themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--New mum Brooke Vincent sends fans into meltdown with gorgeous family photo

Brooke Vincent sent followers on Instagram into a meltdown when she shared a photo from her lockdown with partner Kean Bryan and their adorable baby boy .
The Coronation Street star , who welcomed her first child with footballer Kean in October , smiled proudly as she held their son Mexx .
Doting dad Kean , who is on loan at Bolton Wanderers from Sheffield United , was also beaming in the gorgeous family photo as the family posed outdoors in the sunshine .
Brooke , 27 , looked stunning as she soaked up the sun in caramel-colours and an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 , took the selfie .
As the Audenshaw actress cradled baby Mexx he cooled down with a fruit lolly .
Messages came flooding in for the soap star , who plays Sophie Webster , after she shared the photo with the words 'All I ’ ve Ever Wanted , All I Will Ever Need . '
Hollyoaks actress Nadine Mulkerrin , who is celebrating six months with her baby Reggie , commented : `` Gorgeous family . ''
`` Oh you guys , '' said her co-star Tina O'Brien who plays Sarah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Brooke 's cousin Ellie Leach who plays Faye Windass in Corrie .
And Sacha Parkinson , who played Sophie 's fiancee Sian Powers , gasped : `` Oh my good god . ''
`` Just gorgeous , '' said another follower .
`` Omg Brooke look at all his hair .
Oh my daze .
He is theeeeee CUTEST x '' said another .
Brooke announced the birth by sharing a photo of her son 's tiny hand on her Instagram and said : `` Mexx S J Bryan , you complete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fans about the 'challenges ' faced after becoming a mum and said she 'd received support from Peanut , a social network for women to connect over fertility and motherhood .
`` They say a picture speaks a thousand words but for me , this one speaks millions , '' she wrote on Instagram .
`` This was taken in the hospital when I first gave birth to Mexx .
`` Three weeks before I was trying to figure out how to buy the right size curtains and then , all of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a little human being !
I was a mummy .
`` I can ’ t even begin to tell you what my son brought into my life , he ’ s absolutely amazing , my world , it ’ s incredible , but motherhood brings its own challenges .
`` 'How will I know what my baby wants ?
How will I know how to soothe them ? ''

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Brooke Vincent sent followers on Instagram into a meltdown when she shared a photo from her lockdown with partner Kean Bryan and their adorable baby boy.
The Coronation Street star, who welcomed her first child with footballer Kean in October, smiled proudly as she held their son Mexx.
Doting dad Kean, who is on loan at Bolton Wanderers from Sheffield United, was also beaming in the gorgeous family photo as the family posed outdoors in the sunshine.
Brooke, 27, looked stunning as she soaked up the sun in caramel-colours and an oversized pair of sunglasses as Kean, 23, took the selfie.
As the Audenshaw actress cradled baby Mexx he cooled down with a fruit lolly.
Messages came flooding in for the soap star, who plays Sophie Webster, after she shared the photo with the words 'All I’ve Ever Wanted, All I Will Ever Need.'
Hollyoaks actress Nadine Mulkerrin, who is celebrating six months with her baby Reggie, commented: "Gorgeous family."
"Oh you guys," said her co-star Tina O'Brien who plays Sarah Barlow.
"My favourites," said Brooke's cousin Ellie Leach who plays Faye Windass in Corrie.
Helen Flanagan, who plays her on-screen sister Rosie, posted love heart emojis.
And Sacha Parkinson, who played Sophie's fiancee Sian Powers, gasped: "Oh my good god."
"Just gorgeous," said another follower.
"Omg Brooke look at all his hair. Oh my daze. He is theeeeee CUTEST x" said another.
Brooke announced the birth by sharing a photo of her son's tiny hand on her Instagram and said: "Mexx S J Bryan, you complete us."
She opened up to fans about the 'challenges' faced after becoming a mum and said she'd received support from Peanut, a social network for women to connect over fertility and motherhood.
"They say a picture speaks a thousand words but for me, this one speaks millions," she wrote on Instagram.
"This was taken in the hospital when I first gave birth to Mexx.
"Three weeks before I was trying to figure out how to buy the right size curtains and then, all of a sudden, I was in charge of a little human being! I was a mummy.
"I can’t even begin to tell you what my son brought into my life, he’s absolutely amazing, my world, it’s incredible, but motherhood brings its own challenges.
"'How will I know what my baby wants? How will I know how to soothe them?''


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--New Manchester United 2020/21 home kit 'leaked' by Barcelona

Manchester United 's new home kit for the upcoming 2020/21 season appears to have 'leaked ' from the strangest of sources , Barcelona'sYoutube account .
The La Liga giants appeared to make the mistake on Sunday afternoon as they uploaded a Barcelona vs Manchester United Pro Evolution Soccer 2020 match to the club 's official YouTube channel , which included the new kit in the thumbnail .
The picture was soon deleted but not quick enough to prevent some razor-sharp fans from spotting the image which shows United star Paul Pogba wearing the apparent new shirt .
The jersey is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stripes on the shoulders as well as white piping and the logo of the club 's shirt sponsor , Chevrolet , in the centre of the shirt .
However , according to the image , the shirt will feature an unusual and unique pattern of black and yellow vertical stripes across the shirt , which may prove to be divisive among the fan base .
The design also has a flattened white collar , which appears to pay tribute to the 20th anniversary of Adidas ' United home kit from 1990-1992 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the new shirt which emerged in March while an image that leaked on Saturday suggested that United could have a green away strip for next season .

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Manchester United's new home kit for the upcoming 2020/21 season appears to have 'leaked' from the strangest of sources, Barcelona's Youtube account.
The La Liga giants appeared to make the mistake on Sunday afternoon as they uploaded a Barcelona vs Manchester United Pro Evolution Soccer 2020 match to the club's official YouTube channel, which included the new kit in the thumbnail.
The picture was soon deleted but not quick enough to prevent some razor-sharp fans from spotting the image which shows United star Paul Pogba wearing the apparent new shirt.
The jersey is predominantly red, with trademark white Adidas stripes on the shoulders as well as white piping and the logo of the club's shirt sponsor, Chevrolet, in the centre of the shirt.
However, according to the image, the shirt will feature an unusual and unique pattern of black and yellow vertical stripes across the shirt, which may prove to be divisive among the fan base.
The design also has a flattened white collar, which appears to pay tribute to the 20th anniversary of Adidas' United home kit from 1990-1992.
The image appears to match 'leaked' details of the new shirt which emerged in March while an image that leaked on Saturday suggested that United could have a green away strip for next season.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--There's been another sharp rise in coronavirus deaths in Greater Manchester - 833 people have now di

There's been another sharp rise in coronavirus deaths in Greater Manchester - 833 people have now died

More than 800 people with coronavirus have now died in Greater Manchester 's hospitals .
Another 48 lives have been claimed by the virus , bringing the region 's death toll to 833 .
NHS data shows the number of people who have died from coronavirus in UK hospitals has risen by 596 in the last 24 hours , bringing the total to 16,060 .
On Sunday mental health hospitals run by Greater Manchester Mental Health Foundation Trust and Pennine Care Trust recorded their first COVID-19 deaths .
The biggest increase in the last 24 hours was recorded at Wrightington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where another 12 patients died .
There were also 10 deaths in Tameside , nine in Manchester , five in hospitals run by Pennine Acute NHS Trust , four in Bolton and three in Salford .
Stockport and The Chritie both recorded one more death .
The total number of deaths caused by coronavirus is likely to be much higher .
Deaths in the community , including care homes , are not recorded in these figures and are published by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) several days later .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Greater Manchester hospitals currently stand at : Some of the larger trusts run several hospitals in Greater Manchester .
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust oversees the Manchester Royal Infirmary ( MRI ) , Wythenshawe Hospital and Trafford General , while Pennine Acute is in charge of North Manchester General Hospital , Fairfield Hospital , the Royal Oldham Hospital and Rochdale Infirmary .
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes To keep up with the latest breaking news and information on Covid-19 and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while you are staying in , join our dedicated coronavirus Facebook group .

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More than 800 people with coronavirus have now died in Greater Manchester's hospitals.
Another 48 lives have been claimed by the virus, bringing the region's death toll to 833.
NHS data shows the number of people who have died from coronavirus in UK hospitals has risen by 596 in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 16,060.
On Sunday mental health hospitals run by Greater Manchester Mental Health Foundation Trust and Pennine Care Trust recorded their first COVID-19 deaths.
The biggest increase in the last 24 hours was recorded at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust where another 12 patients died.
There were also 10 deaths in Tameside, nine in Manchester, five in hospitals run by Pennine Acute NHS Trust, four in Bolton and three in Salford.
Stockport and The Chritie both recorded one more death.
The total number of deaths caused by coronavirus is likely to be much higher.
Deaths in the community, including care homes, are not recorded in these figures and are published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) several days later.
The total figures for coronavirus related deaths at Greater Manchester hospitals currently stand at:
Bolton NHS Foundation Trust - 122
Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust - 1
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust - 182
Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust - 149
Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust - 2
Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust - 113
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust - 80
Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust - 82
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust - 6
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust - 96
Some of the larger trusts run several hospitals in Greater Manchester.
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust oversees the Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI), Wythenshawe Hospital and Trafford General, while Pennine Acute is in charge of North Manchester General Hospital, Fairfield Hospital, the Royal Oldham Hospital and Rochdale Infirmary.
Drop a heart on our special map of gratitude to show your support for our NHS heroes
To keep up with the latest breaking news and information on Covid-19 and the lockdown, and for things to do while you are staying in, join our dedicated coronavirus Facebook group.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--The emotional fallout for mental health workers battling coronavirus

For mental health nurse , Ruby Hare , an ordinary shift once involved taking patients out to the cinema , arranging family visits and supporting them with personal hygiene .
The 31-year-old treats patients at a south Manchester care home , with schizophrenia , bipolar , depression , psychosis and other serious mental disorders .
Since the outbreak of coronavirus , Ruby and her colleagues have been forced to adapt the way they provide care , in a way they 've never done before .
And it 's having a devastating impact on her patients .
Where emotional support used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arms , or holding hands , Ruby must now try to maintain a safe distance - at all costs .
Masks and gloves are crucial to the safety of staff and patients , but these protective measures can be terrifying for those already suffering with paranoia and intrusive thoughts .
Many residents lack the capacity to understand coronavirus and its dangers , meaning staff face incredible difficulty in controlling social distancing .
This remains a constant concern for Ruby and her staff , who currently have one patient with a COVID-19 diagnosis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease .
Others are required to isolate for twelve weeks due to additional physical illnesses such as cancer , COPD , asthma and liver problems .
With PPE in short supply , staff having to isolate , and much of the national support being directed to the frontline NHS , Ruby worries the care sector is being left behind .
`` Before coronavirus , we would put on daily activities like going shopping or to the cinema , or museums , '' Ruby said .
`` We would have families coming to visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would interact with them physically , sometimes linking arms while walking .
`` Our job is to support them with personal care , which can result in close contact , and it is nearly impossible to impose a constant two metre distance and do our daily tasks . ''
Many of the patients inside the care home are detained under the mental health act , meaning it 's difficult for them to understand social distancing measures , Ruby says .
`` We try our best to explain to residents that they need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to just carry on walking round the home like normal , '' she said .
`` One resident likes to sit and watch a film with staff but its hard as he should be isolating his bedroom , and we need to keep our distance .
`` We now have to do physical observations on a daily basis to check for a temperature , but around 80 to 90pc of patients refuse for us to do this .
`` Every time we speak to our residents now we are wearing a mask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
`` Our cleaners are trying to do a deep clean every day but a lot of the residents will not let them come in their room .
Read more of of today 's top stories '' Some do n't even want to wash their hands .
We are stuck . ''
One of Ruby 's residents tested positive for coronavirus last week , just months after recovering from cancer .
`` It 's been really difficult as we 've got to do everything we can to make sure he is isolating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` He has a tracheotomy so having the correct protective equipment is vital to be able to treat him .
`` We might not be on the NHS front line but we still have massive risk factors . ''
“ We have a lot of people here with long term health problems and if they get COVID-19 they are going to be in serious trouble , '' Ruby added .
`` A lot of them wo n't comply with treatment or wo n't necessarily accept oxygen or medication so it 's like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resident was admitted to Accident and Emergency last week but was sent home without a test , so staff have been left in limbo .
`` The PPE situation is worrying , '' Ruby said .
`` The stock here has got a bit better but it 's taken a good couple of weeks , and now it seems to be running out again .
`` The NHS is being prioritised but how are we meant to stop it spreading in the community without adequate protection .
`` We are mental health nurses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital nurses are doing at the same time , but without the equipment or a sterile environment . ''
Ruby says the fear of catching coronavirus , or passing it on to patients or family members , is a constant worry for health care workers .
`` Staff are terrified and it makes for a very intense environment , '' she said .
`` It is a struggle at the moment .
One of our nurses and a couple of carers are having to isolate for 12 weeks .
`` And at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have my own mental health issues so I understand first hand how hard it is for my residents .
`` But everyone is chipping in - one of the nurse 's mum managed to get us some face guards , and the managers have bought food shopping for those on minimum wage .
`` The staff have been brilliant and everyone is working so hard to make sure residents can video call their friends and family .
`` We are doing our best to keep them safe and happy . ''
Care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not included in the official figures released by the Government , adding to the consensus among some care workers that the sector have been `` forgotten . ''
`` I understand we need to protect the NHS but a the same time , that is all that is being talked about , '' Ruby said .
`` There are so many carers and nurses at care homes across Manchester who are facing incredible struggles at the moment .
`` Our GP is supporting us as best they can but government guidance is changing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't have any confidence in it .
`` NHS staff receive special shopping hours and free food but what about us ?
`` We are trying so hard to keep a brave face but we feel we have been forgotten about . ''

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For mental health nurse, Ruby Hare, an ordinary shift once involved taking patients out to the cinema, arranging family visits and supporting them with personal hygiene.
The 31-year-old treats patients at a south Manchester care home, with schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, psychosis and other serious mental disorders.
Since the outbreak of coronavirus, Ruby and her colleagues have been forced to adapt the way they provide care, in a way they've never done before.
And it's having a devastating impact on her patients.
Where emotional support used to exist in the form of linking arms, or holding hands, Ruby must now try to maintain a safe distance - at all costs.
Masks and gloves are crucial to the safety of staff and patients, but these protective measures can be terrifying for those already suffering with paranoia and intrusive thoughts.
Many residents lack the capacity to understand coronavirus and its dangers, meaning staff face incredible difficulty in controlling social distancing.
(Image: Ruby Hare)
This remains a constant concern for Ruby and her staff, who currently have one patient with a COVID-19 diagnosis, and another isolating with symptoms of the disease.
Others are required to isolate for twelve weeks due to additional physical illnesses such as cancer, COPD, asthma and liver problems.
With PPE in short supply, staff having to isolate, and much of the national support being directed to the frontline NHS, Ruby worries the care sector is being left behind.
"Before coronavirus, we would put on daily activities like going shopping or to the cinema, or museums," Ruby said.
"We would have families coming to visit regularly, we had music afternoons and would interact with them physically, sometimes linking arms while walking.
"Our job is to support them with personal care, which can result in close contact, and it is nearly impossible to impose a constant two metre distance and do our daily tasks."
Many of the patients inside the care home are detained under the mental health act, meaning it's difficult for them to understand social distancing measures, Ruby says.
"We try our best to explain to residents that they need to be isolating for twelve weeks but they want to just carry on walking round the home like normal," she said.
"One resident likes to sit and watch a film with staff but its hard as he should be isolating his bedroom, and we need to keep our distance.
"We now have to do physical observations on a daily basis to check for a temperature, but around 80 to 90pc of patients refuse for us to do this.
"Every time we speak to our residents now we are wearing a mask or gloves and it is terrifying for them.
"Our cleaners are trying to do a deep clean every day but a lot of the residents will not let them come in their room.
"Some don't even want to wash their hands. We are stuck."
One of Ruby's residents tested positive for coronavirus last week, just months after recovering from cancer.
"It's been really difficult as we've got to do everything we can to make sure he is isolating in his bedroom," Ruby said.
"He has a tracheotomy so having the correct protective equipment is vital to be able to treat him.
"We might not be on the NHS front line but we still have massive risk factors."
“We have a lot of people here with long term health problems and if they get COVID-19 they are going to be in serious trouble," Ruby added.
"A lot of them won't comply with treatment or won't necessarily accept oxygen or medication so it's like a catch 22 situation."
Another resident was admitted to Accident and Emergency last week but was sent home without a test, so staff have been left in limbo.
"The PPE situation is worrying," Ruby said.
Helplines and websites Samaritans (116 123) samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org , write to Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK, PO Box 9090, STIRLING, FK8 2SA and visit www.samaritans.org/branches to find your nearest branch. For support for people feeling suicidal, if you are concerned about someone or if you are bereaved by suicide see http://shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk CALM (0800 58 58 58) thecalmzone.net has a helpline is for men who are down or have hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support. They're open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year. Greater Manchester Bereavement Service Greater Manchester Bereavement Service can help to find support for anyone in Greater Manchester that has been bereaved or affected by a death. No one needs to feel alone as they deal with their grief. www.greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk Childline (0800 1111 ) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill. PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal. Beat Eating Disorders: Beat provides helplines for adults and young people offering support and information about eating disorders. These helplines are free to call from all phones. Adult Helpline: 0808 801 0677, Studentline: 0808 801 0811, Youthline: 0808 801 0711. www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk Anorexia & Bulimia Care: ABC provide on-going care, emotional support and practical guidance for anyone affected by eating disorders, those struggling personally and parents, families and friends. Helpline: 03000 11 12 13. www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk/ Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts. Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying studentsagainstdepression.org For information and links to charities and organisations that can help with substance abuse, visit https://www.supportline.org.uk/problems/drugs/
"The stock here has got a bit better but it's taken a good couple of weeks, and now it seems to be running out again.
"The NHS is being prioritised but how are we meant to stop it spreading in the community without adequate protection.
"We are mental health nurses but we are expected to do what hospital nurses are doing at the same time, but without the equipment or a sterile environment."
Ruby says the fear of catching coronavirus, or passing it on to patients or family members, is a constant worry for health care workers.
(Image: Copyright unknown)
"Staff are terrified and it makes for a very intense environment," she said.
"It is a struggle at the moment. One of our nurses and a couple of carers are having to isolate for 12 weeks.
"And at the same time staff their own problems - I have my own mental health issues so I understand first hand how hard it is for my residents.
"But everyone is chipping in - one of the nurse's mum managed to get us some face guards, and the managers have bought food shopping for those on minimum wage.
"The staff have been brilliant and everyone is working so hard to make sure residents can video call their friends and family.
"We are doing our best to keep them safe and happy."
Care home infections and deaths from COVID-19 are not included in the official figures released by the Government, adding to the consensus among some care workers that the sector have been "forgotten."
"I understand we need to protect the NHS but a the same time, that is all that is being talked about," Ruby said.
"There are so many carers and nurses at care homes across Manchester who are facing incredible struggles at the moment.
"Our GP is supporting us as best they can but government guidance is changing all the time, and I don't have any confidence in it.
"NHS staff receive special shopping hours and free food but what about us?
"We are trying so hard to keep a brave face but we feel we have been forgotten about."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--In case you missed it: How the MEN has told the story of Manchester's changing streets and estates

Ever since its emergence as the world 's first industrial city , Manchester and its surrounding towns have been in an almost constant state of change .
But what does that mean for the people who live and work here ?
We 've dug into the archives to pick out five of our favourite long reads examining the changing face of our region .
The Manchester streets that have vanished from the map The pace of change in Manchester can be dizzying .
New buildings - and entire districts - are springing up all the time .
But the flipside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole streets have disappeared from the map .
Here , Chris Osuh looks at some of the city centre and inner city streets which have been lost to the wreckers ’ ball .
For much of the 20th Century Miles Platting 's 'Tripe Colony ' was one of the most sought-after places to live in working-class Manchester .
Named by the family which built it - tripe magnates the Pendleburys - the pristine rows of immaculate Accrington brick terraced homes were let only to the very best tenants .
But by 1994 the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In this piece Helen Johnson looks at the rise and fall of the estate and what life was like there .
We grew up in Ancoats - this is what we think of how it 's changed From cradle of the Industrial Revolution to one of the coolest neighbourhoods on earth , Ancoats has seen its fair share of change over the years .
Where once stood workshops and mills , there are now trendy flats and restaurants .
But what 's it like to have lived there all your life and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end for the 'last shop standing' When no one wanted to run a business in a tough part of Salford shopkeeper Mo Arshad was there .
But when Manchester 's property boom spilled over the Irwell onto its neighbouring city he found himself being pushed out .
Neal Keeling 's piece on the demise of the Shalimar corner shop is a fascinating insight into the winners and losers of the gentrification of our towns and cities .
Life on the council estate street with a motorway running down the middle It 's one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and for years had a reputation as one of the toughest .
With the M66 running right down the middle the Dicky Bird in Bury is literally a place of two halves .
But as Damon Wilkinson found out residents there are finding ways to come together in spite of the huge barrier that divides them .

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Manchester doesn't stand still for long.
Ever since its emergence as the world's first industrial city, Manchester and its surrounding towns have been in an almost constant state of change.
But what does that mean for the people who live and work here?
We've dug into the archives to pick out five of our favourite long reads examining the changing face of our region.
(Image: Estate of Shirley Baker)
The pace of change in Manchester can be dizzying.
New buildings - and entire districts - are springing up all the time.
But the flipside of that development means over the years whole streets have disappeared from the map.
Here, Chris Osuh looks at some of the city centre and inner city streets which have been lost to the wreckers’ ball.
(Image: Manchester Archives +)
For much of the 20th Century Miles Platting's 'Tripe Colony' was one of the most sought-after places to live in working-class Manchester.
Named by the family which built it - tripe magnates the Pendleburys - the pristine rows of immaculate Accrington brick terraced homes were let only to the very best tenants.
But by 1994 the estate had been razed to the ground.
In this piece Helen Johnson looks at the rise and fall of the estate and what life was like there.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
From cradle of the Industrial Revolution to one of the coolest neighbourhoods on earth, Ancoats has seen its fair share of change over the years.
Where once stood workshops and mills, there are now trendy flats and restaurants.
But what's it like to have lived there all your life and witnessed the change first-hand?
Rebecca Day found out here.
(Image: Colin Horne - Manchester Evening News)
When no one wanted to run a business in a tough part of Salford shopkeeper Mo Arshad was there.
But when Manchester's property boom spilled over the Irwell onto its neighbouring city he found himself being pushed out.
Neal Keeling's piece on the demise of the Shalimar corner shop is a fascinating insight into the winners and losers of the gentrification of our towns and cities.
(Image: Google)
It's one of the more unusual estates around - and for years had a reputation as one of the toughest.
With the M66 running right down the middle the Dicky Bird in Bury is literally a place of two halves.
But as Damon Wilkinson found out residents there are finding ways to come together in spite of the huge barrier that divides them.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--How Sir Alex Ferguson is helping Ryan Giggs' coaching career

Ryan Giggs has explained what he 's learned as a manager from Sir Alex Ferguson , who he still regularly seeks advice from .
The Manchester United legend is now in charge of Wales and has led his national team to the European Championship finals , which will now take place in summer 2021 .
After a difficult start as Wales boss , Giggs turned things around to qualify in fine style .
But he 's told WalesOnline that Ferguson is regularly on the other end of the phone if he needs advice .
`` Yes , he was on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , asked if Ferguson spoke to him after qualification was sealed .
He admitted a number of former United players and coaches had spoken to him .
Giggs added : `` But some of them , including Sir Alex , were also there for me during the low points , telling me to keep my head up , offering advice , that sort of thing .
`` I actually lean on my staff mostly .
Albert Stuivenburg , who I worked with at United , has been fantastic with the things he suggests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us , I spoke to Chris Coleman a few times about different matters .
I tend to keep it internal when I can .
`` But it would be silly of me not to utilise the experience of Sir Alex , who has so much knowledge of how to deal with different scenarios .
`` He 's been there to help me when necessary .
It 's not so much football , he does n't tell me what tactics to use or anything like that .
But he does offer guidance on how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be decisive , that sort of thing . ''
Giggs also admitted he took inspiration from Ferguson 's decisiveness when making tactical decisions .
He 's already gained a reputation as a bold manager , unafraid to drop players are spring a surprise in his team selection .
He added : `` Even some of my staff are wondering 'What on earth are you doing this for ? '
Let alone the fans , or media , or anybody else , but I 've stuck to my guns and generally I 'd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right .
`` This is definitely something I learned from Sir Alex .
He was so decisive .
I was in the dressing room at times wondering 'What 's he doing with a particular decision ? '
Yet invariably it worked out , we won and no-one says anything afterwards .
`` That 's how you have to be as a manager . ''

Ryan Giggs has explained what he's learned as a manager from Sir Alex Ferguson, who he still regularly seeks advice from.
The Manchester United legend is now in charge of Wales and has led his national team to the European Championship finals, which will now take place in summer 2021.
After a difficult start as Wales boss, Giggs turned things around to qualify in fine style. But he's told WalesOnline that Ferguson is regularly on the other end of the phone if he needs advice.
"Yes, he was on congratulating me too," said Giggs, asked if Ferguson spoke to him after qualification was sealed.
He admitted a number of former United players and coaches had spoken to him.
Giggs added: "But some of them, including Sir Alex, were also there for me during the low points, telling me to keep my head up, offering advice, that sort of thing.
"I actually lean on my staff mostly. Albert Stuivenburg, who I worked with at United, has been fantastic with the things he suggests, Osian Roberts when he was with us, I spoke to Chris Coleman a few times about different matters. I tend to keep it internal when I can.
"But it would be silly of me not to utilise the experience of Sir Alex, who has so much knowledge of how to deal with different scenarios.
"He's been there to help me when necessary. It's not so much football, he doesn't tell me what tactics to use or anything like that. But he does offer guidance on how to deal with certain situations, how to be decisive, that sort of thing."
Giggs also admitted he took inspiration from Ferguson's decisiveness when making tactical decisions.
He's already gained a reputation as a bold manager, unafraid to drop players are spring a surprise in his team selection.
He added: "Even some of my staff are wondering 'What on earth are you doing this for?' Let alone the fans, or media, or anybody else, but I've stuck to my guns and generally I'd like to think I've been proven right.
"This is definitely something I learned from Sir Alex. He was so decisive. I was in the dressing room at times wondering 'What's he doing with a particular decision?' Yet invariably it worked out, we won and no-one says anything afterwards.
"That's how you have to be as a manager."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--These are lockdown's worst offenders

These are lockdown's worst offenders

While most of us continue to behave impeccably and sensibly a tiny minority have recklessly ignored the pleas of government and police to adapt their lives to the coronavirus lockdown .
While social distancing , and venturing out only to shop for food , local exercise , and collect medicines is adhered to by virtually everyone , the actions of a few remain selfish and others have exploited the situation to commit despicable crimes .
Here are the lockdown 's worst offenders across Greater Manchester : As our roads fall silent , and motorways see a huge drop in traffic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light to use them as a race-track .
GMP has so far caught 6,200 drivers breaking the speed limit since the start of the lockdown on March 23rd .
With all non-essential travel currently banned under government guidance , most people within Greater Manchester are staying at home and if they need to go out , they are sticking to the speed limits .
But the force has seen an increase of 57 % in the number of vehicles travelling above the speed limit over the past few weeks .
Patrols in key @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Superintendent Julie Ellison from GMP ’ s Specialist Operations Team said : “ In this current climate , keeping the pressure off our emergency services is so important whilst they keep the public safe and well .
`` If someone is speeding and they have a collision , this will take up vital resources including NHS , fire and the police .
“ Sadly we have seen a huge increase in speeding offences and numerous examples of drivers who are putting their own lives and others at risk – one recent example was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ road and one reaching speeds of 129mph on the M62 .
The speed limits are there to save lives and should always be adhered to .
“ My officers are working tirelessly to track down these offenders who are using the quieter roads as their own personal racetrack .
“ We are working closely with our partners and the community to actively discourage them and would like to encourage the public to ensure they are reporting issues/ concerns in their local area so we can plan our traffic operations accordingly and make the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The public can submit dash cam footage of any offences they have captured HERE .
Police were called to 1,008 reports of people having house parties and gatherings across the region over the Easter weekend .
There were almost 500 house parties , with some having DJs , and bouncy castles .
This week a judge blasted neighbours in Kearsley , Bolton , for `` flagrantly ignoring '' social distancing measures by holding an all-day house party .
They were both fined after pleading guilty to charges of breach of the peace and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movement .
Police responded after being alerted by a nurse who lives in the street .
Public gatherings of more than two people are prohibited but despite death figures reaching around 900 a day in the UK from coronavirus the rule has been flouted .
Chief Constable , Ian Hopkins has said his officers will first try to engage with people to understand lockdown rules , but will turn to enforcement as a last resort .
The Coronavirus Act does not give police the power to enter private premises , so officers are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behaviour legislation .
Perhaps the most despicable act since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis was committed in Oldham .
Conmen exploited the coronavirus pandemic to trick a 92-year-old woman before stealing her jewellery , purse , and cash .
Two men ransacked rooms in front of the vulnerable pensioner .
Detectives described them as 'the lowest of the low ' after they posed as 'helping hands ' to dupe her at her home in Royton .
The pensioner was left unhurt but badly shaken up .
The two men , who were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the woman 's front door on Grasmere Road on the night of Thursday April 2nd .
Police were called to the scene at 7.30pm .
They told the victim that her neighbour had died of coronavirus - then offered to clean her home for her .
GMP said they 'presented themselves as friendly helping hands ' .
Whilst the woman was fetching the men some cleaning products , the two offenders stole her belongings .
Chief Inspector Trevor Harrison , of GMP 's Oldham district said : `` This is an absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a vulnerable and elderly woman at a time where we , as a society , should be looking out for her . ''
Another disgraceful incident saw essential personal protective equipment stolen in a break-in at an NHS building .
Staff working for Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust arrived at the office in Windsor Street , Salford , on Easter Sunday morning to find it had been ransacked .
Laptops and some petty cash were also among the items taken by the thief , who police say was wearing gloves and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salford Care Homes Practice , a GP surgery that looks after people in the city 's care homes .
In a post on Facebook , one NHS worker described the theft of the protective gear as a 'massive sucker punch ' and said they felt 'gutted , angry and in shock ' .
The theft comes at a time when many frontline workers , including doctors and nurses , are working without personal protective equipment ( PPE ) due to national shortages .
A spokesperson for Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of our community bases has been burgled and belongings stolen , including some items of PPE equipment .
“ Our priority has been supporting staff based at this unit and ensuring they have access to the equipment that they need to carry out their roles . ''
Emergency workers have , unbelievably , been a target for verbal and physical abuse .
Chief Constable , Ian Hopkins , said his officers were being subjected to `` shocking '' attacks .
He said an increasing number of people were spitting at police and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A man was arrested after he bit a police officer as she tried to explain the coronavirus lockdown rules to him .
Police were called to Drake Street , Rochdale , on April 9th to reports of a man causing a disturbance .
The officers attempted to explain to the man that in line with government guidelines around COVID-19 , that people should not be going around to other people 's homes .
Whilst trying to engage with him , two of the officers were punched .
One of those officers - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ badly bitten .
The officer said the incident was in 'stark contrast ' to the support she had felt from people over the previous few days .
A thug who spat and swore at police then tried to flee the scene faced swift justice - after he ran straight into a sheet of glass .
The incident happened on Parker Street in Manchester city centre on April 8th .
The 29-year-old man abused officers 'then went to leg it ' , GMP 's city centre team said in a tweet .
Unfortunately for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sheet of glass at a bus stop .
The offender suffered only 'minor cuts ' and required first aid , police said .
Police have been subjected to a number of vile spitting incidents since the pandemic began .
Shaun Sleigh , 31 , was jailed for eight months and ordered to pay compensation after he assaulted a female police officer and threatened to spit at her claiming he had COVID-19 at an address in Walkden , Salford .
A family-of-six drove to the Lake District for a trip out during the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Windermere and told to go home .
They had travelled more than 80 miles from Leigh in Wigan .
Cumbria Police revealed the astonishing stop in a post that went viral on Twitter .
The force said 'all routes ' into the Lakes were being policed to combat the spread of coronavirus .
Police also shared a photograph of the car stopped .
Two adults and six children were inside .
Officers stopped the family 's car at Windermere and they were told to return home to Leigh

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While most of us continue to behave impeccably and sensibly a tiny minority have recklessly ignored the pleas of government and police to adapt their lives to the coronavirus lockdown.
While social distancing, and venturing out only to shop for food, local exercise, and collect medicines is adhered to by virtually everyone, the actions of a few remain selfish and others have exploited the situation to commit despicable crimes.
Here are the lockdown's worst offenders across Greater Manchester:
Rogue Racers
As our roads fall silent, and motorways see a huge drop in traffic, idiots have taken it as green light to use them as a race-track.
GMP has so far caught 6,200 drivers breaking the speed limit since the start of the lockdown on March 23rd.
With all non-essential travel currently banned under government guidance, most people within Greater Manchester are staying at home and if they need to go out, they are sticking to the speed limits.
But the force has seen an increase of 57% in the number of vehicles travelling above the speed limit over the past few weeks.
Patrols in key hotspot areas are being stepped up.
Superintendent Julie Ellison from GMP’s Specialist Operations Team said: “In this current climate, keeping the pressure off our emergency services is so important whilst they keep the public safe and well.
"If someone is speeding and they have a collision, this will take up vital resources including NHS, fire and the police.
“Sadly we have seen a huge increase in speeding offences and numerous examples of drivers who are putting their own lives and others at risk – one recent example was a driver doing 115mph on a 40mph road and one reaching speeds of 129mph on the M62. The speed limits are there to save lives and should always be adhered to.
“My officers are working tirelessly to track down these offenders who are using the quieter roads as their own personal racetrack.
“We are working closely with our partners and the community to actively discourage them and would like to encourage the public to ensure they are reporting issues/ concerns in their local area so we can plan our traffic operations accordingly and make the best use of our available officers.
The public can submit dash cam footage of any offences they have captured HERE.
(Image: GMP Saddleworth & Lees)
House parties and gatherings.
Police were called to 1,008 reports of people having house parties and gatherings across the region over the Easter weekend.
There were almost 500 house parties, with some having DJs, and bouncy castles.
This week a judge blasted neighbours in Kearsley, Bolton, for "flagrantly ignoring" social distancing measures by holding an all-day house party.
They were both fined after pleading guilty to charges of breach of the peace and contravening a requirement as to restriction of movement.
(Image: GMP.)
Police responded after being alerted by a nurse who lives in the street.
Public gatherings of more than two people are prohibited but despite death figures reaching around 900 a day in the UK from coronavirus the rule has been flouted.
Chief Constable, Ian Hopkins has said his officers will first try to engage with people to understand lockdown rules, but will turn to enforcement as a last resort.
The Coronavirus Act does not give police the power to enter private premises, so officers are using the Public Order Act and anti-social behaviour legislation.
(Image: Mark Waugh)
Conmen who duped a 92-year-old woman
Perhaps the most despicable act since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis was committed in Oldham.
Conmen exploited the coronavirus pandemic to trick a 92-year-old woman before stealing her jewellery, purse, and cash.
Two men ransacked rooms in front of the vulnerable pensioner.
Detectives described them as 'the lowest of the low' after they posed as 'helping hands' to dupe her at her home in Royton.
The pensioner was left unhurt but badly shaken up.
The two men, who were both dressed all in black, knocked on the woman's front door on Grasmere Road on the night of Thursday April 2nd.
Police were called to the scene at 7.30pm.
They told the victim that her neighbour had died of coronavirus - then offered to clean her home for her.
GMP said they 'presented themselves as friendly helping hands'.
Whilst the woman was fetching the men some cleaning products, the two offenders stole her belongings.
Chief Inspector Trevor Harrison, of GMP's Oldham district said: "This is an absolutely appalling crime, which has taken advantage of a vulnerable and elderly woman at a time where we, as a society, should be looking out for her."
(Image: Joel Goodman)
Thief takes PPE from NHS store
Another disgraceful incident saw essential personal protective equipment stolen in a break-in at an NHS building.
Staff working for Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust arrived at the office in Windsor Street, Salford, on Easter Sunday morning to find it had been ransacked.
Laptops and some petty cash were also among the items taken by the thief, who police say was wearing gloves and a balaclava.
The office is used by Salford Care Homes Practice, a GP surgery that looks after people in the city's care homes.
In a post on Facebook, one NHS worker described the theft of the protective gear as a 'massive sucker punch' and said they felt 'gutted, angry and in shock'.
The theft comes at a time when many frontline workers, including doctors and nurses, are working without personal protective equipment (PPE) due to national shortages.
A spokesperson for Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are shocked and saddened that one of our community bases has been burgled and belongings stolen, including some items of PPE equipment.
“Our priority has been supporting staff based at this unit and ensuring they have access to the equipment that they need to carry out their roles."
(Image: PA)
Attacks on police and paramedics
Emergency workers have, unbelievably, been a target for verbal and physical abuse.
Chief Constable, Ian Hopkins, said his officers were being subjected to "shocking" attacks.
He said an increasing number of people were spitting at police and paramedics, claiming they have contracted COVID-19.
A man was arrested after he bit a police officer as she tried to explain the coronavirus lockdown rules to him.
Police were called to Drake Street, Rochdale, on April 9th to reports of a man causing a disturbance.
The officers attempted to explain to the man that in line with government guidelines around COVID-19, that people should not be going around to other people's homes.
Whilst trying to engage with him, two of the officers were punched.
One of those officers - a 21-year-old police constable - was then badly bitten.
The officer said the incident was in 'stark contrast' to the support she had felt from people over the previous few days.
A thug who spat and swore at police then tried to flee the scene faced swift justice - after he ran straight into a sheet of glass.
The incident happened on Parker Street in Manchester city centre on April 8th.
The 29-year-old man abused officers 'then went to leg it', GMP's city centre team said in a tweet.
Unfortunately for him, he ran straight into a sheet of glass at a bus stop.
A picture posted by GMP showed the glass completely shattered.
The offender suffered only 'minor cuts' and required first aid, police said.
Police have been subjected to a number of vile spitting incidents since the pandemic began.
Shaun Sleigh, 31, was jailed for eight months and ordered to pay compensation after he assaulted a female police officer and threatened to spit at her claiming he had COVID-19 at an address in Walkden, Salford.
(Image: PA)
Driving miles to beauty spots
A family-of-six drove to the Lake District for a trip out during the coronavirus lockdown - but were stopped by police at Windermere and told to go home.
They had travelled more than 80 miles from Leigh in Wigan.
Cumbria Police revealed the astonishing stop in a post that went viral on Twitter.
The force said 'all routes' into the Lakes were being policed to combat the spread of coronavirus.
Police also shared a photograph of the car stopped.
Two adults and six children were inside.
Officers stopped the family's car at Windermere and they were told to return home to Leigh


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--Sergio Aguero teams up with BBC to teach Spanish to children

Sergio Aguero will swap scoring goals for Manchester City for becoming a teacher , as the striker teams up with the BBC for their new homeschooling initiative .
It 's not just football that has come to a standstill due to the coronavirus pandemic , with all walks of life being impacted and education is no different , with schools set to remain shut for the foreseeable future .
As a result , the BBC have signed up an array of stars across sport , TV and music to become teachers for Bitesize Daily and bring lessons to children who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Argentine Aguero will use his bilingual skills to host virtual Spanish lessons .
Content will be available online and on TV from Monday , April 20 , when children would have usually returned to school following the Easter holidays , and will run for two weeks .
`` It 's a tough time for children at the moment , and also for parents trying to keep them focussed on their education from home , '' Aguero said .
`` The BBC are doing brilliant work to help and I 'm honoured to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aguero will be joined by Doctor Who and Broadchurch star Jode Whittiker , One Direction 's Liam Payne and Professor Brian Cox .
Director for BBC Children , Alice Webb , told The Telegraph : `` We 're proud that the BBC can bring together so many people and partners to offer such a wide-ranging package of support to help children and parents right across the UK at such a challenging time .
`` It 's vital that every child is able to continue learning , and the lessons we 've created will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same time . ''

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Sergio Aguero will swap scoring goals for Manchester City for becoming a teacher, as the striker teams up with the BBC for their new homeschooling initiative.
It's not just football that has come to a standstill due to the coronavirus pandemic, with all walks of life being impacted and education is no different, with schools set to remain shut for the foreseeable future.
As a result, the BBC have signed up an array of stars across sport, TV and music to become teachers for Bitesize Daily and bring lessons to children who are stuck at home during lockdown.
Argentine Aguero will use his bilingual skills to host virtual Spanish lessons. Content will be available online and on TV from Monday, April 20, when children would have usually returned to school following the Easter holidays, and will run for two weeks.
"It's a tough time for children at the moment, and also for parents trying to keep them focussed on their education from home," Aguero said.
"The BBC are doing brilliant work to help and I'm honoured to be able to play a part."
Aguero will be joined by Doctor Who and Broadchurch star Jode Whittiker, One Direction's Liam Payne and Professor Brian Cox.
Director for BBC Children, Alice Webb, told The Telegraph: "We're proud that the BBC can bring together so many people and partners to offer such a wide-ranging package of support to help children and parents right across the UK at such a challenging time.
"It's vital that every child is able to continue learning, and the lessons we've created will make sure they have fun at the same time."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--Daughter lost mum, 87, to coronavirus while living in Australia - she has a powerful piece of advice

Daughter lost mum, 87, to coronavirus while living in Australia - she has a powerful piece of advice for us all

Jean Bostock was one of life 's great characters .
She had a sharp sense of humour and was always quick with a one-liner , a trait that served her well as a school supervisor in north Manchester for many years .
Despite her family 's protestations , she would chain smoke cigarettes one after another , a habit that only got worse as she developed dementia and began to forget when she 'd just had one .
But having made it to 87-years-old , she was n't about to give up .
`` She would say 'what do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' and I would say 'those bloody cigs ! '
'' said daughter Wendy Donegan .
In the end , it was n't smoking that killed Jean - at least directly - it was coronavirus .
At the time , she was still living in a flat at Dunstan Court in Moston , an independent residential scheme for the over 60s .
She 'd had a fall and took of a turn for the worse on April 9 causing staff to call an ambulance .
Paramedics immediately took a swab test and confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General hospital .
She died there the same night .
Having lived in a house over the road before she moved to Dunstan Court , Jean and her family are familiar to many people in Moston .
As the Manchester Evening News reported earlier this week , her death has left fellow tenants and staff devastated .
Older residents , like those up and down the country , are fearful of the Covid-19 outbreak that is sweeping through the population with deadly affect .
Wendy , who grew up in Manchester but now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ M.E.N to make sure that people understand there is a person behind every coronavirus death .
Many of them are like Jean , a much-loved grandma with a huge personality whose loss will hit the community hard .
Due to the travels restrictions in place , Wendy has been unable to return to her family making the grief all the more painful .
With many facing similar heartbreak , she has some powerful words of advice for us all .
`` I 've been back 23 times since I left Moston in 2003 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mum , she came over here five times , '' said Wendy , 58 .
`` Normally I would be back there in a shot .
`` That 's the hardest thing not being able to be there at this time .
`` But I was lucky to come over so many times and have good memories with mum , I do n't feel any regrets .
`` I used to ring my mum every day , a lot of the time I would just say 'hiya are you alright ? '
on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
`` You need to find time for people , you never know the moment they 'll be gone .
`` I can sleep at night , I told my mum I loved her every day . ''
A second resident at Dunstan Court has also tested positive for coronavirus in recent weeks .
Mosscare St Vincent 's , the housing company that runs it , says it has implemented a range of measures to help keep residents safe including carrying out a deep clean and asking all residents to self-isolate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has nothing but praise for the set-up and the staff who work there .
`` It 's a wonderful place , it 's absolutely brilliant , '' she said .
`` If I was ready I would be quite happy to go there myself !
`` The staff are fabulous and when I 've been it was spotless , so clean .
`` It must be traumatising for them .
`` They normally do bingo twice a week , happy hour , parties , everybody did everything together .
`` My mum was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very close-knit community in Dunstan Court , everybody knows each other .
`` I think the staff are dedicated , wonderful people , I really do .
`` It takes a lot to keep going [ at the moment ] , to keep going to work and be put under this pressure , but they just keep doing it because these people need help . ''
Readers may remember Jean from her days working at St Dunstans primary school and St Margaret Mary 's primary school in Moston and St Thomas More school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Extra Care charity shop in Harpurhey for nine years .
`` She fed the children of Manchester , '' said Wendy .
`` She gave a lot to the community . ''
It is vital that Jean and the many others who have been lost to coronavirus are rememebered .
At the Manchester Evening News , we have vowed to pay tribute to every victim that we can in our region .
If you have a loved one that you want to pay tribute to - fill the form in here .

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Jean Bostock was one of life's great characters.
She had a sharp sense of humour and was always quick with a one-liner, a trait that served her well as a school supervisor in north Manchester for many years.
Despite her family's protestations, she would chain smoke cigarettes one after another, a habit that only got worse as she developed dementia and began to forget when she'd just had one.
But having made it to 87-years-old, she wasn't about to give up.
"She would say 'what do you think is going to get me?' and I would say 'those bloody cigs!'" said daughter Wendy Donegan.
In the end, it wasn't smoking that killed Jean - at least directly - it was coronavirus.
At the time, she was still living in a flat at Dunstan Court in Moston, an independent residential scheme for the over 60s.
She'd had a fall and took of a turn for the worse on April 9 causing staff to call an ambulance.
Paramedics immediately took a swab test and confirmed Covid-19 on the way to North Manchester General hospital.
(Image: Family Handout)
She died there the same night.
Having lived in a house over the road before she moved to Dunstan Court, Jean and her family are familiar to many people in Moston.
As the Manchester Evening News reported earlier this week, her death has left fellow tenants and staff devastated.
Older residents, like those up and down the country, are fearful of the Covid-19 outbreak that is sweeping through the population with deadly affect.
Wendy, who grew up in Manchester but now lives in Adelaide, Australia contacted the M.E.N to make sure that people understand there is a person behind every coronavirus death.
Many of them are like Jean, a much-loved grandma with a huge personality whose loss will hit the community hard.
Due to the travels restrictions in place, Wendy has been unable to return to her family making the grief all the more painful.
With many facing similar heartbreak, she has some powerful words of advice for us all.
(Image: Family Handout)
"I've been back 23 times since I left Moston in 2003 and had a very loving relationship with mum, she came over here five times," said Wendy, 58.
"Normally I would be back there in a shot.
"That's the hardest thing not being able to be there at this time.
"But I was lucky to come over so many times and have good memories with mum, I don't feel any regrets.
"I used to ring my mum every day, a lot of the time I would just say 'hiya are you alright?' on the way to work and that was it.
"You need to find time for people, you never know the moment they'll be gone.
"I can sleep at night, I told my mum I loved her every day."
A second resident at Dunstan Court has also tested positive for coronavirus in recent weeks.
Mosscare St Vincent's, the housing company that runs it, says it has implemented a range of measures to help keep residents safe including carrying out a deep clean and asking all residents to self-isolate for 72 hours.
And Wendy said she has nothing but praise for the set-up and the staff who work there.
(Image: Family Handout)
"It's a wonderful place, it's absolutely brilliant," she said.
"If I was ready I would be quite happy to go there myself!
"The staff are fabulous and when I've been it was spotless, so clean.
"It must be traumatising for them.
"They normally do bingo twice a week, happy hour, parties, everybody did everything together.
"My mum was very popular.
"It's a very close-knit community in Dunstan Court, everybody knows each other.
"I think the staff are dedicated, wonderful people, I really do.
"It takes a lot to keep going [at the moment], to keep going to work and be put under this pressure, but they just keep doing it because these people need help."
Readers may remember Jean from her days working at St Dunstans primary school and St Margaret Mary's primary school in Moston and St Thomas More school in Collyhurst.
She also worked at the Extra Care charity shop in Harpurhey for nine years.
"She fed the children of Manchester," said Wendy.
"She gave a lot to the community."
It is vital that Jean and the many others who have been lost to coronavirus are rememebered.
At the Manchester Evening News , we have vowed to pay tribute to every victim that we can in our region.
If you have a loved one that you want to pay tribute to - fill the form in here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-19--Me At 20 challenge: Stars have been sharing their throwback photos in lockdown

It 's become a sensation on Instagram and Twitter during the lockdown , and celebs have been joining in the fun .
While we 've all been staying at home a hashtag challenge has been causing a stir , and it 's called Me At 20 .
As the name suggests , the latest trend on Instagram is all about posting a photograph from the first year of your twenties .
Inbetweeners and I 'm A Celebrity star Emily Atack has taken part in the trend as well as TV host Carol Vorderman and Good Morning Britain 's Piers Morgan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from Walkden , also had a dig around in her photo album .
And former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney and his wife Coleen put their own twist on the challenge .
Cath , 36 , who played Eva Price in Corrie , was transported back before her days on the famous cobbles to her role in the BBC drama Holby City .
And she sparked envy with the snap of herself as a bride , with a head wound , alongside Jesus of Nazareth actor Robert Powell , who is from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bbcholbycity with Robert Powell , '' she wrote on her Instagram alongside the picture .
`` My mum was thrilled - Janet : 'oh my god !
You must take this job !
Robert Powell once played Jesus !
Wait till I tell the Bishop ! '
# 20 # noeyebrows # notan # headwound . ''
`` He was THE best Jesus ever , '' one follower told her .
Instead of 20 Coleen Rooney , 34 , shared a collage of photos from her 21st .
`` Love this collage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she wrote .
And she added the hashtags `` # memories # family # friends . ''
The mum-of-four also shared an adorable thowback photo of herself as a little girl with the words : `` A different sunny day . ''
`` So cute , '' said one follower .
Meanwhile hubby Wayne , who is now player-coach for Derby , posted an old photo of himself in an England kit with the hashtag # tbt ( Throwback Thursday ) .
`` Old school , '' said one fan .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said another .
Piers Morgan dazzled his followers with a photo of himself at 20 wearing a striking pair of lipstick print shorts .
`` Look at the shorts , '' said another follower .
`` VERY bad perm .
Inspired by Deirdre Barlow , John Bon Jovi with a hint of Cher . ''
BBC weatherman Owain Wyn Jones commented : `` Once this lockdown is over I am going straight to Argos to purchase Babyliss hair crimpers for us both . ''
`` Actually I ’ m liking the perm , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Atack had a series message as she shared her # MeAt20 photo .
`` # MeAt20 with my melon head and tiny little body , that was criticised for being too fat even then , '' she wrote .
`` You will never please everybody .
So have that Easter egg for breakfast and relax . ''
`` Keep smiling you little beauty , '' replied one follower .

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It's become a sensation on Instagram and Twitter during the lockdown, and celebs have been joining in the fun.
While we've all been staying at home a hashtag challenge has been causing a stir, and it's called Me At 20.
As the name suggests, the latest trend on Instagram is all about posting a photograph from the first year of your twenties.
Inbetweeners and I'm A Celebrity star Emily Atack has taken part in the trend as well as TV host Carol Vorderman and Good Morning Britain's Piers Morgan.
Former Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley, from Walkden, also had a dig around in her photo album.
And former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney and his wife Coleen put their own twist on the challenge.
Cath, 36, who played Eva Price in Corrie, was transported back before her days on the famous cobbles to her role in the BBC drama Holby City.
And she sparked envy with the snap of herself as a bride, with a head wound, alongside Jesus of Nazareth actor Robert Powell, who is from Salford.
"Doing a stint on @bbcholbycity with Robert Powell," she wrote on her Instagram alongside the picture.
"My mum was thrilled - Janet : 'oh my god! You must take this job! Robert Powell once played Jesus! Wait till I tell the Bishop!' #20 #noeyebrows #notan #headwound."
"He was THE best Jesus ever," one follower told her.
Instead of 20 Coleen Rooney, 34, shared a collage of photos from her 21st.
"Love this collage I found from my 21st birthday..." she wrote.
And she added the hashtags "#memories #family #friends."
The mum-of-four also shared an adorable thowback photo of herself as a little girl with the words: "A different sunny day."
"So cute," said one follower.
"Adorable," commented another.
Meanwhile hubby Wayne, who is now player-coach for Derby, posted an old photo of himself in an England kit with the hashtag #tbt (Throwback Thursday).
"Old school," said one fan.
"You look about 12 there," said another.
Piers Morgan dazzled his followers with a photo of himself at 20 wearing a striking pair of lipstick print shorts.
"Nice shorts," commented radio presenter Lizzie Cundy.
"Look at the shorts," said another follower.
Former Countdown host Carol tweeted her graduation photo.
"Graduating age 20. 1981. Engineering. Cambridge Uni," she wrote.
"VERY bad perm. Inspired by Deirdre Barlow, John Bon Jovi with a hint of Cher."
BBC weatherman Owain Wyn Jones commented: "Once this lockdown is over I am going straight to Argos to purchase Babyliss hair crimpers for us both."
"Actually I’m liking the perm," said another follower.
And Emily Atack had a series message as she shared her #MeAt20 photo.
"#MeAt20 with my melon head and tiny little body, that was criticised for being too fat even then," she wrote. "You will never please everybody. So have that Easter egg for breakfast and relax."
"Keep smiling you little beauty," replied one follower.
"Stunning," said another.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-20--Piers Morgan slams government for ‘actively sending people out to get infected’

Piers Morgan slammed the government for “ actively sending people out to get infected ’ during the coronavirus containment phase .
He said that it was wrong for Britain to allow big sporting events and concerts to go ahead in March as the COVIN-19 pandemic gripped Italy .
During an interview with Oliver Dowden , Piers said that the likes of Cheltenham Festival and the Liverpool v Atletico Madrid match should have been cancelled .
At the time Mr Dowden defended his stance , saying that Britain was not “ in the territory of cancelling or postponing events.
” Piers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video link interview .
Piers said : “ Do you know what was happening in Italy on March 8 , the day before you said that ?
“ Let me enlighten you .
The day before 16 million people in Italy were quarantined because so many people were dying .
“ Yet the next day you go on the airwaves and you actively encourage Britons to go and attend mass gatherings - 250,000 to the Cheltenham festival , 55,000 at Liverpool Atletico Madrid .
“ Madrid fans were not even allowed to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the scale of the crisis , but we flew in 3,000 and say , come to the Liverpool match .
“ That was because you as a Government actively sent people out to get infected .
Why ?
” Mr Dowden defended the government ’ s actions , saying it was “ based on scientific evidence and advice.
” He said : “ Of course I was aware of the situation that was going on in Italy at the time .
“ We based it on scientific evidence , and this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we were being given was that the threat at a mass gathering relates to the people that immediately surround you .
“ The risk at mass gatherings is no greater or less than it would have been in pubs or restaurants .
“ At that point the advice was , we did not need to ban mass gatherings.
” Piers cut in to say the advice was completely wrong .
Mr Dowden conceived that as things moved on , advice changed , adding : “ We changed our guidance off the back of @ @ @

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Piers Morgan slammed the government for “actively sending people out to get infected’ during the coronavirus containment phase.
He said that it was wrong for Britain to allow big sporting events and concerts to go ahead in March as the COVIN-19 pandemic gripped Italy.
During an interview with Oliver Dowden, Piers said that the likes of Cheltenham Festival and the Liverpool v Atletico Madrid match should have been cancelled.
At the time Mr Dowden defended his stance, saying that Britain was not “in the territory of cancelling or postponing events.”
Piers brought this up during their very heated video link interview.
(Image: ITV)
Piers said: “Do you know what was happening in Italy on March 8, the day before you said that?
“Let me enlighten you. The day before 16 million people in Italy were quarantined because so many people were dying.
“Yet the next day you go on the airwaves and you actively encourage Britons to go and attend mass gatherings - 250,000 to the Cheltenham festival, 55,000 at Liverpool Atletico Madrid.
“Madrid fans were not even allowed to go to their own games at home because of the scale of the crisis, but we flew in 3,000 and say, come to the Liverpool match.
(Image: ITV)
“Stereophonics concerts all week.
“That was because you as a Government actively sent people out to get infected. Why?”
Mr Dowden defended the government’s actions, saying it was “based on scientific evidence and advice.”
He said: “Of course I was aware of the situation that was going on in Italy at the time.
“We based it on scientific evidence, and this is an important point. The scientific evidence we were being given was that the threat at a mass gathering relates to the people that immediately surround you.
“The risk at mass gatherings is no greater or less than it would have been in pubs or restaurants.
“At that point the advice was, we did not need to ban mass gatherings.”
Piers cut in to say the advice was completely wrong.
Mr Dowden conceived that as things moved on, advice changed, adding: “We changed our guidance off the back of it.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-20--'Stop putting pressure to reopen schools', says Manchester head

A headteacher in Manchester says people need to stop putting pressure on the government to reopen schools amid the pandemic .
The government has faced growing demand to get children back in the classroom , as it 's seen as the first major step to getting people back to work and kick-starting the economy .
It 's been reported that senior ministers have drawn up a three-phase plan to lift the coronavirus lockdown that would see schools reopen as early as May 11 .
But this weekend education secretary Gavin Williamson responded by confirming that no date has been set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's understood Prime Minister Boris Johnson also favours a longer time-frame .
Mr Williamson said in order for the government to be able to discuss a return to school , the situation must meet five tests as laid out by advisors - including perhaps most crucially , the need to be 'confident that any changes we do make will not risk a second peak of infections ' .
Now a headteacher in Manchester has said the pressure must stop as she admitted it 's looking 'increasingly unlikely ' that schools will reopen before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As the head of a primary school in Greater Manchester , she said she is pleased that safety is being prioritised .
`` I ’ m happy that there ’ s no date – I want them to make the right decision at the right time and I think if the government were to set a date it would cause more anxiety for school staff , '' said the head , who did not want to be identified .
`` I feel schools are trying to manage day by day at the moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with changing information from LAs [ local authorities ] and the government as they learn new things or realise what else needs to be done ; as well as making sure we are keeping everyone safe – those in school and at home .
`` For me , when we are reopening isn ’ t something I can think about at the minute – there ’ s too many other things to do .
I know it is unlikely to be in this half term and I was originally thinking about the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but that is looking increasingly unlikely . ''
And she said that the pressure to reopen is n't coming from schools themselves .
`` I don ’ t know any headteachers that are pushing for it to be honest , we just want to make sure everyone is safe , including our staff .
`` When one of the journalists asked the question on the daily government briefing and said heads were asking – on our senior leader Facebook page there were so many comments that said heads weren ’ t asking – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t pressurise the government to open schools earlier than was safe to do so . ''
Social distancing would be one of many issues faced by schools if they did reopen while measures are still in place .
Another would be the practicalities of pupils attending whose parents are among the most vulnerable groups isolating for 12 weeks , including pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems .
`` My school has over 400 children and the most difficult issue for us with social distancing will be drop off and pick up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Just before the lockdown we had over half the children absent where parents chose to keep them at home .
And we struggled to teach as we were worried about others missing out . ''
The teachers ' union National Education Union is also concerned about increasing speculation over when schools will reopen and has launched a petition opposing 'any re-opening of schools before it is safe to do so ' .
Deborah Taylor is the head of Tottington Primary School in Bury and says that while she would be pleased to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be done at the right time .
`` Schools and their staff would be the first to welcome and celebrate the re-opening of schools - filling its corridors once more with the noise of excitable and happy children , '' she said .
`` If this lockdown has taught us anything , schools are more than just about education .
They help children grow and develop positive relationships and become fully rounded members of our school and wider community .
`` But before schools can officially open their doors to its whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be put into place to protect the well-being of its staff , pupils and their families and continue to stop the spread of this life changing virus . ''
While there would be many benefits to reopening , said Deborah , schools are determined that pupils will get the necessary support - even if that does n't happen before September .
`` There are many positive reasons to open schools , even for a few weeks before the end of this school year , '' she said .
`` Most importantly to aid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Year 6 who are going to be moving to high school in September .
`` But schools will find a way to support these children regardless of whether schools are open or not .
Connecting and supporting our pupils during this time is paramount .
`` There is no current indication from government when schools are set to reopen and how this will look in practical terms but schools are ready to provide a supporting role in putting plans in place when it is safe to do so . ''
Many parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would not be sending their children back unless all social distancing measures have ended - and they could be sure it is safe .
Zoe Ellis is mum to Erin and Amelia and her eldest has a compromised immune system because of chemotherapy injections she has for arthritis .
`` My daughter ’ s health is paramount , '' said Zoe , from Denton .
`` If the schools do go back in May or June I ’ m definitely not sending them in .
`` Health is more important than education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and how crazy I go , until everything is completely safe then they 're staying put with me . ''
Mum-of-two Jenna Carter , from Hyde , says if she has to return to work then school would be preferable to finding different childcare each day , but she 's hoping it wo n't come to that .
Jenna , who works in sales admin for a carpet wholesaler , said : `` I personally think that it 's unachievable to expect parents to return to work if childcare settings and schools are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If I had no other choice and I was being made to go back to work , it 's safer for them to go to a single place than it would be for me to try to find a different person to have them daily .
`` But I believe I can ask to remain furloughed though if schools are n't reopened at the same time as the businesses . ''
What 's your view on schools reopening ?
Do you want to see them open before the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to send your children in if social distancing measures are still in place ?
Let us know in the comments or share your views on our Manchester Family Facebook page 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
A headteacher in Manchester says people need to stop putting pressure on the government to reopen schools amid the pandemic.
The government has faced growing demand to get children back in the classroom, as it's seen as the first major step to getting people back to work and kick-starting the economy.
It's been reported that senior ministers have drawn up a three-phase plan to lift the coronavirus lockdown that would see schools reopen as early as May 11.
But this weekend education secretary Gavin Williamson responded by confirming that no date has been set for a return to education and it's understood Prime Minister Boris Johnson also favours a longer time-frame.
(Image: PA)
Mr Williamson said in order for the government to be able to discuss a return to school, the situation must meet five tests as laid out by advisors - including perhaps most crucially, the need to be 'confident that any changes we do make will not risk a second peak of infections'.
Now a headteacher in Manchester has said the pressure must stop as she admitted it's looking 'increasingly unlikely' that schools will reopen before the end of the academic year.
As the head of a primary school in Greater Manchester, she said she is pleased that safety is being prioritised.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"I’m happy that there’s no date – I want them to make the right decision at the right time and I think if the government were to set a date it would cause more anxiety for school staff," said the head, who did not want to be identified.
"I feel schools are trying to manage day by day at the moment. Learning how to manage this situation with changing information from LAs [local authorities] and the government as they learn new things or realise what else needs to be done; as well as making sure we are keeping everyone safe – those in school and at home.
"For me, when we are reopening isn’t something I can think about at the minute – there’s too many other things to do. I know it is unlikely to be in this half term and I was originally thinking about the last two weeks in the summer term, but that is looking increasingly unlikely."
And she said that the pressure to reopen isn't coming from schools themselves.
"I don’t know any headteachers that are pushing for it to be honest, we just want to make sure everyone is safe, including our staff.
"When one of the journalists asked the question on the daily government briefing and said heads were asking – on our senior leader Facebook page there were so many comments that said heads weren’t asking – and that they hoped journalists wouldn’t pressurise the government to open schools earlier than was safe to do so."
Social distancing would be one of many issues faced by schools if they did reopen while measures are still in place. Another would be the practicalities of pupils attending whose parents are among the most vulnerable groups isolating for 12 weeks, including pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.
"My school has over 400 children and the most difficult issue for us with social distancing will be drop off and pick up," said the headteacher.
"Just before the lockdown we had over half the children absent where parents chose to keep them at home. And we struggled to teach as we were worried about others missing out."
The teachers' union National Education Union is also concerned about increasing speculation over when schools will reopen and has launched a petition opposing 'any re-opening of schools before it is safe to do so'.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Deborah Taylor is the head of Tottington Primary School in Bury and says that while she would be pleased to see schools reopen, she agrees it needs to be done at the right time.
"Schools and their staff would be the first to welcome and celebrate the re-opening of schools - filling its corridors once more with the noise of excitable and happy children," she said.
"If this lockdown has taught us anything, schools are more than just about education. They help children grow and develop positive relationships and become fully rounded members of our school and wider community.
"But before schools can officially open their doors to its whole school family, careful planning needs to be put into place to protect the well-being of its staff, pupils and their families and continue to stop the spread of this life changing virus."
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
While there would be many benefits to reopening, said Deborah, schools are determined that pupils will get the necessary support - even if that doesn't happen before September.
"There are many positive reasons to open schools, even for a few weeks before the end of this school year," she said. "Most importantly to aid children’s transition especially for children in Year 6 who are going to be moving to high school in September.
"But schools will find a way to support these children regardless of whether schools are open or not. Connecting and supporting our pupils during this time is paramount.
"There is no current indication from government when schools are set to reopen and how this will look in practical terms but schools are ready to provide a supporting role in putting plans in place when it is safe to do so."
Many parents say that even if schools reopened, they would not be sending their children back unless all social distancing measures have ended - and they could be sure it is safe.
Zoe Ellis is mum to Erin and Amelia and her eldest has a compromised immune system because of chemotherapy injections she has for arthritis.
"My daughter’s health is paramount," said Zoe, from Denton. "If the schools do go back in May or June I’m definitely not sending them in.
"Health is more important than education. No matter how long it takes and how crazy I go, until everything is completely safe then they're staying put with me."
Mum-of-two Jenna Carter, from Hyde, says if she has to return to work then school would be preferable to finding different childcare each day, but she's hoping it won't come to that.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Jenna, who works in sales admin for a carpet wholesaler, said: "I personally think that it's unachievable to expect parents to return to work if childcare settings and schools are not opened in line with businesses reopening.
"If I had no other choice and I was being made to go back to work, it's safer for them to go to a single place than it would be for me to try to find a different person to have them daily.
"But I believe I can ask to remain furloughed though if schools aren't reopened at the same time as the businesses."
What's your view on schools reopening? Do you want to see them open before the end of the academic year? Would you be willing to send your children in if social distancing measures are still in place? Let us know in the comments or share your views on our Manchester Family Facebook page here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-20--Luke Shaw is about to face another Man United challenge

When Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Luke Shaw could be the best left-back in England in mid-January there were more than a few eyebrows raised amongst Manchester United fans .
At that point of the season Shaw had started just 10 of United 's 34 games and it was a case of more of the same for the 24-year-old , with injuries hindering his Old Trafford career .
When Solskjaer said `` potentially we have the best left-back in England .
Luke has the potential to be the best one '' , the response from many United fans was that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the squad , given the emergence of Brandon Williams this season .
Shaw might have been named United 's player of the season in 2018/19 , but it was hardly a vintage year , and the injuries that had returned this season had led many to write him off .
He was never going to stay fit , it was time to go with the youthful promise of Williams .
Yet Solskjaer must have known something we did n't when he made that bold claim , two days before United headed to Anfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returned to the starting line-up for the first time in five games and played as a left-sided centre back in a back three .
The memes and gifs at his inclusion before kick-off were forgotten by full-time when he had emerged as one of United 's best players .
Shaw was then on the bench against Burnley for the embarrassing defeat at Old Trafford , but he 's now started 11 successive games , with United avoiding defeat in all of them , conceding just twice .
During that run he 's played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three and has been one of United 's best players .
Suddenly Solskjaer 's prophecy does n't look so ambitious after all .
But consistency has always been Shaw 's struggle at United .
This was only the second time in his six seasons at United that he 'd had a run of successive starts into double figures , which is unusual for a defender .
The 15 he began between January 25 and April 10 last year are the only other occasion it 's happened .
While the leg break he suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season at the club was an unfortunate and savage blow , there have been other occasions where his body has failed him or his form has dipped .
Now 24 , Shaw needs to prove those days are behind him .
He 'd been doing just that recently , but the suspension of the season has robbed him of that momentum .
Now the challenge for Shaw when football does resume is to pick up where he left off and show the consistency that would be expected as a player tipped by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in England .
Shaw has begun to repay that faith and if he can continue to do so after a long break without games he 'll be well on his way to fulfilling Solskjaer 's prediction .
Shaw has added another string to his bow as well with his displays at centre back in a back three and that versatility will help for club and country .
Discussing his conversion to that position recently , Solskjaer said : `` [ I 've been ] very pleased .
The pace he has back there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s got a nice left foot , he can pass .
He drives more with the ball and runs into space .
It ’ s just a position that we felt last season he could do .
He did really well against Messi , I felt , in that game at Old Trafford .
It ’ s very exciting . ''
Helping to keep Messi quiet is no easy feat , but Shaw could soon face the final hurdle in establishing himself as a long-term United defender , by proving that consistency is @ @ @ @ @ @

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When Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Luke Shaw could be the best left-back in England in mid-January there were more than a few eyebrows raised amongst Manchester United fans.
At that point of the season Shaw had started just 10 of United's 34 games and it was a case of more of the same for the 24-year-old, with injuries hindering his Old Trafford career.
When Solskjaer said "potentially we have the best left-back in England. Luke has the potential to be the best one", the response from many United fans was that he wasn't even the best left-back in the squad, given the emergence of Brandon Williams this season.
Shaw might have been named United's player of the season in 2018/19, but it was hardly a vintage year, and the injuries that had returned this season had led many to write him off. He was never going to stay fit, it was time to go with the youthful promise of Williams.
Yet Solskjaer must have known something we didn't when he made that bold claim, two days before United headed to Anfield to face Liverpool. That day Shaw returned to the starting line-up for the first time in five games and played as a left-sided centre back in a back three. The memes and gifs at his inclusion before kick-off were forgotten by full-time when he had emerged as one of United's best players.
Shaw was then on the bench against Burnley for the embarrassing defeat at Old Trafford, but he's now started 11 successive games, with United avoiding defeat in all of them, conceding just twice. During that run he's played at left-back and again in a back three and has been one of United's best players. Suddenly Solskjaer's prophecy doesn't look so ambitious after all.
But consistency has always been Shaw's struggle at United. This was only the second time in his six seasons at United that he'd had a run of successive starts into double figures, which is unusual for a defender. The 15 he began between January 25 and April 10 last year are the only other occasion it's happened.
While the leg break he suffered at PSV Eindhoven in only his second season at the club was an unfortunate and savage blow, there have been other occasions where his body has failed him or his form has dipped. Now 24, Shaw needs to prove those days are behind him.
He'd been doing just that recently, but the suspension of the season has robbed him of that momentum. Now the challenge for Shaw when football does resume is to pick up where he left off and show the consistency that would be expected as a player tipped by his own manager to be the best left-back in England. Shaw has begun to repay that faith and if he can continue to do so after a long break without games he'll be well on his way to fulfilling Solskjaer's prediction.
Shaw has added another string to his bow as well with his displays at centre back in a back three and that versatility will help for club and country.
Discussing his conversion to that position recently, Solskjaer said: "[I've been] very pleased. The pace he has back there is important for us. He’s got a nice left foot, he can pass. He drives more with the ball and runs into space. It’s just a position that we felt last season he could do. He did really well against Messi, I felt, in that game at Old Trafford. It’s very exciting."
Helping to keep Messi quiet is no easy feat, but Shaw could soon face the final hurdle in establishing himself as a long-term United defender, by proving that consistency is now part of his game.