themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-12--They were burgled and hounded in the street. This is what happened when they met the people who did

They were burgled and hounded in the street. This is what happened when they met the people who did it

As priest Paula Robinson stared into the face of the nervous character sitting across the table , she had a moment of recognition .
Her church , St Agnes in Reddish , had once given this man money when he was struggling to make ends meet .
But he had gone on to repay their kindness by breaking into the church and stealing from them .
As Christians , the 'bottom line ' for Paula and her congregation is to forgive wrongdoers .
But it was n't until Paula was offered the opportunity to come face to face with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how deeply his actions had affected everyone , finally allowing them to heal and move on .
Paula is one of more than 100 victims of crime who have received support from the Greater Manchester Restorative Justice Service , since its launch last summer .
The process aims to make criminals face up to their actions and give victims a sense of closure by offering both parties the chance to talk face to face .
The service is commissioned by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority , working in partnership with Greater Manchester Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is delivered by Remedi – a specialist restorative justice charity providing a one-stop shop for all things restorative justice .
Here Paula , along with Tony Wright , 22 , who met a group of youths who attempted to mug him , tell the Manchester Evening News how restorative justice helped them come to terms with the crimes committed against them .
`` He definitely had a big hand in making us think , again , about how people 's lives go off the track '' Two Christmases ago , the congregation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking forward to their annual fair .
The event plays a crucial role in helping the small community church be as self sufficient as possible , and function as a supportive hub for residents of the Stockport suburb , regardless of their faith .
They had particularly high hopes for that year 's raffle , after receiving donations of expensive bottles of alcohol , including high end champagne .
`` The people in Reddish who are the mainstay of the church are pensioners with only a state pension , '' said Paula .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get this wonderful bounty of things was great .
`` Then I got a phone call to say we 'd been broken into '' .
The thief had taken the donated bottles that the congregation had hoped would help boost their funds .
`` Everybody rallied together , they were narked .
A bit cross , but we managed to have a Christmas fair , '' added Paula .
`` We also had to clear up the mess , get the window fixed .
The most expensive thing was putting in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Worse than it costing money was the fact it made people nervous .
The neighbours were wonderful and kept an eye on the church .
`` We talked about it and the fact that because it was the booze ( that was stolen ) , it was probably somebody who needed to get off their head .
`` People were nervous , thinking someone would be waiting to get into the church if they came here in the evening .
`` We had to have a rule that no one was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really upset some people , because every volunteer had to make sure there was someone with them .
`` Then we forgot about it , in the whole scheme of things the police have enough on their hands .
Until we heard the police had caught the person who had done it . ''
While the man responsible was prosecuted through the courts , Paula and the church were asked if they would like to be involved in restorative justice .
`` I thought it was good , we 'll have the chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chance to do good to the person who did it , '' added Paula .
`` When the group of us were talking to Remedi , it became clear that it really had affected people .
`` The junior warden had to spend hours sorting stuff .
`` Other people had heard older congregation members asking if it was okay to come in the evening .
There was still a lot of anger there '' .
Paula was warned in advance that she might know the person responsible .
It turned out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man money when he was struggling financially .
`` My mandate was to let the perpetrator know that we had to forgive him , but also that he had affected us , '' added Paula .
`` We were a community that did n't just exist for ourselves , we exist to create a service for the community around us , whether they were church goers or not .
`` It 's a community place and the small group of us keep the place going , not just for ourselves but for anybody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They may be a poor congregation but last year they gave 23 rucksacks to the Wellspring because they wanted to do good .
`` Every time there 's an appeal they give money , we support the foodbank .
We are there to be a positive thing in the community .
`` I went to meet this person who would break into a church , and I was warned I might know him .
`` I did know his face , he had been one of the people to whom we 'd given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't have anything .
`` I was quite up front with him about it making people nervous , people cross , that we were struggling as a congregation to keep it going , but it was important for us to keep on going because if the church closed , something would be lost to the community '' .
Paula discovered that the man was struggling with alcohol at the time of the break in - so much so that he had no recollection of actually doing it .
`` He looked a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` He was more than 30 mins late because he was so frightened about coming .
`` But , he sat and listened .
We were sitting face to face , and he talked about the fact that he was now clean and dry , living with his mother , his dog , the event itself , which he could not remember .
`` He had absolutely no recollection of breaking into the church but he was so inept he 'd left his finger prints everywhere so the police found him .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he had done something he was unaware of , and I think for him it was kind of like the bottom of the pit .
`` He used a strange phrase , but it made me think , this man had been thinking about it .
He said : `` I broke into the home of your religion . '
`` It was a weird phrase but it told me he knew that it was n't just breaking into a building and getting some booze , he knew something about it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to come to church you 'd be welcome , no one would ever know it was you '' .
Paula returned to church and told the congregation about the meeting '' People who profess to be Christians are supposed to forgive , that 's a bottom line thing for us , but it 's amazing how we can hold onto resentment , '' added Paula .
`` I did n't know we 'd held on to resentment , me too .
`` I got more out of that because it reminded me again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us are exempt from failing into the pit and I just thought about how much more , the man was already paying for his lifestyle .
`` He 'd been censured by the courts .
The money ( which he paid back in installments of around £2.60 a week ) may not sound like a lot of money , but every time he gave it to us out of what little he has , he 's reminded that he did something , of which he is ashamed .
Read more of today 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that St Agnes was the reason he stopped drinking and is back looking after his mother , but maybe we had a small hand in it .
`` He definitely had a big hand in making us think , again , about how people 's lives go off the track .
How all our lives can go off the track and about how we 're lucky that we 've had people there to stop us going off the rails '' .
`` After I felt so , so at peace , and there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'd done something good , and got through to them '' Tony Wright , 22 , was walking to Manchester city centre along the canal path from his home in Droyslden when a group of youths tried to mug him .
As Tony got near the group , one of the boys stepped into his path , while the others surrounded him .
They demanded Tony hand over his belongings , but he stood his ground and refused .
`` It was n't a long ordeal , it was about three minutes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , more hands on , pushing me , and I just did n't know what was going to happen , '' said Tony , an office worker and stand up comic .
`` It was no more than a few minutes but there were loads of them there , any longer and I think it would have escalated into something worse '' .
Tony decided to make a break for it , but just as he was about to run , the group scattered .
That 's when he saw two police officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 'd been called because another person had been mugged a short time earlier .
The incident left Tony shaken , and with a sense of anxiety about being out in public .
Police offered him a number of options , which included pursuing the attempted mugging through the courts , or the chance to try restorative justice .
He chose the latter .
`` I 'd never heard of it and I was quite sceptical , but there was a part of me that knew that was the one I should do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice would give them a second chance but has but has a higher success rate of rehabilitating them into not committing these sorts of things again .
`` It was a mix of scepticism and hope because I 'd never heard of this before , I did n't know how it would help in anyway , I thought 'they would n't have a criminal record , they are going to get off Scot free and they are just going to go out and do this again ' .
But there was a piece @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' '' Tony talked through what would happen at the meeting with restorative justice staff , before finally coming face to face with all nine boys and their parents .
`` When the crime happened , I could n't really picture who it was , '' he added .
`` When I saw them , I saw the same shape of people , but their faces told a completely different story .
`` These people were n't laddy , they were n't having fun , they were remorseful , they were regretful , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already realised the extent of what they had done .
`` If we would have taken them to court , I think it would have just angered them , they have already come to terms with what they had done .
`` I got to say everything that was on my mind .
I got to explain to them the knock on effects , the nervousness I have being out in public now , always being worried about my own safety and I felt like they really , really listened to me .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ they just let me say my piece , and they got to say theirs , how they felt that day and how they feel now , and that was really powerful for me .
`` It was just very therapeutic , their parents spoke about the knock on effects to the family .
`` There were so many things that just make them go 'right , let 's never do this again . '
`` After I met all one to one and shook their hands , talked to their parents , one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sorry he was '' It was nothing I could have imagined but after I felt so , so at peace , and there was no stress , nothing .
I felt we 'd done something good , and got through to them . ''
Tony has since learned that all but one of the boys has stayed out of trouble since their meeting .
`` We lost one along the way but eight out of nine is incredible .
The ninth person tried to get three others involved and they all refused , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They were faced with the opportunity to go down a dark path , and now they are in the mindset to say 'no , I do n't want to do that . '
`` All that came from just us talking .
I 'm much happier with that than I would be if I got them a criminal record .
If I got to choose again I 'd do this each time '' After hearing me talk about how I felt , the apologies were really genuine .
It allowed them to own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their actions have consequences . ''
The boys ' parents all attended the meeting with their sons .
`` One dad stood up at the end of the session and addressed all of the offenders as one , '' added Tony .
`` He said 'you 've been given an opportunity now , this is your second chance and this is your only chance .
Make the right decision , because we 've all come here to explain to you what will happen next .
If you continue to act the way you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us to be there as your safety net , you 're on your own if you continue ' .
`` All the rest of the parents were in agreement .
They themselves came up to me afterwards to apologise when it 's not their job to apologise , none of them knew what was happening that day .
`` Something I got to say was 'whether you end up in court is not for me to decide .
I want to give you this opportunity , because if you go on to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then that 's on you .
Let 's do this , let 's see how it goes and your future is up to you to decide ' .
`` I would n't leave the house a couple of months ago , but now I have the confidence to do what I want to do and not be scared to live my life .
`` I 'd recommend this any time of the week .
For different situations this might not be for everyone , but I think it 's for most people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afterwards .
`` Restorative justice were there to help and gave me the help I never knew I needed .
Pre or post case , it provides closure for everyone involved '' .
Visit gmvictims.org.uk/RJ to find out more about the service or get in contact via gmrj @ gmp.police.uk or 0161 856 4866 .

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As priest Paula Robinson stared into the face of the nervous character sitting across the table, she had a moment of recognition.
Her church, St Agnes in Reddish, had once given this man money when he was struggling to make ends meet.
But he had gone on to repay their kindness by breaking into the church and stealing from them.
As Christians, the 'bottom line' for Paula and her congregation is to forgive wrongdoers.
But it wasn't until Paula was offered the opportunity to come face to face with the convicted burglar that she truly realised just how deeply his actions had affected everyone, finally allowing them to heal and move on.
Paula is one of more than 100 victims of crime who have received support from the Greater Manchester Restorative Justice Service, since its launch last summer.
The process aims to make criminals face up to their actions and give victims a sense of closure by offering both parties the chance to talk face to face.
The service is commissioned by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, working in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and other agencies across Greater Manchester, and is delivered by Remedi – a specialist restorative justice charity providing a one-stop shop for all things restorative justice.
Here Paula, along with Tony Wright, 22, who met a group of youths who attempted to mug him, tell the Manchester Evening News how restorative justice helped them come to terms with the crimes committed against them.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"He definitely had a big hand in making us think, again, about how people's lives go off the track"
Two Christmases ago, the congregation of St Agnes Church in Reddish were looking forward to their annual fair.
The event plays a crucial role in helping the small community church be as self sufficient as possible, and function as a supportive hub for residents of the Stockport suburb, regardless of their faith.
They had particularly high hopes for that year's raffle, after receiving donations of expensive bottles of alcohol, including high end champagne.
"The people in Reddish who are the mainstay of the church are pensioners with only a state pension," said Paula.
"No one is rich, so to get this wonderful bounty of things was great.
"Then I got a phone call to say we'd been broken into".
The thief had taken the donated bottles that the congregation had hoped would help boost their funds.
"Everybody rallied together, they were narked. A bit cross, but we managed to have a Christmas fair," added Paula.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"We also had to clear up the mess, get the window fixed. The most expensive thing was putting in a burglar alarm and the insurance excess.
"Worse than it costing money was the fact it made people nervous. The neighbours were wonderful and kept an eye on the church.
"We talked about it and the fact that because it was the booze (that was stolen), it was probably somebody who needed to get off their head.
"People were nervous, thinking someone would be waiting to get into the church if they came here in the evening.
"We had to have a rule that no one was in the church on their own, which really upset some people, because every volunteer had to make sure there was someone with them.
"Then we forgot about it, in the whole scheme of things the police have enough on their hands. Until we heard the police had caught the person who had done it."
While the man responsible was prosecuted through the courts, Paula and the church were asked if they would like to be involved in restorative justice.
"I thought it was good, we'll have the chance to speak to the person and have the chance to do good to the person who did it," added Paula.
"When the group of us were talking to Remedi, it became clear that it really had affected people.
"The junior warden had to spend hours sorting stuff.
"Other people had heard older congregation members asking if it was okay to come in the evening. There was still a lot of anger there".
Paula was warned in advance that she might know the person responsible.
It turned out that the church had previously given the man money when he was struggling financially.
"My mandate was to let the perpetrator know that we had to forgive him, but also that he had affected us," added Paula.
"We were a community that didn't just exist for ourselves, we exist to create a service for the community around us, whether they were church goers or not.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"It's a community place and the small group of us keep the place going, not just for ourselves but for anybody who wants to be there.
"They may be a poor congregation but last year they gave 23 rucksacks to the Wellspring because they wanted to do good.
"Every time there's an appeal they give money, we support the foodbank. We are there to be a positive thing in the community.
"I went to meet this person who would break into a church, and I was warned I might know him.
"I did know his face, he had been one of the people to whom we'd given money on a Sunday morning because he didn't have anything.
"I was quite up front with him about it making people nervous, people cross, that we were struggling as a congregation to keep it going, but it was important for us to keep on going because if the church closed, something would be lost to the community".
Paula discovered that the man was struggling with alcohol at the time of the break in - so much so that he had no recollection of actually doing it.
"He looked a sad fellow," said Paula. "He was more than 30 mins late because he was so frightened about coming.
"But, he sat and listened. We were sitting face to face, and he talked about the fact that he was now clean and dry, living with his mother, his dog, the event itself, which he could not remember.
"He had absolutely no recollection of breaking into the church but he was so inept he'd left his finger prints everywhere so the police found him.
"It stuck him all of a sudden that he had done something he was unaware of, and I think for him it was kind of like the bottom of the pit.
"He used a strange phrase, but it made me think, this man had been thinking about it. He said: "I broke into the home of your religion.'
"It was a weird phrase but it told me he knew that it wasn't just breaking into a building and getting some booze, he knew something about it.
"I said if you ever want to come to church you'd be welcome, no one would ever know it was you".
Paula returned to church and told the congregation about the meeting
"It really changed things.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"People who profess to be Christians are supposed to forgive, that's a bottom line thing for us, but it's amazing how we can hold onto resentment," added Paula.
"I didn't know we'd held on to resentment, me too.
"I got more out of that because it reminded me again of that thing, that none of us are exempt from failing into the pit and I just thought about how much more, the man was already paying for his lifestyle.
"He'd been censured by the courts. The money (which he paid back in installments of around £2.60 a week) may not sound like a lot of money, but every time he gave it to us out of what little he has, he's reminded that he did something, of which he is ashamed.
"I'm not saying that St Agnes was the reason he stopped drinking and is back looking after his mother, but maybe we had a small hand in it.
"He definitely had a big hand in making us think, again, about how people's lives go off the track. How all our lives can go off the track and about how we're lucky that we've had people there to stop us going off the rails".
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"After I felt so, so at peace, and there was no stress. I felt we'd done something good, and got through to them"
Tony Wright, 22, was walking to Manchester city centre along the canal path from his home in Droyslden when a group of youths tried to mug him.
As Tony got near the group, one of the boys stepped into his path, while the others surrounded him.
They demanded Tony hand over his belongings, but he stood his ground and refused.
"It wasn't a long ordeal, it was about three minutes, but they just kept getting more aggressive, more hands on, pushing me, and I just didn't know what was going to happen," said Tony, an office worker and stand up comic.
"It was no more than a few minutes but there were loads of them there, any longer and I think it would have escalated into something worse".
Tony decided to make a break for it, but just as he was about to run, the group scattered.
That's when he saw two police officers on the towpath.
It transpired that they'd been called because another person had been mugged a short time earlier.
The incident left Tony shaken, and with a sense of anxiety about being out in public.
Police offered him a number of options, which included pursuing the attempted mugging through the courts, or the chance to try restorative justice.
He chose the latter.
"I'd never heard of it and I was quite sceptical, but there was a part of me that knew that was the one I should do," he added.
"Restorative justice would give them a second chance but has but has a higher success rate of rehabilitating them into not committing these sorts of things again.
"It was a mix of scepticism and hope because I'd never heard of this before, I didn't know how it would help in anyway, I thought 'they wouldn't have a criminal record, they are going to get off Scot free and they are just going to go out and do this again'. But there was a piece of me that thought 'what if?'"
Tony talked through what would happen at the meeting with restorative justice staff, before finally coming face to face with all nine boys and their parents.
"When the crime happened, I couldn't really picture who it was," he added.
"When I saw them, I saw the same shape of people, but their faces told a completely different story.
"These people weren't laddy, they weren't having fun, they were remorseful, they were regretful, they were sorry.
"They had already realised the extent of what they had done.
"If we would have taken them to court, I think it would have just angered them, they have already come to terms with what they had done.
"I got to say everything that was on my mind. I got to explain to them the knock on effects, the nervousness I have being out in public now, always being worried about my own safety and I felt like they really, really listened to me.
"None of them spoke up, they just let me say my piece, and they got to say theirs, how they felt that day and how they feel now, and that was really powerful for me.
(Image: West Lothian Courier)
"It was just very therapeutic, their parents spoke about the knock on effects to the family.
"There were so many things that just make them go 'right, let's never do this again.'
"After I met all one to one and shook their hands, talked to their parents, one had written me a note explaining how sorry he was
"It was nothing I could have imagined but after I felt so, so at peace, and there was no stress, nothing. I felt we'd done something good, and got through to them."
Tony has since learned that all but one of the boys has stayed out of trouble since their meeting.
"We lost one along the way but eight out of nine is incredible. The ninth person tried to get three others involved and they all refused, which is a huge thing.
"They were faced with the opportunity to go down a dark path, and now they are in the mindset to say 'no, I don't want to do that.'
"All that came from just us talking. I'm much happier with that than I would be if I got them a criminal record. If I got to choose again I'd do this each time
"After hearing me talk about how I felt, the apologies were really genuine. It allowed them to own up to their actions and understand that their actions have consequences."
The boys' parents all attended the meeting with their sons.
"One dad stood up at the end of the session and addressed all of the offenders as one," added Tony.
"He said 'you've been given an opportunity now, this is your second chance and this is your only chance. Make the right decision, because we've all come here to explain to you what will happen next. If you continue to act the way you do, don't expect any of us to be there as your safety net, you're on your own if you continue'.
(Image: GMCA)
"All the rest of the parents were in agreement. They themselves came up to me afterwards to apologise when it's not their job to apologise, none of them knew what was happening that day.
"Something I got to say was 'whether you end up in court is not for me to decide. I want to give you this opportunity, because if you go on to do something now and wind up back here, then that's on you. Let's do this, let's see how it goes and your future is up to you to decide'.
"I wouldn't leave the house a couple of months ago, but now I have the confidence to do what I want to do and not be scared to live my life.
Follow reporter Helen Johnson on social media To follow Helen on Twitter, click here Find her Facebook news page here Find all the latest M.E.N stories on our Facebook page here
"I'd recommend this any time of the week. For different situations this might not be for everyone, but I think it's for most people. Having done it I feel great afterwards.
"Restorative justice were there to help and gave me the help I never knew I needed. Pre or post case, it provides closure for everyone involved".
Visit gmvictims.org.uk/RJ to find out more about the service or get in contact via gmrj@gmp.police.uk or 0161 856 4866.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Where is Winter Love Island 2020 filmed?

It 's only been off screens for five months , following a summer of drama , love and a lot more drama .
But , instead of having to wait another five months for the next installment , Love Island is back and it 's only January .
For the first time ITV has launched a winter version of its dating hit , meaning there will be two series in 2020 .
And there 's a lot of changes .
Of course we have a new set of Islanders - including 20-year-old twins Eve and Jess Gale , Manchester scaffolder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and heir to the Lanhydrock estate Ollie Williams .
But we also have a brand new host AND filming location .
Laura Whitmore will present the latest run following Caroline Flack 's assault charge in December .
The 34-year-old Irish star , who has had various presenting roles on TV and radio over the years , will also present the reality shows spin-off Aftersun .
Usually , those looking to find love would head to popular Brit holiday destination Mallorca in Spain .
And when the new winter series was announced , fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and chalets - but this could n't be further from the truth .
Islanders are heading to South Africa as the new villa is located in Cape Town , and it will be just as plush as the Spanish villa - and reportedly twice the size .
Space for more Islanders maybe ?
It is the perfect winter sun location for the team as Cape Town enjoys hot , sunny days and with sunset not until after 8pm , there 's plenty of daylight hours to capture all the developing drama .

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It's only been off screens for five months, following a summer of drama, love and a lot more drama.
But, instead of having to wait another five months for the next installment, Love Island is back and it's only January.
For the first time ITV has launched a winter version of its dating hit, meaning there will be two series in 2020.
And there's a lot of changes.
Of course we have a new set of Islanders - including 20-year-old twins Eve and Jess Gale, Manchester scaffolder Callum Jones, beauty consultant Siânnise Fudge and heir to the Lanhydrock estate Ollie Williams.
(Image: ITV)
But we also have a brand new host AND filming location.
Laura Whitmore will present the latest run following Caroline Flack's assault charge in December.
The 34-year-old Irish star, who has had various presenting roles on TV and radio over the years, will also present the reality shows spin-off Aftersun.
poll loading Would you propose with a £1 ring? 0+ VOTES SO FAR Yes - price doesn't matter No, it's cheap!
Usually, those looking to find love would head to popular Brit holiday destination Mallorca in Spain.
And when the new winter series was announced, fans automatically thought that it would involve ski-lodges and chalets - but this couldn't be further from the truth.
(Image: shared content unit)
Islanders are heading to South Africa as the new villa is located in Cape Town, and it will be just as plush as the Spanish villa - and reportedly twice the size. Space for more Islanders maybe?
It is the perfect winter sun location for the team as Cape Town enjoys hot, sunny days and with sunset not until after 8pm, there's plenty of daylight hours to capture all the developing drama.
Love Island airs on ITV2 at 9pm.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Dancing On Ice's Kevin Kilbane secretly split from wife for a very relatable reason

Kevin Kilbane may be happily loved up with pro skater Brianne Delcourt - but he ’ s recently confessed a very relatable reason for the breakdown of his marriage .
The ex-footballer split from his wife , Laura , in 2011 after they had been married for 12 years but split up in 2011 - something he has kept to himself for several years .
Kevin , 42 , blames naivety and settling down too young as the reason they parted ways – he was 22 when they wed after four years together .
Former Everton player Kevin has two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily Record : `` It ’ s difficult to talk about now because we ’ re not together , which you probably don ’ t know .
I ’ m not with Laura , I ’ ve not been for two-and-a-half years .
So it ’ s a difficult one .
“ I was very young .
When you do things like that you get swept up in emotions .
Looking back now , I probably would change it .
“ At that particular time , it felt right for me but as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t that way .
Again , I was very young , very naive.
” Kevin admits that his busy schedule was likely to blame for their split .
He said : `` When I moved to Hull in 2009 , I was on the road a lot .
I was away three and four nights a week .
Then I was away on international duty for Ireland 10 and 15 days at a time .
“ That ’ s what put pressure on our relationship .
That ’ s probably why we ended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part for the former footballer was breaking the news to the couple 's two daughters , Elsie and Isla .
Kevin said : `` I was always away anyway so , probably , throughout their lives they got used to me being away .
It certainly was no easier from my point of view .
“ It was very hard for me to take .
It was awful but I think my profession didn ’ t help .
It doesn ’ t help with stable family life .
`` It ’ s easier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on with doing things individually .
“ When you have kids , you still have to remain focused on your professional life and try to focus on your family too . ''
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest TV , entertainment and features from the Manchester Evening News .
To keep up to date with all that is happening , and to join in the discussion , follow the page here .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Jane Lavender, Vickie Scullard)

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Kevin Kilbane may be happily loved up with pro skater Brianne Delcourt - but he’s recently confessed a very relatable reason for the breakdown of his marriage.
The ex-footballer split from his wife, Laura, in 2011 after they had been married for 12 years but split up in 2011 - something he has kept to himself for several years.
Kevin, 42, blames naivety and settling down too young as the reason they parted ways – he was 22 when they wed after four years together.
Former Everton player Kevin has two daughters with Laura.
(Image: Getty Images)
He told the Daily Record : "It’s difficult to talk about now because we’re not together, which you probably don’t know. I’m not with Laura, I’ve not been for two-and-a-half years. So it’s a difficult one.
“I was very young. When you do things like that you get swept up in emotions. Looking back now, I probably would change it.
“At that particular time, it felt right for me but as time moves on it probably isn’t that way. Again, I was very young, very naive.”
(Image: Birmingham Post and Mail)
Kevin admits that his busy schedule was likely to blame for their split.
He said: "When I moved to Hull in 2009, I was on the road a lot. I was away three and four nights a week. Then I was away on international duty for Ireland 10 and 15 days at a time.
“That’s what put pressure on our relationship. That’s probably why we ended up splitting up.”
And the hardest part for the former footballer was breaking the news to the couple's two daughters, Elsie and Isla.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Kevin said: "I was always away anyway so, probably, throughout their lives they got used to me being away. It certainly was no easier from my point of view.
“It was very hard for me to take. It was awful but I think my profession didn’t help. It doesn’t help with stable family life.
"It’s easier without kids because you can both get on with doing things individually.
“When you have kids, you still have to remain focused on your professional life and try to focus on your family too."
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themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--The unbeaten Man City partnership making Pep Guardiola think again

Gabriel Jesus and Sergio Aguero once made it impossible for Pep Guardiola not to pick them both , and the Manchester City manager has more to think about after the 6-1 shellacking of Aston Villa .
Sunday was of course Aguero 's day with his three goals embedding him further into the history books as one of the finest players ever to grace the Premier League , but there were a number of subplots .
Riyad Mahrez impressed again , Kevin De Bruyne continued his prolific form and Gabriel Jesus added to his personal numbers that are anything but shabby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competitions for the Blues , the Brazilian 's goal meant he has now directly contributed to 71 goals with 54 for himself and 17 assists .
If that underlines his credentials to become the long-term successor on the day that Aguero does decide to call it a day , it is his partnership with the Argentine that is more interesting to City 's immediate future .
With the three-man midfield that was the driving force behind the last two titles increasingly not being turned to by the manager , the formations are becoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guardiola played with no recognised strikers with his take on a 4-4-2 and At Villa Park he used both in the same lineup for the first league game since September 2018 .
The manager may bristle at such basic reading into facts , but City really do score more goals with two strikers on the pitch rather than one .
In 11 league starts , Aguero has scored 14 , Jesus 8 and the team 40 at an average close to four per match .
Those games have resulted in nine wins and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ works , Jesus said : `` I think , because I want to score , he wants to score so that 's the point , you know .
`` I can score maybe normally , two or three [ against Villa ] but I missed the chance and Sergio scored a hat-trick .
If Raheem [ Sterling ] plays I 'm sure he scores - we have to do it .
We work hard to score and win games .
`` Today I played as a winger .
Of course I 've played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When I was in Palmeiras I played like a winger .
So , today I played as a winger , I can run I can fight , I have the space .
I think before when I play with Sergio , we play as two strikers , today I played as a winger so it 's different . ''
As the 22-year-old alludes to , Guardiola is not short of options and Raheem Sterling remains on course for his most prolific campaign .
Equally though , Jesus 's versatility and ability to play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both of his main strikers without having two up top .
It does n't feel like it will be another 17-month wait before Jesus and Aguero are paired up again in the Premier League .

Gabriel Jesus and Sergio Aguero once made it impossible for Pep Guardiola not to pick them both, and the Manchester City manager has more to think about after the 6-1 shellacking of Aston Villa.
Sunday was of course Aguero's day with his three goals embedding him further into the history books as one of the finest players ever to grace the Premier League, but there were a number of subplots. Riyad Mahrez impressed again, Kevin De Bruyne continued his prolific form and Gabriel Jesus added to his personal numbers that are anything but shabby.
On his 76th start in all competitions for the Blues, the Brazilian's goal meant he has now directly contributed to 71 goals with 54 for himself and 17 assists.
If that underlines his credentials to become the long-term successor on the day that Aguero does decide to call it a day, it is his partnership with the Argentine that is more interesting to City's immediate future.
With the three-man midfield that was the driving force behind the last two titles increasingly not being turned to by the manager, the formations are becoming less predictable. At Old Trafford, Guardiola played with no recognised strikers with his take on a 4-4-2 and At Villa Park he used both in the same lineup for the first league game since September 2018.
The manager may bristle at such basic reading into facts, but City really do score more goals with two strikers on the pitch rather than one. In 11 league starts, Aguero has scored 14, Jesus 8 and the team 40 at an average close to four per match. Those games have resulted in nine wins and two draws.
Explaining why the partnership works, Jesus said: "I think, because I want to score, he wants to score so that's the point, you know.
"I can score maybe normally, two or three [against Villa] but I missed the chance and Sergio scored a hat-trick. If Raheem [Sterling] plays I'm sure he scores - we have to do it. We work hard to score and win games.
"Today I played as a winger. Of course I've played there for the national team before. When I was in Palmeiras I played like a winger. So, today I played as a winger, I can run I can fight, I have the space. I think before when I play with Sergio, we play as two strikers, today I played as a winger so it's different."
As the 22-year-old alludes to, Guardiola is not short of options and Raheem Sterling remains on course for his most prolific campaign. Equally though, Jesus's versatility and ability to play out wide allows the manager to use both of his main strikers without having two up top.
It doesn't feel like it will be another 17-month wait before Jesus and Aguero are paired up again in the Premier League.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Manchester United transfer news LIVE Bruno Fernandes bid latest and Moussa Dembele reports

Manchester United will aim to book a place in the fourth round of the FA Cup when they face Wolves @ @ @ @ @ .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side picked up their first win of 2020 against Norwich @ @ @ @ @ goals from Marcus Rashford , Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood .
Rashford was substituted during @ @ @ @ @ change was nothing more than a precaution .
`` Fancied a hat-trick today but busy @ @ @ @ @ '' the forward wrote on Twitter .
`` Just a precaution and looking forward to @ @ @ @ @ . ''
On the transfer front , United continue to be linked with Sporting Lisbon @ @ @ @ @ January transfer window .
Solskjaer was coy when specifically asked about speculation linking Fernandes with @ @ @ @ @ the win against Norwich .
Stick with us as we bring you all the latest @ @ @ @ @ .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk ( Charlotte Duncker, Joe Bray)

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer declined to give an update on his club's pursuit of signing Bruno Fernandes in this transfer window.
United are understood to be interested in signing Sporting Lisbon playmaker Fernandes, 25, nearly five months after club sources expressed their 'irritation' at planted stories in the Portuguese media. United did not approach Sporting with an offer for Fernandes in the summer but could go ahead with a deal before the January 31 deadline with negotiations ongoing.
MEN Sport understands United regard the £50million rated Fernandes as an appealing mid-season addition following injuries to midfielders Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba.
Solskjaer said he couldn't provide an update while speaking in a press-conference ahead of the FA Cup replay with Wolves, which takes place at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.
United have also been linked with a host of strikers, including Raul Jimenez and Moussa Dembele.
Stay tuned for the latest United news throughout the day.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Prince Harry and Prince William release joint statement over 'bullying' claims

Prince Harry and Prince William have released a joint statement addressing claims that Harry had been 'bullied ' out of the Royal Family by his brother .
The statement was released this morning ahead of crunch talks at Sandringham over the future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex , who announced last week that they were stepping back as 'senior members ' of the Royal Family .
Several national papers ran reports today suggesting that Prince Harry 's reason for leaving came down to his brother 's 'bullying ' - a claim that has now been strongly denied by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Despite clear denials , a false story ran in a UK newspaper today speculating about the relationship between The Duke of Sussex and The Duke of Cambridge .
“ For brothers who care so deeply about the issues surrounding mental health , the use of inflammatory language in this way is offensive and potentially harmful.
” The Sandringham summit today will be the first time the Queen has spoken in person to her grandson , Prince Harry , since the announcement .
Meghan is currently in Canada with the couple 's baby son @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take part via a video call .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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Prince Harry and Prince William have released a joint statement addressing claims that Harry had been 'bullied' out of the Royal Family by his brother.
The statement was released this morning ahead of crunch talks at Sandringham over the future of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who announced last week that they were stepping back as 'senior members' of the Royal Family.
Several national papers ran reports today suggesting that Prince Harry's reason for leaving came down to his brother's 'bullying' - a claim that has now been strongly denied by both.
The statement reads: “Despite clear denials, a false story ran in a UK newspaper today speculating about the relationship between The Duke of Sussex and The Duke of Cambridge.
“For brothers who care so deeply about the issues surrounding mental health, the use of inflammatory language in this way is offensive and potentially harmful.”
The Sandringham summit today will be the first time the Queen has spoken in person to her grandson, Prince Harry, since the announcement.
Meghan is currently in Canada with the couple's baby son, Archie, but is expected to take part via a video call.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Revealed: The parts of Bolton with the biggest rat infestation problems

The parts of Bolton with the biggest pest control problems have been revealed .
Postcodes in Bolton town centre , Farnworth and Great Lever all feature in the top ten areas visited by pest control in 2019 .
Crompton Way , Hall Lane and Alberta Street had more than 100 rat-related visits between them while Crescent Road was the most visited for mice .
There were 30 rat-related emergency visits , three of which were in Anglia Grove at the start of the year .
Rats were by far the most common pest the local authority dealt with at 8,948 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mice at second place .
But for those people who can not wait for Bolton Council to visit their property and are willing to pay more to exterminate pests , private companies available with some offering a same day service .
Ian Smith from Horwich , who has run his own pest control business for around 20 years , said rats seem to be getting inside buildings and homes more easily these days .
He claims eight out of ten cases of rats found in properties are caused by sewer faults .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the pipes which connect to the sewer system .
He said : “ Rats get into the fabric of the building .
It ’ s something a lot of pest control companies don ’ t want to admit because it can be hard work to find the fault .
“ It can be expensive , it can be frustrating .
But at the moment that ’ s the key to the problem in Bolton and everywhere else.
” Mr Smith , whose father also worked in pest control , said that flooded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in rats-related call outs this winter .
Rats and mice tend to keep pest control services busiest in the autumn and throughout the winter .
He said : “ You get problems with rats and mice throughout the year but it usually spikes in the winter because it ’ s cold so they look for a warm place where there ’ s more food readily available that outside.
” Mr Glover said that having a rat infestations can often be a case of “ bad luck ” but sometimes the problem is linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pipes not being sealed properly .
He said that wasp nests start becoming an issue in the summer as well as ants .
There were hundreds of visits by the council ’ s pest control team related to wasps , bedbugs and ants last year as well as a small number of cases of silverfish , moles and beetles .
Treatment for rats usually consists of two or three visits but an infestation of bed bugs in Russell Street this year required 15 visits for one course .
Properties on Jessie Street , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 21 times each for bed bugs while Pixmore Avenue and Kent Court were the most visited cockroaches .
However , Mr Glover said that he has noticed a decrease in the number of calls he receives related to cockroaches in the 15 years he has operated in Bolton .
The postcodes which the council visited the most over the last year were revealed following a Freedom of Information request .
The Middlebrook area topped the list but many visits were routine , relating to a commercial contract with Bolton Wanderers .
The council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Home relating to Paderborn Court accounting for multiple visits as a preventative measure .
A council spokesman said : “ The council ’ s pest control team undertake visits to domestic and commercial properties across the borough .
“ We understand that people may look at the figures and think there ’ s a bigger pest problem in certain areas but this is not necessarily the case .
“ Quite often a number of visits will form one course of treatment .
Many of the locations with higher number of visits are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place , which means we will routinely visit on multiple occasions .
“ This is the case for Bolton Wanderers hence the high number of visits to the Middlebrook area .
“ We also routinely undertake a number of scheduled checks in some areas – this means that while these postcodes may show multiple visits , this is for prevention work rather than to tackle an infestation.
” To report a problem in your home call 01204 336553 or 336047 for businesses .
The postcodes which the council ’ s pest control team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were revealed following a Freedom of Information request .
The data provided shows how many times the local authority visited a property , but some were routine visits .
This includes a commercial contract with Bolton Wanders which explains why the Middlebrook area features so high on the list .
The figures only show visits made by the council ’ s pest control team and does not take into account activity by private providers .
Middlebrook Retail Park , for example , uses a private pest control service .
The most visited postcodes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the following locations There were 8,948 rat-related visits by the council last year .
Here are the top 10 There were 705 wasp-related visits by the council last year .
Here are the top 10

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Joseph Timan, Local Democracy Reporter)

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The parts of Bolton with the biggest pest control problems have been revealed.
Postcodes in Bolton town centre, Farnworth and Great Lever all feature in the top ten areas visited by pest control in 2019.
Crompton Way, Hall Lane and Alberta Street had more than 100 rat-related visits between them while Crescent Road was the most visited for mice.
There were 30 rat-related emergency visits, three of which were in Anglia Grove at the start of the year.
Rats were by far the most common pest the local authority dealt with at 8,948 visits – almost ten times more than mice at second place.
But for those people who cannot wait for Bolton Council to visit their property and are willing to pay more to exterminate pests, private companies available with some offering a same day service.
Ian Smith from Horwich, who has run his own pest control business for around 20 years, said rats seem to be getting inside buildings and homes more easily these days.
He claims eight out of ten cases of rats found in properties are caused by sewer faults.
This is when there are cracks and breakages in the pipes which connect to the sewer system.
He said: “Rats get into the fabric of the building. It’s something a lot of pest control companies don’t want to admit because it can be hard work to find the fault.
“It can be expensive, it can be frustrating. But at the moment that’s the key to the problem in Bolton and everywhere else.”
Mr Smith, whose father also worked in pest control, said that flooded sewers have also contributed to an increase in rats-related call outs this winter.
Rats and mice tend to keep pest control services busiest in the autumn and throughout the winter.
Andrew Glover, director of Premier Environmental pest control, explained why.
He said: “You get problems with rats and mice throughout the year but it usually spikes in the winter because it’s cold so they look for a warm place where there’s more food readily available that outside.”
Mr Glover said that having a rat infestations can often be a case of “bad luck” but sometimes the problem is linked to poor hygiene, building maintenance or pipes not being sealed properly.
He said that wasp nests start becoming an issue in the summer as well as ants.
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
There were hundreds of visits by the council’s pest control team related to wasps, bedbugs and ants last year as well as a small number of cases of silverfish, moles and beetles.
Treatment for rats usually consists of two or three visits but an infestation of bed bugs in Russell Street this year required 15 visits for one course.
Properties on Jessie Street, Philips Avenue and Adrian Road were visited 21 times each for bed bugs while Pixmore Avenue and Kent Court were the most visited cockroaches.
However, Mr Glover said that he has noticed a decrease in the number of calls he receives related to cockroaches in the 15 years he has operated in Bolton.
The postcodes which the council visited the most over the last year were revealed following a Freedom of Information request.
The Middlebrook area topped the list but many visits were routine, relating to a commercial contract with Bolton Wanderers.
The council also has a contract with Bolton at Home relating to Paderborn Court accounting for multiple visits as a preventative measure.
A council spokesman said: “The council’s pest control team undertake visits to domestic and commercial properties across the borough.
“We understand that people may look at the figures and think there’s a bigger pest problem in certain areas but this is not necessarily the case.
“Quite often a number of visits will form one course of treatment. Many of the locations with higher number of visits are also due to us having commercial contracts in place, which means we will routinely visit on multiple occasions.
“This is the case for Bolton Wanderers hence the high number of visits to the Middlebrook area.
“We also routinely undertake a number of scheduled checks in some areas – this means that while these postcodes may show multiple visits, this is for prevention work rather than to tackle an infestation.”
To report a problem in your home call 01204 336553 or 336047 for businesses.
MyBolton To get all the latest Bolton news, events and information, go to our MyBolton news channel. We also have a dedicated Facebook page, and you can follow us on Twitter.
Top ten postcodes
The postcodes which the council’s pest control team visited the most over the last year were revealed following a Freedom of Information request.
The data provided shows how many times the local authority visited a property, but some were routine visits.
This includes a commercial contract with Bolton Wanders which explains why the Middlebrook area features so high on the list.
The figures only show visits made by the council’s pest control team and does not take into account activity by private providers.
Middlebrook Retail Park, for example, uses a private pest control service.
The most visited postcodes by the council last year were at the following locations
BL6 6SF (Middlebrook area) – 100 visits
BL1 4TX (Paderborn Court) – 50 visits
BL1 4BE (Russell Street) – 50 visits
BL4 7QS (Hall Lane) – 44 visits
BL3 2JS (Crescent Road) – 43 visits
BL1 8TL (Crompton Way) – 43 visits
BL4 9BJ (Philips Avenue) – 42 visits
BL3 5DX (Wellington Street) – 40 visits
BL3 5PE (Jessie Street) – 38 visits
BL4 7QQ (Glenbrook Gardens) – 37 visits
There were 8,948 rat-related visits by the council last year. Here are the top 10
BL6 6SF (Middlebrook area) – 74 visits
BL1 8TL (Crompton Way) – 38 visits
BL4 7QS (Hall Lane) – 35 visits
BL3 5JD (Alberta Street) – 32 visits
BL3 4BD (Daisy Street/Broomfield Road) – 31 visits
BL3 3AR (Hamel Street) – 28 visits
BL3 5DX (Wellington Street) – 25 visits
BL3 4AW (Church Avenue) – 25 visits
BL1 4LJ (Gilnow Road) – 25 visits
BL1 3QE (Wolfenden Street) – 25 visits
There were 705 wasp-related visits by the council last year. Here are the top 10
BL6 6LG (Brazley Avenue) – 5 visits
BL3 4QE (Armadale Road) – 5 visits
BL2 5HA (Winster Drive) – 5 visits
BL1 5RZ (Great Marld Close – 5 visits
BL1 6QY (Dunoon Drive) – 5 visits
BL2 2RD (Rossall Close) – 5 visits
BL1 3XG (Constable Close) – 4 visits
BL2 5AA (Winchester Way) – 4 visits
BL5 3HS (Beehive Green) – 4 visits
BL1 8SD (Parkgate Drive – 4 visits


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--A trip of two halves - from the champagne hills of rural France to the glitz and glamour of Paris

As we whizz through the autumnal vineyards of the French countryside on electric bikes I make a quick mental note - I love this country .
The quaint villages of the Champagne-Ardenne region spring up before us during our quest to find the final resting place of Dom Perignon .
It may sound like an unusual visitor 's attraction but this is the heart of France 's champagne region and , as we soon find out , they live and breathe the bubbly stuff here .
In fact during our two night stay in this rural haven , just a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we become connoisseurs of the famous French sparkling wine .
It 's hard not to when staying at the Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa with it 's spectacular views of the rolling hillside , awash with grapes .
This newly-renovated luxury hotel has a fascinating history as legend has it that Napoléon Bonaparte once stopped here to rest his horses at the former historic coaching inn .
The French statesman and military leader has left his mark either way becoming the proud emblem of the hotel .
Perched on the hillside it overlooks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is within 10 minutes of Épernay , the capital of Champagne .
Arriving at this pristine complex and we are made to feel like royalty with a hearty welcome from the receptionist and hotel manager .
The interior is stunning and my eyes flicker between the huge floral chandelier and subtle architectural detail .
After a chirpy check-in we are shown to our huge double room with its crisp white bedding and classic marigold walls .
A bucket of Champagne is laid out as an extra welcome , of course , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the French countryside .
Striding through the room we draw back the glass doors and step out on to our panoramic balcony as a mist settled on the vines .
It 's stunning and atmospheric in equal measures although we soon retreat back into the warmth .
The impressive hotel has 49 spacious rooms looking out across the vineyards all with outdoor terraces where you can soak up the views .
Our two nights at the re-imagined retreat gives us ample time to tuck in to some great French cuisine .
We take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Le Bellevue sat beneath a thousand crystal pendants which softly reflect the wintery sun .
The restaurant takes its cues from the 'terroir ' of Champagne as chef Jean-Denis Rieubland sources his produce and meat from locals and friends in the region .
This results in an ever-evolving menu full of rich stories and intense flavours .
During our stay I try the herb crusted chicken with pasta and fresh mushrooms while my dining partner goes for the Ardennes pork tenderloin , served with risotto , olives and full bodied jus .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Le Royal , which exudes intimacy with carefully painted wall partitions of the most prominent women in Napoleon 's life , including his mistresses , which raises an eyebrow .
Spa life and champagne for the next generation Between the champagne sipping and high dining make sure you leave enough time to enjoy the spa .
The endless views and outdoor heated infinity pool make it a joyful experience and let 's face it very Instagrammable .
We take a dip in the cool elongated pool before warming up in the jacuzzi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcome glass of cucumber water .
I also pay an early morning visit to the spa later in our stay to experience one of their many treatments .
The 30 minute Biologique Recherche facial leaves me refreshed and smelling divine followed by a relaxing 30 minute KOS massage .
Later we are chauffeured to a local Champagne House for a tasting session which turns out to be a highlight of our stay .
Maison Leclerc Briant , in Epernay , has a fascinating history as it conceals a maze of underground wine cellars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a really special place and well worth a visit to see first-hand the passion and intricacy that goes into making their organic and biodynamic Champagne .
They are pioneers , no doubt about it , and we eagerly drink in the information from our knowledgeable guide .
Although some of their ideas are outright quirky , like getting inside a gold lined barrel for a spiritual experience , I sort of love it !
My favourite of their Champagnes is Abyss which is aged in a crate under the Atlantic resulting in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taste is quite dry and am I imagining a hint of saltiness ?
Who cares , the concept is next level and it 's got people talking as well as quaffing .
Our stay at The Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa is top notch and well worth the 40 minute trip from Paris .
The staff can not do enough for you and we were even sad to leave this place behind , although much more relaxed and clued up on their most famous export .
A life of beauty and excess in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we head to the grand historical heart of Paris for our next stay at the opulent Le Bristol .
Sitting proudly on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré this former mansion is found close to the Élysée Palace .
From its inauguration in 1925 , Le Bristol has been a favourite haven for leading figures from around the world , who appreciate the hotel ’ s exceptional standards , its excellence in service and its absolute discretion After feeling like royalty in the Champagne region I suddenly feel like I 'm among A-listers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Immaculate porters welcome us into the grand foyer filled with extravagant flower displays , attentive staff and expensive gifts in glass cases .
Le Bristol boasts of 'cultivating the French art of living ' throughout its 190 rooms by combining a classic style with a pervading calmness .
This serenity is certainly found in the garden terrace , which is one of my favourite spaces , as you feel like hidden from the clamor of capital life .
The decor inside this elite hotel needs to be seen to be believed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17th-century antique tapestries and a huge peacock guards the entrance of a concealed cocktail bar .
Our room feels like we 've walked into a modern day Downtown Abbey with a chandelier , lounging sofas and enough space for a small family .
Mum takes up position as the Grand Duchess in one wing , looking slightly bemused , and sets about nibbling on the sweet treats laid out before us .
Time for lunch and we head down to Café Antonia , another luxurious space where the pull of people-watching is offset @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Overlooked by a portrait of Marie Antoinette the drawing room-style restaurant lives up to the hotel 's core value of French authenticity .
I take a butternut squash veloute with chestnut foam for a starter and declare it 's the best thing I 've tasted on the trip .
Especially in the chilly winter weather .
Mains include steak tartare with onion rings for me and grilled steak with champagne mushrooms for mum , washed down with a sweet rose wine .
This soon adds up when you 're living the high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bill sat at just under the equivalent of £200 without desserts .
Le Bristol is high end there 's no doubt about it but for a special occasion or long weekend why not treat yourself and see how the other half live .
easyJet flies to Paris Charles de Gaulle from 10 UK airports , including Manchester , with prices starting from £47.08 per person ( return , including taxes . )
All flights can be booked at www.easyjet.com Rates at Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa start from around £300 per night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ B & B basis .
To book a stay at the majestic rural hotel visit royalchampagne.com .
The fast TGV train from Paris to Champagne takes approx .
40 minutes and fares start from €10 one-way .
Or if you 're heading to Paris and are feeling flush rates at Le Bristol start at around £1,200 for a superior suite , room only .
For more information visit oetkercollection.com/hotels/le-bristol-paris .

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As we whizz through the autumnal vineyards of the French countryside on electric bikes I make a quick mental note - I love this country.
The quaint villages of the Champagne-Ardenne region spring up before us during our quest to find the final resting place of Dom Perignon.
It may sound like an unusual visitor's attraction but this is the heart of France's champagne region and, as we soon find out, they live and breathe the bubbly stuff here.
In fact during our two night stay in this rural haven, just a 40 minute train journey from Paris, we become connoisseurs of the famous French sparkling wine.
It's hard not to when staying at the Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa with it's spectacular views of the rolling hillside, awash with grapes.
This newly-renovated luxury hotel has a fascinating history as legend has it that Napoléon Bonaparte once stopped here to rest his horses at the former historic coaching inn.
The French statesman and military leader has left his mark either way becoming the proud emblem of the hotel.
Perched on the hillside it overlooks the charming villages of Champillon and Hautvilliers and is within 10 minutes of Épernay, the capital of Champagne.
A stay fit for royalty
Arriving at this pristine complex and we are made to feel like royalty with a hearty welcome from the receptionist and hotel manager.
The interior is stunning and my eyes flicker between the huge floral chandelier and subtle architectural detail.
After a chirpy check-in we are shown to our huge double room with its crisp white bedding and classic marigold walls.
A bucket of Champagne is laid out as an extra welcome, of course, and we cheers to a safe arrival in the French countryside.
Striding through the room we draw back the glass doors and step out on to our panoramic balcony as a mist settled on the vines.
It's stunning and atmospheric in equal measures although we soon retreat back into the warmth.
The impressive hotel has 49 spacious rooms looking out across the vineyards all with outdoor terraces where you can soak up the views.
Dining in style
Our two nights at the re-imagined retreat gives us ample time to tuck in to some great French cuisine.
We take dinner and lunch at the main restaurant Le Bellevue sat beneath a thousand crystal pendants which softly reflect the wintery sun.
The restaurant takes its cues from the 'terroir' of Champagne as chef Jean-Denis Rieubland sources his produce and meat from locals and friends in the region. This results in an ever-evolving menu full of rich stories and intense flavours.
During our stay I try the herb crusted chicken with pasta and fresh mushrooms while my dining partner goes for the Ardennes pork tenderloin, served with risotto, olives and full bodied jus.
There is also a Michelin star restaurant on-site, Le Royal, which exudes intimacy with carefully painted wall partitions of the most prominent women in Napoleon's life, including his mistresses, which raises an eyebrow.
Spa life and champagne for the next generation
Between the champagne sipping and high dining make sure you leave enough time to enjoy the spa.
The endless views and outdoor heated infinity pool make it a joyful experience and let's face it very Instagrammable.
We take a dip in the cool elongated pool before warming up in the jacuzzi, steam room and sauna with a welcome glass of cucumber water.
I also pay an early morning visit to the spa later in our stay to experience one of their many treatments.
The 30 minute Biologique Recherche facial leaves me refreshed and smelling divine followed by a relaxing 30 minute KOS massage.
Later we are chauffeured to a local Champagne House for a tasting session which turns out to be a highlight of our stay.
Maison Leclerc Briant, in Epernay, has a fascinating history as it conceals a maze of underground wine cellars and tunnels used during war-time.
This is a really special place and well worth a visit to see first-hand the passion and intricacy that goes into making their organic and biodynamic Champagne.
They are pioneers, no doubt about it, and we eagerly drink in the information from our knowledgeable guide.
Although some of their ideas are outright quirky, like getting inside a gold lined barrel for a spiritual experience, I sort of love it!
My favourite of their Champagnes is Abyss which is aged in a crate under the Atlantic resulting in an awesome barnacle encrusted bottle.
The taste is quite dry and am I imagining a hint of saltiness? Who cares, the concept is next level and it's got people talking as well as quaffing.
Our stay at The Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa is top notch and well worth the 40 minute trip from Paris.
The staff can not do enough for you and we were even sad to leave this place behind, although much more relaxed and clued up on their most famous export.
A life of beauty and excess in Paris
Back in the bustling capital and we head to the grand historical heart of Paris for our next stay at the opulent Le Bristol.
Sitting proudly on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré this former mansion is found close to the Élysée Palace.
From its inauguration in 1925, Le Bristol has been a favourite haven for leading figures from around the world, who appreciate the hotel’s exceptional standards, its excellence in service and its absolute discretion
After feeling like royalty in the Champagne region I suddenly feel like I'm among A-listers and long-standing influencers at this stunning city hotel.
Immaculate porters welcome us into the grand foyer filled with extravagant flower displays, attentive staff and expensive gifts in glass cases.
Le Bristol boasts of 'cultivating the French art of living' throughout its 190 rooms by combining a classic style with a pervading calmness.
This serenity is certainly found in the garden terrace, which is one of my favourite spaces, as you feel like hidden from the clamor of capital life.
Inside Le Bristol
The decor inside this elite hotel really does need to be seen to be believed, as polished marble floors give way to 17th-century antique tapestries and a huge peacock guards the entrance of a concealed cocktail bar.
Our room feels like we've walked into a modern day Downtown Abbey with a chandelier, lounging sofas and enough space for a small family.
Mum takes up position as the Grand Duchess in one wing, looking slightly bemused, and sets about nibbling on the sweet treats laid out before us.
Time for lunch and we head down to Café Antonia, another luxurious space where the pull of people-watching is offset by the very expensive but delicious food.
Overlooked by a portrait of Marie Antoinette the drawing room-style restaurant lives up to the hotel's core value of French authenticity.
I take a butternut squash veloute with chestnut foam for a starter and declare it's the best thing I've tasted on the trip. Especially in the chilly winter weather.
Mains include steak tartare with onion rings for me and grilled steak with champagne mushrooms for mum, washed down with a sweet rose wine.
This soon adds up when you're living the high life at a five star hotel and the bill sat at just under the equivalent of £200 without desserts.
Le Bristol is high end there's no doubt about it but for a special occasion or long weekend why not treat yourself and see how the other half live.
Fact box
easyJet flies to Paris Charles de Gaulle from 10 UK airports, including Manchester, with prices starting from £47.08 per person (return, including taxes.) All flights can be booked at www.easyjet.com
Rates at Royal Champagne Hotel and Spa start from around £300 per night in a Garden Junior Suite on a B&B basis. To book a stay at the majestic rural hotel visit royalchampagne.com.
The fast TGV train from Paris to Champagne takes approx. 40 minutes and fares start from €10 one-way.
Or if you're heading to Paris and are feeling flush rates at Le Bristol start at around £1,200 for a superior suite, room only. For more information visit oetkercollection.com/hotels/le-bristol-paris.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Manchester man charged with two others with terror offences

A Manchester man has been charged - along with two others - with terror offences following police raids .
Officers held three suspects on December 30 as part of a planned operation in Manchester , Peterborough and north London .
The Metropolitan Police have now said the men have been been charged with offences under the Terrorism Act .
Mohamed Ismail , 23 , from north London , is accused of two counts of disseminating a terrorist publication , while Muhammed Tahir , 19 , from Peterborough , faces one count of the same offence .
Mohammed Saeed , 21 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five counts of possessing an article suspected to be for a purpose connected to terrorism .
The three men will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates ' Court on Monday .
A fourth man , aged 22 , who was arrested in north London as part of the same investigation , has been released with no further action .
The full Metropolitan Police statement reads : `` Three men have been charged with terrorism offences following an investigation by the Met 's Counter Terrorism Command with support from Counter Terrorism Policing North West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Region Special Operations Unit ( ERSOU ) CTP colleagues .
`` Mohammed Saeed , 21 ( 25.03.98 ) of Manchester , was charged with five offences contrary to section 57 ( 1 ) of the Terrorism Act ( TACT ) 2000 : possessing an article in circumstances which give rise to a reasonable suspicion that the possession is for a purpose connected with the commission , preparation or instigation of an act of terrorism .
`` Mohamed Ismail , 23 ( 11.06.96 ) of north London , was charged with two offences contrary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( TACT ) 2006 : on suspicion of disseminating a terrorist publication .
`` Muhammed Tahir , 19 ( 17.06.00 ) of Peterborough , was charged with one offence contrary to section 2 of the Terrorism Act ( TACT ) 2006 : on suspicion of disseminating a terrorist publication .
`` On 30 December 2019 , the three men were arrested as part of a planned operation .
They were subsequently charged with the above offences .
`` A 22-year-old man arrested in north London as part of the same operation on suspicion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an act of terrorism under Section 40 ( 1 ) ( b ) Terrorism Act ( TACT ) 2000 , was released with no further action .
`` The three men charged will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates ' Court on Monday , 13 January . ''

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Margaret Davis, Todd Fitzgerald)

A Manchester man has been charged - along with two others - with terror offences following police raids.
Officers held three suspects on December 30 as part of a planned operation in Manchester, Peterborough and north London.
The Metropolitan Police have now said the men have been been charged with offences under the Terrorism Act.
Mohamed Ismail, 23, from north London, is accused of two counts of disseminating a terrorist publication, while Muhammed Tahir, 19, from Peterborough, faces one count of the same offence.
Mohammed Saeed, 21, from Manchester, was charged with five counts of possessing an article suspected to be for a purpose connected to terrorism.
The three men will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday.
A fourth man, aged 22, who was arrested in north London as part of the same investigation, has been released with no further action.
(Image: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire)
The full Metropolitan Police statement reads: "Three men have been charged with terrorism offences following an investigation by the Met's Counter Terrorism Command with support from Counter Terrorism Policing North West (CTPNW) unit and the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU) CTP colleagues.
"Mohammed Saeed, 21 (25.03.98) of Manchester, was charged with five offences contrary to section 57(1) of the Terrorism Act (TACT) 2000: possessing an article in circumstances which give rise to a reasonable suspicion that the possession is for a purpose connected with the commission, preparation or instigation of an act of terrorism.
"Mohamed Ismail, 23 (11.06.96) of north London, was charged with two offences contrary to section 2 of the Terrorism Act (TACT) 2006: on suspicion of disseminating a terrorist publication.
"Muhammed Tahir, 19 (17.06.00) of Peterborough, was charged with one offence contrary to section 2 of the Terrorism Act (TACT) 2006: on suspicion of disseminating a terrorist publication.
"On 30 December 2019, the three men were arrested as part of a planned operation. They were subsequently charged with the above offences.
"A 22-year-old man arrested in north London as part of the same operation on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of an act of terrorism under Section 40(1)(b) Terrorism Act (TACT) 2000, was released with no further action.
"The three men charged will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday, 13 January."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Piccadilly Gardens stabbing which left four injured was 'feud between rough sleepers'...a police and

Piccadilly Gardens stabbing which left four injured was 'feud between rough sleepers'...a police and council crisis meeting will now take place

A stabbing in Piccadilly Gardens which left four people injured on Sunday night was a feud between rough sleepers , a city centre spokesperson has confirmed .
Two people were stabbed and two others were injured in the bloody knife attack on Market Street .
A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of serious assault following the incident , which left one person requiring hospital treatment .
GMP said a taser was used during the arrest .
Councillor Pat Karney said the incident arose from an argument between a group of rough sleepers .
He announced a crisis meeting between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later today after Sunday night 's attack came just 48 hours after an unrelated stabbing in Piccadilly Gardens .
A 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital after he was stabbed during a fight in the area on Friday , 10 January .
Cllr Karney wrote on Twitter : `` Incident one outside Morrisons was a 'domestic relationship fight ' and incident last night was a rough sleeper feuding with other rough sleepers . ''
He told the M.E.N : `` We will review the two incidents in the Piccadilly Gardens area to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These incidents , though rare , are alarming to the public .
`` Personally , I would like to see anyone convicted of carrying knives banned from our city centre . ''
One eyewitness described hearing a homeless man screaming during chaotic scenes on Sunday evening .
Footage shared by one passerby shows officers pinning a man to the ground on a crowded platform at the Market Street tram stop .
A large blood stain , a roll of tissue and an abandoned sleeping bag could be seen outside a Greggs shop along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was walking towards Market Street when he watched the incident unfold .
He told the M.E.N : “ A homeless man was surrounded , he was screaming .
“ At first sight I thought it was over money or he was on drugs , then a group of lads shouted to the people surrounding the homeless man : ‘ he ’ s on the tram , he ’ s here ’ .
“ Everybody on the tram got off leaving this one male on his own on the tram .
`` He was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tram .
`` Then two female PCSOs came running over being cautious telling the surrounding crowd to back off . ''
GMP said they are treating the attack as an isolated incident and do not believe there to be any wider threat to the public .
A police cordon remained in place along the length of the Market Street tram stop on Sunday night .
The area has now been reopened to the public and trams are running through the stop as normal .
Following this weekend 's incidents , scores of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whom say they now actively avoid the area .
One woman wrote on Facebook : `` It 's genuinely getting to a point where I do n't want to take my children .
`` They love visiting the fountains but due to all the drugs there and people casually smoking weed we 've not been in ages .
Read more of today 's top stories here Another said : `` It 's so bad now .
I worked at Lewis ' for 14 years back in the 80s and spent many an afternoon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lovely Piccadilly Gardens .
`` Seriously ca n't believe what is going on in the city centre these days .
`` It 's so sad such a shame it has come to this .
I certainly would n't venture into the centre of town at night now . ''
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news , events and community news in Manchester city centre .
To keep up to date with all that is happening in the city centre - and to join in the discussion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news , events and community news in Manchester city centre .
To keep up to date with all that is happening in the city centre - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here .
Here 's the link to the M.E.N 's main Facebook page where we share our latest stories .

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A stabbing in Piccadilly Gardens which left four people injured on Sunday night was a feud between rough sleepers, a city centre spokesperson has confirmed.
Two people were stabbed and two others were injured in the bloody knife attack on Market Street.
A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of serious assault following the incident, which left one person requiring hospital treatment.
GMP said a taser was used during the arrest.
Councillor Pat Karney said the incident arose from an argument between a group of rough sleepers.
He announced a crisis meeting between council chiefs and GMP will take place later today after Sunday night's attack came just 48 hours after an unrelated stabbing in Piccadilly Gardens.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
A 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital after he was stabbed during a fight in the area on Friday, 10 January.
Cllr Karney wrote on Twitter: "Incident one outside Morrisons was a 'domestic relationship fight' and incident last night was a rough sleeper feuding with other rough sleepers."
He told the M.E.N: "We will review the two incidents in the Piccadilly Gardens area to see what lessons can be learnt.
"These incidents, though rare, are alarming to the public.
"Personally, I would like to see anyone convicted of carrying knives banned from our city centre."
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
One eyewitness described hearing a homeless man screaming during chaotic scenes on Sunday evening.
Footage shared by one passerby shows officers pinning a man to the ground on a crowded platform at the Market Street tram stop.
A large blood stain, a roll of tissue and an abandoned sleeping bag could be seen outside a Greggs shop along the parade of shops.
Mitchell Jemmeh was walking towards Market Street when he watched the incident unfold.
He told the M.E.N: “A homeless man was surrounded, he was screaming.
“At first sight I thought it was over money or he was on drugs, then a group of lads shouted to the people surrounding the homeless man: ‘he’s on the tram, he’s here’.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
“Everybody on the tram got off leaving this one male on his own on the tram.
"He was cornered on the end carriage of the tram.
"Then two female PCSOs came running over being cautious telling the surrounding crowd to back off."
GMP said they are treating the attack as an isolated incident and do not believe there to be any wider threat to the public.
A police cordon remained in place along the length of the Market Street tram stop on Sunday night.
The area has now been reopened to the public and trams are running through the stop as normal.
Following this weekend's incidents, scores of people took to social media - many of whom say they now actively avoid the area.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
One woman wrote on Facebook: "It's genuinely getting to a point where I don't want to take my children.
"They love visiting the fountains but due to all the drugs there and people casually smoking weed we've not been in ages.
"Proper makes me nervous."
Another said: "It's so bad now. I worked at Lewis' for 14 years back in the 80s and spent many an afternoon eating my lunch in what was then the lovely Piccadilly Gardens.
"Seriously can't believe what is going on in the city centre these days.
"It's so sad such a shame it has come to this. I certainly wouldn't venture into the centre of town at night now."
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Manchester city centre.
To keep up to date with all that is happening in the city centre - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here.
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Manchester city centre.
To keep up to date with all that is happening in the city centre - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here.
Here's the link to the M.E.N's main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-13--Trial of brother of Manchester Arena bomber delayed

The trial of the brother of Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi - due to start today - has been delayed .
Hashem Ramadan Abedi , 22 , from Fallowfield , but of Libyan heritage , who denies murdering the 22 people who died in the bombing following an Ariana Grande concert , was scheduled to go on trial today ( Monday ) at the Old Bailey in London .
The case has been adjourned for a fortnight .
Hashem Abedi denies 22 counts of murder ; one count of attempted murder concerning those who were injured but survived ; and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cause an explosion likely to endanger life .
He entered the not guilty pleas at a hearing in October .
His trial , before the judge Mr Justice Baker , is scheduled to last up to eight weeks .
It was due to get underway today , but the start of the trial has now been adjourned until Monday , January 27 .
The adjournment was confirmed during a brief hearing at the Old Bailey on Monday morning .
Mr Abedi , wearing a dark sweat top and glasses , spoke to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hearing .
He was remanded in custody .
Hashem Abedi 's brother Salman killed himself and 22 others when he detonated a bomb in his backpack in the foyer of Manchester Arena on May 22 , 2017 , following an Ariana Grande concert .
Hashem Abedi was arrested on May 23 , 2017 by the Special Deterrence Force in Libya , and was extradited to the UK .
He is accused of murdering Elaine McIver , 43 ; Saffie Roussos , eight ; Sorrell Leczkowski , 14 ; Eilidh MacLeod , 14 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Campbell-Hardy , 15 ; Megan Hurley , 15 ; Georgina Callander , 18 ; Chloe Rutherford,17 ; Liam Curry , 19 ; Courtney Boyle , 19 ; Philip Tron , 32 ; John Atkinson , 26 ; Martyn Hett , 29 ; Kelly Brewster , 32 ; Angelika Klis , 39 ; Marcin Klis , 42 ; Michelle Kiss , 45 ; Alison Howe , 45 ; Lisa Lees , 43 ; Wendy Fawell , 50 ; and Jane Tweddle , 51 .

The trial of the brother of Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi - due to start today - has been delayed.
Hashem Ramadan Abedi, 22, from Fallowfield, but of Libyan heritage, who denies murdering the 22 people who died in the bombing following an Ariana Grande concert, was scheduled to go on trial today (Monday) at the Old Bailey in London.
The case has been adjourned for a fortnight.
Hashem Abedi denies 22 counts of murder; one count of attempted murder concerning those who were injured but survived; and another that he conspired with his brother to cause an explosion likely to endanger life.
He entered the not guilty pleas at a hearing in October.
His trial, before the judge Mr Justice Baker, is scheduled to last up to eight weeks.
(Image: Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire)
It was due to get underway today, but the start of the trial has now been adjourned until Monday, January 27.
The adjournment was confirmed during a brief hearing at the Old Bailey on Monday morning. Mr Abedi, wearing a dark sweat top and glasses, spoke to confirm his name at the outset of the hearing.
He was remanded in custody.
Hashem Abedi's brother Salman killed himself and 22 others when he detonated a bomb in his backpack in the foyer of Manchester Arena on May 22, 2017, following an Ariana Grande concert.
Hashem Abedi was arrested on May 23, 2017 by the Special Deterrence Force in Libya, and was extradited to the UK.
He is accused of murdering Elaine McIver, 43; Saffie Roussos, eight; Sorrell Leczkowski, 14; Eilidh MacLeod, 14; Nell Jones, 14; Olivia Campbell-Hardy, 15; Megan Hurley, 15; Georgina Callander, 18; Chloe Rutherford,17; Liam Curry, 19; Courtney Boyle, 19; Philip Tron, 32; John Atkinson, 26; Martyn Hett, 29; Kelly Brewster, 32; Angelika Klis, 39; Marcin Klis, 42; Michelle Kiss, 45; Alison Howe, 45; Lisa Lees, 43; Wendy Fawell, 50; and Jane Tweddle, 51.
Proceeding