year-old to replace David Silva .
Grealish has been tipped to leave Villa Park at the end of the season with the Midlands club in danger of returning to the Championship .
The MEN understand United have stepped up their interest in bringing Grealish to Old Trafford early in the summer transfer window as he fits the profile of player Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to sign .
Pires was full of praise for Grealish 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his former teammate Bergkamp , who is widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted players to ever grace the Premier League .
`` Jack is a great footballer with a good technique – and I love watching him play because he reminds me of Dennis Bergkamp , '' he told The Mirror .
`` I like to see him playing in the same position as Dennis , as a No 10 .
`` He has great vision , he is n't a selfish player because he always wants to do what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think he has a great future .
`` I do n't want to put too much pressure on Jack , because he is still a young player learning the game , and Dennis was an incredible talent and a champion .
`` But Grealish is a very complete player and I think the key for him is to keep playing like he enjoys his football . ''
United are n't the only club interested in Grealish with various outlets suggesting rivals Manchester City could rival the Reds for his signature .
Pires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ captain as a replacement for David Silva at the end of the season .
He added : `` City need to find a replacement for Silva next season - and I think Grealish is someone who Pep will look at .
`` He is English , he has good experience of the Premier League , and he has a great technique .
`` But I think Grealish is a player who would interest a lot of top clubs , like United , Chelsea and Arsenal .
`` This has been a tough season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will take a lot from it .
`` He has learned how to fight every weekend and we have all seen how much it means to him to play for the club . ''

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Former Arsenal star Robert Pires believes Manchester United target Jack Grealish reminds him of Dennis Bergkamp and believes Pep Guardiola should attempt to sign the 24-year-old to replace David Silva.
Grealish has been tipped to leave Villa Park at the end of the season with the Midlands club in danger of returning to the Championship.
The MEN understand United have stepped up their interest in bringing Grealish to Old Trafford early in the summer transfer window as he fits the profile of player Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to sign.
Pires was full of praise for Grealish's ability and believes he is similar to his former teammate Bergkamp, who is widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted players to ever grace the Premier League.
"Jack is a great footballer with a good technique – and I love watching him play because he reminds me of Dennis Bergkamp," he told The Mirror.
"I like to see him playing in the same position as Dennis, as a No 10.
"He has great vision, he isn't a selfish player because he always wants to do what is best for the team, and I think he has a great future.
"I don't want to put too much pressure on Jack, because he is still a young player learning the game, and Dennis was an incredible talent and a champion.
"But Grealish is a very complete player and I think the key for him is to keep playing like he enjoys his football."
United aren't the only club interested in Grealish with various outlets suggesting rivals Manchester City could rival the Reds for his signature.
Pires believes Guardiola could look to the Villa captain as a replacement for David Silva at the end of the season.
He added: "City need to find a replacement for Silva next season - and I think Grealish is someone who Pep will look at.
"He is English, he has good experience of the Premier League, and he has a great technique.
"But I think Grealish is a player who would interest a lot of top clubs, like United, Chelsea and Arsenal.
"This has been a tough season for Villa, but I think Grealish will take a lot from it.
"He has learned how to fight every weekend and we have all seen how much it means to him to play for the club."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--This is what the Exchange Square 'dancing' fountains look like after a £823,000 facelift

Manchester City Council has unveiled its new-look fountains in Exchange Square following a £823,000 facelift that took almost a year to complete .
The city centre water feature - originally built 20 years ago as part of the redesign following the IRA bomb in 1996 - has been behind barriers since last April .
Council bosses said it was in need of sprucing up , although the bulk of the money was spent on mechanical repairs , similar to those carried out in Piccadilly Gardens at a cost of £400,000 .
Initially , the revamp was expected to take around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to 'technical issues ' .
It is understood this centred on the original granite slates which were found to have cracks and plans had to be revised .
This also led to the cost of the scheme increasing by more than £120,000 .
In a press release , the council said the redesign 'pays homage ' to the original feature 'while improving its energy-efficiency and increasing its resilience to damage ' .
The fountains , opposite the Corn Exchange , are now lit with colour-changing , energy-efficient LED lighting and animated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15-minute 'chase , dance and wave sequence ' between 7am and 11pm .
The taps at the top of the water feature have also been retained and restored .
Sections of the original slate stepping stones have been retained , the council added , but have been 'inlaid and bonded into three raised plinths and set within a surrounding of granite , inviting visitors to sit and enjoy the animation of the water and the lighting ' .
It is hoped the new design will minimise levels of debris entering the filter system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ original stepping stones as a result of people walking over the feature .
New pumps and filters have also been installed which the council says will save energy and reduce the need for ongoing maintenance .
More than £700,000 was signed off for the project in January last year but the council said it ended up costing £823,000 due to the technical difficulties encountered .
The feature was designed and installed by Cruden Property Services and the Fountain Company ( Glossop ) , who also designed and installed the St Peter ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sparked criticism from the opposition Lib Dems .
Councillor Richard Kilpatrick said : `` In the last few of years , Labour have wasted £1.2m on failing fountains .
`` That ’ s enough to house every single person sleeping rough in Manchester for an entire year , along with a hot meal , a warm shower and access to a support worker .
`` Now – take a minute to weigh up the difference housing every single rough sleeper would make versus the difference 'dancing fountains ' will make .
`` But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homelessness seriously while recklessly wasting enough money to house every rough sleeper . ''
`` These stupid fountains are a constant reminder of this Council 's breathtaking incompetence , and just how often and wrong their priorities are .
`` As we head into the elections this year , Lib Dems will fight to re-prioritise public money to end homelessness and invest in our public services – not vanity projects and 'dancing ' failing fountains . ''
However , ruling Labour councillors said the fountains refurbishment had been a worthwhile investment .
Councillor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Executive Member for the Environment , Planning and Transport , said : `` Exchange Square is a great public space and has long been a focal point for local businesses , events and visitors .
`` The attractive water feature has always been a big part of what makes it stand out and this revamp will help to secure its long-term future .
`` This investment in the look and feel of the Square will help it to continue to serve Mancunians and our many visitors from around the globe , acting as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their time and a key hub of economic activity , supporting thousands of city centre jobs .
`` I 'd like to thank CityCo for supporting this scheme and local businesses for their patience while the work was carried out . ''

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Manchester City Council has unveiled its new-look fountains in Exchange Square following a £823,000 facelift that took almost a year to complete.
The city centre water feature - originally built 20 years ago as part of the redesign following the IRA bomb in 1996 - has been behind barriers since last April.
Council bosses said it was in need of sprucing up, although the bulk of the money was spent on mechanical repairs, similar to those carried out in Piccadilly Gardens at a cost of £400,000.
Initially, the revamp was expected to take around six months but the project was delayed due to 'technical issues'.
It is understood this centred on the original granite slates which were found to have cracks and plans had to be revised.
This also led to the cost of the scheme increasing by more than £120,000.
In a press release, the council said the redesign 'pays homage' to the original feature 'while improving its energy-efficiency and increasing its resilience to damage'.
The fountains, opposite the Corn Exchange, are now lit with colour-changing, energy-efficient LED lighting and animated with water jets that continually run through a 15-minute 'chase, dance and wave sequence' between 7am and 11pm.
The taps at the top of the water feature have also been retained and restored.
Sections of the original slate stepping stones have been retained, the council added, but have been 'inlaid and bonded into three raised plinths and set within a surrounding of granite, inviting visitors to sit and enjoy the animation of the water and the lighting'.
(Image: MEN Staff)
It is hoped the new design will minimise levels of debris entering the filter system and reduce the damage caused to the original stepping stones as a result of people walking over the feature.
New pumps and filters have also been installed which the council says will save energy and reduce the need for ongoing maintenance.
More than £700,000 was signed off for the project in January last year but the council said it ended up costing £823,000 due to the technical difficulties encountered.
The feature was designed and installed by Cruden Property Services and the Fountain Company (Glossop), who also designed and installed the St Peter’s Square water feature.
(Image: Manchester Council)
The expenditure immediately sparked criticism from the opposition Lib Dems.
Councillor Richard Kilpatrick said: "In the last few of years, Labour have wasted £1.2m on failing fountains.
"That’s enough to house every single person sleeping rough in Manchester for an entire year, along with a hot meal, a warm shower and access to a support worker.
Manchester city centre news We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Manchester city centre. To keep up to date with all that is happening in the city centre - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here. Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
"Now – take a minute to weigh up the difference housing every single rough sleeper would make versus the difference 'dancing fountains' will make.
"But only Manchester Labour could talk about taking homelessness seriously while recklessly wasting enough money to house every rough sleeper."
(Image: Manchester Council)
"These stupid fountains are a constant reminder of this Council's breathtaking incompetence, and just how often and wrong their priorities are.
"As we head into the elections this year, Lib Dems will fight to re-prioritise public money to end homelessness and invest in our public services – not vanity projects and 'dancing' failing fountains."
However, ruling Labour councillors said the fountains refurbishment had been a worthwhile investment.
Councillor Angeliki Stogia, the council’s Executive Member for the Environment, Planning and Transport, said: "Exchange Square is a great public space and has long been a focal point for local businesses, events and visitors.
"The attractive water feature has always been a big part of what makes it stand out and this revamp will help to secure its long-term future.
"This investment in the look and feel of the Square will help it to continue to serve Mancunians and our many visitors from around the globe, acting as a thriving place where people enjoy spending their time and a key hub of economic activity, supporting thousands of city centre jobs.
"I'd like to thank CityCo for supporting this scheme and local businesses for their patience while the work was carried out."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Five Greenpeace activists arrested in Manchester for blockading Barclays entrance in fossil fuels pr

Five Greenpeace activists arrested in Manchester for blockading Barclays entrance in fossil fuels protest

Five Greenpeace activists were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage after blockading the Barclays Market Street branch .
Climate campaigners appeared this morning to install a pop-up exhibition which blocked access to the bank , but was later removed by Greater Manchester Police .
They also protested at the Mosley Street and St Anne 's Square branches .
The action formed part of a nationwide climate protest which shut down nearly 100 branches across the UK , including in London , Cardiff , Edinburgh and Belfast .
Greenpeace is demanding that Barclays stops its support for oil , gas and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy instead to help tackle the climate crisis .
Morten Thaysen , a climate finance campaigner at Greenpeace UK said : `` Barclays must stop funding the climate emergency , that ’ s why we ’ ve taken action today .
`` From floods to bushfires and record heat in Antarctica , the impacts of this crisis are staring us in the face .
`` Yet Barclays keeps pumping billions into fossil fuel companies at exactly the time we need to stop backing these polluting businesses .
`` Banks are just as responsible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fuel companies they fund , yet they ’ ve escaped scrutiny for years .
`` We ’ ve shut down branches across the country to shine a spotlight on Barclays ’ role in bankrolling this emergency .
It ’ s time Barclays pulled the plug and backed away from funding fossil fuels for good . ''
But some Barclays customers were unhappy about the protest and said activists were `` oblivious to the fact it wo n't be Barclays suffering from this shutdown , but instead the regular people on the street who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Another person tweeted : `` Now Barclays customer have to drive further to there branch.. good going Greenpeace , making people unemployed and reducing Barclays costs .. really well done . ''
A Barclays spokeswoman said : “ We recognise that climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today , and are determined to do all we can to support the transition to a low-carbon economy , while also ensuring that global energy needs continue to be met .
“ Greenpeace has a view on these issues to which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would ask that , in expressing that view , they stop short of behaviour which targets our customers , and our colleagues , going about their lives in communities around the country.
” A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said : `` We are aware of a national demonstration taking place which is currently preventing access to Barclays Banks at various locations in Manchester - St Anne ’ s Square , Mosley Street and Market Street .
Police are in attendance .
`` Five people have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has reopened , but the banks on Mosley Street and St Anne ’ s Square remain closed until further notice . ''

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Five Greenpeace activists were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage after blockading the Barclays Market Street branch.
Climate campaigners appeared this morning to install a pop-up exhibition which blocked access to the bank, but was later removed by Greater Manchester Police.
They also protested at the Mosley Street and St Anne's Square branches.
The action formed part of a nationwide climate protest which shut down nearly 100 branches across the UK, including in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Belfast.
Greenpeace is demanding that Barclays stops its support for oil, gas and coal companies and channels funding into renewable energy instead to help tackle the climate crisis.
(Image: Greenpeace Manchester)
Morten Thaysen, a climate finance campaigner at Greenpeace UK said: "Barclays must stop funding the climate emergency, that’s why we’ve taken action today.
"From floods to bushfires and record heat in Antarctica, the impacts of this crisis are staring us in the face.
"Yet Barclays keeps pumping billions into fossil fuel companies at exactly the time we need to stop backing these polluting businesses.
"Banks are just as responsible for the climate emergency as the fossil fuel companies they fund, yet they’ve escaped scrutiny for years.
"We’ve shut down branches across the country to shine a spotlight on Barclays’ role in bankrolling this emergency. It’s time Barclays pulled the plug and backed away from funding fossil fuels for good."
But some Barclays customers were unhappy about the protest and said activists were "oblivious to the fact it won't be Barclays suffering from this shutdown, but instead the regular people on the street who need to do their banking."
Another person tweeted: "Now Barclays customer have to drive further to there branch.. good going Greenpeace, making people unemployed and reducing Barclays costs .. really well done."
A Barclays spokeswoman said: “We recognise that climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today, and are determined to do all we can to support the transition to a low-carbon economy, while also ensuring that global energy needs continue to be met.
“Greenpeace has a view on these issues to which they are completely entitled, but we would ask that, in expressing that view, they stop short of behaviour which targets our customers, and our colleagues, going about their lives in communities around the country.”
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "We are aware of a national demonstration taking place which is currently preventing access to Barclays Banks at various locations in Manchester - St Anne’s Square, Mosley Street and Market Street. Police are in attendance.
"Five people have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.
"The bank on Market Street has reopened, but the banks on Mosley Street and St Anne’s Square remain closed until further notice."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-03-02--Police seal off street and Stagecoach bus in Chorlton

Police have sealed off a street in Chorlton tonight .
A large cordon was in place in Wilbraham Road at its junction with Ellesmere Road South .
There have been reports police were initially called after an incident on board a bus .
A Stagecoach bus was included in the large police cordon , with fire crews also spotted at the scene .
One passer-by told the M.E.N .
: `` I was just walking past when the bus suddenly stopped and everyone poured out of the bus .
`` It was scary .
The police response is huge .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson said : `` At around 4.35pm today ( Monday 2 March 2020 ) , police were called to reports of concern for the welfare of a man in the Chorlton area of Manchester .
`` Emergency services are currently in attendance on Wilbraham Road .
`` Road closures are in place as a precaution .
`` Members of the public are being asked to avoid the area . ''
The road reopened at about 7pm .
Follow live updates as they came in via our live blog below .
Get breaking 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 .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Andrew Bardsley, Benjamin Blosse)

Police have sealed off a street in Chorlton tonight.
A large cordon was in place in Wilbraham Road at its junction with Ellesmere Road South.
Witnesses called the police response "huge".
There have been reports police were initially called after an incident on board a bus. A Stagecoach bus was included in the large police cordon, with fire crews also spotted at the scene.
One passer-by told the M.E.N.: "I was just walking past when the bus suddenly stopped and everyone poured out of the bus.
"It was scary. The police response is huge. It is crazy."
A GMP spokesperson said: "At around 4.35pm today (Monday 2 March 2020), police were called to reports of concern for the welfare of a man in the Chorlton area of Manchester.
"Emergency services are currently in attendance on Wilbraham Road.
"Road closures are in place as a precaution.
"Members of the public are being asked to avoid the area."
The road reopened at about 7pm.
Follow live updates as they came in via our live blog below.
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--2020-03-02--Manchester restaurant deals to save you money in March 2020

Ah Manchester - so many places to eat , so little time and so little money .
Eating out need n't be an extravagance , though , not with so many restaurant offers and deals knocking about .
If you can afford to be choosy about which night of the week you go out , you can save yourself some cash .
And one restaurant is knocking 50 % off the food bill all day , every day , all month - and throwing in buy-one-get-one-free drinks to boot .
Feast your eyes on these deals and get stuck in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page for all the latest food and drink news and reviews from the CityLife team .
We also have a Facebook group dedicated to eating out in and around Manchester .
You can also follow us on Twitter and Instagram , or sign up to our newsletter bringing you all the latest what 's on news and reviews directly to your inbox .
Enter your email here and select 'What 's On ' to subscribe .
Half price food AND buy-one-get-one free drinks ?
It sounds too good to be true , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Quarter party spot Dive this month .
Diners can enjoy 50 % off the Asian food menu from in-house kitchen Zumu all day every day this month .
The offer is available on everything from sushi and ramen to rice and noodle dishes - only platters are excluded from the deal .
Meanwhile , buy any cocktails or single spirits and mixer and you 'll get two of the same drink for the price of one .
Diners need to book in advance quoting WEB50 to claim the deal .
It 's not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll struggle to find more purse-friendly prices than on the new menu at Wolf at the Door .
Originally opened as Wilderness NQ before changing its name , the Thomas Street bar is mixing things up again - this time in the kitchen .
Gone are the simple but accomplished Scandi-style small plates and in their place is a menu of bar bites built around bao and tacos , with prices starting from £2 .
Tacos come stuffed with everything from cauliflower shawarma and hoisin mushroom to pork pibil and jerk chicken , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fillings including ham , egg and chips , pina colada prawns , and buffalo chicken and blue cheese .
Reopened and reinvented by the team behind Crazy Pedros and The Liar 's Club to a brief of 'The Rovers Return meets Soho House ' , the Northern Quarter 's Bay Horse rides again .
They 've brought the boozer bang up to date without losing any of the traditional trappings of a proper pub , with an antique feature fireplace and cabinets and mantelpieces full of toby jugs .
The menu is packed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chips and bangers and mash , alongside pies and rotisserie meats .
And best of all , there 's 50 per cent off food every Monday , with no need to book .
Taking its name from the famous New York steakhouse frequented by Don Draper and co in Mad Men , the Pen and Pencil is a popular brunch and lunch hangout in the Northern Quarter .
There 's half price food all day every Monday , from a menu including breakfast dishes such as steak and eggs and American pancakes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hot dogs and sandwiches .
Diners must book at least 24 hours in advance by emailing info @ thepenandpencilnq.co.uk to claim the offer .
Thomas Street institution Trof has 50 % off food every Monday , from brunch and lunch through to dinner .
To start the day there 's a choice of breakfast dishes ( available until 4pm ) including smoked haddock kedgeree , chorizo hash and raspberry granola pots , followed by lunch options such as tofu katsu curry and buttermilk fried chicken burgers .
The dinner menu includes a selection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with chip shop curry mayo or more substantial dishes such as beet and pumpkin wellington , chermoula lamb skewers with apricot cous cous and flatbread , and pulled burrata salad .
The offer is available for tables of up to six people , excluding bank holidays .
Lloyd Street barbecue restaurant Smokehouse and Cellar is the place to be on Mondays when all main courses and burgers are 50 % off .
The menu includes pitmaster classics such as Texas-style brisket and burnt ends , Carolina pulled pork , and half a smoked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice of house fries , beans , sweetcorn , mac and cheese , slaw , garlic toast or pickled veg .
Burgers are also half price on Thursdays , from the Plain Jane - simply a burger and a bun - to the Return of the Mac , topped with smoked cheese , bacon , barbecue sauce and mac and cheese .
Alternatively there 's a lunchtime offer including a burger , wings or half rack of ribs and fries with a pint of Bud Light , glass of house wine or a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noon to 3pm every day .
There 's half price food every Monday at Black Dog Ballroom 's Northern Quarter bar .
Diners can choose from bar snacks such as tater tots , wings , nachos and spam fries , or enjoy a more substantial bite from the selection of pizzas , burgers , sandwiches and salads .
Fresh from his return to MasterChef last week , past winner Simon Wood 's First Street restaurant is bound to be popular this month .
Its Tomahawk Tuesday deal is a carnivore 's dream with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ribeye cut - priced at £50 for two to share , including sides and sauces .
It 's a saving of £30 on the usual price of £80 Other offers include Wood Wednesdays , when the lunch and pre-theatre menu is available all night long , offering two courses for £22.50 or three for £27.50 .
If you ca n't make it on a Wednesday , it 's available from noon to 2.30pm Monday to Saturday , and again from 5pm to 6.30pm Monday to Thursday , and 5pm to 6pm Friday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available until 6.30pm but on Wednesday you can bag yourself two courses for £22.50 , three for £27.50 or enjoy five dishes from Simon Wood ’ s blind tasting all evening .

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Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
Ah Manchester - so many places to eat, so little time and so little money.
Eating out needn't be an extravagance, though, not with so many restaurant offers and deals knocking about.
If you can afford to be choosy about which night of the week you go out, you can save yourself some cash.
And one restaurant is knocking 50% off the food bill all day, every day, all month - and throwing in buy-one-get-one-free drinks to boot.
Feast your eyes on these deals and get stuck in.
Make sure you follow our Facebook page for all the latest food and drink news and reviews from the CityLife team. We also have a Facebook group dedicated to eating out in and around Manchester.
You can also follow us on Twitter and Instagram , or sign up to our newsletter bringing you all the latest what's on news and reviews directly to your inbox. Enter your email here and select 'What's On' to subscribe .
Dive NQ
(Image: Dive NQ)
Half price food AND buy-one-get-one free drinks? It sounds too good to be true, but it's the real deal at Northern Quarter party spot Dive this month.
Diners can enjoy 50% off the Asian food menu from in-house kitchen Zumu all day every day this month.
The offer is available on everything from sushi and ramen to rice and noodle dishes - only platters are excluded from the deal.
Meanwhile, buy any cocktails or single spirits and mixer and you'll get two of the same drink for the price of one.
Diners need to book in advance quoting WEB50 to claim the deal.
Cheap date, sorted.
Wolf at the Door
(Image: Publicity Photo)
It's not an offer per se, but you'll struggle to find more purse-friendly prices than on the new menu at Wolf at the Door.
Originally opened as Wilderness NQ before changing its name, the Thomas Street bar is mixing things up again - this time in the kitchen.
Gone are the simple but accomplished Scandi-style small plates and in their place is a menu of bar bites built around bao and tacos, with prices starting from £2.
Tacos come stuffed with everything from cauliflower shawarma and hoisin mushroom to pork pibil and jerk chicken, while squished inside bao you'll find fillings including ham, egg and chips, pina colada prawns, and buffalo chicken and blue cheese.
The Bay Horse Tavern, Northern Quarter
(Image: manchester evening news)
Reopened and reinvented by the team behind Crazy Pedros and The Liar's Club to a brief of 'The Rovers Return meets Soho House', the Northern Quarter's Bay Horse rides again.
They've brought the boozer bang up to date without losing any of the traditional trappings of a proper pub, with an antique feature fireplace and cabinets and mantelpieces full of toby jugs.
The menu is packed with pub classics such as fish and chips and bangers and mash, alongside pies and rotisserie meats.
And best of all, there's 50 per cent off food every Monday, with no need to book.
Pen and Pencil, Northern Quarter
Taking its name from the famous New York steakhouse frequented by Don Draper and co in Mad Men, the Pen and Pencil is a popular brunch and lunch hangout in the Northern Quarter.
There's half price food all day every Monday, from a menu including breakfast dishes such as steak and eggs and American pancakes, and all-day mains such as burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches.
Diners must book at least 24 hours in advance by emailing info@thepenandpencilnq.co.uk to claim the offer.
Trof, Northern Quarter
Thomas Street institution Trof has 50% off food every Monday, from brunch and lunch through to dinner.
To start the day there's a choice of breakfast dishes (available until 4pm) including smoked haddock kedgeree, chorizo hash and raspberry granola pots, followed by lunch options such as tofu katsu curry and buttermilk fried chicken burgers.
The dinner menu includes a selection of small plates such as cauliflower fritters with chip shop curry mayo or more substantial dishes such as beet and pumpkin wellington, chermoula lamb skewers with apricot cous cous and flatbread, and pulled burrata salad.
The offer is available for tables of up to six people, excluding bank holidays.
Smokehouse and Cellar
(Image: Carl Sukonik)
Lloyd Street barbecue restaurant Smokehouse and Cellar is the place to be on Mondays when all main courses and burgers are 50% off.
The menu includes pitmaster classics such as Texas-style brisket and burnt ends, Carolina pulled pork, and half a smoked BBQ chicken, all served with a choice of house fries, beans, sweetcorn, mac and cheese, slaw, garlic toast or pickled veg.
Burgers are also half price on Thursdays, from the Plain Jane - simply a burger and a bun - to the Return of the Mac, topped with smoked cheese, bacon, barbecue sauce and mac and cheese.
Alternatively there's a lunchtime offer including a burger, wings or half rack of ribs and fries with a pint of Bud Light, glass of house wine or a soft drink for £10.95, available from noon to 3pm every day.
Black Dog Ballroom
(Image: manchester evening news)
There's half price food every Monday at Black Dog Ballroom's Northern Quarter bar.
Diners can choose from bar snacks such as tater tots, wings, nachos and spam fries, or enjoy a more substantial bite from the selection of pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and salads.
Wood
(Image: Wood Manchester)
Fresh from his return to MasterChef last week, past winner Simon Wood's First Street restaurant is bound to be popular this month.
Its Tomahawk Tuesday deal is a carnivore's dream with its humongous tomahawk steaks - a bone-in ribeye cut - priced at £50 for two to share, including sides and sauces.
It's a saving of £30 on the usual price of £80
Other offers include Wood Wednesdays, when the lunch and pre-theatre menu is available all night long, offering two courses for £22.50 or three for £27.50.
If you can't make it on a Wednesday, it's available from noon to 2.30pm Monday to Saturday, and again from 5pm to 6.30pm Monday to Thursday, and 5pm to 6pm Friday and Saturday.
These menus are normally only available until 6.30pm but on Wednesday you can bag yourself two courses for £22.50, three for £27.50 or enjoy five dishes from Simon Wood’s blind tasting all evening.
Booking is advised, email reservations@woodmanchester.com or call 0161 236 5211.