themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Things to do with the kids in Manchester this February half term 2020

The kids will soon be off again and you 'll no doubt be on the hunt for ways to keep your brood entertained .
While the weather might still be on the drab side , there 's lots to brighten up your half term across Greater Manchester .
From the much-anticipated arrival of Dippy the dinosaur in Rochdale , to a new Tiger Who Came to Tea exhibition , there 's loads going on to keep kids of all ages happy over the school break .
We 've been doing our bit to help you out with our mammoth round-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dippy the dinosaur is coming to Rochdale in time for half term and there 's a jam-packed programme of events happening to celebrate .
The Natural History Museum ’ s famous dinosaur cast , Dippy , left the museum to embark on a national tour in 2017 and Rochdale is the only place in the north west to see him .
The borough 's Number One Riverside will play host to the famous dinosaur from February 10 until June 28 , with an accompanying Dippy exhibition at Touchstones Rochdale - and the best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For more details about Dippy on Tour : A Natural History Adventure - and information about how schools can get tickets - see here .
The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Adventures of Mog the Forgetful Cat , Z-arts , Hulme The much-loved tales of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Mog are coming to life in a new exhibition which also arrives in time for the school break .
Following a launch weekend across February 8 and 9 , The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Adventures of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday , February 14 , featuring work from 14 of Judith Kerr ’ s treasured books .
Running at Z-arts in Manchester , it follows the success of A World Inside A Book , the event focusing on the work of author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler .
The interactive exhibition created by Discover Children ’ s Story Centre , Stratford , promises to 'enchant generations of readers ' and Z-arts , in Hulme , is the only venue outside of London to host the exhibition .
Children and their grown-ups will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the different worlds of Mog and the tiger , before taking part in arts and crafts activities .
They 'll be able to join the tiger for tea and hear the tale of his surprise visit to Sophie and her mummy .
Then open the door and take a trip into the real-life world of Mog the Forgetful Cat , crawl through a giant cat flap and find Mog ’ s family house .
Little ones will also be able to look for the hidden eggs for Mog 's breakfast , explore her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s local shops , settle down with a story at the bookshop , and help Mog and her friends get better at the vet 's .
The experience is recommended for children up to eight years of age and their grown ups .
As with the previous Donaldson exhibition , birthday parties will be available to book every Saturday while the event is running and school visits can also be arranged .
The exhibition will run until December and tickets , costing £8 , can be booked online .
Buttercup the unicorn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ term as part of its Enchanted Fairyland Adventure .
Families can explore the Enchanted Village and try out the troll and fairy detector , plant a magic beanstalk and make a magic wand at the event , which runs from February 15 until 23 .
You can watch Flora 's Fabulous Fairy Show and little ones can enjoy the usual fun of the farm too including meeting lizards and snakes , cuddling guinea pigs and baby chicks and grooming the bunnies .
Tickets are cheapest online and cost £10.95 for children and £8.95 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are £13.95 and £10.95 respectively .
City Airport is celebrating its 90th anniversary with a school holiday fun fair over half term .
There 'll be some free fun , including watching the aircraft take off and enjoying the play zone , which features swings , an aeroplane ride-on and a specially designed Control Tower climbing frame with climbing net , fireman pole , slide and swings .
And there 'll be paid for rides too , with tickets priced £2 each or £10 for eight .
Smaller rides require one ticket and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ride .
Donkeys and pedal boats £3 per person per ride .
The event , which runs from noon until 5pm daily from February 15 until February 23 , will also feature children 's characters , a magic show , disco and games .
Parking for the event is free .
Visit the website for more details and keep an eye on the Facebook page for any changes resulting from bad weather .
The kids go free offer is back at Dino Falls this half term .
If you 've not been recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out the second course at the site , which opened in December and features its own walk-through volcano .
The new 18-holes wrap around the edge of the existing Rapids course , with both offering 'engaging obstacles with a pre-historic twist , selfie stations and fascinating facts to keep you informed as you play ' .
Six new dinosaurs have been added , including another one that sprays at visitors , plus two ride-on Triceratops , which make for great photo opportunities .
Swipe through the gallery for more images of the Volcano @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Free offer will be available before 10.30am from February 17 to 28 , Monday to Friday only .
One child goes free with each paying adult .
Tickets for adults cost £8 for one 18 hole course .
See the website for more .
Wacky World is back for the school break bringing giant inflatables for all the family .
It 's here for one day only , taking over Bolton Stadium on Tuesday , February 18 .
There 'll be a total wipeout course , extreme hungry hippos , assault courses , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are running at the stadium between noon and 10.15pm , with some for over fives and others for adults only .
Earlybird tickets cost £10.95 each - a fiver less than the full price - and you can buy a spectator ticket for any session for £1 .
Sessions last for 90 minutes and are capped to stop it becoming too crowded .
Visit the website for more details and to book .
Organised by SE Lancs Orienteering Club , these local Saturday afternoon events are ideal for newcomers to the sport , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for more established orienteers .
There are three courses ranging from around 2km in length up to around 4.5km .
It costs £4 for adults and £2 for juniors and you can just turn up on the day to take part .
Start times are between 12pm and 2pm but organisers will be in the park from around 9.30am putting out control markers and will be collecting them in until around 4.30pm .
The start is near the café so a great opportunity for post-run refreshment !
Kids can enjoy the Bill Sisley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half term .
Sessions are aimed at children aged six to 15 and can be booked online .
The popular Arrive ‘ n ’ Drive sessions are also back for one day only , on Friday , February 21 , where children aged eight to 15 can book on a 20-minute between 10am and 4pm for £20 .
Visit the website for more details .
For older children , the Back to the Future musical launches in February half term .
The cult 80s film has been turned into a West End musical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where it runs from at the Opera House from February 20 to May 17 , before transferring to London 's theatreland .
The show is written by Bob Gale , who wrote the original 1985 film , together with the film 's director Robert Zemeckis and theatre producer Colin Ingram ( Ghost - The Musical ) .
Fans can look forward to a soundtrack of songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode , along with new music and lyrics by Emmy and Grammy Award-winning Alan Silvestri and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode .
For tickets , priced from £19.55 , visit ATGTickets.com or call 0844 871 3018 .
The Art of the Brick , Great Northern Warehouse , Manchester A global art exhibition made entirely out of Lego bricks is running in Manchester and kids go free this half term .
The Art of the Brick opened at the Great Northern Warehouse in November , celebrating the toy as an art medium .
On display are more than 75 sculptures and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sculpture of a T-Rex skeleton , with a soundtrack of jungle birdsong - and the odd roar .
The Art of the Brick has been seen by millions of people globally and won worldwide critical acclaim over the last 12 years .
The Manchester exhibition can be found at Unit 5 ( opposite the entrance to Manchester235 casino ) at the Great Northern Warehouse , on the corner of Deansgate and Peter Street , until April 20 .
Tickets are on sale now , starting from £14.50 for adults and £9.50 for children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free offer runs from Monday , February 10 until Sunday , February 23 .
One free child ’ s ticket with every paying adult ticket .
We might not have had much snow in Manchester this winter , but at least you 're guaranteed to find some inside Chill Factore .
A new four-lane Snow Slide was added to the Snow Park last year where up to eight people can ride at one time , so the entire family can be involved .
Riders can complete the course on solo donuts , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is available for ages four and over and costs £26 .
For younger ones there 's Mini Moose Land where kids under four can enjoy playing in the snow , igloos and tunnels for £7 and parents go free .
And if you 've got a skiing holiday coming up and your child wants to freshen up their skills , then they can get a junior lift pass for £15 an hour .
This February half term , visitors will have a special opportunity to meet war veterans and eyewitnesses , including those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Cold War and the Korean and Falkland Wars , to hear their personal stories of conflict .
Veterans will recount tales of their wartime life , giving visitors first-hand insights into the impact of war on people ’ s lives .
The free drop-in sessions run from 11am until 3pm on Tuesday , February 18 and Thursday , February 20 .
Story Seekers is another free event which runs on February 15 , 17 , 19 and 22 .
Your family can get hands-on with real artefacts and find moving and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters to ingenious nurses and those who built machines of conflict .
Organisers say it 's ' a wonderful way for families to learn together about the global impact of conflict from the First World War and Second World War to today ' .
There 's still time to catch the Upside Down House at the Trafford Centre if you fancy getting topsy turvy over half term .
The attraction is outside The Orient and offers visitors ' a zero-gravity illusion experience in a safe and family friendly environment ' .
The house @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furnished with a kitchen , bathroom , living room art and bedroom .
Visitors are invited to walk on the ceiling and 'lose themselves going downstairs to go up and letting their imagination run riot as they capture the perfect photo ' .
On the day tickets cost £5 per person ( under threes go free ) .
Advance tickets can be booked online for £3.50 weekdays or £4.50 weekends .
The house is open from 10am daily and closes at 8pm weekdays and 9pm at weekends .
From free family shows for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for under fours to pick up , there 's lots happening at the museum over half term .
The Revolution Manchester Show tells the story of how science and industry came together in Manchester , shaping our lives today .
With explosions , flying and even dancing , discover Manchester 's role as a nerve centre of the Industrial Revolution in what promises to be an 'action-packed , interactive show ' .
The show is at 10.30am daily from Monday to Friday and at 11.15am at the weekend .
You 've still got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which has now been extended until March 29 .
From an ancient Scandinavian sun horse to Jimmy Carter 's solar panels from the White House , The Sun - which is recommended for children age five and above - tells the story of our ever-changing relationship with our closest star .
Visitors can feel the heat at the indoor beach , stand in the middle of a solar storm and watch the sun rise over Antarctica as the science behind the sun is brought to life .
Tickets cost £8 for adults @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with paying adults .
Tickets can be booked online .
Visit the website for more details .
You can kill two birds with one stone this half term by keeping the kids entertained while making a costume for World Book Day .
Free workshops are taking place at Manchester Central Library on February 17 and 18 and then Manchester Art Gallery from February 19 to 22 .
Families are invited to go along for inspiration and assistance in designing , cutting and stitching felt masks , head-dresses and logos to bring Gruffalos and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ World Book Day on Thursday , March 5 .
The drop-in sessions run from 1pm until 3pm at both venues so there 's no need to book .
Visit the website for more details .
This February half term , families are invited to go in search of the bugs and beasties that make themselves at home in the house at Lyme .
Pick up a trail sheet to discover some lurking critters , and get stuck in with the conservation team to see what it takes to protect the treasures and furniture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11am to 4pm from February 15 to 23 , excluding 19 and 20 .
Tickets cost 50p each on top of the usual admission charges - children £4.75 , adults £9.50 , families £23.25 .
Outside at Lyme Park , family friendly sessions are running between 11am and 3pm , offering sporty fun on the Top Lawn between February 17 and 21 .
Visit the website for more details .
The Greater Manchester Police Museum hosts open days in the school holidays and this time there 'll be more free sessions on offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Tuesday , February 18 to Thursday , February 20 .
The free events , from 10.30am to 3.30pm , focus on different units within the police force from the North West Underwater Search and Recovery Unit to the Tactical Dog Unit and the North West Ambulance Service .
CBeebies favourites Sarah and Duck are being brought to life in a new stage show this half term .
Featuring the characters from the BAFTA award-winning show , it comes to The Lowry from February 18 to 23 .
Join Sarah and Duck and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sisters , The Shallots , Flamingo & John and Umbrella , as they plan a birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden .
The hour-long show promises to 'take you and your children on a magical adventure ' with ' a fantastic blend of puppetry , storytelling and music ' .
Tickets , from £12.50 , can be booked online .
Knowsley Safari is making things a bit cheaper this half term by letting kids in for half price .
Along the five-mile Safari Drive you 'll see everything from rhinos and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you do n't fancy taking your car through then you can hop on the Baboon Bus to get up close to the mischievous monkeys .
On the Foot Safari families can see meerkats , giraffes , Amur tigers , wolves , bats and more .
There are also regular sea lion and birds of prey displays .
The offer , which runs from February 15 to 23 brings the cost of a children 's ticket , up to the age of 15 , to £6.75 .
For adults it 's £15.75 .
Book @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester is launching its Jawsome Sharks and Friends quest .
The idea is that visitors help Professor Finn find the missing Top Trumps cards , so he can teach everybody about the incredible sharks and sea creatures that live at the aquarium .
See how many cards you can collect as you navigate the trail before handing them over to the crazy Professor Finn who will share his knowledge on the sharks and other amazing creatures .
Jawsome Sharks and Friends is an interactive experience where all trainee rangers can touch and feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including real razor-sharp teeth alongside other sea creature items .
The event runs from February 15 until March 15 and tickets , from £16.95 , can be booked online .
The tree-top adventure playground at Heaton Park is open this half term .
The Treetop Nets play park features giant treetop trampolines suitable for everyone aged three and up .
Treetop Trek features two courses : the Zip Trek and a shorter Mini Trek .
Suitable for ages five and over , the Mini Trek is the easier of the two courses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obstacles to conquer .
Tickets cost £18 for an hour .
The Zip Trek is a two-hour experience for ages seven and above and starts from £25 .
Up to a jaw-dropping height of 15m , you will weave through the tree canopy across 35 obstacles , including balance bars , swinging logs and Indiana bridges , along with 24 'thrilling ' zip lines .
Sessions on the nets also last for two hours and cost £13 for under fives and supervisors and £20 for adults and over fives .
To find out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 01539 447 186 .
Families are invited on ' a welly walk like never before ' at Quarry Bank this half term .
Explore the gardens and woods , playing games and 'discovering nature in a new way ' .
Head to the upper garden for a look at the natural world before making your way to the mill for a rainy day craft activity .
The event runs from February 17 to 21 and is part of the Natural History Museums ' Natural History Adventures .
It is included in normal admission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , family £50.50 .
Children can get creative while learning about inspiring insects , scintillating spiders and captivating creepy crawlies at the museum .
The event runs from 2pm to 4pm from February 18 to 20 and is free for families to drop-in so there 's no need to book .
Check the website closer to the time for special guests and activities .
There are lots of free and cheap activities at the museum and gallery over the holidays .
Victorian street Lark Hill Place is hosting a free Washday Wednesday event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11am , 1pm and 2pm .
From possers to donkey stones , families can watch a demonstration to see how the residents of Lark Hill Place would have done their laundry .
A free Through The Ages event takes place on the Thursday , from 10am to 12pm and from 1pm to 3pm .
The on Friday , February 21 , families can get some treats from Mr Tomlinson 's Sweet Shop in return for a donation to the museum .
It 's open from 10am until noon and 1pm to 3pm .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ activities here .
With interactive objects , games and displays , the National Football Museum has lots of fun activities for kids of all ages .
Throughout the museum there are interactive objects , games and displays , including a Discovery Zone designed especially for ages five and under .
You now have to pay to get in the museum but six of the interactive games offered at the venue - aimed at kids seven and over and letting them test their skills at everything from showboating to commentating - are now included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing your lightning-quick ‘ keeping reactions to prove yourself as the top Shot Stopper , testing your passing skills with the game One-Two and following the autocue or just calling the action as you see it with the Match Of The Day .
The penalty shootout costs £2 for three penalties .
Tickets cost £10 for adults , £5 for children aged five to 15 , or £25 for a family .
Anyone who pays their council tax to Manchester city council gets in for free ( proof of residency required ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5pm , last admission 4.30pm .
For more information visit www.nationalfootballmuseum.com .
If you head along to Chester Zoo this half term then you can take a look at the new lion habitat .
Visitors can get closer than ever to the Asiatic lions - the world 's rarest species of the animal - and if you catch them at the right time you might just see them eating their dinner too .
The impressive 4,790 square metre enclosure is home to lionesses Kumari and Kiburi , along with adult male Lblis - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specially designed to help conserve the world 's rarest species of the animal , with only an estimated 350 of the animals left in India , after they originally roamed across Northern Africa , Greece , Turkey and Asia .
Last year the zoo also unveiled its new Madagascar habitat , featuring the attraction 's first ever 'walk-though ' primate experience .
Visitors now have the chance to see lemurs jumping across the path in front of them or swinging in the trees above them as they make their way through part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up an art hamper at any time during gallery opening hours .
This is filled with art materials , ideas and a picnic blanket - which can be used indoors or outdoors .
These can be collected and returned from the welcome desks at either entrance from 10am For more details see here .
The Whitworth , The University of Manchester , Oxford Road , Manchester , M15 6ER .
There are plenty of opportunities for the kids to get crafty at Bents Garden and Home this half term .
A free Creation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can make , stick , colour and paint their very own masterpieces every day of the break .
It will be located between the Children ’ s Boutique and C-Crafts , where the team will ensure the Station is re-stocked with new crafts which are completely free to use .
A number of organised pottery workshop sessions have also been planned .
On Tuesday , February 18 and Thursday , February 20 children will be able to decorate their very own ceramic coin bank ( Tuesday ) or watering can ( Thursday ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drop in sessions will also be taking place when there ’ s no need to book .
Workshops are £6 per child which includes all materials .
A rose themed treasure hunt will be on throughout the break with face painting also planned for the Tuesday 18 , Thursday 20 and Saturday 22 .
You can let the kids try out the outdoor play area or Jurassic Cove Adventure Golf while you 're there , or head inside to the free indoor beach .
If you have an event to add to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it on our Manchester Family group here .

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Get the M.E.N.'s Manchester Family newsletter for all the latest from back to school news to ways to entertain the kids
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Get the M.E.N.'s Manchester Family newsletter for all the latest from back to school news to ways to entertain the kids
The kids will soon be off again and you'll no doubt be on the hunt for ways to keep your brood entertained.
While the weather might still be on the drab side, there's lots to brighten up your half term across Greater Manchester.
From the much-anticipated arrival of Dippy the dinosaur in Rochdale, to a new Tiger Who Came to Tea exhibition, there's loads going on to keep kids of all ages happy over the school break.
We've been doing our bit to help you out with our mammoth round-up of family events around the region.
Here's what's happening and when...
Dippy the dinosaur, Rochdale
Dippy the dinosaur is coming to Rochdale in time for half term and there's a jam-packed programme of events happening to celebrate.
The Natural History Museum’s famous dinosaur cast, Dippy, left the museum to embark on a national tour in 2017 and Rochdale is the only place in the north west to see him.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The borough's Number One Riverside will play host to the famous dinosaur from February 10 until June 28, with an accompanying Dippy exhibition at Touchstones Rochdale - and the best bit is, both are free.
For more details about Dippy on Tour: A Natural History Adventure - and information about how schools can get tickets - see here.
Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale, OL16 1XU.
(Image: Getty Images)
The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Adventures of Mog the Forgetful Cat, Z-arts, Hulme
The much-loved tales of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Mog are coming to life in a new exhibition which also arrives in time for the school break.
Following a launch weekend across February 8 and 9, The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Adventures of Mog the Forgetful Cat will open on Friday, February 14, featuring work from 14 of Judith Kerr’s treasured books.
Running at Z-arts in Manchester, it follows the success of A World Inside A Book, the event focusing on the work of author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The interactive exhibition created by Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, promises to 'enchant generations of readers' and Z-arts, in Hulme, is the only venue outside of London to host the exhibition.
Children and their grown-ups will get the chance to investigate and explore the different worlds of Mog and the tiger, before taking part in arts and crafts activities.
They'll be able to join the tiger for tea and hear the tale of his surprise visit to Sophie and her mummy.
Then open the door and take a trip into the real-life world of Mog the Forgetful Cat, crawl through a giant cat flap and find Mog’s family house.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Little ones will also be able to look for the hidden eggs for Mog's breakfast, explore her garden, pick up groceries at Mog’s local shops, settle down with a story at the bookshop, and help Mog and her friends get better at the vet's.
The experience is recommended for children up to eight years of age and their grown ups.
As with the previous Donaldson exhibition, birthday parties will be available to book every Saturday while the event is running and school visits can also be arranged.
The exhibition will run until December and tickets, costing £8, can be booked online.
Z-arts, Stretford Road, Hulme, Manchester, M15 5ZA.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Carrington Riding Centre, Carrington
There's lots of fun lined up at Carrington Riding Centre this half term.
From parent and child lessons every weekday until February 21, to Days On The Farm - featuring two hours of riding, pony care and other fun and games - there are loads of events to sign up for.
And it's not just about ponies either, there are also Doggy Days On The Farm to spend time learning how to look after dogs.
For prices and to find out more visit the website here.
Carrington Riding Centre and Livery Yard, Nursery Farm, Isherwood Road, Carrington, M31 4BH.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Enchanted Fairyland Adventure, Cockfields Farm, Ashton
Buttercup the unicorn is back at Cockfields Farm this half term as part of its Enchanted Fairyland Adventure.
Families can explore the Enchanted Village and try out the troll and fairy detector, plant a magic beanstalk and make a magic wand at the event, which runs from February 15 until 23.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
You can watch Flora's Fabulous Fairy Show and little ones can enjoy the usual fun of the farm too including meeting lizards and snakes, cuddling guinea pigs and baby chicks and grooming the bunnies.
Tickets are cheapest online and cost £10.95 for children and £8.95 for adults. On the door prices are £13.95 and £10.95 respectively.
Cockfields Farm, Lees Road, Ashton, OL6 8AR.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Fun Fair, City Airport, Barton
City Airport is celebrating its 90th anniversary with a school holiday fun fair over half term.
There'll be some free fun, including watching the aircraft take off and enjoying the play zone, which features swings, an aeroplane ride-on and a specially designed Control Tower climbing frame with climbing net, fireman pole, slide and swings.
And there'll be paid for rides too, with tickets priced £2 each or £10 for eight.
Smaller rides require one ticket and larger rides two tickets per person per ride. Donkeys and pedal boats £3 per person per ride.
The event, which runs from noon until 5pm daily from February 15 until February 23, will also feature children's characters, a magic show, disco and games.
Parking for the event is free. Visit the website for more details and keep an eye on the Facebook page for any changes resulting from bad weather.
City Airport, Liverpool Road, Eccles, M30 7SA.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Dino Falls Adventure Golf, Trafford
The kids go free offer is back at Dino Falls this half term.
If you've not been recently then you'll be able to try out the second course at the site, which opened in December and features its own walk-through volcano.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The new 18-holes wrap around the edge of the existing Rapids course, with both offering 'engaging obstacles with a pre-historic twist, selfie stations and fascinating facts to keep you informed as you play'.
Six new dinosaurs have been added, including another one that sprays at visitors, plus two ride-on Triceratops, which make for great photo opportunities.
Swipe through the gallery for more images of the Volcano Course at Dino Falls
The Kids Go Free offer will be available before 10.30am from February 17 to 28, Monday to Friday only. One child goes free with each paying adult.
Tickets for adults cost £8 for one 18 hole course. See the website for more.
Dino Falls, Old Park Lane, Manchester, TraffordCity, M17 8PG.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Wacky World, Bolton
Wacky World is back for the school break bringing giant inflatables for all the family.
It's here for one day only, taking over Bolton Stadium on Tuesday, February 18.
There'll be a total wipeout course, extreme hungry hippos, assault courses, gladiator duels and much more.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Sessions are running at the stadium between noon and 10.15pm, with some for over fives and others for adults only.
Earlybird tickets cost £10.95 each - a fiver less than the full price - and you can buy a spectator ticket for any session for £1.
Sessions last for 90 minutes and are capped to stop it becoming too crowded.
Visit the website for more details and to book.
Wacky World, Bolton Stadium, Burnden Way, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6JW.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Orienteering, Alexandra Park, Oldham
A popular orienteering event takes place this half term, on Saturday, February 15.
Organised by SE Lancs Orienteering Club, these local Saturday afternoon events are ideal for newcomers to the sport, as well as offering a technical course for more established orienteers.
There are three courses ranging from around 2km in length up to around 4.5km.
It costs £4 for adults and £2 for juniors and you can just turn up on the day to take part.
Start times are between 12pm and 2pm but organisers will be in the park from around 9.30am putting out control markers and will be collecting them in until around 4.30pm.
The start is near the café so a great opportunity for post-run refreshment!
Alexandra Park, Kings Road, Oldham, OL8 2BN.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Three Sisters Circuit, Wigan
Kids can enjoy the Bill Sisley Kart School which is back for February half term.
Sessions are aimed at children aged six to 15 and can be booked online.
The popular Arrive ‘n’ Drive sessions are also back for one day only, on Friday, February 21, where children aged eight to 15 can book on a 20-minute between 10am and 4pm for £20.
Visit the website for more details.
Three Sisters Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD.
Back to the Future, Manchester Opera House
For older children, the Back to the Future musical launches in February half term.
The cult 80s film has been turned into a West End musical and it's premiering in Manchester, where it runs from at the Opera House from February 20 to May 17, before transferring to London's theatreland.
(Image: Universal Pictures Home Entertainment via AP)
The show is written by Bob Gale, who wrote the original 1985 film, together with the film's director Robert Zemeckis and theatre producer Colin Ingram (Ghost - The Musical).
Fans can look forward to a soundtrack of songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode, along with new music and lyrics by Emmy and Grammy Award-winning Alan Silvestri and six-time Grammy Award-winning Glen Ballard, with additional songs from the film including The Power of Love and Johnny B. Goode.
For tickets, priced from £19.55, visit ATGTickets.com or call 0844 871 3018.
Opera House, Quay Street, Manchester, M3 3HP.
(Image: Manchester Opera House)
The Art of the Brick, Great Northern Warehouse, Manchester
A global art exhibition made entirely out of Lego bricks is running in Manchester and kids go free this half term.
The Art of the Brick opened at the Great Northern Warehouse in November, celebrating the toy as an art medium.
On display are more than 75 sculptures and artworks, including a 20ft long Lego sculpture of a T-Rex skeleton, with a soundtrack of jungle birdsong - and the odd roar.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
The Art of the Brick has been seen by millions of people globally and won worldwide critical acclaim over the last 12 years.
The Manchester exhibition can be found at Unit 5 (opposite the entrance to Manchester235 casino) at the Great Northern Warehouse, on the corner of Deansgate and Peter Street, until April 20.
Tickets are on sale now, starting from £14.50 for adults and £9.50 for children, from aotbmanchester.co.uk .
The kids go free offer runs from Monday, February 10 until Sunday, February 23. One free child’s ticket with every paying adult ticket.
Great Northern Warehouse, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4EN.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Chill Factore, Beyond, Trafford
We might not have had much snow in Manchester this winter, but at least you're guaranteed to find some inside Chill Factore.
A new four-lane Snow Slide was added to the Snow Park last year where up to eight people can ride at one time, so the entire family can be involved.
Riders can complete the course on solo donuts, or share double donuts.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The Snow Park is available for ages four and over and costs £26.
For younger ones there's Mini Moose Land where kids under four can enjoy playing in the snow, igloos and tunnels for £7 and parents go free.
And if you've got a skiing holiday coming up and your child wants to freshen up their skills, then they can get a junior lift pass for £15 an hour.
Visit the website to book.
Chill Factore, Trafford Way, Stretford, M41 7JA.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Blackpool Comes to Oldham
Europe's biggest mobile funfair is coming to Oldham this half term.
The annual 'Blackpool Comes to Oldham' event is open for three weeks, from February 14 to March 1.
This year's event promises to be the 'most spectacular yet', with more than 25 'thrilling rides and attractions'.
There’s entertainment under cover too, in case it's a little chilly or rainy outside. Children can build a sandcastle at the mini beach in the marquee, while parents grab a coffee and cake.
Find out more about it here, or visit the website.
Blackpool Comes to Oldham, Hollinwood Avenue, Manchester Road, Hollinwood, OL9 7LG.
Meet the veterans, Imperial War Museum North
This February half term, visitors will have a special opportunity to meet war veterans and eyewitnesses, including those who lived through the Second World War, the Cold War and the Korean and Falkland Wars, to hear their personal stories of conflict.
Veterans will recount tales of their wartime life, giving visitors first-hand insights into the impact of war on people’s lives.
The free drop-in sessions run from 11am until 3pm on Tuesday, February 18 and Thursday, February 20.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Story Seekers is another free event which runs on February 15, 17, 19 and 22.
Your family can get hands-on with real artefacts and find moving and surprising stories from people who braved shark-infested waters to ingenious nurses and those who built machines of conflict.
Organisers say it's 'a wonderful way for families to learn together about the global impact of conflict from the First World War and Second World War to today'.
Imperial War Museum North, Trafford Wharf Road, Stretford, M17 1TZ.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Upside Down House, Trafford Centre
There's still time to catch the Upside Down House at the Trafford Centre if you fancy getting topsy turvy over half term.
The attraction is outside The Orient and offers visitors 'a zero-gravity illusion experience in a safe and family friendly environment'.
The house is arranged over two storeys and fully furnished with a kitchen, bathroom, living room art and bedroom.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Visitors are invited to walk on the ceiling and 'lose themselves going downstairs to go up and letting their imagination run riot as they capture the perfect photo'.
On the day tickets cost £5 per person (under threes go free). Advance tickets can be booked online for £3.50 weekdays or £4.50 weekends.
The house is open from 10am daily and closes at 8pm weekdays and 9pm at weekends.
Trafford Centre, The Orient, Trafford, M17 8AA.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Science and Industry Museum, Manchester
From free family shows for kids of all ages to Construction Packs for under fours to pick up, there's lots happening at the museum over half term.
The Revolution Manchester Show tells the story of how science and industry came together in Manchester, shaping our lives today.
With explosions, flying and even dancing, discover Manchester's role as a nerve centre of the Industrial Revolution in what promises to be an 'action-packed, interactive show'.
The show is at 10.30am daily from Monday to Friday and at 11.15am at the weekend.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
You've still got time to catch The Sun exhibition too, which has now been extended until March 29.
From an ancient Scandinavian sun horse to Jimmy Carter's solar panels from the White House, The Sun - which is recommended for children age five and above - tells the story of our ever-changing relationship with our closest star.
Visitors can feel the heat at the indoor beach, stand in the middle of a solar storm and watch the sun rise over Antarctica as the science behind the sun is brought to life.
Tickets cost £8 for adults, £6 concessions and children go free with paying adults. Tickets can be booked online .
Visit the website for more details.
Museum of Science and Industry, Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4FP.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Costume Factory, Manchester Central Library and Manchester Art Gallery
You can kill two birds with one stone this half term by keeping the kids entertained while making a costume for World Book Day.
Free workshops are taking place at Manchester Central Library on February 17 and 18 and then Manchester Art Gallery from February 19 to 22.
Families are invited to go along for inspiration and assistance in designing, cutting and stitching felt masks, head-dresses and logos to bring Gruffalos and Gangsta Grannies to life in time for World Book Day on Thursday, March 5.
The drop-in sessions run from 1pm until 3pm at both venues so there's no need to book.
Visit the website for more details.
Manchester Central Library, St Peter's Square, Manchester, M2 5PD.
Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3JL.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Bugs and Beasties, Lyme Park
This February half term, families are invited to go in search of the bugs and beasties that make themselves at home in the house at Lyme.
Pick up a trail sheet to discover some lurking critters, and get stuck in with the conservation team to see what it takes to protect the treasures and furniture around the house.
Sessions run from 11am to 4pm from February 15 to 23, excluding 19 and 20.
Tickets cost 50p each on top of the usual admission charges - children £4.75, adults £9.50, families £23.25.
Outside at Lyme Park, family friendly sessions are running between 11am and 3pm, offering sporty fun on the Top Lawn between February 17 and 21. Visit the website for more details.
Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport, Cheshire, SK12 2NR.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
GMP Museum
The Greater Manchester Police Museum hosts open days in the school holidays and this time there'll be more free sessions on offer.
This February sessions will be held from Tuesday, February 18 to Thursday, February 20.
The free events, from 10.30am to 3.30pm, focus on different units within the police force from the North West Underwater Search and Recovery Unit to the Tactical Dog Unit and the North West Ambulance Service.
Last admission is 3pm.
57A Newton Street, Manchester, M1 1ET.
Sarah & Duck's Big Top Birthday, The Lowry, Salford
CBeebies favourites Sarah and Duck are being brought to life in a new stage show this half term.
Featuring the characters from the BAFTA award-winning show, it comes to The Lowry from February 18 to 23.
Join Sarah and Duck and a host of favourites including The Ribbon Sisters, The Shallots, Flamingo & John and Umbrella, as they plan a birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden.
The hour-long show promises to 'take you and your children on a magical adventure' with 'a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music'.
Tickets, from £12.50, can be booked online.
The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Knowsley Safari, Knowsley
Knowsley Safari is making things a bit cheaper this half term by letting kids in for half price.
Along the five-mile Safari Drive you'll see everything from rhinos and camels to lions and deer and if you don't fancy taking your car through then you can hop on the Baboon Bus to get up close to the mischievous monkeys.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
On the Foot Safari families can see meerkats, giraffes, Amur tigers, wolves, bats and more.
There are also regular sea lion and birds of prey displays.
The offer, which runs from February 15 to 23 brings the cost of a children's ticket, up to the age of 15, to £6.75. For adults it's £15.75. Book online.
Knowsley Safari, Prescot, L34 4AN.
Children's Afternoon Tea, The Midland Hotel
If you fancy something different with the kids over half term then you could head to The Midland Hotel which is serving up a Children's Afternoon Tea.
The selection includes finger sandwiches, a mixture of sweet treats and a fresh fruit milkshake. Children also get to decorate their own gingerbread man.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Available for children up to 12 years old, when accompanied by an adult ordering Afternoon Tea, the Children’s Afternoon Tea promises 'a combination of fun and traditional style thrown into one' – with a scone served with Devon clotted cream and Mrs Darlington’s jams, sandwiches including roast chicken and cucumber and cream cheese.
It's available all year round, from Monday to Friday 1pm to 4.30pm and weekends, 12.30pm to 6.30pm and is priced at £13.50 per child.
You can book online or walk-ins are also welcomed.
The Midland, Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Jawsome Sharks, Sea Life
This half term Sea Life Manchester is launching its Jawsome Sharks and Friends quest.
The idea is that visitors help Professor Finn find the missing Top Trumps cards, so he can teach everybody about the incredible sharks and sea creatures that live at the aquarium.
See how many cards you can collect as you navigate the trail before handing them over to the crazy Professor Finn who will share his knowledge on the sharks and other amazing creatures.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Jawsome Sharks and Friends is an interactive experience where all trainee rangers can touch and feel real artefacts and objects from the deep, including real razor-sharp teeth alongside other sea creature items.
The event runs from February 15 until March 15 and tickets, from £16.95, can be booked online.
Sea Life, intu Trafford Centre, Barton Square Bridge, Manchester, M17 8AS.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Treetop Trek, Heaton Park
The tree-top adventure playground at Heaton Park is open this half term.
The Treetop Nets play park features giant treetop trampolines suitable for everyone aged three and up.
Treetop Trek features two courses: the Zip Trek and a shorter Mini Trek.
Suitable for ages five and over, the Mini Trek is the easier of the two courses, with seven ziplines and 13 different obstacles to conquer. Tickets cost £18 for an hour.
The Zip Trek is a two-hour experience for ages seven and above and starts from £25.
Up to a jaw-dropping height of 15m, you will weave through the tree canopy across 35 obstacles, including balance bars, swinging logs and Indiana bridges, along with 24 'thrilling' zip lines.
Sessions on the nets also last for two hours and cost £13 for under fives and supervisors and £20 for adults and over fives.
To find out more please visit the website or call 01539 447 186 .
Natural History Adventures, Quarry Bank
Families are invited on 'a welly walk like never before' at Quarry Bank this half term.
Explore the gardens and woods, playing games and 'discovering nature in a new way'.
Head to the upper garden for a look at the natural world before making your way to the mill for a rainy day craft activity.
The event runs from February 17 to 21 and is part of the Natural History Museums' Natural History Adventures.
It is included in normal admission charges - children £10, adults £20.25, family £50.50.
Quarry Bank, Styal, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 4LA.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Magnificent Minibeasts, Manchester Museum
Children can get creative while learning about inspiring insects, scintillating spiders and captivating creepy crawlies at the museum.
The event runs from 2pm to 4pm from February 18 to 20 and is free for families to drop-in so there's no need to book.
Check the website closer to the time for special guests and activities.
Manchester Museum, The University Of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Salford Museum and Art Gallery
There are lots of free and cheap activities at the museum and gallery over the holidays.
Victorian street Lark Hill Place is hosting a free Washday Wednesday event on February 19, with sessions at 11am, 1pm and 2pm.
From possers to donkey stones, families can watch a demonstration to see how the residents of Lark Hill Place would have done their laundry.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
A free Through The Ages event takes place on the Thursday, from 10am to 12pm and from 1pm to 3pm.
The on Friday, February 21, families can get some treats from Mr Tomlinson's Sweet Shop in return for a donation to the museum. It's open from 10am until noon and 1pm to 3pm.
See the full list of half term activities here.
Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Peel Park, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WU.
National Football Museum, Manchester
With interactive objects, games and displays, the National Football Museum has lots of fun activities for kids of all ages.
Throughout the museum there are interactive objects, games and displays, including a Discovery Zone designed especially for ages five and under.
You now have to pay to get in the museum but six of the interactive games offered at the venue - aimed at kids seven and over and letting them test their skills at everything from showboating to commentating - are now included in the entrance fee.
These include testing your lightning-quick ‘keeping reactions to prove yourself as the top Shot Stopper, testing your passing skills with the game One-Two and following the autocue or just calling the action as you see it with the Match Of The Day.
The penalty shootout costs £2 for three penalties.
Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for children aged five to 15, or £25 for a family.
Anyone who pays their council tax to Manchester city council gets in for free (proof of residency required).
It's open daily from 10am to 5pm, last admission 4.30pm. For more information visit www.nationalfootballmuseum.com .
National Football Museum, Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Todd St, City Centre, Manchester, M4 3BG.
Lion habitat, Chester Zoo
If you head along to Chester Zoo this half term then you can take a look at the new lion habitat.
Visitors can get closer than ever to the Asiatic lions - the world's rarest species of the animal - and if you catch them at the right time you might just see them eating their dinner too.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
The impressive 4,790 square metre enclosure is home to lionesses Kumari and Kiburi, along with adult male Lblis - all aged 12.
It's been specially designed to help conserve the world's rarest species of the animal, with only an estimated 350 of the animals left in India, after they originally roamed across Northern Africa, Greece, Turkey and Asia.
(Image: PA)
Last year the zoo also unveiled its new Madagascar habitat, featuring the attraction's first ever 'walk-though' primate experience.
Visitors now have the chance to see lemurs jumping across the path in front of them or swinging in the trees above them as they make their way through part of the new zone.
Chester Zoo, Chester, CH2 1EU.
The Whitworth
Visitors can pick up an art hamper at any time during gallery opening hours. This is filled with art materials, ideas and a picnic blanket - which can be used indoors or outdoors.
These can be collected and returned from the welcome desks at either entrance from 10am
For more details see here .
The Whitworth, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER.
Get crafty at Bents, Warrington
There are plenty of opportunities for the kids to get crafty at Bents Garden and Home this half term.
A free Creation Station is being set up where they can make, stick, colour and paint their very own masterpieces every day of the break.
It will be located between the Children’s Boutique and C-Crafts, where the team will ensure the Station is re-stocked with new crafts which are completely free to use.
A number of organised pottery workshop sessions have also been planned.
On Tuesday, February 18 and Thursday, February 20 children will be able to decorate their very own ceramic coin bank (Tuesday) or watering can (Thursday).
Places can be pre-booked online or drop in sessions will also be taking place when there’s no need to book. Workshops are £6 per child which includes all materials.
A rose themed treasure hunt will be on throughout the break with face painting also planned for the Tuesday 18, Thursday 20 and Saturday 22.
You can let the kids try out the outdoor play area or Jurassic Cove Adventure Golf while you're there, or head inside to the free indoor beach.
Bents, Warrington Road, Glazebury, Warrington, WA3 5NT.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
If you have an event to add to the list email emma.gill@trinitymirror.com or share it on our Manchester Family group here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Why Liverpool is a whole world of free fun for families

With so much to see and do on our own doorstep , it can be easy to forget what lies down the M62 .
Despite feeling like somewhat of a traitor for ditching Manchester for Liverpool on my only day off during half term , I was somewhat excited to take the kids somewhere new .
A quick shout for suggestions on our Manchester Family Facebook page and we were inundated with recommendations of where to visit .
The World Museum , the Royal Albert Dock , Walker Art Gallery , Tate Liverpool - we were spoilt for choice .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the motorway as we took the easy option of the train , hopping on a Northern service straight from Eccles to Lime Street .
Within less than an hour we were there and ready to see the sights .
Despite my children now being older - 10 and eight - it can still be daunting going somewhere new , especially when you 're flying solo and have little sense of direction .
I need n't have worried , as even with little ones it would n't take long to do the short walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Museum and it conveniently sits in one row of towering historic buildings - just next to the Central Library and next door but one to the Walker Art Gallery .
After hearing such great things we made the World Museum our first stop and quickly discovered why it attracts such praise .
It might be free to enter ( donations always welcome ) , but there is so much to see and do across the five floors .
The first floor aquarium is worthy of a trip on its own , as was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Natural World , a collection of stuffed animals including a sloth , a zebra and a huge polar bear .
With a bug house , Egyptian mummies , dinosaurs and lots more , we were kept entertained for a good few hours - and that was whizzing round the place .
The fifth floor Planetarium was hosting workshops on all things space , but with so much to get through we had to give that a miss .
We did however find time for the cafe , which had an impressive selection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children 's favourites on the kids ' hot lunch menu - sausages , pizza or chicken goujons with chips , beans and a drink for £4.95 .
Available from 11.30am to 3.30pm .
The Scouse pie was flying off the hot plate , but there were plenty more options for adults too , including the specials board with the likes of quiche of the day , £2.95 , and tomato and lentil stew , £6.95 .
If you take your lunch along though , there 's plenty of space to have a picnic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fourth floor as well as an overspill Skyline room on the top floor .
After refuelling it was time to see what else this place has in store and with a 10 minute walk down Dale Street we were at the front and close to the famous Royal Albert Dock .
Once the home of ITV 's This Morning , the place has changed a lot over the years and is surrounded by shops , cafés , restaurants and one of its newest additions the Mattel Play !
centre , which features @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fireman Sam and Bob the Builder .
The closest we got to that was to use the toilet down the alleyway next door to it - worth remembering if you get caught short or need a baby change .
Near one of the entrances to the docks , tucked away by the side of Tate Liverpool , is one of the city 's newest public artworks .
Essentially brightly coloured rocks balanced on top of one another , Liverpool Mountain is the work of acclaimed artist Ugo Rondinone and stands over 10 metres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it 's not come without criticism , but when you 're joining a queue to get a photo of your children in front of it , you realise the full potential of these things to draw people in .
There were more photo opportunities at the city 's lamb banana sculptures , which are still proving somewhat of an attraction more than a decade after they first appeared as part of the European Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008 .
Albeit a little worse for wear .
Another thing we did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liverpool and on such a sunny day we got in to take in the stunning views across the Mersey and see exactly how much this once industrial landscape has transformed into a modern waterfront .
At £10 per adult and £6.50 for a child ( aged three to 16 ) , it 's not cheap , but there 's a commentary to accompany your trip , if you can hear it over your children that is , and you circle it four times in all .
You can of course get on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trips booked at Mersey Ferries , a huge building close to the Museum of Liverpool .
We called in that museum too and while there 's plenty to see , including a section of the Liverpool Overhead Railway , it was n't a patch on the World Museum .
After a trip to Quay Confectionery - seemingly the Willy Wonka factory of Liverpool , with a picture of The Beatles made from jelly beans in the window - it was time to start heading back .
The Central Library was a convenient stop-off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for its handy cafe and toilets rather than anything else .
Swipe right through the images to see more photos from Liverpool , including the price lists for museum cafés There 's an impressive room inside for children to sit and read with cushions on the floor and we could see from the scattering of books how well visited it had been on a busy half term day .
Next door at the Walker Art Gallery children can get creative at the Big Art Gallery , a child-centered , hands-on gallery that provides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create , play and discover ' .
A little young for my two , it features a dress-up area , a ‘ Doing Zone ’ and a ‘ Story Zone ’ .
We were more interested in looking round the permanent collections there and visiting the Make Space zone , where older kids can get creative with mirrors and self-portraits .
Just beware of them pointing out the 'naughty words ' in the Andy Warhol Text Painting .
How come children ca n't find their own shoes , but never fail to spot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within a five mile radius ?
Perhaps us Manchester folk are just not cultured enough .
Or perhaps children are just children , who are curious and crazy and keen to learn everything they can about the world around them .
I was pretty impressed by Liverpool 's offering to help them do exactly that - and even more impressed that they can do it for free .
For more information about the museums in Liverpool visit the website here .

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Get the M.E.N.'s Manchester Family newsletter for all the latest from back to school news to ways to entertain the kids
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Get the M.E.N.'s Manchester Family newsletter for all the latest from back to school news to ways to entertain the kids
With so much to see and do on our own doorstep, it can be easy to forget what lies down the M62.
Despite feeling like somewhat of a traitor for ditching Manchester for Liverpool on my only day off during half term, I was somewhat excited to take the kids somewhere new.
A quick shout for suggestions on our Manchester Family Facebook page and we were inundated with recommendations of where to visit.
The World Museum, the Royal Albert Dock, Walker Art Gallery, Tate Liverpool - we were spoilt for choice.
Thankfully we didn't need to touch the motorway as we took the easy option of the train, hopping on a Northern service straight from Eccles to Lime Street.
Within less than an hour we were there and ready to see the sights.
Despite my children now being older - 10 and eight - it can still be daunting going somewhere new, especially when you're flying solo and have little sense of direction.
I needn't have worried, as even with little ones it wouldn't take long to do the short walk from the train station to the World Museum and it conveniently sits in one row of towering historic buildings - just next to the Central Library and next door but one to the Walker Art Gallery.
After hearing such great things we made the World Museum our first stop and quickly discovered why it attracts such praise.
It might be free to enter (donations always welcome), but there is so much to see and do across the five floors.
The first floor aquarium is worthy of a trip on its own, as was the wild and wooded gallery of the Natural World, a collection of stuffed animals including a sloth, a zebra and a huge polar bear.
With a bug house, Egyptian mummies, dinosaurs and lots more, we were kept entertained for a good few hours - and that was whizzing round the place.
The fifth floor Planetarium was hosting workshops on all things space, but with so much to get through we had to give that a miss.
We did however find time for the cafe, which had an impressive selection of meals and snacks, including your typical children's favourites on the kids' hot lunch menu - sausages, pizza or chicken goujons with chips, beans and a drink for £4.95. Available from 11.30am to 3.30pm.
The Scouse pie was flying off the hot plate, but there were plenty more options for adults too, including the specials board with the likes of quiche of the day, £2.95, and tomato and lentil stew, £6.95.
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If you take your lunch along though, there's plenty of space to have a picnic - in a designated picnic area on the fourth floor as well as an overspill Skyline room on the top floor.
After refuelling it was time to see what else this place has in store and with a 10 minute walk down Dale Street we were at the front and close to the famous Royal Albert Dock.
Once the home of ITV's This Morning, the place has changed a lot over the years and is surrounded by shops, cafés, restaurants and one of its newest additions the Mattel Play! centre, which features play zones for Thomas and Friends, Fireman Sam and Bob the Builder.
The closest we got to that was to use the toilet down the alleyway next door to it - worth remembering if you get caught short or need a baby change.
Near one of the entrances to the docks, tucked away by the side of Tate Liverpool , is one of the city's newest public artworks.
Essentially brightly coloured rocks balanced on top of one another, Liverpool Mountain is the work of acclaimed artist Ugo Rondinone and stands over 10 metres tall.
As with any public art, it's not come without criticism, but when you're joining a queue to get a photo of your children in front of it, you realise the full potential of these things to draw people in.
There were more photo opportunities at the city's lamb banana sculptures, which are still proving somewhat of an attraction more than a decade after they first appeared as part of the European Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008. Albeit a little worse for wear.
Another thing we didn't want to miss was the Wheel of Liverpool and on such a sunny day we got in to take in the stunning views across the Mersey and see exactly how much this once industrial landscape has transformed into a modern waterfront.
At £10 per adult and £6.50 for a child (aged three to 16), it's not cheap, but there's a commentary to accompany your trip, if you can hear it over your children that is, and you circle it four times in all.
You can of course get on the water itself with one of the regular trips booked at Mersey Ferries, a huge building close to the Museum of Liverpool .
We called in that museum too and while there's plenty to see, including a section of the Liverpool Overhead Railway, it wasn't a patch on the World Museum.
After a trip to Quay Confectionery - seemingly the Willy Wonka factory of Liverpool, with a picture of The Beatles made from jelly beans in the window - it was time to start heading back.
The Central Library was a convenient stop-off point on the way back, more for its handy cafe and toilets rather than anything else.
Swipe right through the images to see more photos from Liverpool, including the price lists for museum cafés
There's an impressive room inside for children to sit and read with cushions on the floor and we could see from the scattering of books how well visited it had been on a busy half term day.
Next door at the Walker Art Gallery children can get creative at the Big Art Gallery, a child-centered, hands-on gallery that provides children with the opportunity to 'explore, create, play and discover'.
A little young for my two, it features a dress-up area, a ‘Doing Zone’ and a ‘Story Zone’.
We were more interested in looking round the permanent collections there and visiting the Make Space zone, where older kids can get creative with mirrors and self-portraits.
Just beware of them pointing out the 'naughty words' in the Andy Warhol Text Painting.
How come children can't find their own shoes, but never fail to spot a willy picture or a swear word within a five mile radius? Perhaps us Manchester folk are just not cultured enough.
Or perhaps children are just children, who are curious and crazy and keen to learn everything they can about the world around them.
I was pretty impressed by Liverpool's offering to help them do exactly that - and even more impressed that they can do it for free.
For more information about the museums in Liverpool visit the website here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--What Man City and UEFA accused each other of during angry exchange over FFP investigation

Court documents have laid bare the tensions between Manchester City and UEFA after the club and the governing body were involved in an angry exchange ahead of a court hearing .
City went to the Court of Arbitration for Sport ( CAS ) to have UEFA 's Club Financial Control Board 's ( CFCB ) investigation into allegations of Financial Fair Play ( FFP ) breaches published via Football Leaks in Der Spiegel thrown out .
The club were furious that UEFA 's chief financial investigator 's recommendation for a one-season Champions League ban was leaked and launched legal action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result .
CAS dismissed that claim in November , saying it was `` inadmissible '' as the CFCB were yet to conclude their investigation , but court documents have now revealed the accusations levelled by each party .
City claimed that `` UEFA has systematically breached , and continues to breach , its duty of confidence '' and the investigation and decision `` lacked procedural fairness and due process '' .
The club also said the leaks `` have caused , and continue to cause , MCFC serious harm and loss . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's governing body `` for losses incurred as a result of the respondent ’ s conduct '' .
The basis of City 's anger was a report that appeared in the New York Times in May which claimed that UEFA 's chief financial investigator , Yves Leterme , was to recommend a one-year ban from the Champions League .
That story was published before UEFA announced that the case would go before the CFCB adjudicatory chamber , with the decision yet to be confirmed .
During the CAS hearing City said UEFA 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of confidentiality ... casts grave doubt upon the fairness , impartiality and integrity of the IC ’ s [ Investigatory Chamber ] approach . ''
In his response to City 's complaint to CAS , Leterme said : `` I must vehemently reject your allegations of unlawful activities , either by myself or by any of the members of the UEFA CFCB , in particular of its Investigatory Chamber ( IC ) .
`` Your allegations are groundless in the merits and unacceptable in tone .
Please be advised that I will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that I will not respond further to groundless accusations directed against me personally and/or against my fellow members of the IC . ''
Leterme also stressed that neither himself or any members of the IC had `` violated any rights of your club '' .
The CAS decision to throw out City 's appeal was on the basis of it being `` premature '' , because UEFA 's adjudicatory chamber are yet to make their own decision and could , theoretically , exonerate the club anyway .
But CAS did show some support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaks from UEFA , labelling them `` worrisome '' .
In a 35-page court decision Manfred Nan , president of a three-man panel , said : `` The alleged leaking of information by members of the Investigatory Chamber or the UEFA administration about the proceedings against MCFC is worrisome .
`` Again , the Panel is mindful not to trespass into the authority of the Adjudicatory Chamber to address MCFC ’ s procedural complaints in detail .
However , it must be noted that MCFC ’ s complaints as to the leaks do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , appear to be entirely without merit , particularly concerning the First and Second Leak , [ … ] , and the Fifth Leak , which refers to an “ insider ” at UEFA as the source . ''

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Court documents have laid bare the tensions between Manchester City and UEFA after the club and the governing body were involved in an angry exchange ahead of a court hearing.
City went to the Court of Arbitration for Sport(CAS) to have UEFA's Club Financial Control Board's (CFCB) investigation into allegations of Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches published via Football Leaks in Der Spiegel thrown out.
The club were furious that UEFA's chief financial investigator's recommendation for a one-season Champions League ban was leaked and launched legal action to have the investigation halted as a result.
CAS dismissed that claim in November, saying it was "inadmissible" as the CFCB were yet to conclude their investigation, but court documents have now revealed the accusations levelled by each party.
City claimed that "UEFA has systematically breached, and continues to breach, its duty of confidence" and the investigation and decision "lacked procedural fairness and due process". The club also said the leaks "have caused, and continue to cause, MCFC serious harm and loss." City also wanted damages from European football's governing body "for losses incurred as a result of the respondent’s conduct".
The basis of City's anger was a report that appeared in the New York Times in May which claimed that UEFA's chief financial investigator, Yves Leterme, was to recommend a one-year ban from the Champions League. That story was published before UEFA announced that the case would go before the CFCB adjudicatory chamber, with the decision yet to be confirmed.
During the CAS hearing City said UEFA's failure to investigate the "repeated breaches of confidentiality...casts grave doubt upon the fairness, impartiality and integrity of the IC’s [Investigatory Chamber] approach."
In his response to City's complaint to CAS, Leterme said: "I must vehemently reject your allegations of unlawful activities, either by myself or by any of the members of the UEFA CFCB, in particular of its Investigatory Chamber (IC).
"Your allegations are groundless in the merits and unacceptable in tone. Please be advised that I will not continue such an exchange of correspondence and that I will not respond further to groundless accusations directed against me personally and/or against my fellow members of the IC."
Leterme also stressed that neither himself or any members of the IC had "violated any rights of your club".
The CAS decision to throw out City's appeal was on the basis of it being "premature", because UEFA's adjudicatory chamber are yet to make their own decision and could, theoretically, exonerate the club anyway.
But CAS did show some support to City over their concerns about the leaks from UEFA, labelling them "worrisome".
In a 35-page court decision Manfred Nan, president of a three-man panel, said: "The alleged leaking of information by members of the Investigatory Chamber or the UEFA administration about the proceedings against MCFC is worrisome.
"Again, the Panel is mindful not to trespass into the authority of the Adjudicatory Chamber to address MCFC’s procedural complaints in detail. However, it must be noted that MCFC’s complaints as to the leaks do not, on a prima facie basis, appear to be entirely without merit, particularly concerning the First and Second Leak, […], and the Fifth Leak, which refers to an “insider” at UEFA as the source."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Asda sparks shopper misery after announcing Greggs will open in supermarkets

When you 're out shopping , you 'd be forgiven for getting a bit peckish - it 's a hungry business , after all .
Luckily , Asda understands this struggle , and has done us the ultimate favour to make sure we 're well-fed on our mission to stock up on tea bags , tiger bread and chipolatas .
Asda , ladies and gents , is opening up Greggs counters in some of its stores .
EXCELLENT NEWS , IF YOU ASK ME .
At the moment , only a handful of stores have been selected to house Greggs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as one of those chosen is the Eastlands store .
`` Eastlands ASDA is getting a Greggs .
Yippee , I can not wait , '' tweeted one excited shopper .
Another added : `` Oh no , food shopping day will now consist of munching on sausage rolls while we wander the aisles !
!
!
Fortunately if one of us gets lost we can just follow the trail of pastry flakes . ''
As per usual , though , the misery parade has been out in full force , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dampener on the whole thing .
Responding to the news on Facebook , one shopper wrote : `` I do n't understand the fascination with Greggs , the sarnies and rolls are OK but the pastries are rank !
It 's not like their food is that much cheaper either . ''
`` What a way to tackle obesity , remove sweets at tills , replace with steak bakes & pink jammies .
Yass , '' said somebody else .
`` Why , why , why Greggs ?
?
!
There are so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country that would be far preferable , '' moaned another disgruntled Facebook user .
A fourth joked : `` Could just pick one out of the freezer , will probably be a similar temperature too . ''
I did n't realise there 's individuals out there forcing people to go up to Greggs tills , purchase a sausage roll and eat it unwillingly .
I 've been shopping at the wrong supermarkets , clearly .

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When you're out shopping, you'd be forgiven for getting a bit peckish - it's a hungry business, after all.
Luckily, Asda understands this struggle, and has done us the ultimate favour to make sure we're well-fed on our mission to stock up on tea bags, tiger bread and chipolatas. Asda, ladies and gents, is opening up Greggs counters in some of its stores.
EXCELLENT NEWS, IF YOU ASK ME. At the moment, only a handful of stores have been selected to house Greggs counters, but Mancs needn't worry, as one of those chosen is the Eastlands store.
"Eastlands ASDA is getting a Greggs. Yippee, I cannot wait," tweeted one excited shopper.
Another added: "Oh no, food shopping day will now consist of munching on sausage rolls while we wander the aisles!!! Fortunately if one of us gets lost we can just follow the trail of pastry flakes."
As per usual, though, the misery parade has been out in full force, and plenty of people have been putting a dampener on the whole thing.
Follow Money-Saving and Shopping Editor Rachel Pugh on social media To follow Rachel on Twitter click here. Or to like her Facebook page click here . Here's a link to the M.E.N.'s main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
Responding to the news on Facebook, one shopper wrote: "I don't understand the fascination with Greggs, the sarnies and rolls are OK but the pastries are rank! It's not like their food is that much cheaper either."
"What a way to tackle obesity, remove sweets at tills, replace with steak bakes & pink jammies. Yass," said somebody else.
"Why, why, why Greggs??! There are so many other far superior bakeries across the country that would be far preferable," moaned another disgruntled Facebook user.
A fourth joked: "Could just pick one out of the freezer, will probably be a similar temperature too."
I didn't realise there's individuals out there forcing people to go up to Greggs tills, purchase a sausage roll and eat it unwillingly.
I've been shopping at the wrong supermarkets, clearly.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Lidl recalls ten flavours of baby food pouches due to possible presence of mould

Lidl has issued a warning to families across the UK following a mouldy baby food scare .
The Lupilu baby food pouches have been deemed unsafe to eat as there is a possibility of the products containing mould .
Parents are being advised to return the pouches to Lidl stores for a full refund - with or without a receipt .
In a statement Lidl wrote : `` Lidl GB wish to apologise for any inconvenience caused .
`` Any customers with queries or concerns can contact customer services on 0307 444 1234 . ''
Which products are being recalled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and should be returned to your local store : • Lupilu Organic Baby Fruit Pouches , Stage 1 ( 120g ) Apples and strawberries ; bananas and apples ; bananas and peaches • Lupilu Organic Baby Fruit & Veg Pouches , Stage 1 ( 120g ) Apples , carrots and parsnips ; butternut squash , apples , carrots and prunes ; sweet potato , pumpkin , apples and blueberries No other Lupilu products are are affected by this recall .
Lidl will also be displaying notices in all UK retail stores that are @ @ @ @

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Lidl has issued a warning to families across the UK following a mouldy baby food scare.
The Lupilu baby food pouches have been deemed unsafe to eat as there is a possibility of the products containing mould.
Parents are being advised to return the pouches to Lidl stores for a full refund - with or without a receipt.
In a statement Lidl wrote: "Lidl GB wish to apologise for any inconvenience caused.
"Any customers with queries or concerns can contact customer services on 0307 444 1234."
Which products are being recalled?
The following products have been affected and should be returned to your local store:
Lupilu Organic Baby Fruit Pouches, Stage 1 (120g)
Apples and strawberries; bananas and apples; bananas and peaches
Lupilu Organic Baby Fruit & Veg Pouches, Stage 1 (120g)
Apples, carrots and parsnips; butternut squash, apples, carrots and prunes; sweet potato, pumpkin, apples and blueberries
Lupilu Organic Baby Apple Pouches, Stage 1
5 packs (5 x 90g)
Lupilu Organic Baby Breakfast Pouches, Stage 2 (100g)
(Image: Lidl)
No other Lupilu products are are affected by this recall.
Lidl will also be displaying notices in all UK retail stores that are selling these products.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Manchester United have been trying to sign Jadon Sancho since he was at Man City

Before Jadon Sancho left Manchester for Germany he was already mooting a possible return .
The 19-year-old enjoyed a warm rapport with staff at City and staff at the City Football Academy still feel he could come back to England 's north-west .
Not to City , though .
City have first refusal on Sancho , expected to leave Borussia Dortmund in the summer , and inserted a 15 per cent sell-on clause .
City insisted Brahim Diaz 's sell-on clause percentage would rise to 40 per cent if he ever joined 'another Manchester club ' as part of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You can guess which 'City reject ' United want .
United tried to sign Sancho from City in the 2017 summer transfer window but were rebuffed , as were Tottenham Hotspur .
Pep Guardiola had omitted Sancho from City 's pre-season tour squad and United were prepared to continue working on a deal beyond the summer deadline .
Sancho 's advisors wanted to conclude a move before the window closed and he joined Dortmund for a knockdown £8million .
Sancho is worth over 10 times that now .
The Dortmund sporting director Michael @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of United 's interest in the Amazon documentary Inside Borussia Dortmund .
United met the German club 's officials last summer , got short shrift and swiftly moved onto Daniel James ; earmarked as a cheaper fall-back option to Sancho .
The addition of James - a Championship winger - was a jolt since United had outlined their intention to make 'game-changing ' signings before the window had opened .
That description still applies to Sancho and Liverpool and Chelsea are now circling .
Both are maybe more attractive ; Chelsea offer a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best club side in world football with arguably the best coach .
Both are likelier to offer Champions League football , too .
United 's relegation to the Europa League last year effectively scuppered any deal for Sancho .
Club suits have pointed out they attracted Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba in 2016 , only United had the clout of Jose Mourinho and got into bed with Mino Raiola .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has little coaching cachet and Raiola no longer wants his clients at United .
The emphasis on young and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the barren 2018-19 .
United signed players from Swansea City , Crystal Palace and Leicester .
Bruno Fernandes has joined from the financially-stricken Sporting Lisbon , also in the Europa League .
James Maddison and Jack Grealish are attached to clubs lower down the food chain .
Leicester are better in just about every department than United ( other than commercial ) and have won a Premier League title more recently .
They still do not possess an aura that leaves players from different cultures rapt .
Paulo Dybala was smitten with Old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To play in such historical stadiums you have to do a lot of sacrifices as a boy ! ''
Maddison is a boyhood United fan and Grealish captain of a club whose Premier League survival is uncertain .
Grealish would also relish a move to Manchester , regardless of who the manager is , and friends of the players have indiscreetly said as much .
The United recruitment department has determined that 23 ( Maddison 's age ) is the ideal age to sign someone and a player 's development hardly changes between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Grealish turns that age in September .
Realistically , Grealish and Maddison will not be club colleagues next season .
Grealish would be the cheaper addition , with a reputed £45m release clause and Villa have flirted with financial disaster .
Maddison , bought for £24m less than two years ago , could easily command a higher fee than the £80m Leicester obtained for Harry Maguire .
Ed Woodward once said 'there is no budget ' yet Solskjaer admitted last month the Fernandes fee would affect United 's summer expenditure .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ France would maintain Paul Pogba 's valuation well north of £100m .
United valued Pogba at around £180m last year and , though that has dwindled , the effective expiry date of his contract ( 2022 ) empowers them in negotiations to use a nine-figure fee towards incomings .
Fernandes is the de facto replacement for Pogba , whose talent would have to be offset by another creative option .
Maddison and Grealish are competing to occupy the same role and separate from Sancho , practically perfect for United 's problematic right-hand side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arms race for wingers .
Sancho , Gareth Bale , Leroy Sane , Adama Traore , Memphis Depay and Ousmane Dembele could all feasibly move clubs , and Chelsea appear on the verge of finalising a deal for Hakim Ziyech of Ajax .
The unknown quantity factor of Daniel James has worn off and his form has been problematic for close to two months .
Some United teammates have noticed James has developed a tendency to not lift his head in the final third .
The little things make a big difference and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oliver Muller notes : `` Even when [ Sancho ] 's dribbling and moving , he looks up , sees a teammate in a better position , and then puts in a precise pass to him . ''
James has still overachieved in his maiden Premier League season but it would not be difficult to identify an upgrade on current form and United need one in a market where their stock has not been this low for decades .
Some barriers to signing Sancho might be insurmountable ( Champions League qualification ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to be reluctantly dropped in favour of more attainable British targets .
He might still return to England 's north-west , though .

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Before Jadon Sancho left Manchester for Germany he was already mooting a possible return. The 19-year-old enjoyed a warm rapport with staff at City and staff at the City Football Academy still feel he could come back to England's north-west. Not to City, though.
City have first refusal on Sancho, expected to leave Borussia Dortmund in the summer, and inserted a 15 per cent sell-on clause. City insisted Brahim Diaz's sell-on clause percentage would rise to 40 per cent if he ever joined 'another Manchester club' as part of his transfer to Real Madrid last year. You can guess which 'City reject' United want.
United tried to sign Sancho from City in the 2017 summer transfer window but were rebuffed, as were Tottenham Hotspur. Pep Guardiola had omitted Sancho from City's pre-season tour squad and United were prepared to continue working on a deal beyond the summer deadline. Sancho's advisors wanted to conclude a move before the window closed and he joined Dortmund for a knockdown £8million. Sancho is worth over 10 times that now.
The Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc openly discusses the 'hot topic' of United's interest in the Amazon documentary Inside Borussia Dortmund. United met the German club's officials last summer, got short shrift and swiftly moved onto Daniel James; earmarked as a cheaper fall-back option to Sancho.
The addition of James - a Championship winger - was a jolt since United had outlined their intention to make 'game-changing' signings before the window had opened. That description still applies to Sancho and Liverpool and Chelsea are now circling.
Both are maybe more attractive; Chelsea offer a return to London living and Liverpool are the best club side in world football with arguably the best coach. Both are likelier to offer Champions League football, too.
United's relegation to the Europa League last year effectively scuppered any deal for Sancho. Club suits have pointed out they attracted Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba in 2016, only United had the clout of Jose Mourinho and got into bed with Mino Raiola. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has little coaching cachet and Raiola no longer wants his clients at United.
The emphasis on young and British targets was a strategy enforced by the barren 2018-19. United signed players from Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester. Bruno Fernandes has joined from the financially-stricken Sporting Lisbon, also in the Europa League.
James Maddison and Jack Grealish are attached to clubs lower down the food chain. Leicester are better in just about every department than United (other than commercial) and have won a Premier League title more recently. They still do not possess an aura that leaves players from different cultures rapt. Paulo Dybala was smitten with Old Trafford last season and tweeted: "To play in such historical stadiums you have to do a lot of sacrifices as a boy!"
Maddison is a boyhood United fan and Grealish captain of a club whose Premier League survival is uncertain. Grealish would also relish a move to Manchester, regardless of who the manager is, and friends of the players have indiscreetly said as much. The United recruitment department has determined that 23 (Maddison's age) is the ideal age to sign someone and a player's development hardly changes between 23 and 28. Fernandes is 25 and Grealish turns that age in September.
Realistically, Grealish and Maddison will not be club colleagues next season. Grealish would be the cheaper addition, with a reputed £45m release clause and Villa have flirted with financial disaster. Maddison, bought for £24m less than two years ago, could easily command a higher fee than the £80m Leicester obtained for Harry Maguire. Ed Woodward once said 'there is no budget' yet Solskjaer admitted last month the Fernandes fee would affect United's summer expenditure.
A committed run-in and impressive tournament performance for France would maintain Paul Pogba's valuation well north of £100m. United valued Pogba at around £180m last year and, though that has dwindled, the effective expiry date of his contract (2022) empowers them in negotiations to use a nine-figure fee towards incomings.
Fernandes is the de facto replacement for Pogba, whose talent would have to be offset by another creative option. Maddison and Grealish are competing to occupy the same role and separate from Sancho, practically perfect for United's problematic right-hand side.
The summer window could be an arms race for wingers. Sancho, Gareth Bale, Leroy Sane, Adama Traore, Memphis Depay and Ousmane Dembele could all feasibly move clubs, and Chelsea appear on the verge of finalising a deal for Hakim Ziyech of Ajax. The unknown quantity factor of Daniel James has worn off and his form has been problematic for close to two months.
Some United teammates have noticed James has developed a tendency to not lift his head in the final third. The little things make a big difference and in the Dortmund documentary the German journalist Oliver Muller notes: "Even when [Sancho]'s dribbling and moving, he looks up, sees a teammate in a better position, and then puts in a precise pass to him."
James has still overachieved in his maiden Premier League season but it would not be difficult to identify an upgrade on current form and United need one in a market where their stock has not been this low for decades. Some barriers to signing Sancho might be insurmountable (Champions League qualification). He is a budget-blowing option who might have to be reluctantly dropped in favour of more attainable British targets.
He might still return to England's north-west, though.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Manchester United fans set Chelsea FC challenge for Fred after watching Instagram footage

Manchester United fans have challenged Fred to score his first goal of the season against Chelsea after watching footage of the club 's training camp in Marbella .
The Reds are spending the inaugural break in warm weather training to prepare for the remainder of the Premier League campaign where they remain in the race to finish in a Champions League spot .
United return to action against Chelsea on Monday night at Stamford Bridge - one of their main top four rivals - and can cut the gap to the London side to just three points with a win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Fred to continue his impressive performances in the heart of midfield against Frank Lampard 's men who are without a win in their last three league fixtures .
The Brazilian is finally starting to justify his £52million price tag and has earned rave reviews for his showings even though he is yet to find the back of the net in all competitions this season .
Fred has scored just one goal since joining the club in 2018 , netting in the Premier League clash against Wolves back in September 2018 .
Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26-year-old netting past new signing Nathan Bishop following a pass from Angel Gomes to their Instagram page , and supporters have called for the midfielder to replicate his finish against Chelsea .
Here is a selection of their replies to the post : • Do it in a real game now !
- @ mdenifirdaus • Wish he 'd score in a game but he 's been a good defensive midfielder - @ dabluerovers • Need to see that against Chelsea - @ a5m1w4r • Wish he could score in a game - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you to score in the game , not just in training - @ enickbevit • More of this when the Premier League returns , please and thank you - @ dennisldn • Hope he 'll do that on Monday against Chelsea - @ hartyfreddie06 • I 'm sure there will be a big pile up on Fred when he does score his first goal this season - @ top_striker_9

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Manchester United fans have challenged Fred to score his first goal of the season against Chelsea after watching footage of the club's training camp in Marbella.
The Reds are spending the inaugural break in warm weather training to prepare for the remainder of the Premier League campaign where they remain in the race to finish in a Champions League spot.
United return to action against Chelsea on Monday night at Stamford Bridge - one of their main top four rivals - and can cut the gap to the London side to just three points with a win.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be leaning on Fred to continue his impressive performances in the heart of midfield against Frank Lampard's men who are without a win in their last three league fixtures.
The Brazilian is finally starting to justify his £52million price tag and has earned rave reviews for his showings even though he is yet to find the back of the net in all competitions this season.
Fred has scored just one goal since joining the club in 2018, netting in the Premier League clash against Wolves back in September 2018.
Manchester United posted training camp footage of the 26-year-old netting past new signing Nathan Bishop following a pass from Angel Gomes to their Instagram page, and supporters have called for the midfielder to replicate his finish against Chelsea.
Here is a selection of their replies to the post:


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-13--Coronation Street's Lucy Fallon caught up in NME Awards chaos as rapper Slowthai loses it

Coronation Street 's Lucy Fallon got more than she bargained for when she attended the NME Awards on Wednesday night .
The Bethany Platt actress attended the bash with her boyfriend Tom Leech when the event descended into complete chaos .
British rapper Slowthai became the talk of the evening after causing complete mayhem following his award win for Hero of the Year .
According to reports , Slowthai was giving his acceptance speech when he became irked by a comment made by a spectator .
He then hurled a drink into the crowd and during his performance , jumped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ champagne .
Lucy can be seen awkwardly giggling in an Instagram video posted by Tom as the rapper moves around the table .
He wrote alongside the clip : `` U ok m8 ?
@ slowthai '' Lucy , 24 , also re-shared a video to her Instagram story from NME , showing the actress and her beau being taken completely by surprise by the rappers antics .
She said alongside the post : `` The faces of two people who need to be more punk to fit in . ''
But Lucy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commotion as another celeb spot bowled her over .
The soap star said : `` So I met Taylor Swift last night ... no biggie .
`` And she just told me I was beautiful and I just stood there and all I could say was 'you 're Taylor Swift ' ok bye x ''

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Coronation Street's Lucy Fallon got more than she bargained for when she attended the NME Awards on Wednesday night.
The Bethany Platt actress attended the bash with her boyfriend Tom Leech when the event descended into complete chaos.
British rapper Slowthai became the talk of the evening after causing complete mayhem following his award win for Hero of the Year.
According to reports, Slowthai was giving his acceptance speech when he became irked by a comment made by a spectator.
(Image: Instagram)
He then hurled a drink into the crowd and during his performance, jumped onto Lucy's table and began spraying champagne.
Lucy can be seen awkwardly giggling in an Instagram video posted by Tom as the rapper moves around the table.
He wrote alongside the clip: "U ok m8? @slowthai"
Lucy, 24, also re-shared a video to her Instagram story from NME, showing the actress and her beau being taken completely by surprise by the rappers antics.
(Image: Instagram)
She said alongside the post: "The faces of two people who need to be more punk to fit in."
But Lucy didn't seem to mind all the commotion as another celeb spot bowled her over.
The soap star said: "So I met Taylor Swift last night... no biggie.
"And she just told me I was beautiful and I just stood there and all I could say was 'you're Taylor Swift' ok bye x"