themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Every word the judge said as he jailed Manchester Arena bomber's brother

There were gasps in the court room as Manchester Arena bomber 's brother Hashem Abedi was jailed for life with a minimum 55-year term .
Hashem Abedi , 23 , was found guilty of helping his younger sibling Salman commit the ISIS-inspired atrocity following a seven-week trial at the Old Bailey in London .
A jury found Abedi guilty on 22 counts of murder ; one count of attempted murder concerning those who were injured but survived the blast ; and conspiring with his brother to cause an explosion .
Cowardly Abedi refused to leave his cells to attend a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justice Jeremy Baker said he did not have the legal power to ask prison officers to physically bring him into the dock .
In his absence , families from across the country wept as they told heartbreaking stories of the loved ones they lost in the bombing , while others who survived gave painful details of their suffering , both physical and mental .
Here is every word the judge said as he delivered the sentence : On the evening of Monday 22 May 2017 over 14,000 people , many of whom were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grande ’ s concert at the Manchester Arena .
At about 10.30pm , as the performance came to an end and the audience started to leave through the City Room in order to meet their families and friends who were waiting to collect them , the defendant ’ s brother , Salman Abedi , detonated an improvised explosive device which caused both himself and 22 fellow human beings to be killed whilst many others were very seriously injured .
Although Salman Abedi was directly responsible for detonating the explosive device that evening , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken an integral part not only in the planning of such an event but in participating in its preparation .
At the time of the explosion Salman Abedi was 22 years of age , whilst the defendant was 20 , having been born on 8 April 1997 , and is now 23 years of age .
Although their parents had been born in Libya , both the defendant and his brother were born and largely raised in the UK .
Indeed , the family home was in the Fallowfield area of South Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the previous year whilst Salman was notionally studying for a degree in Business Management at Salford University , the defendant , having previously obtained a City and Guilds qualification in Electrical Installation , had dropped out of his BTEC course in Engineering .
At about the same time , some of those who knew the two brothers noticed that their behaviour had altered .
They became more observant of their religion , more traditional in their dress and when Salman expressed his support for ISIS , the defendant had agreed with him .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to the incident at the Manchester arena that the defendant and his brother began to gather together the type of materials which were necessary for the construction of an improvised explosive device of the kind used in the subsequent explosion .
The explosive material which was used in the device was Triacetone Triperoxide , known as TATP , which required three essential ingredients ; one of which could be bought over the counter at any pharmacy , whilst the other two ingredients were available over the internet .
Neither of these materials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own names , rather they were purchased in the names of members of their family or friends who were unaware of the reason why these purchases were being made .
In the period between January – March 2017 , whilst the defendant unsuccessfully sought to persuade three individuals to purchase Sulphuric Acid for him , he successfully persuaded three others to do so and in this manner obtained 16 litres of the chemical .
The subterfuge which the defendant used for the purpose of persuading these individuals to make the purchases was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ battery .
Likewise , in March and April 2017 , whilst four unsuccessful attempts were made to purchase Hydrogen Peroxide , two successful purchases were made and in this manner 55 litres of the chemical was obtained .
It is apparent from the electronic material which was meticulously gathered during the course of the subsequent police investigation that both the defendant and his brother were integrally involved in these purchases , the latter of which was made using an email address which had been created for the purpose namely bedab7jeanna @ email.com which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to slaughter.
” The manufacture of the TATP by the two brothers took place at a location about half an hour ’ s drive away from the family home at Somerton Court , Blackley in North Manchester , in a flat which was rented both for this purpose and also for storing other necessary items which the defendant and his brother had gathered during this period .
These included metal oil and pizza sauce tins which the defendant obtained from his employer , some of which were fashioned by him into prototypes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the explosive device , including a small tin 3 container and detonators , together with large quantities of metal hardware such as nails and screws consistent with the type of material used in explosive devices for the purpose of causing maximum injury to people in its vicinity when it is detonated .
.On 15 April 2017 , after the manufacturing process had been completed , the TATP and the other items were transported from the Blackley flat and placed into a Nissan Micra motor vehicle which had been purchased by the defendant in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of storing them in a car park at Devell House in the Rusholme area of South Manchester , pending Salman Abedi ’ s return from Libya about a month later on 18 May 2017 , just four days before the explosion .
Although the improvised device which was used in the subsequent explosion at the Manchester Arena was assembled after Salman Abedi had returned to the UK using materials most of which were purchased by him during this four day period , I am entirely satisfied that he was only enabled to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preparation work which had been undertaken by the defendant and himself leading up to their departure from the UK a month earlier .
Moreover , not only was part of the metalwork used in the improvised device that which had been obtained by the defendant from his employers , but in particular the explosive material which was used in the improvised device was the TATP which had been manufactured by the brothers before their departure to Libya .
I am equally satisfied that the decision to detonate the improvised explosive device at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a singer who was renowned as having a following amongst children and teenagers , had already been made whilst the defendant had been with his brother in Libya , as on the very day of his return to the UK , not only did Salman Abedi visit the location where he and the defendant had left the Nissan Micra motor vehicle in Rusholme , but he also visited the City Room at the Manchester Arena .
In the event when the improvised explosive device was detonated on the evening of Monday 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within the City Room , 22 of whom were killed and over 260 were physically injured , many of those very seriously , whilst many more suffered from the psychological effects of the incident .
Of those who died in the explosion the vast majority died instantaneously , the others dying shortly 4 afterwards despite the best efforts of their families , friends and the emergency services to save them .
The cause both of the deaths and of the physical injuries to those who survived was due to the high velocity impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within the improvised explosive device prior its detonation .
In the event when the improvised explosive device was detonated on the evening of Monday 22 May 2017 there were over 350 individuals within the City Room , 22 of whom were killed and over 260 were physically injured , many of those very seriously , whilst many more suffered from the psychological effects of the incident .
Of those who died in the explosion the vast majority died instantaneously , the others dying shortly 4 afterwards despite the best efforts of their families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ save them .
The cause both of the deaths and of the physical injuries to those who survived was due to the high velocity impact of the shrapnel which had been contained within the improvised explosive device prior its detonation .
If the defendant , like his brother , had been aged 21 or over when he committed these offences of murder the appropriate starting point under paragraph 4 ( 1 ) of schedule 21 would have been a whole life order , not only because of the combination of the substantial degree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murders but also because the motivation for them was to advance the ideological cause of Islamism ; a matter distinct from and abhorrent to the vast majority of those who follow the Islamic faith .
However , because the defendant was under 21 years of age when he committed these murders , the effect of subsections ( 2 ) and ( 4 ) of section 269 of the 2003 Act is to preclude the court from imposing a whole life order upon him .
Instead , paragraph 5 ( 1 ) of schedule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one of 30 years .
Although this is the appropriate starting point it is necessary for the court to consider both the aggravating and mitigating factors which apply to this case and thereby determine the minimum term .
.In so far as aggravating factors are concerned , although most of these are already subsumed within the criteria determining the appropriate starting point , it is to be noted that the choice of the Ariana Grande concert as the target for this incident is one in which the defendant and his brother will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death and serious injury to those who were particularly vulnerable because of their young age .
I am 5 satisfied that it was their intention to specifically target this age group ; an aim in which they tragically succeeded , as almost half of those killed in the explosion were either children or teenagers .
Moreover , although the criteria determining the appropriate starting point includes the death of more than one person , the large number of individuals who were killed as a result of the explosion is a factor which in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is particularly so bearing in mind the even larger number of individuals whom this explosion was intended to kill , as reflected by the accused ’ s conviction at count 23 , and the large number of individuals who were very seriously injured as a result of their proximity to the explosive device when it was detonated ; the accused ’ s culpability for which will fall to be considered as part of the determination of the minimum term in relation to the sentence for the offences of murder , due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to count 23 will run concurrently with the sentences for the earlier counts .
In so far as mitigating factors are concerned , one factor which does weigh in the balance in the accused ’ s favour is of course that he has no relevant previous convictions .
Moreover , I take some account of the conditions under which he was detained for part of the time whilst he was in Libya .
In contrast , the accused ’ s age has largely been taken into account by reducing what would otherwise have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole life order , to one of 30 years .
Moreover , I have neither read nor heard anything about the defendant which would lead me to consider that any further reduction on account of his level of maturity or understanding would be justified .
On the contrary , the defendant is obviously an intelligent young man equipped with all the necessary resources to make rational decisions .
In so far as his role is concerned compared to that of his slightly older brother , I am satisfied that although his brother may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radicalisation , the defendant supported those views .
It is correct that , in contrast with some cases involving terrorism which come before the courts , there is in this case an absence of the type of internet based material which is often present .
However , it is of note that in this case not only were the defendant and his brother adept at swopping Sim cards between their multiple mobile phone handsets , but because they took care to dispose of these items prior to their departure to Libya , 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to be recovered by the police in the course of their investigation .
It is clear both from the material which was recovered from the family home and the accused ’ s area of academic study , that the defendant had the essential knowledge of electrical circuitry which was an integral part of the production of the improvised explosive device .
Moreover , although his brother was responsible for the final construction of the device used at the Manchester arena , the defendant had not only been responsible for purchasing and gathering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including part of the metalwork and the ingredients for the explosive substance , but he had been responsible for working on the prototypes of its essential components and was jointly responsible for the manufacture of the explosive material which was then stored ready to be used by his brother upon his return to the UK , by which time the target for their intended scheme had been chosen and all that his brother needed to do was to purchase and assemble the remaining items in accordance with the plans which had already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brother in the months leading up to the incident .
In these circumstances I am satisfied that , as the prosecution opened its case to the jury , the defendant and his brother were equally culpable for the deaths and injuries which were caused by the explosion .
Indeed , it is apparent from the jury ’ s verdict that they were satisfied that , despite the defendant having remained in Libya , he had not withdrawn from the joint venture with his brother .
In this regard it is of note that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salman Abedi remained in regular electronic contact with Libya , including a four minute phone conversation during the course of his final journey to the Manchester arena , which I am satisfied was with the accused .
I have already explained the approach which I have taken in relation to the criminality involved in count 23 , namely that it is subsumed within the determination of the minimum term in relation to the sentences for the offences of murder .
Moreover , I propose to take the same approach in relation to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this regard , it is of note that the relevant sentencing guidelines for the latter offence , which merely involves the likelihood of endangering life rather than the fact that death has been caused , and which is applicable to all offenders aged 18 and over , has itself an appropriate starting point of imprisonment for life 7 with a minimum term of 35 years , and a category range for the minimum term of between 30 – 40 years .
The stark reality is that these were atrocious crimes : large in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and appalling in their consequences Those consequences have been graphically described in the many victim impact statements which I have had to consider over the last two days concerning the diverse , talented and extraordinary individuals whose lives have either been extinguished or forever blighted by the physical and psychological effects of the explosion .
Many of the survivors have explained their feelings of enduring guilt and shame at having survived these dreadful events .
However human these feelings may be , I hope that in time they may be able to accept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any such feelings is the defendant whose actions , together with those of his brother , were entirely responsible for those events .
The despair and desolation of the bereaved families has been palpable ; all of whom have felt as though part of their hearts have been torn from them .
I have no doubt that if the accused , like his brother , had been 21 years of age or over at the time of the explosion at the Manchester arena then not only would the appropriate starting point have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but , despite such mitigation as would have been available to the defendant including his relatively young age , this would have been the just sentence in this case bearing in mind the exceptional seriousness of his offending , including the young age of many of the intended targets and the large number of those both killed and very seriously injured .
However , as the court is precluded from imposing such a sentence , it is necessary for me instead , to determine the minimum term based upon an appropriate starting point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is not only of note that two separate criteria under paragraph 4 ( 2 ) of Schedule 21 exist in this case but , as I have already mentioned , the young age of many of the intended targets and the large number of those both killed and very seriously injured are severely aggravating factors in this case .
Furthermore , although some reduction would be required on account of the mitigation available to the defendant , including his relatively young age , as I have already observed , it is of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the relevant guidelines in respect of count 24 is one 8 of imprisonment for life with a minimum term of 35 years , with a category range for the minimum term of between 30 – 40 years , which is an offence , in contradistinction from the offence of murder , that does not necessarily involve the occurrence of death or injury taking place .
I bear in mind that the determination of the minimum term is a factspecific exercise and that although the age of a defendant is always a relevant factor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessarily reflect the relative levels of maturity of particular individuals on a fixed mathematical scale ; albeit there is nothing in this case to suggest that the defendant ’ s level of maturity or understanding is below that which would be expected of his chronological age .
Moreover , although schedule 21 sets out particular starting points , based upon both the age of the defendant and the circumstances surrounding the offence of murder , these form part of a continuum against which the final determination of the minimum term requires careful calibration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defendant was only 20 years of age when his 22-year old brother detonated the improvised explosive device , this was not an impulsive event which took place on the spur of the moment .
On the contrary , it was the product of careful and extensive planning and preparation in relation to which I am entirely satisfied that both brothers bore equal culpability .
Bearing all these matters in mind and standing back from the statutory scheme so as to ensure that the overall sentence is proportionate to the criminality involved in these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and harm , I consider that the appropriate minimum term for the sentences of life imprisonment on each of the counts of murder is one of 55 years .
In relation to the remaining two counts on the indictment I am satisfied that for the reasons already provided , not only are the dangerous offender criteria in section 225 ( 1 ) ( b ) of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 satisfied but that regardless of the power of the court to impose a sentence of imprisonment for life under the Criminal Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these offences is such as that a sentence of imprisonment for life would be justified in any event .
As regards to guidance in relation to the determination of the minimum terms for these offences , I have already set out the Sentencing Council ’ s Definitive Guideline on Terrorist Offences relating to count 24 .
Although the then Sentencing Guideline Council had provided a Definitive 9 Guideline relating to offences of Attempted Murder , the Court of Appeal in Kahar [ 2016 ] EWCA Crim 568 , has made it clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in terrorist-related offences , this Guideline is not directly applicable and that for level 1 offences such as this , a minimum term of 30 – 40 years or more is appropriate .
Bearing these matters in mind , in relation to count 23 there will be a sentence of imprisonment for life with a minimum term of 40 years and in relation to count 24 there will be a sentence of imprisonment for life with a minimum term of 35 years .
The defendant is entitled to a deduction of 1024 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which he has already spent in custody for these offences , including the time he spent in custody awaiting extradition in respect of these offences .
Therefore , the formal order of the court is that the minimum term is 52 years and 71 days and the relevant statutory surcharge will apply .
The defendant should clearly understand that the minimum term which he will serve in relation to the offences of murder is 55 years in custody .
He may never be released , as that will only occur if and when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that he should be confined .
Even if he is released , he will remain on licence and subject to recall for the remainder of his life .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Steve Robson, Todd Fitzgerald)

There were gasps in the court room as Manchester Arena bomber's brother Hashem Abedi was jailed for life with a minimum 55-year term.
Hashem Abedi, 23, was found guilty of helping his younger sibling Salman commit the ISIS-inspired atrocity following a seven-week trial at the Old Bailey in London.
A jury found Abedi guilty on 22 counts of murder; one count of attempted murder concerning those who were injured but survived the blast; and conspiring with his brother to cause an explosion.
Cowardly Abedi refused to leave his cells to attend a sentencing hearing on Wednesday and Thursday.
Justice Jeremy Baker said he did not have the legal power to ask prison officers to physically bring him into the dock.
In his absence, families from across the country wept as they told heartbreaking stories of the loved ones they lost in the bombing, while others who survived gave painful details of their suffering, both physical and mental.
(Image: PA)
Here is every word the judge said as he delivered the sentence:
On the evening of Monday 22 May 2017 over 14,000 people, many of whom were either children or teenagers, attended Ariana Grande’s concert at the Manchester Arena.
At about 10.30pm, as the performance came to an end and the audience started to leave through the City Room in order to meet their families and friends who were waiting to collect them, the defendant’s brother, Salman Abedi, detonated an improvised explosive device which caused both himself and 22 fellow human beings to be killed whilst many others were very seriously injured.
Although Salman Abedi was directly responsible for detonating the explosive device that evening, it is clear that the defendant had taken an integral part not only in the planning of such an event but in participating in its preparation.
At the time of the explosion Salman Abedi was 22 years of age, whilst the defendant was 20, having been born on 8 April 1997, and is now 23 years of age. Although their parents had been born in Libya, both the defendant and his brother were born and largely raised in the UK. Indeed, the family home was in the Fallowfield area of South Manchester.
Moreover, in the autumn of the previous year whilst Salman was notionally studying for a degree in Business Management at Salford University, the defendant, having previously obtained a City and Guilds qualification in Electrical Installation, had dropped out of his BTEC course in Engineering.
At about the same time, some of those who knew the two brothers noticed that their behaviour had altered. They became more observant of their religion, more traditional in their dress and when Salman expressed his support for ISIS, the defendant had agreed with him.
It was during the 6-month period leading up to the incident at the Manchester arena that the defendant and his brother began to gather together the type of materials which were necessary for the construction of an improvised explosive device of the kind used in the subsequent explosion.
(Image: MEN MEDIA)
The explosive material which was used in the device was Triacetone Triperoxide, known as TATP, which required three essential ingredients; one of which could be bought over the counter at any pharmacy, whilst the other two ingredients were available over the internet.
Neither of these materials was purchased by the two brothers in their own names, rather they were purchased in the names of members of their family or friends who were unaware of the reason why these purchases were being made.
In the period between January – March 2017, whilst the defendant unsuccessfully sought to persuade three individuals to purchase Sulphuric Acid for him, he successfully persuaded three others to do so and in this manner obtained 16 litres of the chemical.
The subterfuge which the defendant used for the purpose of persuading these individuals to make the purchases was that he needed it for a car battery.
Likewise, in March and April 2017, whilst four unsuccessful attempts were made to purchase Hydrogen Peroxide, two successful purchases were made and in this manner 55 litres of the chemical was obtained.
It is apparent from the electronic material which was meticulously gathered during the course of the subsequent police investigation that both the defendant and his brother were integrally involved in these purchases, the latter of which was made using an email address which had been created for the purpose namely bedab7jeanna@email.com which translates as meaning, “We have come to slaughter.”
The manufacture of the TATP by the two brothers took place at a location about half an hour’s drive away from the family home at Somerton Court, Blackley in North Manchester, in a flat which was rented both for this purpose and also for storing other necessary items which the defendant and his brother had gathered during this period.
These included metal oil and pizza sauce tins which the defendant obtained from his employer, some of which were fashioned by him into prototypes of objects which were eventually used in the explosive device, including a small tin 3 container and detonators, together with large quantities of metal hardware such as nails and screws consistent with the type of material used in explosive devices for the purpose of causing maximum injury to people in its vicinity when it is detonated.
On 15 April 2017, after the manufacturing process had been completed, the TATP and the other items were transported from the Blackley flat and placed into a Nissan Micra motor vehicle which had been purchased by the defendant in the previous two days for the purpose of storing them in a car park at Devell House in the Rusholme area of South Manchester, pending Salman Abedi’s return from Libya about a month later on 18 May 2017, just four days before the explosion.
Although the improvised device which was used in the subsequent explosion at the Manchester Arena was assembled after Salman Abedi had returned to the UK using materials most of which were purchased by him during this four day period, I am entirely satisfied that he was only enabled to do so as a result of the extensive preparation work which had been undertaken by the defendant and himself leading up to their departure from the UK a month earlier. Moreover, not only was part of the metalwork used in the improvised device that which had been obtained by the defendant from his employers, but in particular the explosive material which was used in the improvised device was the TATP which had been manufactured by the brothers before their departure to Libya.
(Image: MEN MEDIA)
I am equally satisfied that the decision to detonate the improvised explosive device at the concert to be given by Ariana Grande, a singer who was renowned as having a following amongst children and teenagers, had already been made whilst the defendant had been with his brother in Libya, as on the very day of his return to the UK, not only did Salman Abedi visit the location where he and the defendant had left the Nissan Micra motor vehicle in Rusholme, but he also visited the City Room at the Manchester Arena.
In the event when the improvised explosive device was detonated on the evening of Monday 22 May 2017 there were over 350 individuals within the City Room, 22 of whom were killed and over 260 were physically injured, many of those very seriously, whilst many more suffered from the psychological effects of the incident. Of those who died in the explosion the vast majority died instantaneously, the others dying shortly 4 afterwards despite the best efforts of their families, friends and the emergency services to save them. The cause both of the deaths and of the physical injuries to those who survived was due to the high velocity impact of the shrapnel which had been contained within the improvised explosive device prior its detonation.
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If the defendant, like his brother, had been aged 21 or over when he committed these offences of murder the appropriate starting point under paragraph 4(1) of schedule 21 would have been a whole life order, not only because of the combination of the substantial degree of premeditation and planning involved in these murders but also because the motivation for them was to advance the ideological cause of Islamism; a matter distinct from and abhorrent to the vast majority of those who follow the Islamic faith.
However, because the defendant was under 21 years of age when he committed these murders, the effect of subsections (2) and (4) of section 269 of the 2003 Act is to preclude the court from imposing a whole life order upon him. Instead, paragraph 5(1) of schedule 21 provides that the appropriate starting point is one of 30 years.
(Image: M.E.N.)
Although this is the appropriate starting point it is necessary for the court to consider both the aggravating and mitigating factors which apply to this case and thereby determine the minimum term.
In so far as aggravating factors are concerned, although most of these are already subsumed within the criteria determining the appropriate starting point, it is to be noted that the choice of the Ariana Grande concert as the target for this incident is one in which the defendant and his brother will have readily appreciated the heightened risk of death and serious injury to those who were particularly vulnerable because of their young age. I am 5 satisfied that it was their intention to specifically target this age group; an aim in which they tragically succeeded, as almost half of those killed in the explosion were either children or teenagers.
Moreover, although the criteria determining the appropriate starting point includes the death of more than one person, the large number of individuals who were killed as a result of the explosion is a factor which in my judgment severely aggravates these offences. This is particularly so bearing in mind the even larger number of individuals whom this explosion was intended to kill, as reflected by the accused’s conviction at count 23, and the large number of individuals who were very seriously injured as a result of their proximity to the explosive device when it was detonated; the accused’s culpability for which will fall to be considered as part of the determination of the minimum term in relation to the sentence for the offences of murder, due to the fact that the sentence in relation to count 23 will run concurrently with the sentences for the earlier counts.
In so far as mitigating factors are concerned, one factor which does weigh in the balance in the accused’s favour is of course that he has no relevant previous convictions. Moreover, I take some account of the conditions under which he was detained for part of the time whilst he was in Libya.
In contrast, the accused’s age has largely been taken into account by reducing what would otherwise have been an appropriate starting point of a whole life order, to one of 30 years. Moreover, I have neither read nor heard anything about the defendant which would lead me to consider that any further reduction on account of his level of maturity or understanding would be justified. On the contrary, the defendant is obviously an intelligent young man equipped with all the necessary resources to make rational decisions.
In so far as his role is concerned compared to that of his slightly older brother, I am satisfied that although his brother may have been exhibiting more overt signs of radicalisation, the defendant supported those views. It is correct that, in contrast with some cases involving terrorism which come before the courts, there is in this case an absence of the type of internet based material which is often present. However, it is of note that in this case not only were the defendant and his brother adept at swopping Sim cards between their multiple mobile phone handsets, but because they took care to dispose of these items prior to their departure to Libya, 6 almost no internet based material has been able to be recovered by the police in the course of their investigation.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
It is clear both from the material which was recovered from the family home and the accused’s area of academic study, that the defendant had the essential knowledge of electrical circuitry which was an integral part of the production of the improvised explosive device. Moreover, although his brother was responsible for the final construction of the device used at the Manchester arena, the defendant had not only been responsible for purchasing and gathering some of the necessary materials for it, including part of the metalwork and the ingredients for the explosive substance, but he had been responsible for working on the prototypes of its essential components and was jointly responsible for the manufacture of the explosive material which was then stored ready to be used by his brother upon his return to the UK, by which time the target for their intended scheme had been chosen and all that his brother needed to do was to purchase and assemble the remaining items in accordance with the plans which had already been made by the defendant and his brother in the months leading up to the incident.
In these circumstances I am satisfied that, as the prosecution opened its case to the jury, the defendant and his brother were equally culpable for the deaths and injuries which were caused by the explosion. Indeed, it is apparent from the jury’s verdict that they were satisfied that, despite the defendant having remained in Libya, he had not withdrawn from the joint venture with his brother. In this regard it is of note that after his return to the UK, Salman Abedi remained in regular electronic contact with Libya, including a four minute phone conversation during the course of his final journey to the Manchester arena, which I am satisfied was with the accused.
(Image: PA)
I have already explained the approach which I have taken in relation to the criminality involved in count 23, namely that it is subsumed within the determination of the minimum term in relation to the sentences for the offences of murder. Moreover, I propose to take the same approach in relation to the criminality involved in count 24. In this regard, it is of note that the relevant sentencing guidelines for the latter offence, which merely involves the likelihood of endangering life rather than the fact that death has been caused, and which is applicable to all offenders aged 18 and over, has itself an appropriate starting point of imprisonment for life 7 with a minimum term of 35 years, and a category range for the minimum term of between 30 – 40 years.
The stark reality is that these were atrocious crimes: large in their scale, deadly in their intent and appalling in their consequences
Those consequences have been graphically described in the many victim impact statements which I have had to consider over the last two days concerning the diverse, talented and extraordinary individuals whose lives have either been extinguished or forever blighted by the physical and psychological effects of the explosion. Many of the survivors have explained their feelings of enduring guilt and shame at having survived these dreadful events. However human these feelings may be, I hope that in time they may be able to accept that the only individual who should have any such feelings is the defendant whose actions, together with those of his brother, were entirely responsible for those events. The despair and desolation of the bereaved families has been palpable; all of whom have felt as though part of their hearts have been torn from them.
I have no doubt that if the accused, like his brother, had been 21 years of age or over at the time of the explosion at the Manchester arena then not only would the appropriate starting point have been the imposition of a whole life order but, despite such mitigation as would have been available to the defendant including his relatively young age, this would have been the just sentence in this case bearing in mind the exceptional seriousness of his offending, including the young age of many of the intended targets and the large number of those both killed and very seriously injured.
(Image: Getty Images)
However, as the court is precluded from imposing such a sentence, it is necessary for me instead, to determine the minimum term based upon an appropriate starting point of 30 years.
In this regard it is not only of note that two separate criteria under paragraph 4(2) of Schedule 21 exist in this case but, as I have already mentioned, the young age of many of the intended targets and the large number of those both killed and very seriously injured are severely aggravating factors in this case.
Furthermore, although some reduction would be required on account of the mitigation available to the defendant, including his relatively young age, as I have already observed, it is of relevance that the appropriate starting point under the relevant guidelines in respect of count 24 is one 8 of imprisonment for life with a minimum term of 35 years, with a category range for the minimum term of between 30 – 40 years, which is an offence, in contradistinction from the offence of murder, that does not necessarily involve the occurrence of death or injury taking place.
I bear in mind that the determination of the minimum term is a factspecific exercise and that although the age of a defendant is always a relevant factor, the various starting points do not necessarily reflect the relative levels of maturity of particular individuals on a fixed mathematical scale; albeit there is nothing in this case to suggest that the defendant’s level of maturity or understanding is below that which would be expected of his chronological age. Moreover, although schedule 21 sets out particular starting points, based upon both the age of the defendant and the circumstances surrounding the offence of murder, these form part of a continuum against which the final determination of the minimum term requires careful calibration.
In this regard, although the defendant was only 20 years of age when his 22-year old brother detonated the improvised explosive device, this was not an impulsive event which took place on the spur of the moment. On the contrary, it was the product of careful and extensive planning and preparation in relation to which I am entirely satisfied that both brothers bore equal culpability.
(Image: Getty Images)
Bearing all these matters in mind and standing back from the statutory scheme so as to ensure that the overall sentence is proportionate to the criminality involved in these offences, both in terms of culpability and harm, I consider that the appropriate minimum term for the sentences of life imprisonment on each of the counts of murder is one of 55 years.
In relation to the remaining two counts on the indictment I am satisfied that for the reasons already provided, not only are the dangerous offender criteria in section 225(1)(b) of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 satisfied but that regardless of the power of the court to impose a sentence of imprisonment for life under the Criminal Justice Act 2003, the seriousness of each of these offences is such as that a sentence of imprisonment for life would be justified in any event.
As regards to guidance in relation to the determination of the minimum terms for these offences, I have already set out the Sentencing Council’s Definitive Guideline on Terrorist Offences relating to count 24. Although the then Sentencing Guideline Council had provided a Definitive 9 Guideline relating to offences of Attempted Murder, the Court of Appeal in Kahar [2016] EWCA Crim 568, has made it clear that due to the particular gravity involved in terrorist-related offences, this Guideline is not directly applicable and that for level 1 offences such as this, a minimum term of 30 – 40 years or more is appropriate.
Bearing these matters in mind, in relation to count 23 there will be a sentence of imprisonment for life with a minimum term of 40 years and in relation to count 24 there will be a sentence of imprisonment for life with a minimum term of 35 years.
The defendant is entitled to a deduction of 1024 days from this figure to reflect the time which he has already spent in custody for these offences, including the time he spent in custody awaiting extradition in respect of these offences. Therefore, the formal order of the court is that the minimum term is 52 years and 71 days and the relevant statutory surcharge will apply.
The defendant should clearly understand that the minimum term which he will serve in relation to the offences of murder is 55 years in custody. He may never be released, as that will only occur if and when the Parole Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public that he should be confined. Even if he is released, he will remain on licence and subject to recall for the remainder of his life.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Mandatory dog walking twice a day could soon become law in Germany

Taking your dog for walks twice a day for at least an hour in total could soon become the law in Germany .
There could also be a ban on keeping dogs tethered to chains for long periods of time , too .
Rules are also being devised to crack down on `` puppy farms '' by banning breeders from looking after more than three litters at any one time .
`` Pets are not cuddly toys , their needs have to be taken into account , '' Agriculture Minister Julia Klöckner said about the planned changes , reported the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include new rules on transporting cattle with time spent in transit limited to four-and-a-half hours .
• will have to take their dogs for walks twice a day for a minimum of one hour in total • will not be allowed to keep their dogs chained for long periods of time • will not be allowed to leave dogs alone the whole day Breeders will be restricted to looking after a maximum of three litters and puppies will have to spend a minimum of four hours a day in human company to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the changes were based on expert advice to ensure animal protection and welfare .
A draft of the new regulations has already been drawn up and could become law early next year .
If passed , it will be up to the German states to enforce it .
A spokeswoman for the agriculture ministry said it was very unlikely private dog owners would receive police visits to check whether they had taken their pooch for a walk .
She said the emphasis would be on ensuring that dogs kept in kennels were treated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on showing dogs which have had their ears or tail docked in contravention of animal protection rules .
Dogs whose behaviour is not `` species appropriate '' could also be banned from dog shows .

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Taking your dog for walks twice a day for at least an hour in total could soon become the law in Germany.
There could also be a ban on keeping dogs tethered to chains for long periods of time, too.
Rules are also being devised to crack down on "puppy farms" by banning breeders from looking after more than three litters at any one time.
"Pets are not cuddly toys, their needs have to be taken into account," Agriculture Minister Julia Klöckner said about the planned changes, reported the BBC.
Ms Klöckner's plans also include new rules on transporting cattle with time spent in transit limited to four-and-a-half hours.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
Under the planned rules, dog owners:
will have to take their dogs for walks twice a day for a minimum of one hour in total
will not be allowed to keep their dogs chained for long periods of time
will not be allowed to leave dogs alone the whole day
Breeders will be restricted to looking after a maximum of three litters and puppies will have to spend a minimum of four hours a day in human company to ensure they become socialised.
(Image: Jason Lock Photography)
Ms Klöckner said the changes were based on expert advice to ensure animal protection and welfare.
A draft of the new regulations has already been drawn up and could become law early next year. If passed, it will be up to the German states to enforce it.
A spokeswoman for the agriculture ministry said it was very unlikely private dog owners would receive police visits to check whether they had taken their pooch for a walk.
She said the emphasis would be on ensuring that dogs kept in kennels were treated well.
A ban is also planned on showing dogs which have had their ears or tail docked in contravention of animal protection rules.
Dogs whose behaviour is not "species appropriate" could also be banned from dog shows.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Former Wigan Athletic owner writes off £36m debts

The former owner of Wigan Athletic has written off two huge debts owed to companies he owns .
The club dropped into administration after Au Yeung Wai Kay stopped providing money to continue operations .
However , the administrators have now announced that the Hong Kong-based businessman has agreed to forgo any right to debts of £25.3m and £10.7m , which were owed to two of his firms .
The decision is a huge step forward for plans to sell the club as it means the business is now in considerably less financial trouble .
In a major statement released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed that the debts had been written off .
They also hit out at a report from The Sun newspaper over stories about a bid to buy the club .
They said : “ The joint administrators have previously made references to the club owing debts of £25.3m and £10.7m to Next Leader Fund , L.P. and Wigan Athletic Holdings Limited respectively .
`` There has been much speculation , both on social media and elsewhere , regarding these debts and to what extent they would need to be repaid in the event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We should like to clarify this matter and to now inform fans that the administrators have been in discussions with Mr Yeung , who has cooperated fully for the benefit of the club and who has agreed , in order to ensure the survival of the club and to give the administrators the best possible chance to agree a sale , to waive his rights to the repayment of the debts owed to him and to his companies .
`` He has given the administrators the powers necessary to put this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the benefit of the club .
By waiving all his rights Mr Yeung has also made it much more possible to pay the necessary 25p dividend to the creditors and thus avoid a further 15 point penalty next season .
“ The joint administrators note that in the Sun article of August 20 , its professional journalist Mr Alan Nixon goes into great detail about a bid from Randy Frankel and Michael Kalt .
`` Firstly , we would point out that release of any information by them ( or someone in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the non-disclosure agreement .
Secondly , we would inform fans in the light of this breach that no credible bid has been received from this organisation that would lead to the saving of the football club .
`` Talks , however , are continuing with serious bidders with a view to bringing a successful sale to fruition .
”

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The former owner of Wigan Athletic has written off two huge debts owed to companies he owns.
The club dropped into administration after Au Yeung Wai Kay stopped providing money to continue operations.
However, the administrators have now announced that the Hong Kong-based businessman has agreed to forgo any right to debts of £25.3m and £10.7m, which were owed to two of his firms.
The decision is a huge step forward for plans to sell the club as it means the business is now in considerably less financial trouble.
In a major statement released today (Thursday) the joint administrators confirmed that the debts had been written off. They also hit out at a report from The Sun newspaper over stories about a bid to buy the club.
They said: “The joint administrators have previously made references to the club owing debts of £25.3m and £10.7m to Next Leader Fund, L.P. and Wigan Athletic Holdings Limited respectively.
"There has been much speculation, both on social media and elsewhere, regarding these debts and to what extent they would need to be repaid in the event of a successful sale of the club.
“We should like to clarify this matter and to now inform fans that the administrators have been in discussions with Mr Yeung, who has cooperated fully for the benefit of the club and who has agreed, in order to ensure the survival of the club and to give the administrators the best possible chance to agree a sale, to waive his rights to the repayment of the debts owed to him and to his companies.
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"He has given the administrators the powers necessary to put this into effect and to use all monies for the benefit of the club. By waiving all his rights Mr Yeung has also made it much more possible to pay the necessary 25p dividend to the creditors and thus avoid a further 15 point penalty next season.
“The joint administrators note that in the Sun article of August 20, its professional journalist Mr Alan Nixon goes into great detail about a bid from Randy Frankel and Michael Kalt.
"Firstly, we would point out that release of any information by them (or someone in their group) is a complete breach of the non-disclosure agreement. Secondly, we would inform fans in the light of this breach that no credible bid has been received from this organisation that would lead to the saving of the football club.
"Talks, however, are continuing with serious bidders with a view to bringing a successful sale to fruition.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Yaya Toure suggests Man City change after Champions League disappointment

Manchester City may have to change their approach if they are to land the trophy Pep Guardiola was brought in to deliver , according to Yaya Toure .
Former Barcelona and Bayern coach Guardiola has delivered unprecedented success with the Blues domestically , winning the Premier League with a record 100 points before helping the club become the first in a decade to retain the title as well as winning every competition they entered that season in English football .
The Champions League performances have been underwhelming though .
Despite strong showings in the group stages , City have never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempts ; Manuel Pellegrini made it to the final four in 2016 with the club three months after it was confirmed that he would be replaced by the Catalan that summer .
Toure won the Champions League with Guardiola at Barcelona but had a difficult relationship with the manager at the Etihad , where issues with his outspoken agent saw him left out of the team for spells .
The midfielder , who is looking for a Championship or Premier League club to join , believes something may have to change if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The manager has been signed for that , just to bring this trophy and when you see Liverpool maybe and other clubs who [ have won it ] without doing a lot of work in the transfer market , it 's quite strange and disappointing . ''
`` Of course , he 's been brought to the club to get a massive trophy for them and at the moment it 's not been delivered in the way they want , '' he added to Football Daily .
`` Everyone knows Pep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment when things are not going their way , sometimes it 's the time to change the way they do things .
We 'll see . ''

Manchester City may have to change their approach if they are to land the trophy Pep Guardiola was brought in to deliver, according to Yaya Toure.
Former Barcelona and Bayern coach Guardiola has delivered unprecedented success with the Blues domestically, winning the Premier League with a record 100 points before helping the club become the first in a decade to retain the title as well as winning every competition they entered that season in English football.
The Champions League performances have been underwhelming though. Despite strong showings in the group stages, City have never made it beyond the quarter-finals in four attempts; Manuel Pellegrini made it to the final four in 2016 with the club three months after it was confirmed that he would be replaced by the Catalan that summer.
Toure won the Champions League with Guardiola at Barcelona but had a difficult relationship with the manager at the Etihad, where issues with his outspoken agent saw him left out of the team for spells. The midfielder, who is looking for a Championship or Premier League club to join, believes something may have to change if the Blues are to progress in the competition.
"The manager has been signed for that, just to bring this trophy and when you see Liverpool maybe and other clubs who [have won it] without doing a lot of work in the transfer market, it's quite strange and disappointing."
"Of course, he's been brought to the club to get a massive trophy for them and at the moment it's not been delivered in the way they want," he added to Football Daily.
"Everyone knows Pep is a great manager but at the moment when things are not going their way, sometimes it's the time to change the way they do things. We'll see."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Free park and ride could be up and running at Walkden station by next year

A free park and ride facility could be up and running at Walkden Railway Station within the next year .
Detailed plans to demolish buildings at a former council depot in Chestnut Avenue to make way for a new car park with 107 spaces have been revealed .
The unmanned facility would be free to use and open to vehicles , pedestrians and cyclists 24-hours-a-day – but it will only be lit up 30 minutes before the first train and 30 minutes after the last train of each day , the proposal says .
A new cycle shelter on site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be also be four motorcycle parking bays , two electric vehicle charging points and eight spaces designated for blue badge holders , if the planning application by Transport for Greater Manchester ( TfGM ) is approved .
A spokesman said : `` The Walkden Park and Ride scheme will be delivered by Salford City Council and TfGM as part of a set of wider highway improvements .
`` Walkden Station is well used but currently does not have dedicated parking provision attached to the station .
`` As a result , streets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on-street parking impacting upon access for local residents and through traffic .
`` Subject to receiving planning permission and obtaining the final funding approvals through the Greater Manchester Combined Authority , the works are anticipated to start in early 2021 and be complete in spring 2021 . ''
Work to secure funding for the scheme has been ongoing since 2016 when the proposal was first signed off by the city ’ s mayor Paul Dennett .
The Greater Manchester Local Growth Deal Salford Bolton Network Improvements Programme is now set to fund the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to conclude in October 2020 and , if approved , work is expected to start in early 2021 and finished by spring .
Construction is likely to last between eight and 10 weeks , according to the application , but this can only be confirmed once a contractor is appointed .
Walkden South councillor Joshua Brooks said he is delighted about the news .
He said : `` This is great news for the local residents and the wider community , both practically and economically going forward into the next decade .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 60 per cent of homes in Walkden are selling above the asking price with a rise in interested buyers seeking properties in the Salford suburb of 189 per cent in the year up to July .
Walkden estate agent Linzi Farrell , who works for Keavney Estate said one of the main attractions of Walkden is the `` excellent '' transport connections , with the Leigh Guided Busway recently added to the existing rail and road links .
The latest figures from the Office of Rail and Road show that more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2017/18 .

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A free park and ride facility could be up and running at Walkden Railway Station within the next year.
Detailed plans to demolish buildings at a former council depot in Chestnut Avenue to make way for a new car park with 107 spaces have been revealed.
The unmanned facility would be free to use and open to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists 24-hours-a-day – but it will only be lit up 30 minutes before the first train and 30 minutes after the last train of each day, the proposal says.
A new cycle shelter on site would accommodate approximately 30 bicycles.
There would be also be four motorcycle parking bays, two electric vehicle charging points and eight spaces designated for blue badge holders, if the planning application by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is approved.
A spokesman said: "The Walkden Park and Ride scheme will be delivered by Salford City Council and TfGM as part of a set of wider highway improvements.
"Walkden Station is well used but currently does not have dedicated parking provision attached to the station.
"As a result, streets around the station have had problems with on-street parking impacting upon access for local residents and through traffic.
"Subject to receiving planning permission and obtaining the final funding approvals through the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the works are anticipated to start in early 2021 and be complete in spring 2021."
Work to secure funding for the scheme has been ongoing since 2016 when the proposal was first signed off by the city’s mayor Paul Dennett.
The Greater Manchester Local Growth Deal Salford Bolton Network Improvements Programme is now set to fund the scheme.
The planning application process is expected to conclude in October 2020 and, if approved, work is expected to start in early 2021 and finished by spring.
Construction is likely to last between eight and 10 weeks, according to the application, but this can only be confirmed once a contractor is appointed.
Walkden South councillor Joshua Brooks said he is delighted about the news.
He said: "This is great news for the local residents and the wider community, both practically and economically going forward into the next decade."
The news comes after research revealed that 60 per cent of homes in Walkden are selling above the asking price with a rise in interested buyers seeking properties in the Salford suburb of 189 per cent in the year up to July.
Walkden estate agent Linzi Farrell, who works for Keavney Estate said one of the main attractions of Walkden is the "excellent" transport connections, with the Leigh Guided Busway recently added to the existing rail and road links.
The latest figures from the Office of Rail and Road show that more than 283,000 people used Walkden Railway Station in 2017/18.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Put your results-day star on the front of the MEN

Exam results are in , and what better way to celebrate the incredible achievement of that Very Clever Person in your life than plastering their success across the front of the M.E.N ?
After all they ’ ve been through , let ’ s make Lockdown results extra-special for them - whether they ’ re getting revised A-level results , GCSEs or BTECs .
You can choose to personalise any of our iconic media brands , not just the MEN , including The Daily Mirror , OK !
Magazine , The Daily Star , Liverpool Echo , Hull Daily Mail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to show how proud you are of them than making Your Very Clever Person front page news !
This sounds brilliant , so how do I get one ?
Creating your incredible front page costs £3.99 and is much easier than sitting GCSE maths !
All you need to do is fill in this form and we will take care of the rest .
To begin with , you will need a brilliant picture of your Very Clever Person .
It may sound obvious , but make sure the one you pick looks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where their face takes up most of the frame Next is your chance to really settle into the Editor ’ s seat , as you will need to carefully craft a headline so it fits within the front page text box .
And watch your spelling ( although we ’ ll check it for you of course - this isn ’ t YOUR GCSE English exam thankfully ! )
.
You ’ ve got space for 38 characters on your front page , but if you are struggling some good examples that fit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
’ and ‘ [ NAME ] thrilled with top grades !
’ You are nearly there then .
We need to take a few final details from you and then you can pay through Paypal .
Our commitment to you and Your Very Clever Person is that we will send you a PDF of your front page within 24 hours by email .
So from all of us… well done !

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Exam results are in, and what better way to celebrate the incredible achievement of that Very Clever Person in your life than plastering their success across the front of the M.E.N?
After all they’ve been through, let’s make Lockdown results extra-special for them - whether they’re getting revised A-level results, GCSEs or BTECs.
You can choose to personalise any of our iconic media brands, not just the MEN, including The Daily Mirror, OK! Magazine, The Daily Star, Liverpool Echo, Hull Daily Mail or Newcastle Chronicle.
What better way to show how proud you are of them than making Your Very Clever Person front page news!
This sounds brilliant, so how do I get one?
Creating your incredible front page costs £3.99 and is much easier than sitting GCSE maths!
All you need to do is fill in this form and we will take care of the rest.
To begin with, you will need a brilliant picture of your Very Clever Person. It may sound obvious, but make sure the one you pick looks like them! And you want one where their face takes up most of the frame
Next is your chance to really settle into the Editor’s seat, as you will need to carefully craft a headline so it fits within the front page text box. And watch your spelling (although we’ll check it for you of course - this isn’t YOUR GCSE English exam thankfully!).
You’ve got space for 38 characters on your front page, but if you are struggling some good examples that fit include ‘You did it! Congratulations!’ and ‘[NAME] thrilled with top grades!’
You are nearly there then. We need to take a few final details from you and then you can pay through Paypal.
Our commitment to you and Your Very Clever Person is that we will send you a PDF of your front page within 24 hours by email.
So from all of us… well done!


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--One of Manchester's oldest backstreet boozers is closing for good

One of the Manchester 's oldest backstreet boozers is closing for good .
The Jolly Angler has announced it will be shutting after Christmas following the sale of the building by brewery Hyde 's .
The Ducie Street pub , which dates from 1854 , is regularly featured in CAMRA 's Good Beer Guide and is known for its traditional folk and Irish music nights .
Landlord Ray Reynolds , whose family have run the pub for 34 years , said he and regulars were gutted by the closure but grateful to have a few more months before the shutters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to read [ the reaction on ] Twitter to know what the pub means to regulars and also folks who always make a point of calling in when they are visiting Manchester , '' he told the M.E.N .
`` It ’ s one of those bars where folks visiting on their own can call in and if they want join in on the conversation , take a seat at the bar ( pre-Covid obviously ) and not be left on their own , or be left to enjoy a quiet pint .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Manchester and further afield who come to the Jolly .
Unfortunately we couldn ’ t compete with the expensive marketing to get our little pub on the map so new people hear about us either by passing by on the way to their hotel , getting lost or word of mouth .
`` Once they find us though they always come back . ''
Ray said the news had n't quite sunk in yet .
`` We have always worried this would happen but when it did we were surprised as we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work done by Hyde ’ s inside the pub before lockdown so the place is looking a lot tidier , we were feeling more positive about the future and thought we ’ d have the place for a few more years , '' he said .
He said the closure was sadly 'inevitable ' , adding that he felt neither the council nor the new generation of Northern Quarter and Ancoats clientele appreciated pubs like the Jolly Angler .
`` Over the last five years the Northern Quarter and Ancoats area has grown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our wee boozer , '' he said .
`` Our regulars will need to find another bar they can make their regular further afield .
We have an amazing community of regulars who travel from all over greater Manchester but we have not got enough customers visiting and it has been slow over recent years .
`` Our regulars are gutted as are we .
My mum and dad have ran this pub since 1986 .
We Lived above the pub for many years so it ’ s been a home to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ ll be really sad to not have it in our family any more . ''
Hydes Brewery has declined to comment on the reasons behind the sale .
Ray said he did not know what the plans were for the building , but added : `` Covid has hit the industry hard including Hyde ’ s .
`` Hyde ’ s have given us a lot more notice than we would expect which we are really grateful for . ''
Graham Donning , from the Central Manchester branch of the Campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the pub was a 'one-off ' .
`` I think the loss of any pub , but particularly one with such a reputation of having both good ale and good craic , is a very sad loss indeed , '' he said .
`` The pub has a huge following locally , nationally and indeed internationally with visitors from all over enjoying a visit to this wonderful back street boozer .
`` Manchester is being stripped of its history before our eyes . ''

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One of the Manchester's oldest backstreet boozers is closing for good.
The Jolly Angler has announced it will be shutting after Christmas following the sale of the building by brewery Hyde's.
The Ducie Street pub, which dates from 1854, is regularly featured in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide and is known for its traditional folk and Irish music nights.
Landlord Ray Reynolds, whose family have run the pub for 34 years, said he and regulars were gutted by the closure but grateful to have a few more months before the shutters come down.
"You just need to read [the reaction on] Twitter to know what the pub means to regulars and also folks who always make a point of calling in when they are visiting Manchester," he told the M.E.N.
"It’s one of those bars where folks visiting on their own can call in and if they want join in on the conversation, take a seat at the bar (pre-Covid obviously) and not be left on their own, or be left to enjoy a quiet pint.
"There’s folks from all over Manchester and further afield who come to the Jolly. Unfortunately we couldn’t compete with the expensive marketing to get our little pub on the map so new people hear about us either by passing by on the way to their hotel, getting lost or word of mouth.
"Once they find us though they always come back."
Ray said the news hadn't quite sunk in yet.
"We have always worried this would happen but when it did we were surprised as we have just had a bit of refurb work done by Hyde’s inside the pub before lockdown so the place is looking a lot tidier, we were feeling more positive about the future and thought we’d have the place for a few more years," he said.
He said the closure was sadly 'inevitable', adding that he felt neither the council nor the new generation of Northern Quarter and Ancoats clientele appreciated pubs like the Jolly Angler.
"Over the last five years the Northern Quarter and Ancoats area has grown with trendy bars offering something very different to our wee boozer," he said.
"Our regulars will need to find another bar they can make their regular further afield. We have an amazing community of regulars who travel from all over greater Manchester but we have not got enough customers visiting and it has been slow over recent years.
"Our regulars are gutted as are we. My mum and dad have ran this pub since 1986. We Lived above the pub for many years so it’s been a home to us all for a long time. We’ll be really sad to not have it in our family any more."
Hydes Brewery has declined to comment on the reasons behind the sale.
Ray said he did not know what the plans were for the building, but added: "Covid has hit the industry hard including Hyde’s.
"Hyde’s have given us a lot more notice than we would expect which we are really grateful for."
Graham Donning, from the Central Manchester branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), said the pub was a 'one-off'.
"I think the loss of any pub, but particularly one with such a reputation of having both good ale and good craic, is a very sad loss indeed," he said.
"The pub has a huge following locally, nationally and indeed internationally with visitors from all over enjoying a visit to this wonderful back street boozer.
"Manchester is being stripped of its history before our eyes."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Police concerned for welfare of two-week-old baby after family disappears

Police have launched a search for a family with a two-week-old baby .
The family left a property in Atherton @ @ @ @ @ .
They had a two-week-old baby with them and have not been seen since .
@ @ @ @ @ for the baby 's welfare .
The family are Hungarian and are named Miklos Orsos @ @ @ @ @ Bogdan , say Greater Manchester 's Leigh , Atherton and Hindley neighbourhood team .
Police @ @ @ @ @ appeal , asking anyone who sees the family to get in touch .
Greater Manchester @ @ @ @ @ sees the family or anyone with information to contact 101 .
Get breaking news first @ @ @ @ @ News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can @ @ @ @ @ the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter @ @ @ @ @ you can follow us on Facebook here .

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Police have launched a search for a family with a two-week-old baby.
The family left a property in Atherton, Wigan, say officers.
They had a two-week-old baby with them and have not been seen since.
The disappearance has raised concerns for the baby's welfare.
The family are Hungarian and are named Miklos Orsos, Nicholette Orsos and Victoria Bogdan, say Greater Manchester's Leigh, Atherton and Hindley neighbourhood team.
Police officers have now issued an appeal , asking anyone who sees the family to get in touch.
Greater Manchester Police have urged anyone who sees the family or anyone with information to contact 101.
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--2020-08-20--Man United have been given a transfer reminder ahead of the new season

If Manchester United were to match their cup efforts of last season in this coming campaign then it could be March before they have a free midweek in the 2020/21 calendar .
The delayed start to the new season has thrown the schedule into chaos and the reality is every club is going to be stretched to breaking point between September 12 ( or September 19 in United 's case ) and the final day of the Premier League season on May 23 .
United performed admirably in cup competitions over the previous 12 months , at least until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of reaching the closing stages of the EFL Cup , FA Cup and in Europe would be the ultimate test of a squad that stills appears to be threadbare .
That might not be the case in numbers , but it looks to be the case on quality , and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has clearly lost trust in those back-up players to have an impact , hence his delayed introduction of substitutes against FC Copenhagen and Sevilla during United 's Europa League run in Cologne .
The final weeks of Project Restart took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some of whom looked to be running on muscle memory as fatigue set in .
Next season , when the fixture list is going to be just as brutal , there has to be greater rotation to survive the gruelling demands placed on a side that will expect to compete domestically and on the continent .
United 's European commitments in Cologne mean their season wo n't begin until week two of the new Premier League campaign , which already leaves a game against Burnley to be shoehorned in somewhere .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Carabao Cup then that could be played on January 12 or January 19 .
If United again reach the last four of the secondary cup competition they are unlikely to have a free midweek until March 2 , which is currently in the calendar as a catch-up date for Premier League games .
Reach the Carabao Cup final and United might be in action every midweek until April 20 , or even later if they go deep in the FA Cup as well , with the quarter-finals on March 20 and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the league at the moment .
Trying to work out when and where United will be playing next season is heavily dependant on their cup form and they will , of course , face tougher demands in the Champions League than the Europa League , although that also means they wo n't be able to rotate as freely in the group stage for Europe 's premier competition , but it 's clear that progress in the cups would mean United being able to count their free weeks on one hand , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well .
There are already some daunting dates for United .
Games against Chelsea , Arsenal , Everton , Southampton , West Ham and Manchester City immediately after Champions League fixtures do n't look too enticing , while an October that features fixtures against Tottenham , Newcastle , Chelsea and Arsenal will be an early barometer of progress .
But while fans will be pouring over the schedule today and picking out key dates and games , the release of the fixtures and the realisation of just how intense the schedule is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a not-so-gentle reminder to those who hold the pursestrings at Old Trafford that a successful transfer window is essential .
Flogging your best players over a season that involves two games a week almost constantly is simply not an option next term .
Instead United must provide Solskjaer with greater depth .
The start of United 's season is just over four weeks away but at the moment they are yet to add to their squad .
There is an understandable wariness not to be held to ransom in this transfer window , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial hit of the coronavirus pandemic is still uncertain , but today 's fixture release is a reminder that time is of the essence .

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If Manchester United were to match their cup efforts of last season in this coming campaign then it could be March before they have a free midweek in the 2020/21 calendar.
The delayed start to the new season has thrown the schedule into chaos and the reality is every club is going to be stretched to breaking point between September 12 (or September 19 in United's case) and the final day of the Premier League season on May 23.
United performed admirably in cup competitions over the previous 12 months, at least until the business end anyway, and a repeat of reaching the closing stages of the EFL Cup, FA Cup and in Europe would be the ultimate test of a squad that stills appears to be threadbare.
That might not be the case in numbers, but it looks to be the case on quality, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has clearly lost trust in those back-up players to have an impact, hence his delayed introduction of substitutes against FC Copenhagen and Sevilla during United's Europa League run in Cologne.
The final weeks of Project Restart took their toll on United's regular starters, some of whom looked to be running on muscle memory as fatigue set in. Next season, when the fixture list is going to be just as brutal, there has to be greater rotation to survive the gruelling demands placed on a side that will expect to compete domestically and on the continent.
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United's European commitments in Cologne mean their season won't begin until week two of the new Premier League campaign, which already leaves a game against Burnley to be shoehorned in somewhere.
If Solskjaer's side continue to progress in the Carabao Cup then that could be played on January 12 or January 19. If United again reach the last four of the secondary cup competition they are unlikely to have a free midweek until March 2, which is currently in the calendar as a catch-up date for Premier League games.
Reach the Carabao Cup final and United might be in action every midweek until April 20, or even later if they go deep in the FA Cup as well, with the quarter-finals on March 20 and the semi-finals on April 17 clashing with fixtures in the league at the moment.
Trying to work out when and where United will be playing next season is heavily dependant on their cup form and they will, of course, face tougher demands in the Champions League than the Europa League, although that also means they won't be able to rotate as freely in the group stage for Europe's premier competition, but it's clear that progress in the cups would mean United being able to count their free weeks on one hand, and probably with fingers and thumbs left spare as well.
There are already some daunting dates for United. Games against Chelsea, Arsenal, Everton, Southampton, West Ham and Manchester City immediately after Champions League fixtures don't look too enticing, while an October that features fixtures against Tottenham, Newcastle, Chelsea and Arsenal will be an early barometer of progress.
But while fans will be pouring over the schedule today and picking out key dates and games, the release of the fixtures and the realisation of just how intense the schedule is going to be should be acting as a not-so-gentle reminder to those who hold the pursestrings at Old Trafford that a successful transfer window is essential.
Flogging your best players over a season that involves two games a week almost constantly is simply not an option next term. Instead United must provide Solskjaer with greater depth.
The start of United's season is just over four weeks away but at the moment they are yet to add to their squad. There is an understandable wariness not to be held to ransom in this transfer window, when matchday revenues remain absent and the financial hit of the coronavirus pandemic is still uncertain, but today's fixture release is a reminder that time is of the essence.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-08-20--Castle tipped to host I'm A Celebrity announces closure until New Year

A castle in Wales expected to host this year 's series of I 'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here !
has announced that it will close to the public later this month .
Gwrych Castle in Conwy , just an hour from Manchester , is set to temporarily close from 5pm on Sunday , August 23 until New Year .
The closure is another sign that the Grade I listed 19th-century country house could be the venue for the hit reality show .
Bosses at ITV have already confirmed the 20th series would no longer take place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instead at a castle in the UK .
A far cry from the tropical jungle , the derelict castle overlooking the coastal town of Abergele would provide a completely different experience for the celebs - with this year 's winner being crowned King or Queen of the Castle .
Kevin Lygo , ITV ’ s director of television previously said : `` We announced that we were doing all we could to make the series and I ’ m thrilled that we can bring the show to viewers albeit not in the jungle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programme wo n't be the same , Ant and Dec will return to host the series with a similar set up to previous years - where viewers will watch participants undertake gruelling challenges to win food for their team members .
According to reports , ITV is spending more than £1million to transform the castle and its 250 acres of gardens and grounds .
Although evidence points towards Gwrych Castle being home to this year 's series , nothing has been confirmed by producers , just yet .
Locals to the castle flooded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with messages of excitement .
One shared : `` Brilliant news , good publicity and well deserved money going your way for all the hard work it takes to try and preserve this beautiful outstanding castle . ''
Another posted : `` Fab news !
Will be great to watch and see it all and have the memories of all the little places in there we went as kids and when we visited at the beginning of the year . ''

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A castle in Wales expected to host this year's series of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! has announced that it will close to the public later this month.
Gwrych Castle in Conwy, just an hour from Manchester, is set to temporarily close from 5pm on Sunday, August 23 until New Year.
The closure is another sign that the Grade I listed 19th-century country house could be the venue for the hit reality show.
Bosses at ITV have already confirmed the 20th series would no longer take place in Australia due to coronavirus, and instead at a castle in the UK.
A far cry from the tropical jungle, the derelict castle overlooking the coastal town of Abergele would provide a completely different experience for the celebs - with this year's winner being crowned King or Queen of the Castle.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s director of television previously said: "We announced that we were doing all we could to make the series and I’m thrilled that we can bring the show to viewers albeit not in the jungle."
While the look of the programme won't be the same, Ant and Dec will return to host the series with a similar set up to previous years - where viewers will watch participants undertake gruelling challenges to win food for their team members.
According to reports, ITV is spending more than £1million to transform the castle and its 250 acres of gardens and grounds.
Although evidence points towards Gwrych Castle being home to this year's series, nothing has been confirmed by producers, just yet.
Locals to the castle flooded its Facebook page on the closure announcement with messages of excitement.
One shared: "Brilliant news, good publicity and well deserved money going your way for all the hard work it takes to try and preserve this beautiful outstanding castle."
Another posted: "Fab news! Will be great to watch and see it all and have the memories of all the little places in there we went as kids and when we visited at the beginning of the year."