themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-11--The 10 minutes that could decide Aston Villa vs Man City

Manchester City can win three consecutive Premier League games for the first time since the beginning of November when they take on Aston Villa .
Pep Guardiola 's champions are heavy favourites against the newcomers , who are in a relegation battle with 21 points from their 21 games going into this encounter .
City have already run into more trouble than they are used to on the road this season , including a 3-2 defeat at Norwich in September that was the first time they had lost to a promoted side since March 2015 - more than a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were also given problem by Dean Smith 's Villa in the reverse fixture before eventually winning 3-0 with the help of some VAR confusions .
One thing apparent from this season is how significant the last 10 minutes have been to both teams .
No side has scored more in the final stretch of the game than Guardiola 's Blues .
Kyle Walker 's 86th minute winner against Southampton and Kevin De Bruyne 's wonderstrike at Newcastle are among the 10 goals that have helped City finish matches strongly .
In contrast , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Villa 's nine in the final 10 minutes .
The Midlands side have dropped points against Tottenham , Arsenal , Burnley , Liverpool and Wolves as a result of their inability to control the end of matches .
City will hope that they have the game won by the 80th minute , but Guardiola will make sure his team play until the last whistle regardless knowing the opportunities that could open up .

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Manchester City can win three consecutive Premier League games for the first time since the beginning of November when they take on Aston Villa.
Pep Guardiola's champions are heavy favourites against the newcomers, who are in a relegation battle with 21 points from their 21 games going into this encounter.
City have already run into more trouble than they are used to on the road this season, including a 3-2 defeat at Norwich in September that was the first time they had lost to a promoted side since March 2015 - more than a year before Manuel Pellegrini was replaced. They were also given problem by Dean Smith's Villa in the reverse fixture before eventually winning 3-0 with the help of some VAR confusions.
One thing apparent from this season is how significant the last 10 minutes have been to both teams.
No side has scored more in the final stretch of the game than Guardiola's Blues. Kyle Walker's 86th minute winner against Southampton and Kevin De Bruyne's wonderstrike at Newcastle are among the 10 goals that have helped City finish matches strongly.
In contrast, no side has conceded more than Aston Villa's nine in the final 10 minutes. The Midlands side have dropped points against Tottenham, Arsenal, Burnley, Liverpool and Wolves as a result of their inability to control the end of matches.
City will hope that they have the game won by the 80th minute, but Guardiola will make sure his team play until the last whistle regardless knowing the opportunities that could open up.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-11--Norwich manager identifies the skill Manchester United are the best at

Norwich manager Daniel Farke does not believe there is any Premier League team better than Manchester United at playing on the break .
United were at their best as they eased past Norwich with a comfortable 4-0 win at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon .
Marcus Rashford bagged a brace while goals from Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood helped to secure the three points for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his side .
Victory for United lifted them up to fifth in the Premier League and speaking after the game Farke admitted securing a comeback was always unlikely once Solskjaer 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are 3-0 down against probably the best counter-attacking side in the league it is then difficult to win the game so today we have to accept the better side won the game , '' Farke told BBC Sport .
“ We gave the first goal away , sloppy in our defending , but you are still in the game .
We had a good spell before half-time with Todd Cantwell and a great save by the goalkeeper .
“ I was pleased with the reaction at 4-0 .
We had to stick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are disappointed , but we also know a game at Old Trafford is not a season-defining game for us .
`` We are definitely in the worst position but , we are competitive .
This is what can happen at this level .
We are realistic . ''

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Norwich manager Daniel Farke does not believe there is any Premier League team better than Manchester United at playing on the break.
United were at their best as they eased past Norwich with a comfortable 4-0 win at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon.
Marcus Rashford bagged a brace while goals from Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood helped to secure the three points for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his side.
Victory for United lifted them up to fifth in the Premier League and speaking after the game Farke admitted securing a comeback was always unlikely once Solskjaer's side asserted their dominance.
"When you are 3-0 down against probably the best counter-attacking side in the league it is then difficult to win the game so today we have to accept the better side won the game," Farke told BBC Sport.
“We gave the first goal away, sloppy in our defending, but you are still in the game. We had a good spell before half-time with Todd Cantwell and a great save by the goalkeeper.
“I was pleased with the reaction at 4-0. We had to stick together in the last 20 minutes. We are disappointed, but we also know a game at Old Trafford is not a season-defining game for us.
"We are definitely in the worst position but, we are competitive. This is what can happen at this level. We are realistic."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-11--Police hunting driver of stolen car that ended up perfectly wedged in waterworks hole

Police say they are still hunting the driver of a car on stolen plates that crashed through roadworks before landing perfectly inside a hole .
Officers were called to Manchester Road in Bury - close to the junction with Gigg Lane - just before 9.30pm on Monday night .
Photos from the scene show the silver vehicle wedged inside the excavation hole with its lights still on .
A spokesman for GMP said the car was being driven on stolen registration plates and that the person behind the wheel somehow managed to get out and climb out of the hole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester Road in Redvales , not far from Bury Football Club , are being carried out by United Utilities .
Work had been due to be taking place overnight on Monday - but luckily it was postponed .
If not there would have been engineers in the hole at the time of the crash .
It is understood they were working on an 18-inch pipe that provides water to many homes in the area , which if damaged would have flooded the hole very quickly .
The vehicle had been removed by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
All that remained was glass and other debris .
A spokesman for GMP said : `` Police were called shortly before 9.30pm on January 6 to reports of a road traffic collision involving a car and an excavation hole in the road , that was cordoned off for road works , on Manchester Road close to the junction with Gigg Lane .
`` Initial enquiries suggest the vehicle was being driven with stolen registration plates .
`` The driver fled the scene on foot .
`` No arrests have been made and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
We now have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news , events and community news in Bury .
To keep up to date with all that is happening in the area , and to join in the discussion , follow the new Bury Live page here .

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Police say they are still hunting the driver of a car on stolen plates that crashed through roadworks before landing perfectly inside a hole.
Officers were called to Manchester Road in Bury - close to the junction with Gigg Lane - just before 9.30pm on Monday night.
Photos from the scene show the silver vehicle wedged inside the excavation hole with its lights still on.
A spokesman for GMP said the car was being driven on stolen registration plates and that the person behind the wheel somehow managed to get out and climb out of the hole before running off.
The works on Manchester Road in Redvales, not far from Bury Football Club, are being carried out by United Utilities.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
Work had been due to be taking place overnight on Monday - but luckily it was postponed.
If not there would have been engineers in the hole at the time of the crash.
It is understood they were working on an 18-inch pipe that provides water to many homes in the area, which if damaged would have flooded the hole very quickly.
The vehicle had been removed by the time United Utilities arrived on Tuesday morning. All that remained was glass and other debris.
A spokesman for GMP said: "Police were called shortly before 9.30pm on January 6 to reports of a road traffic collision involving a car and an excavation hole in the road, that was cordoned off for road works, on Manchester Road close to the junction with Gigg Lane.
(Image: Michael Holland)
"Initial enquiries suggest the vehicle was being driven with stolen registration plates.
"The driver fled the scene on foot.
"No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
We now have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Bury.
To keep up to date with all that is happening in the area, and to join in the discussion, follow the new Bury Live page here .
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-11--"Physiotherapist" turned out to be salesman who pressured elderly man into buying £2,000 mattress to

"Physiotherapist" turned out to be salesman who pressured elderly man into buying £2,000 mattress topper

Trading Standards in Trafford have issued a warning over cold-calling tactics after an elderly man was sold a mattress topper for £2,000 .
The man said he received a call from a firm , saying that they had got his number from the council or the hospital .
He believed he was going to be visited by a physiotherapist at his home .
But at the agreed time a salesman to turned up resulting in him buying the mattress topper .
Trading Standards are now urging people to be wary of any unsolicited emails , phone calls or door-to-door sales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buying anything .
Cllr Mike Freeman , Trafford Council ’ s Executive Member for Public Safety , Governance and Reform , said : “ Pushy and aggressive selling tactics are a pest at the best of times but they are despicable when vulnerable people are being targeted .
“ I would like all residents to be aware that the Council would never pass on data to sales companies .
If they are suspicious about products being sold to them , I would urge them to contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Services on 0345 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Medical Director at NHS Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group ( CCG ) , said : “ Individuals and organisations within the NHS are bound by confidentiality so we would never share people ’ s details with external or private organisations without their knowledge .
“ If anyone encounters any suspicious behaviour like this , please report it and it will be investigated.
” If the purchase is made by post , phone , over the internet or at home , there is usually a 14-day cancellation period when products can be returned .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the blue , the advice from Trading Standards is not to buy immediately but to think carefully and get advice before making a purchase .

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Trading Standards in Trafford have issued a warning over cold-calling tactics after an elderly man was sold a mattress topper for £2,000.
The man said he received a call from a firm, saying that they had got his number from the council or the hospital.
He believed he was going to be visited by a physiotherapist at his home. But at the agreed time a salesman to turned up resulting in him buying the mattress topper.
Trading Standards are now urging people to be wary of any unsolicited emails, phone calls or door-to-door sales, and not to get rushed into buying anything.
Cllr Mike Freeman, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Public Safety, Governance and Reform, said: “Pushy and aggressive selling tactics are a pest at the best of times but they are despicable when vulnerable people are being targeted.
“I would like all residents to be aware that the Council would never pass on data to sales companies. If they are suspicious about products being sold to them, I would urge them to contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Services on 0345 4 040506.”
Dr Mark Jarvis, Medical Director at NHS Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Individuals and organisations within the NHS are bound by confidentiality so we would never share people’s details with external or private organisations without their knowledge.
“If anyone encounters any suspicious behaviour like this, please report it and it will be investigated.”
If the purchase is made by post, phone, over the internet or at home, there is usually a 14-day cancellation period when products can be returned.
If anyone is being sold something out of the blue, the advice from Trading Standards is not to buy immediately but to think carefully and get advice before making a purchase.
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Woman gets caught lying about why she's late to work after epic Photoshop fail

We 've all been late for work at one time or another - unfortunately , it 's just something that happens .
But if you do n't have a valid excuse for rocking up to the office after you 're meant to , you 're probably going to want to come up with a good story to tell your boss .
What you do n't want to do , is Google something and pick the first image that shows up - especially when it contains a gigantic Photoshop fail .
One woman clearly did n't get this memo , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a colleague .
Posting on the social media platform , Sydneyy Whitson shared a *questionable* picture of a nail in a tyre .
She explained how her colleague had sent the photo into her workplace after explaining it had made her late , but it does n't look like she 'd paid much attention to the finer details .
Sydneyy wrote : `` My coworker called in ( yet again ) and said she had a nail on her tire that caused her to have a flat .
i need everyone to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IN TO THE NAIL IN THE PICTURE SHE SENT MY BOSS . ''
The people of Twitter have clearly been entertained by the picture , and the Tweet has now been liked almost quarter of a million times , and shared over 40,000 times .
Responding , one social media user joked : `` Girl that tire is n't even real lmao . ''
The original poster responded , saying : `` Right ?
We googled it and it was the first picture to pull up when you type in “ nail in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went on to share pictures of their real-life tyres with nails in , so people can use them next time they need an excuse for being late .
Oh , Twitter , you never disappoint .
Follow us on and for the latest news .
We are also on .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on your football club , the pick of the week ’ s events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you .
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .
Download it on iPhone and Android here .

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We've all been late for work at one time or another - unfortunately, it's just something that happens.
But if you don't have a valid excuse for rocking up to the office after you're meant to, you're probably going to want to come up with a good story to tell your boss.
What you don't want to do, is Google something and pick the first image that shows up - especially when it contains a gigantic Photoshop fail.
One woman clearly didn't get this memo, and has been 'outed' on Twitter by a colleague.
Posting on the social media platform, Sydneyy Whitson shared a *questionable* picture of a nail in a tyre.
She explained how her colleague had sent the photo into her workplace after explaining it had made her late, but it doesn't look like she'd paid much attention to the finer details.
Sydneyy wrote: "My coworker called in (yet again) and said she had a nail on her tire that caused her to have a flat. i need everyone to stop what they’re doing and ZOOM IN TO THE NAIL IN THE PICTURE SHE SENT MY BOSS."
The people of Twitter have clearly been entertained by the picture, and the Tweet has now been liked almost quarter of a million times, and shared over 40,000 times.
Responding, one social media user joked: "Girl that tire isn't even real lmao."
The original poster responded, saying: "Right? We googled it and it was the first picture to pull up when you type in “nail in tire” lol."
Several people went on to share pictures of their real-life tyres with nails in, so people can use them next time they need an excuse for being late.
Oh, Twitter, you never disappoint.
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--The most important things happening in Manchester city centre in 2020

The transformation of Manchester city centre continues apace in 2020 .
From new bars , restaurants and arts venues , to transport improvements and bans on certain types of anti-social behaviour - it will continue to be the most-talked about part of the region .
With a population of 60,000 that 's set to hit 100,000 by 2025 , what 's going on in the city centre affects more people now than ever before .
The skyline continues to be dominated by cranes and that shows no sign of slowing down , despite the uncertainty caused by Brexit .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city centre are under increasing scrutiny .
Many would like to see more done to combat crime , climate change and to protect our industrial heritage , for example .
In the meantime , many important developments are already on the way .
Here are some worth knowing about over the next twelve months : Manchester Council is aiming for The Factory , a world class cultural destination and permanent home for Manchester International Festival , to be completed in late 2020 .
The £130million project is at the heart of plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ St John 's , which also includes thousands of new homes and offices .
The 5,000-capacity venue , dubbed the 'Guggenheim of the North ' , is being built on the site of the former Granada Studios but is already two years behind schedule after it hit a number of design problems and negotiations over land took longer than expected .
The original theatre , orchestra pit and building facade were found to be unsuitable and were replaced with a more 'back-to-basics ' shape last year .
Leader of the Council Sir Richard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 'complete game-changer ' and provide the wider region with a cultural counterbalance to London .
The government is contributing the majority of the cost - £78m - but the M.E.N revealed last year that Manchester council 's contribution has had to increase from £21.6m to £40.57m .
Council bosses believe it will be a worthwhile investment , saying The Factory will attract up to 850,000 visitors a year , add 1,500 jobs and up to £1.1billion to Manchester 's economy over the decade .
According to the council 's website 'construction is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Plans to to turn the street into a ‘ European-style ’ boulevard are starting this month and the £9m project is expected to last a year .
The scheme involves both carriageway and footway improvements for pedestrians in an attempt to open up the Northern Quarter to Ancoats and east Manchester .
The council hasn ’ t yet laid out the work schedule but has said this second phase is expected to ‘ significantly affect ’ road users .
The lack of cycle lanes within the scheme has proved controversial and earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ petition against the plans .
The town hall said at the time that it was securing funding for two cycle and walking routes near Great Ancoats Street as part of the Beelines project .
Plans to create two new spur roads to create a direct access between the city centre and Mancunian Way are already underway on one of the city centre ’ s busiest roundabouts .
Preparatory work began in October before a break over the Christmas period .
The main work is set to begin in January and expected to finish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ town hall report .
Slip roads on and off the Mancunian Way will be widened , as well as new footpaths and improved access for cyclists as part of the £8.8m plan .
But the project has proven to be a controversial one with local residents .
A patch of green space used by the community - known as Rockdove Gardens - has been saved after a backlash .
But many locals told the Local Democracy Reporting Service earlier this year that they fear the levels of pollution - already high in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while they also worry about the number of trees being felled as part of the scheme .
Council chiefs hope their plans will ease congestion on the ring road , in turn reducing air pollution .
In response to frequent complaints , Manchester council has put forward plans to bring in a crackdown on anti-social behaviour .
The Public Space Protection Order ( PSPO ) could give the authority new powers to ban people from behaviour including 'aggressive ' begging ; urinating or defecating in the street ; dropping needles ; or refusing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Anybody caught doing so could be hit with a £100 on-the-spot fine , rising to £1,000 in court if unpaid .
The move comes amid growing concern among residents and businesses over begging and drug use in the city centre , including in car parks and inside blocks of flats , and follows similar use of PSPO powers in places such as Blackpool and Oxford .
However , it immediately set off a heated political row , as the M.E.N .
reported in April .
Critics say the measures would criminalise the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be unable to pay , and simply move the problem elsewhere .
In response to the furore , the council said it would drop the proposed condition of the order around begging .
But it is believed the town hall plans to plough on with the remaining elements of the PSPO .
A proposal to partially pedestrianise the Northern Quarter is currently out for public consultation as part of wider plans to improve walking and cycling routes .
The council 's current vision would see Thomas Street become a cycle and pedestrian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become partially pedestrianised .
The aim is to boost the walking and cycling connections between Piccadilly and Victoria railway stations .
Under the scheme , the area would see new segregated lanes and signals for cyclists , resurfaced walkways and upgraded pedestrian crossings , a reduction in on-street parking and more trees .
It also includes plans to partially pedestrianise Stevenson Square - meaning no vehicles would be able to use the square between Oldham Street and Newton Street to travel towards Piccadilly , with the existing stretch of highway being removed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Thomas Street would become a pedestrian and cycle-only zone under the plans , except for loading permitted between defined times in the mornings and evenings , while traffic would be permitted to turn right from Shudehill to use a currently tram-only stretch of High Street .
The plans , which can be viewed at www.manchester.gov.uk/consultations , include the removal and possible relocation of on-street parking bays from Dale Street , cycle segregation and protection on High Street and cycle lanes for both sides of Withy Grove .
5 .
New Metrolink line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line to the Trafford Centre will open earlier than scheduled .
The Trafford Park line branches off from the existing stop at Pomona and includes six new destinations .
The Mayor Andy Burnham has announced it will open in April 2020 , a full seven months before the £350m project was initially scheduled for completion .
The final 15 metres of the new Trafford line 's track , near the Coronation Street set at the junction of Trafford Wharf Road and Warren Bruce Road , was laid last month .
At just shy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the new line will run through Trafford Park , one of Europe 's largest trading estates and home to more than 1,300 businesses employing over 35,000 people .
Six new stops will feature in total : • Wharfside : Next to Manchester Ship Canal and close to Manchester United Football Club .
• Imperial War Museum North : Positioned by the world-renowned museum with access to MediaCityUK via the existing footbridges .
• Village : On Village Way , near Village Circle and Third Avenue .
• Parkway : At the existing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include a Park & Ride with spaces for approximately 200 vehicles .
Online retail giant Amazon will become the latest global corporation to open an office in Manchester .
Its corporate headquarters at Hanover House in the NOMA complex will be its first outside London .
The move is set to create around 600 jobs .
The Manchester office will complement teams working on global innovation in London , Cambridge and Edinburgh .
Hanover House , on Corporation Street , has undergone a £34m refurbishment ahead of the move .
Amazon 's arrival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the region 's leaders , including the Mayor Andy Burnham , who said last year : `` Amazon opening their new office in Manchester is another vote of confidence in our city-region as a global digital leader .
`` We are the UK ’ s top digital city-region and we are open for business .
`` Greater Manchester is building a global reputation as a leading hub , both for multinational companies and start-ups .
`` This news , following a number of similar announcements in recent months , shows that our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the world ’ s most exciting digital companies.
” Portugal Street is the next area that looks set to be transformed behind Piccadilly station as part of long-term planning for the arrival of HS2 .
Plans have been submitted for two tower blocks on Portugal Street East - one at 29 storeys and another at 23 storeys - that would provide around 500 flats .
The application is currently on hold after the council 's planning committee requested a visit to see how the towers would fit in to the surrounding area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set to be a fight over affordable housing after the developer Aecom and Olympian said it was not financially viable to provide any .
But , were the plans to go ahead , it would mark a first step towards a significant change in the area between Piccadilly station and Great Ancoats Street .
Other schemes are in the pipeline and a new Jenga-style hotel from Capital and Centric was approved in September .
Known as the 'Leonardo ' hotel - the design has already won awards and will bring 275 hotel rooms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Adair Street .
Plans to turn a 'forgotten corner ' of Manchester city centre into a huge new park are likely to get underway in 2020 .
The area behind Piccadilly station has been largely derelict for decades , but has recently been earmarked for one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the country .
The old Mayfield railway station has been brought back to life as an arts venue with the former Depot hosting a number of music events , including Manchester Pride this year .
In October , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gig by Aphex Twin and a club night curated by the Warehouse Project .
Around 5,000 people visited for the start of a programme that will run for the next five years .
Now , a planning application has been submitted for the first step in a £1.4bn transformation of the neighbourhood , including the creation of a 6.5 acre park - the first in the city centre for 100 years .
We revealed the first images in May .
2019 proved to be another difficult year for high street retailers and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Debenhams fell into administration in April and is engaged in a restructure that has involved 22 store closures and cutting rents on a further 105 .
Before Christmas , the chain revealed it is seeking further rents cuts of up to 25 per cent on 20 of its stories in exchange for scrapping break clauses in the leases .
Debenhams said further closures will be confirmed once the lease discussions are concluded .
Meanwhile , House of Fraser remains in a similarly perilous predicament .
Owner Mike Ashley said last month more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government overhauls the business rates system .
The iconic department store on Deansgate , still known to Mancunians as Kendals , was dramatically saved in 2018 after the landlord agreed new rates with Mr Ashley .
It is understood Manchester council was involved in mediating between Mr Ashley and the landlords to reduce the eye-watering rent of £4.26million a year .
Around 600 jobs were saved as a result .
But Kendals is by no means out the woods yet and the uncertainty around the future of House of Fraser will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new bars and restaurants are opening Mana finally reclaimed the city a Michelin star after four decades without one ; celebrity chef Tom Kerridge opened The Bull & Bear inside Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs ' long-awaited Stock Exchange Hotel ; and more high profile newcomers including Bistrotheque and Kala also made their mark .
And while its pace has slowed , the city 's restaurant scene has continued to grow despite a spate of closures in the last 12 months .
Next year there are more new openings on the way , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grill to an Ancoats music venue and restaurant .
After being turfed out of its original Northern Quarter home on Newton Street , music bar Jimmy 's is on the move .
The new venue will be in Ancoats , joining the thriving bar scene of Blossom Street .
Plans include a first-floor restaurant , similar to the one recently opened at Jimmy 's Liverpool site .
The rooftop of First Street 's multi-storey car park is set to be transformed into a 'tropical ' ( we 'll see what the Manchester weather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ garden .
Roofff will be home to three bars and eight kitchens , serving a mixture of Japanese cuisine , steaks , fresh seafood , all-day breakfasts and desserts , with covered seating for more than 400 diners and space for another 250 seats in an open air section .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .

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The transformation of Manchester city centre continues apace in 2020.
From new bars, restaurants and arts venues, to transport improvements and bans on certain types of anti-social behaviour - it will continue to be the most-talked about part of the region.
With a population of 60,000 that's set to hit 100,000 by 2025, what's going on in the city centre affects more people now than ever before.
The skyline continues to be dominated by cranes and that shows no sign of slowing down, despite the uncertainty caused by Brexit.
But local authorities are finding their decisions around the city centre are under increasing scrutiny.
Many would like to see more done to combat crime, climate change and to protect our industrial heritage, for example.
In the meantime, many important developments are already on the way.
Here are some worth knowing about over the next twelve months:
1. The Factory *should* finally arrive
Manchester Council is aiming for The Factory, a world class cultural destination and permanent home for Manchester International Festival, to be completed in late 2020.
The £130million project is at the heart of plans for the city centre's new neighbourhood St John's, which also includes thousands of new homes and offices.
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The 5,000-capacity venue, dubbed the 'Guggenheim of the North', is being built on the site of the former Granada Studios but is already two years behind schedule after it hit a number of design problems and negotiations over land took longer than expected.
The original theatre, orchestra pit and building facade were found to be unsuitable and were replaced with a more 'back-to-basics' shape last year.
Leader of the Council Sir Richard Leese has said The Factory will be a 'complete game-changer' and provide the wider region with a cultural counterbalance to London.
(Image: MEN MEDIA)
The government is contributing the majority of the cost - £78m - but the M.E.N revealed last year that Manchester council's contribution has had to increase from £21.6m to £40.57m.
Council bosses believe it will be a worthwhile investment, saying The Factory will attract up to 850,000 visitors a year, add 1,500 jobs and up to £1.1billion to Manchester's economy over the decade.
According to the council's website 'construction is due to be completed late 2020'.
2. More nightmare roadworks
Great Ancoats Street
Plans to to turn the street into a ‘European-style’ boulevard are starting this month and the £9m project is expected to last a year.
The scheme involves both carriageway and footway improvements for pedestrians in an attempt to open up the Northern Quarter to Ancoats and east Manchester.
The council hasn’t yet laid out the work schedule but has said this second phase is expected to ‘significantly affect’ road users.
The lack of cycle lanes within the scheme has proved controversial and earlier this year hundreds of people signed a petition against the plans.
The town hall said at the time that it was securing funding for two cycle and walking routes near Great Ancoats Street as part of the Beelines project.
Princess Road/Medlock Street roundabout
Plans to create two new spur roads to create a direct access between the city centre and Mancunian Way are already underway on one of the city centre’s busiest roundabouts.
Preparatory work began in October before a break over the Christmas period.
The main work is set to begin in January and expected to finish in June 2020, according to the town hall report.
Slip roads on and off the Mancunian Way will be widened, as well as new footpaths and improved access for cyclists as part of the £8.8m plan.
But the project has proven to be a controversial one with local residents.
A patch of green space used by the community - known as Rockdove Gardens - has been saved after a backlash.
But many locals told the Local Democracy Reporting Service earlier this year that they fear the levels of pollution - already high in this corner of Hulme - could skyrocket, while they also worry about the number of trees being felled as part of the scheme.
Council chiefs hope their plans will ease congestion on the ring road, in turn reducing air pollution.
3. A ban on anti-social behaviour
In response to frequent complaints, Manchester council has put forward plans to bring in a crackdown on anti-social behaviour.
The Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) could give the authority new powers to ban people from behaviour including 'aggressive' begging; urinating or defecating in the street; dropping needles; or refusing to move out of doorways or stairwells.
Anybody caught doing so could be hit with a £100 on-the-spot fine, rising to £1,000 in court if unpaid.
The move comes amid growing concern among residents and businesses over begging and drug use in the city centre, including in car parks and inside blocks of flats, and follows similar use of PSPO powers in places such as Blackpool and Oxford.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
However, it immediately set off a heated political row, as the M.E.N. reported in April.
Critics say the measures would criminalise the homeless, hitting them with fines they would be unable to pay, and simply move the problem elsewhere.
In response to the furore, the council said it would drop the proposed condition of the order around begging.
But it is believed the town hall plans to plough on with the remaining elements of the PSPO.
4. New cycling and pedestrian routes
A proposal to partially pedestrianise the Northern Quarter is currently out for public consultation as part of wider plans to improve walking and cycling routes.
The council's current vision would see Thomas Street become a cycle and pedestrian only zone while Stevenson Square would also become partially pedestrianised.
The aim is to boost the walking and cycling connections between Piccadilly and Victoria railway stations.
Under the scheme, the area would see new segregated lanes and signals for cyclists, resurfaced walkways and upgraded pedestrian crossings, a reduction in on-street parking and more trees.
It also includes plans to partially pedestrianise Stevenson Square - meaning no vehicles would be able to use the square between Oldham Street and Newton Street to travel towards Piccadilly, with the existing stretch of highway being removed and a new cycle lane added.
Meanwhile, Thomas Street would become a pedestrian and cycle-only zone under the plans, except for loading permitted between defined times in the mornings and evenings, while traffic would be permitted to turn right from Shudehill to use a currently tram-only stretch of High Street.
The plans, which can be viewed at www.manchester.gov.uk/consultations, include the removal and possible relocation of on-street parking bays from Dale Street, cycle segregation and protection on High Street and cycle lanes for both sides of Withy Grove.
5. New Metrolink line to the Trafford Centre
A new Metrolink line to the Trafford Centre will open earlier than scheduled.
The Trafford Park line branches off from the existing stop at Pomona and includes six new destinations.
The Mayor Andy Burnham has announced it will open in April 2020, a full seven months before the £350m project was initially scheduled for completion.
Driver training begins this month.
The final 15 metres of the new Trafford line's track, near the Coronation Street set at the junction of Trafford Wharf Road and Warren Bruce Road, was laid last month.
At just shy of three and a half miles long, the new line will run through Trafford Park, one of Europe's largest trading estates and home to more than 1,300 businesses employing over 35,000 people.
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Six new stops will feature in total:
Wharfside: Next to Manchester Ship Canal and close to Manchester United Football Club.
Imperial War Museum North: Positioned by the world-renowned museum with access to MediaCityUK via the existing footbridges.
Village: On Village Way, near Village Circle and Third Avenue.
Parkway: At the existing Parkway Circle roundabout. The stop will include a Park & Ride with spaces for approximately 200 vehicles.
EventCity: By Barton Square and EventCity.
Trafford Centre: At intu Trafford Centre, Barton Dock Road.
6. Amazon moves in
Online retail giant Amazon will become the latest global corporation to open an office in Manchester.
Its corporate headquarters at Hanover House in the NOMA complex will be its first outside London.
The move is set to create around 600 jobs.
The Manchester office will complement teams working on global innovation in London, Cambridge and Edinburgh.
Hanover House, on Corporation Street, has undergone a £34m refurbishment ahead of the move.
Amazon's arrival in the city centre has been welcomed by the region's leaders, including the Mayor Andy Burnham, who said last year: "Amazon opening their new office in Manchester is another vote of confidence in our city-region as a global digital leader.
"We are the UK’s top digital city-region and we are open for business.
"Greater Manchester is building a global reputation as a leading hub, both for multinational companies and start-ups.
"This news, following a number of similar announcements in recent months, shows that our city-region is swiftly becoming a go-to destination for the world’s most exciting digital companies.”
7. Portugal Street East kicks off
(Image: Portugal Street East)
Portugal Street is the next area that looks set to be transformed behind Piccadilly station as part of long-term planning for the arrival of HS2.
Plans have been submitted for two tower blocks on Portugal Street East - one at 29 storeys and another at 23 storeys - that would provide around 500 flats.
The application is currently on hold after the council's planning committee requested a visit to see how the towers would fit in to the surrounding area.
Once again, there is also set to be a fight over affordable housing after the developer Aecom and Olympian said it was not financially viable to provide any.
But, were the plans to go ahead, it would mark a first step towards a significant change in the area between Piccadilly station and Great Ancoats Street.
Other schemes are in the pipeline and a new Jenga-style hotel from Capital and Centric was approved in September.
Known as the 'Leonardo' hotel - the design has already won awards and will bring 275 hotel rooms with a ground floor bar and restaurant on Adair Street.
8. Manchester's first city centre park in 100 years
(Image: Mayfield Partnership)
Plans to turn a 'forgotten corner' of Manchester city centre into a huge new park are likely to get underway in 2020.
The area behind Piccadilly station has been largely derelict for decades, but has recently been earmarked for one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the country.
The old Mayfield railway station has been brought back to life as an arts venue with the former Depot hosting a number of music events, including Manchester Pride this year.
In October, a partnership with Broadwick Live began with a gig by Aphex Twin and a club night curated by the Warehouse Project.
Around 5,000 people visited for the start of a programme that will run for the next five years.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Now, a planning application has been submitted for the first step in a £1.4bn transformation of the neighbourhood, including the creation of a 6.5 acre park - the first in the city centre for 100 years.
We revealed the first images in May.
9. Retail problems likely to continue
(Image: MEN)
2019 proved to be another difficult year for high street retailers and the next decade promises more of the same.
Debenhams fell into administration in April and is engaged in a restructure that has involved 22 store closures and cutting rents on a further 105.
Before Christmas, the chain revealed it is seeking further rents cuts of up to 25 per cent on 20 of its stories in exchange for scrapping break clauses in the leases.
Debenhams said further closures will be confirmed once the lease discussions are concluded.
Meanwhile, House of Fraser remains in a similarly perilous predicament.
Owner Mike Ashley said last month more stores will be forced to shut unless the government overhauls the business rates system.
The iconic department store on Deansgate, still known to Mancunians as Kendals, was dramatically saved in 2018 after the landlord agreed new rates with Mr Ashley.
It is understood Manchester council was involved in mediating between Mr Ashley and the landlords to reduce the eye-watering rent of £4.26million a year.
Around 600 jobs were saved as a result.
But Kendals is by no means out the woods yet and the uncertainty around the future of House of Fraser will continue in 2020.
10. Lots of new bars and restaurants are opening
2019 was a big year for Manchester's restaurant scene.
Mana finally reclaimed the city a Michelin star after four decades without one; celebrity chef Tom Kerridge opened The Bull & Bear inside Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs' long-awaited Stock Exchange Hotel; and more high profile newcomers including Bistrotheque and Kala also made their mark.
And while its pace has slowed, the city's restaurant scene has continued to grow despite a spate of closures in the last 12 months.
Next year there are more new openings on the way, from a Japanese basement bar and robata grill to an Ancoats music venue and restaurant.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
After being turfed out of its original Northern Quarter home on Newton Street, music bar Jimmy's is on the move.
The new venue will be in Ancoats, joining the thriving bar scene of Blossom Street.
Plans include a first-floor restaurant, similar to the one recently opened at Jimmy's Liverpool site.
(Image: Buzz Ventures)
The rooftop of First Street's multi-storey car park is set to be transformed into a 'tropical' (we'll see what the Manchester weather has to say about that) sky garden.
Roofff will be home to three bars and eight kitchens, serving a mixture of Japanese cuisine, steaks, fresh seafood, all-day breakfasts and desserts, with covered seating for more than 400 diners and space for another 250 seats in an open air section.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram.
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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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Firefighters tackle blaze at a house under renovation in Bury

Firefighters have been tackling a blaze at a house in Bury .
Crews were called to the domestic property on Bury Road , in Radcliffe , at around 4.30am this morning ( Sunday , January 12 ) .
The building is currently empty and is undergoing renovation , a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed .
At its peak , four fire engines and two aerial appliances attended at the scene .
Firefighters tackled the blaze from above using an aerial appliance and a hydraulic platform .
The fire has been brought under control and the incident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire engines and an aerial appliance remain at the scene this morning .
People living nearby are being asked to keep their windows and doors closed .
In a statement , GMFRS said : `` Firefighters are working hard to tackle a blaze on Bury Road in Radcliffe this morning ( Sunday 12 January 2020 ) .
`` Crews were called at 4:37am to a fire involving the roof of an empty detached domestic property which is under renovation .
`` At its peak , four fire engines and two aerial appliances were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from above using an aerial appliance and a hydraulic platform .
`` Operations have now scaled back , with two fire engines and an aerial appliance currently at the scene .
`` Local residents are being asked to keep their windows and doors shut . ''

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Firefighters have been tackling a blaze at a house in Bury.
Crews were called to the domestic property on Bury Road, in Radcliffe, at around 4.30am this morning (Sunday, January 12).
The building is currently empty and is undergoing renovation, a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed.
At its peak, four fire engines and two aerial appliances attended at the scene.
Firefighters tackled the blaze from above using an aerial appliance and a hydraulic platform.
The fire has been brought under control and the incident has now been scaled back.
Two fire engines and an aerial appliance remain at the scene this morning.
People living nearby are being asked to keep their windows and doors closed.
In a statement, GMFRS said: "Firefighters are working hard to tackle a blaze on Bury Road in Radcliffe this morning (Sunday 12 January 2020).
"Crews were called at 4:37am to a fire involving the roof of an empty detached domestic property which is under renovation.
Follow reporter Ashlie Blakey on social media To follow Ashlie on Twitter, click here. Or to like her Facebook page and keep up to date with the latest breaking news, click here Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
"At its peak, four fire engines and two aerial appliances were attendance, with firefighters tackling the blaze from above using an aerial appliance and a hydraulic platform.
"Operations have now scaled back, with two fire engines and an aerial appliance currently at the scene.
"Local residents are being asked to keep their windows and doors shut."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Former Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone names his only regret

It feels like a good time to talk about Sam Johnstone .
There are n't too many players who leave Manchester United without making a single senior appearance , yet go on to show such remarkable levels of consistency .
Yet Johnstone , who has now shone in goal for two of the biggest teams in the Midlands , is closing in on a return to the top — and a place in a Premier League starting 11 on merit .
It was something that eluded him at Old Trafford , forever the understudy to David de Gea and Sergio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while thankful for his tutelage at United , is eager to get there again .
`` I had a great upbringing there , '' he tells MEN Sport about his 15-year United career .
`` Everyone knows people at that club teach you , not just [ about ] football , but life , respect .
I have no regrets , I enjoyed my time there . ''
Johnstone then corrects himself , to a degree , on that `` no regrets '' point .
`` I would have liked to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for so long , but it just was n't to be , '' he admits .
`` But I do n't dwell on it , I 'm out playing football at a great club and hopefully getting back into the Premier League . ''
Now 26 and sitting pretty with West Brom in the Championship top two , Johnstone is thriving at his first permanent home since United .
He 'd previously had nine separate spells out on loan from his boyhood club with six different clubs .
But as Johnstone reveals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out and play regular football — instead of sitting on the sidelines and feeling content watching the likes of De Gea and Romero — that has played a major part in his recent success .
He recalls knocking on the office door of Jose Mourinho asking for a loan move , one that would be a turning point in his career .
Johnstone adds : `` I had a few loans before that , but I said to him ' I want to go out and loan and play football ' and he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I went for 18 months straight on loan [ at Aston Villa ] and then went to West Brom .
`` We had the best goalkeeper in the world at the club and I just wanted to play football .
`` Jose was great .
When you really believe that you want to go out on loan — I was n't 50-50 about it , I was certain — it was easy to speak to him . ''
Not all players would have the bloody-mindedness to pursue their goals in such a direct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen it all by that stage .
He 'd been up and down the country on a one-man mission to play games , build experience and clamber his way to the top .
Loans with Scunthorpe , Walsall and Yeovil by the age of 20 were a rude awakening after a decade under the United comfort blanket .
`` It makes you grow up , '' adds Johnstone on those experiences .
He is a huge advocate of the loan system , which also benefited his United peer Jesse Lingard and other goalkeepers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loan was at 18 for Scunthorpe and that opened my eyes .
It 's men 's football , it really means something and it 's about the way you have to life your life and prepare for the weekend .
`` It 's those experiences that help you in the long run .
Especially for me , being a goalkeeper , it helped me massively .
`` Everyone 's different , I do n't think there 's a right or wrong way .
Goalkeepers tend to mature a bit later though and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and get games , you ca n't replicate that .
First team football is the best way to help you .
`` For years I wanted to go on loan .
Sometimes there were little things that stopped me when I did n't [ go out on loan ] , but I enjoyed playing in front of the crowds and under the pressure . ''
Johnstone names current United goalkeeping coach Richard Hartis as one of the most important mentors in helping him between the `` important ages '' of 10 and 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He 's happy to see Hartis back at Carrington , so too Ole Gunnar Solskjaer his former reserves coach and a `` great guy '' .
And pressure ?
Johnstone never really felt that at United when he was the perennial No.3 goalkeeper .
Pressure is playing every week trying to guide West Brom back to the Premier League , where he 's desperate to come face-to-face with his former team as equals .
For Johnstone , it would be the fulfilment of a lifelong dream , one that narrowly eluded him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is simple .
`` Everyone knows I 've been on loan a few times and I 've always wanted to play games .
`` Now I 'm playing every week at the top of the Championship — and hopefully next year in the Premier League .
I 'm enjoying my football . ''
Johnstone has done it the hard way , but he might be playing at Old Trafford sooner rather than later .

It feels like a good time to talk about Sam Johnstone.
There aren't too many players who leave Manchester United without making a single senior appearance, yet go on to show such remarkable levels of consistency.
Yet Johnstone, who has now shone in goal for two of the biggest teams in the Midlands, is closing in on a return to the top — and a place in a Premier League starting 11 on merit. It was something that eluded him at Old Trafford, forever the understudy to David de Gea and Sergio Romero. But the West Brom keeper, while thankful for his tutelage at United, is eager to get there again.
"I had a great upbringing there," he tells MEN Sport about his 15-year United career. "Everyone knows people at that club teach you, not just [about] football, but life, respect. I have no regrets, I enjoyed my time there."
Johnstone then corrects himself, to a degree, on that "no regrets" point.
"I would have liked to have made my competitive debut after being there for so long, but it just wasn't to be," he admits. "But I don't dwell on it, I'm out playing football at a great club and hopefully getting back into the Premier League."
(Image: 2016 Manchester United FC)
Now 26 and sitting pretty with West Brom in the Championship top two, Johnstone is thriving at his first permanent home since United.
He'd previously had nine separate spells out on loan from his boyhood club with six different clubs.
But as Johnstone reveals, it was his own desire to go out and play regular football — instead of sitting on the sidelines and feeling content watching the likes of De Gea and Romero — that has played a major part in his recent success.
He recalls knocking on the office door of Jose Mourinho asking for a loan move, one that would be a turning point in his career.
Johnstone adds: "I had a few loans before that, but I said to him 'I want to go out and loan and play football' and he allowed it and I appreciated that. I went for 18 months straight on loan [at Aston Villa] and then went to West Brom.
"We had the best goalkeeper in the world at the club and I just wanted to play football.
"Jose was great. When you really believe that you want to go out on loan — I wasn't 50-50 about it, I was certain — it was easy to speak to him."
Not all players would have the bloody-mindedness to pursue their goals in such a direct manner, but then Johnstone had already seen it all by that stage. He'd been up and down the country on a one-man mission to play games, build experience and clamber his way to the top.
Loans with Scunthorpe, Walsall and Yeovil by the age of 20 were a rude awakening after a decade under the United comfort blanket.
"It makes you grow up," adds Johnstone on those experiences. He is a huge advocate of the loan system, which also benefited his United peer Jesse Lingard and other goalkeepers like Jordan Pickford.
"My first loan was at 18 for Scunthorpe and that opened my eyes. It's men's football, it really means something and it's about the way you have to life your life and prepare for the weekend.
"It's those experiences that help you in the long run. Especially for me, being a goalkeeper, it helped me massively.
"Everyone's different, I don't think there's a right or wrong way. Goalkeepers tend to mature a bit later though and I think it's good to go out and get games, you can't replicate that. First team football is the best way to help you.
"For years I wanted to go on loan. Sometimes there were little things that stopped me when I didn't [go out on loan], but I enjoyed playing in front of the crowds and under the pressure."
(Image: 2019 AMA Sports Photo Agency)
Johnstone names current United goalkeeping coach Richard Hartis as one of the most important mentors in helping him between the "important ages" of 10 and 15 after Hartis brought him to the club. He's happy to see Hartis back at Carrington, so too Ole Gunnar Solskjaer his former reserves coach and a "great guy".
And pressure? Johnstone never really felt that at United when he was the perennial No.3 goalkeeper. Pressure is playing every week trying to guide West Brom back to the Premier League, where he's desperate to come face-to-face with his former team as equals.
For Johnstone, it would be the fulfilment of a lifelong dream, one that narrowly eluded him at United.
His aim for 2020 is simple.
"Everyone knows I've been on loan a few times and I've always wanted to play games.
"Now I'm playing every week at the top of the Championship — and hopefully next year in the Premier League. I'm enjoying my football."
Johnstone has done it the hard way, but he might be playing at Old Trafford sooner rather than later.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--MACFEST 2020: How one woman's mission to end divisions after Manchester terror attack became a celeb

MACFEST 2020: How one woman's mission to end divisions after Manchester terror attack became a celebration of community

This weekend , a festival celebrating Muslim and Arts and Culture is returning to Manchester for a second year .
MACFEST will take over the city for 15 days - bringing a feast of food , music , art , film , comedy , literature and performance to the region .
The festival began following a dream by founder , Qaisra Shahraz , in the wake of the Manchester Arena terror attack in May 2017 .
Following the atrocity , which claimed 22 lives , the British-Pakistani novelist refused to let her city become divided .
Members of the Manchester-Muslim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ condemnation and racism .
It became Qaisra Shahraz 's mission to tackle divisions , break down barriers and connect Muslims and non-Muslims of all ages and backgrounds .
She did this by setting up an arts festival , and in November 2018 , the first MACFEST took place .
This year 's event is expected to be bigger and better , with events taking place all over the city , from the Lowry Theatre , to Whitworth Gallery .
Barbara Dresner , 66 , has worked as a volunteer for MACFEST since its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's been a life-changing experience for me , '' she said , speaking to the Manchester Evening News .
`` I have never experienced such a mix of people and language in one place before - it 's amazing .
`` After the devastating arena attack , some people were very quick to jump to conclusions and condemn muslims .
`` Qaisra very appropriately wanted to show that horrible people are in few number , and to celebrate the good in Manchester .
`` I had no idea how much Muslim influence there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ science until I got involved with MACFEST . ''
The festival kicks off at the British Muslim Heritage Centre on Saturday 11 January and will continue across Manchester for a further two weeks .
Barbara added : `` I would describe MACFEST as a fantastic feast in which you can pick and choose the thing that look most appealing to you .
`` One of the wonderful things about the opening ceremony is it will begin with 16 different women welcoming the festival in 16 different languages .
`` This festival is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things that have happened across the world .
MACFEST promises to bring musical events at the Lowry and Whitworth Art Gallery , comedy from stand-up comedian Tez Illyas , a talk from Baroness Sayeeda Warsi and much more .
The event calendar also involves a mini festival hosted by Manchester Health Academy in Wythenshawe on January 17 .
The academy is among a number of schools who have added the values of MACFEST to the curriculum .
Manchester Health Academy Principal , Kevin Green , said he wanted the whole to school to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Students took part in a cross-curricular day in November , studying topics including how Muslim sports performers fast during Ramadan in PE , Islamic calligraphy and Bhangra in Music .
Twelve students designed a range of posters for the event , which were combined to create MACFEST 's promotional poster .
These students will be presented with a shield by festival organiser , peace activist and author , Qaisra Shahraz , at the festival ’ s Opening Ceremony on Saturday .
Principal Green said : '' By hosting MACFEST events and displaying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and appreciation of the richness of Muslim heritage , this is a perfect opportunity to do just that within the school . ''
For a full list of MACFEST events you can visit their website .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 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 .
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .

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This weekend, a festival celebrating Muslim and Arts and Culture is returning to Manchester for a second year.
MACFEST will take over the city for 15 days - bringing a feast of food, music, art, film, comedy, literature and performance to the region.
The festival began following a dream by founder, Qaisra Shahraz, in the wake of the Manchester Arena terror attack in May 2017.
Following the atrocity, which claimed 22 lives, the British-Pakistani novelist refused to let her city become divided.
Members of the Manchester-Muslim community had been subject to stereotyping, condemnation and racism.
It became Qaisra Shahraz's mission to tackle divisions, break down barriers and connect Muslims and non-Muslims of all ages and backgrounds.
She did this by setting up an arts festival, and in November 2018, the first MACFEST took place.
This year's event is expected to be bigger and better, with events taking place all over the city, from the Lowry Theatre, to Whitworth Gallery.
Barbara Dresner, 66, has worked as a volunteer for MACFEST since its launch two years ago.
"It's been a life-changing experience for me," she said, speaking to the Manchester Evening News.
"I have never experienced such a mix of people and language in one place before - it's amazing.
"After the devastating arena attack, some people were very quick to jump to conclusions and condemn muslims.
"Qaisra very appropriately wanted to show that horrible people are in few number, and to celebrate the good in Manchester.
"I had no idea how much Muslim influence there is on arts, culture, and science until I got involved with MACFEST."
(Image: Qaisra Shahraz)
The festival kicks off at the British Muslim Heritage Centre on Saturday 11 January and will continue across Manchester for a further two weeks.
Barbara added: "I would describe MACFEST as a fantastic feast in which you can pick and choose the thing that look most appealing to you.
"One of the wonderful things about the opening ceremony is it will begin with 16 different women welcoming the festival in 16 different languages.
"This festival is a particularly great thing after all the dramatic things that have happened across the world.
MACFEST promises to bring musical events at the Lowry and Whitworth Art Gallery, comedy from stand-up comedian Tez Illyas, a talk from Baroness Sayeeda Warsi and much more.
(Image: MACFEST)
The event calendar also involves a mini festival hosted by Manchester Health Academy in Wythenshawe on January 17.
The academy is among a number of schools who have added the values of MACFEST to the curriculum.
Manchester Health Academy Principal, Kevin Green, said he wanted the whole to school to get involved with this year's festival.
Students took part in a cross-curricular day in November, studying topics including how Muslim sports performers fast during Ramadan in PE, Islamic calligraphy and Bhangra in Music.
Twelve students designed a range of posters for the event, which were combined to create MACFEST's promotional poster.
These students will be presented with a shield by festival organiser, peace activist and author, Qaisra Shahraz, at the festival’s Opening Ceremony on Saturday.
(Image: Barbara Dresner)
Principal Green said:"By hosting MACFEST events and displaying student work linked to a greater understanding and appreciation of the richness of Muslim heritage, this is a perfect opportunity to do just that within the school."
For a full list of MACFEST events you can visit their website .
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themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Huge search after reports of man 'swept into the sea' at Blackpool promenade

Emergency services have carried out a huge search operation after reports of a man swept into the sea from Blackpool promenade .
HM Coastguard said they were called at around 11.20pm on Saturday night from a member of the public .
They reported seeing a man on the beach , very close to the water between the Central and South Piers .
`` With such rough weather and large waves , the man said he had shouted a warning at the man on the beach and then he called 999 for the Coastguard when he could no longer see the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coastguard Agency said in a statement .
Rescue units were called in from Lytham RNLI lifeboat , Lancashire Police , a Coastguard rescue helicopter and Coastguard rescue teams from both Lytham St Annes and Fleetwood .
Searches were carried out overnight but conditions were described as 'very rough with strong winds ' .
A further search began on Sunday morning at first light involving officers from Knott End , Fleetwood and Lytham St Annes Coastguard Rescue Teams .
However , so far no person has been found .
HM Coastguard took the opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ near the sea .
`` With parts of the UK set to be battered by winds up to gale force strength this week , please keep well clear of the waves and don ’ t risk your life - keep a respectful distance , '' they added .
Forecasters say Manchester is expected to face light rain changing to cloud later in the afternoon with temperatures around 8 degrees .
The showers could turn wintry on hills .
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Monday for the entire west @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 80mph predicted .
Transport delays on the roads , rail , air and ferry are expected , particularly for high-side vehicles on exposed routes and bridges .
Coastal routes , sea fronts and coastal communities could be affected by spray and large waves .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news .
We are also on Instagram .
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Emergency services have carried out a huge search operation after reports of a man swept into the sea from Blackpool promenade.
HM Coastguard said they were called at around 11.20pm on Saturday night from a member of the public.
They reported seeing a man on the beach, very close to the water between the Central and South Piers.
"With such rough weather and large waves, the man said he had shouted a warning at the man on the beach and then he called 999 for the Coastguard when he could no longer see the person on the beach," the Coastguard Agency said in a statement.
Rescue units were called in from Lytham RNLI lifeboat, Lancashire Police, a Coastguard rescue helicopter and Coastguard rescue teams from both Lytham St Annes and Fleetwood.
Searches were carried out overnight but conditions were described as 'very rough with strong winds'.
A further search began on Sunday morning at first light involving officers from Knott End, Fleetwood and Lytham St Annes Coastguard Rescue Teams.
However, so far no person has been found.
HM Coastguard took the opportunity to issue a warning about taking care near the sea.
"With parts of the UK set to be battered by winds up to gale force strength this week, please keep well clear of the waves and don’t risk your life - keep a respectful distance," they added.
(Image: Penny Cross / Plymouth Live)
Forecasters say Manchester is expected to face light rain changing to cloud later in the afternoon with temperatures around 8 degrees .
The showers could turn wintry on hills.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Monday for the entire west coast of the country with winds of up to 80mph predicted.
Transport delays on the roads, rail, air and ferry are expected, particularly for high-side vehicles on exposed routes and bridges.
Coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities could be affected by spray and large waves.
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Met Office issues yellow weather warning with 'strong winds' of up to 70mph expected in Greater Manc

Met Office issues yellow weather warning with 'strong winds' of up to 70mph expected in Greater Manchester

Strong winds are predicted for Greater Manchester with forecasters warning of road and rail delays .
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather alert forecasting strong winds across the entire region .
They have said to expect gusts of up to 70mph on higher ground on Tuesday .
The warning , which covers most of England , states that there could be some delays to road and rail travel - as well as delays at the airport .
Some bus services and train services may also be affected .
Delays are likely for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ term losses of power , according to the warning .
The Met Office said : `` Strong winds will develop on Tuesday which may bring some disruption .
`` Southwesterly winds are expected to strengthen across much of England and Wales during Tuesday afternoon and evening .
`` Gusts of 40 to 50 mph are expected quite widely inland , with exposed coasts and hills having gusts of around 60 mph , perhaps locally 70 mph .
`` Heavy rain may be an additional hazard in places .
`` Winds will ease from @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Strong winds are predicted for Greater Manchester with forecasters warning of road and rail delays.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather alert forecasting strong winds across the entire region.
They have said to expect gusts of up to 70mph on higher ground on Tuesday.
The warning, which covers most of England, states that there could be some delays to road and rail travel - as well as delays at the airport.
Some bus services and train services may also be affected.
Delays are likely for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges and there may be some short term losses of power, according to the warning.
(Image: M.E.N.)
The Met Office said: "Strong winds will develop on Tuesday which may bring some disruption.
"Southwesterly winds are expected to strengthen across much of England and Wales during Tuesday afternoon and evening.
"Gusts of 40 to 50 mph are expected quite widely inland, with exposed coasts and hills having gusts of around 60 mph, perhaps locally 70 mph.
"Heavy rain may be an additional hazard in places.
"Winds will ease from the west during Tuesday night."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Man charged with attempted rape after a woman was assaulted along the Rochdale canal

A man has been charged with attempted rape after a woman was assaulted along the Rochdale canal .
Police were called to reports of an assault on a path near to the Bluepits Mill in Castleton at around 6.20pm on Monday , January 6 .
The victim , a woman in her 50s , was walking her dog along the canal when she was assaulted by a man armed with a knife .
Now a man has been charged in connection with the case .
Stephen David Hastie , 32 , of no fixed address , has been charged with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assault and possession of a bladed article in a public place .
He has been remanded in custody .
He will next appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates ' Court on Monday ( January 13 ) .
In a statement , a GMP spokesperson said : `` A man has been charged after a woman was assaulted along the canal in Rochdale .
`` Stephen David Hastie ( 02/06/1987 ) of no fixed address , has been charged with attempted rape , robbery , section 20 assault and possession of a bladed article @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been remanded in custody and will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates ’ court on the Monday 13 January 2020 .
`` At around 6.20pm on Monday 6 January 2020 , police were called to reports of an assault along the Rochdale canal by Bluepits Mill .
`` A woman in her 50s was assaulted by a man armed with a knife whilst walking her dog along the canal . ''
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We are also on Instagram .
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A man has been charged with attempted rape after a woman was assaulted along the Rochdale canal.
Police were called to reports of an assault on a path near to the Bluepits Mill in Castleton at around 6.20pm on Monday, January 6.
The victim, a woman in her 50s, was walking her dog along the canal when she was assaulted by a man armed with a knife.
Now a man has been charged in connection with the case.
Stephen David Hastie, 32, of no fixed address, has been charged with attempted rape, robbery, section 20 assault and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
He has been remanded in custody.
He will next appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court on Monday (January 13).
In a statement, a GMP spokesperson said: "A man has been charged after a woman was assaulted along the canal in Rochdale.
"Stephen David Hastie (02/06/1987) of no fixed address, has been charged with attempted rape, robbery, section 20 assault and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
"He has been remanded in custody and will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ court on the Monday 13 January 2020.
"At around 6.20pm on Monday 6 January 2020, police were called to reports of an assault along the Rochdale canal by Bluepits Mill.
"A woman in her 50s was assaulted by a man armed with a knife whilst walking her dog along the canal."
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Dancing on Ice's Vanessa Bauer in painful training accident: 'I literally thought I broke my face'

Dancing on Ice returns to ITV tonight , but one famous face will be missing .
Following a scary crash during one of her training sessions , Vanessa Bauer has been left unable to compete .
Vanessa , who is partnered with Diversity star Perri Kiely , shared footage of the accident , which saw her banging head first into a barrier , on Instagram .
Posting on her account , the 23-year-old said : `` THAT just happened .
I literally thought I broke my face .
It started off so well lol , .. good thing I know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least @ theicecapture caught it so you ’ re welcome guys . ''
Responding to the footage , worried fellow co-star Maura Higgins said : `` Omg u ok ?
? ''
Former dancing partner Wes Nelson said : `` Jesussss .
Hope you ’ re okay . ''
Speaking to The Sun , Vanessa confirmed that she will now be unable to compete in tonight 's show .
She said : `` I 'm gutted to be missing the group number on tonight but on the advice of the amazing Dancing On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been told to rest up for a few days .
`` I feel fine in myself , but am following the advice of the medics .
`` While I have n't broken my face , I have a concussion which should all be fine with a few days rest and i 'll be fighting fit for next week .
`` Perri and I have a great routine which we ca n't wait to reveal . ''
Vanessa continued : `` I was doing difficult tricks on my own , but all it took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of my blade and I found myself banging head first into the barrier .
`` It just shows that even us pros can fall if we do n't fully focus - the ice can be very unforgiving . ''
Vanessa will return to Dancing On Ice next weekend .
Follow us on and for the latest news .
We are also on .
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app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live .
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Download it on iPhone and Android here .

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Dancing on Ice returns to ITV tonight, but one famous face will be missing.
Following a scary crash during one of her training sessions, Vanessa Bauer has been left unable to compete.
Vanessa, who is partnered with Diversity star Perri Kiely, shared footage of the accident, which saw her banging head first into a barrier, on Instagram.
Posting on her account, the 23-year-old said: "THAT just happened. I literally thought I broke my face. It started off so well lol,.. good thing I know how to stop, not. At least @theicecapture caught it so you’re welcome guys."
Responding to the footage, worried fellow co-star Maura Higgins said: "Omg u ok??"
Former dancing partner Wes Nelson said: "Jesussss. Hope you’re okay."
Speaking to The Sun, Vanessa confirmed that she will now be unable to compete in tonight's show.
She said: "I'm gutted to be missing the group number on tonight but on the advice of the amazing Dancing On Ice medical team, I’ve been told to rest up for a few days.
"I feel fine in myself, but am following the advice of the medics.
"While I haven't broken my face, I have a concussion which should all be fine with a few days rest and i'll be fighting fit for next week.
"Perri and I have a great routine which we can't wait to reveal."
Follow Money-Saving and Shopping Editor Rachel Pugh on social media To follow Rachel on Twitter click here. Or to like her Facebook page click here . Here's a link to the M.E.N.'s main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
Vanessa continued: "I was doing difficult tricks on my own, but all it took was for me to catch the edge of my blade and I found myself banging head first into the barrier.
"It just shows that even us pros can fall if we don't fully focus - the ice can be very unforgiving."
Vanessa will return to Dancing On Ice next weekend.
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--Free iPhone and Android fitness apps to help you get in shape - including Nike Training Club, Couch

Free iPhone and Android fitness apps to help you get in shape - including Nike Training Club, Couch to 5k and Sworkit

Now that the festive season is over many Mancunians have pledged to join a gym and get back in shape .
But , thanks to our smartphones , there are ways to get fit without spending a penny - or even leaving the house .
Fitness apps can aid you on your health journey - providing you with workouts , tracking your progress and in some cases advising you on what to eat to reach your body goals .
And hundreds of these apps can be downloaded for free .
For yoga-enthusiasts , there are video-focused apps that guide users @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you 're a runner , some apps allow you to map your progress , take part in challenges and earn achievements .
Footwear and clothing company Nike have also created their own fitness app that offers a huge range of workouts at differing levels .
Here 's our round up of iPhone and Android fitness apps that are free to download .
This app offers a simple 30-day exercise plan made up of six ab-targeting workouts with 15 variations .
The intensity slowly increases throughout the 30 days .
The ab workouts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of any age and fitness level .
To find out more click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android One You Couch to 5k The app offers an easy to follow programme for those new to running .
Users can choose from five trainers who will support and motivate you during your fitness journey .
Trainers include broadcaster and former Olympian Michael Johnson , comedians Sarah Millican and Sanjeev Kohli and Couch to 5k narrator , Laura .
The programme can be completed in 9 weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a half-time bell and you can earn awards and achievements .
To find out more , click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android The Fitbod app helps users to get stronger , lose weight or gain muscle mass .
The training plan will guide you through sets , reps , and weight until you meet your fitness goal .
Get workouts that match general conditioning , strength-training , muscle tone , bodybuilding , powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting .
Results can be viewed on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told how many calories will be burned with each workout .
To find out more , click here if you have an Apple device .
Fitbod for Android is coming soon The Nike Training Club App gives users access to a huge array of workouts of differing levels .
You 'll also be given tips on training , nutrition , mindset , recovery and sleep from the Nike Performance Council .
You can create your own plan focused on your own personal goals to to fit in with your schedule .
The app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , workouts ranging from 15 to 45 mins , low , moderate and high intensity levels and more .
To find out more , click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android device Simply Yoga gives users access to video demonstrations of a personal yoga instructor who will guide you through your workout .
You can choose from 20 , 40 and 60 minute workouts .
There are more than 30 poses to be learned as well as three predefined routines .
To find out more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple device or here if you have an Android device Runners and cyclists can monitor their activity using the Strava fitness tracker .
You can track your ride or run , analyse your performance over time , run or ride with friends , earn achievements , see posts from other athletes , set goals and get perks .
Strava was named as the best app for runners in 2019 in The Running Awards .
If you are n't a runner or a cycler , the app is also able to monitor the performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , hiking , gym training , CrossFit , kayaking , rock climbing , yoga and surfing .
To find out more , click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android Sworkit is a daily workout app that helps its users achieve their body goals .
The app creates simple workouts that last from 1 minute to 90 minutes .
There are more than 500 bodyweight and small equipment exercises as well as 300 customisable workouts .
You can begin with a six-week programme to get 'leaner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The plans include weight loss , HIIT , Tabata , cardio , strength , yoga , pilates workouts , and more .
To find out more , click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android device 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .

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Now that the festive season is over many Mancunians have pledged to join a gym and get back in shape.
But, thanks to our smartphones, there are ways to get fit without spending a penny - or even leaving the house.
Fitness apps can aid you on your health journey - providing you with workouts, tracking your progress and in some cases advising you on what to eat to reach your body goals.
And hundreds of these apps can be downloaded for free.
For yoga-enthusiasts, there are video-focused apps that guide users through sessions with position demonstrations.
And if you're a runner, some apps allow you to map your progress, take part in challenges and earn achievements.
Footwear and clothing company Nike have also created their own fitness app that offers a huge range of workouts at differing levels.
Here's our round up of iPhone and Android fitness apps that are free to download.
30 Day - Ab Challenge
This app offers a simple 30-day exercise plan made up of six ab-targeting workouts with 15 variations.
The intensity slowly increases throughout the 30 days.
Levels range from Beginner 1 to Advanced Level 2.
The ab workouts are suitable for both men and women of any age and fitness level.
To find out more click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android
One You Couch to 5k
The app offers an easy to follow programme for those new to running.
Users can choose from five trainers who will support and motivate you during your fitness journey.
Trainers include broadcaster and former Olympian Michael Johnson, comedians Sarah Millican and Sanjeev Kohli and Couch to 5k narrator, Laura.
The programme can be completed in 9 weeks.
The app features a countdown timer, a half-time bell and you can earn awards and achievements.
To find out more, click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android
(Image: Mark Bassett/Publicity Picture/www.markbassett.co.uk)
Fitbod
The Fitbod app helps users to get stronger, lose weight or gain muscle mass.
The training plan will guide you through sets, reps, and weight until you meet your fitness goal.
Get workouts that match general conditioning, strength-training, muscle tone, bodybuilding, powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting.
Results can be viewed on a body heat map and you'll be told how many calories will be burned with each workout.
To find out more, click here if you have an Apple device. Fitbod for Android is coming soon
Nike Training Club
The Nike Training Club App gives users access to a huge array of workouts of differing levels.
You'll also be given tips on training, nutrition, mindset, recovery and sleep from the Nike Performance Council.
You can create your own plan focused on your own personal goals to to fit in with your schedule.
The app features a six-week guide to get lean, workouts ranging from 15 to 45 mins, low, moderate and high intensity levels and more.
To find out more, click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android device
Simply Yoga
Simply Yoga gives users access to video demonstrations of a personal yoga instructor who will guide you through your workout.
You can choose from 20, 40 and 60 minute workouts.
There are more than 30 poses to be learned as well as three predefined routines.
To find out more, click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android device
Strava
Runners and cyclists can monitor their activity using the Strava fitness tracker.
You can track your ride or run, analyse your performance over time, run or ride with friends, earn achievements, see posts from other athletes, set goals and get perks.
Strava was named as the best app for runners in 2019 in The Running Awards.
If you aren't a runner or a cycler, the app is also able to monitor the performance of other types of exercise including swimming, hiking, gym training, CrossFit, kayaking, rock climbing, yoga and surfing.
To find out more, click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android
Sworkit
Sworkit is a daily workout app that helps its users achieve their body goals.
The app creates simple workouts that last from 1 minute to 90 minutes.
There are more than 500 bodyweight and small equipment exercises as well as 300 customisable workouts.
You can begin with a six-week programme to get 'leaner', 'fitter' or 'stronger'.
The plans include weight loss, HIIT, Tabata, cardio, strength, yoga, pilates workouts, and more.
To find out more, click here if you have an Apple device or here if you have an Android device
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. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.