themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-19--Pickpockets who swiped dozens of phones from Slipknot fans at Manchester Arena jailed

Two pickpockets who swiped dozens of phones from Slipknot fans at Manchester Arena have been jailed .
Mihaita Marius Caban , 34 , and Marius Patriche , 33 , targeted fans as they were 'jumping up and down ' at the concert on January 16 .
Caban was arrested by British Transport Police officers after he was detained by security staff .
He was found to have 14 phones hidden in a swimming costume he was wearing underneath his clothes , Manchester Magistrates ' Court heard .
Patriche was also arrested that evening after victims reported that they had tracked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Salford .
Officers carried out a search of his room at the hotel and found a suitcase containing 10 mobile phones .
They also found concert tickets , cash and swimsuits .
Investigating officer DC Marcus Haigh said the two men 'preyed on unsuspecting music fans ' .
He added : “ Thanks to the keen eyes of security staff at the Arena who detained Caban , officers were able to arrest him .
`` Tracking devices on the stolen phones led officers to Patriche who admitted he had attended the concert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victims ’ phones from their pockets as they were jumping up and down to the music .
“ Thieves like Caban and Patriche are drawn to busy environments , not just concerts but train stations and anywhere where their victims may be temporarily distracted .
`` We advise people to stay vigilant in these situations and to keep an eye on their belongings at all times making sure they are safe and secure and where possible , out of sight .
“ We use variety of tactics to deter organised crime gangs from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with other agencies in the UK and abroad in a bid to apprehend those responsible.
” Mihaita Marius Caban , of no fixed abode , was jailed for four months on February 3 after pleading guilty to theft charges .
Marius Patriche , also of no fixed abode , admitted theft charges and was sentenced to eight weeks in prison on February 5 .
Both were ordered to pay £122 victim surcharge .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Matthew D'Henin, Ashlie Blakey)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Two pickpockets who swiped dozens of phones from Slipknot fans at Manchester Arena have been jailed.
Mihaita Marius Caban, 34, and Marius Patriche, 33, targeted fans as they were 'jumping up and down' at the concert on January 16.
Caban was arrested by British Transport Police officers after he was detained by security staff.
He was found to have 14 phones hidden in a swimming costume he was wearing underneath his clothes, Manchester Magistrates' Court heard.
Patriche was also arrested that evening after victims reported that they had tracked their stolen phones to the Ibis Hotel in Salford.
Officers carried out a search of his room at the hotel and found a suitcase containing 10 mobile phones.
(Image: PA)
They also found concert tickets, cash and swimsuits.
Investigating officer DC Marcus Haigh said the two men 'preyed on unsuspecting music fans'.
He added: “Thanks to the keen eyes of security staff at the Arena who detained Caban, officers were able to arrest him.
"Tracking devices on the stolen phones led officers to Patriche who admitted he had attended the concert intent on a crime spree, removing victims’ phones from their pockets as they were jumping up and down to the music.
(Image: UGC)
“Thieves like Caban and Patriche are drawn to busy environments, not just concerts but train stations and anywhere where their victims may be temporarily distracted.
"We advise people to stay vigilant in these situations and to keep an eye on their belongings at all times making sure they are safe and secure and where possible, out of sight.
“We use variety of tactics to deter organised crime gangs from targeting events like these and share information with other agencies in the UK and abroad in a bid to apprehend those responsible.”
Mihaita Marius Caban, of no fixed abode, was jailed for four months on February 3 after pleading guilty to theft charges.
Marius Patriche, also of no fixed abode, admitted theft charges and was sentenced to eight weeks in prison on February 5.
Both were ordered to pay £122 victim surcharge.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-19--Row over decision to scrap free weekend parking at three NCPs

The decision to scrap free parking in Bolton town centre should be reversed , a scrutiny committee has recommended .
Plans to end free parking on weekends and bank holidays at three NCP car parks in the town centre have been put on hold after the decision was called in .
Labour councillor Nick Peel has now asked for the matter to be discussed at a full council meeting with the recommendation the deputy leader “ rescinds ” his decision to scrap the scheme .
He said : “ Since 2013 , when the scheme was first introduced , shoppers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased hugely.
” Cllr Peel requested that a cross-party “ task and finish ” policy development group is set up to examine the economic consequences this decision could have on the retail sector in Bolton .
His motion had the support of most councillors at a scrutiny committee meeting on Monday .
But Lib Dem councillor raised concerns about the amount of money the council has made from parking in recent years .
He said : “ At one time car parking was a reasonable income stream for the council which helped us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ budget .
“ It has now got to the stage where it is virtually zilch in terms of income and it ’ s not supporting anything .
`` In fact , it ’ s got to the stage now where the council is support car parking.
” The deputy leader will have the final say once the scrutiny process is complete .

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

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the free MyBolton newsletter to get the top stories direct to your inbox
The decision to scrap free parking in Bolton town centre should be reversed, a scrutiny committee has recommended.
Plans to end free parking on weekends and bank holidays at three NCP car parks in the town centre have been put on hold after the decision was called in.
Labour councillor Nick Peel has now asked for the matter to be discussed at a full council meeting with the recommendation the deputy leader “rescinds” his decision to scrap the scheme.
He said: “Since 2013, when the scheme was first introduced, shoppers and visitors to the town centre have increased hugely.”
Cllr Peel requested that a cross-party “task and finish” policy development group is set up to examine the economic consequences this decision could have on the retail sector in Bolton.
His motion had the support of most councillors at a scrutiny committee meeting on Monday.
But Lib Dem councillor raised concerns about the amount of money the council has made from parking in recent years.
He said: “At one time car parking was a reasonable income stream for the council which helped us to support other parts of the highways budget.
“It has now got to the stage where it is virtually zilch in terms of income and it’s not supporting anything.
"In fact, it’s got to the stage now where the council is support car parking.”
The deputy leader will have the final say once the scrutiny process is complete.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-19--Michael Owen makes Club Brugge vs Manchester United Europa League prediction

Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen has predicted draw for his former club in their Europa League clash at Club Brugge on Thursday night .
United return to action in the European competition after making it through the group stage with ease , picking up 13 points in six matches and topping a group containing AZ Alkmaar , Partizan Belgrade and FC Astana by four points .
United are also up to seventh in the Premier League following their 2-0 win over Chelsea on Monday night , something which should have given Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's men plenty of confidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Owen believes United could hit a stumbling block on Thursday night , predicting a tight game in Belgium for Solskjaer 's outfit .
`` A busy week for Manchester United , who picked up a win at Stamford Bridge before travelling to Belgium for the 1st leg of their Europa League tie , '' Owen explained in his BetVictor blog .
`` Club Brugge are nine points clear in the Belgian First Division and did get a 2-2 draw in the Bernabeu against Real Madrid in the Champions League earlier in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a stern test for United , but the Belgian outfit are without a win in their last 10 games against Premier League opposition and I think Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ’ s side will get a hard-earned draw in Bruges . ''
United may take a draw , given the second leg is at Old Trafford .
Solskjaer 's side are searching for a fifth successive clean sheet in all competitions .

Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen has predicted draw for his former club in their Europa League clash at Club Brugge on Thursday night.
United return to action in the European competition after making it through the group stage with ease, picking up 13 points in six matches and topping a group containing AZ Alkmaar, Partizan Belgrade and FC Astana by four points.
United are also up to seventh in the Premier League following their 2-0 win over Chelsea on Monday night, something which should have given Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men plenty of confidence going into the Europa League tie.
But Owen believes United could hit a stumbling block on Thursday night, predicting a tight game in Belgium for Solskjaer's outfit.
"A busy week for Manchester United, who picked up a win at Stamford Bridge before travelling to Belgium for the 1st leg of their Europa League tie," Owen explained in his BetVictor blog.
"Club Brugge are nine points clear in the Belgian First Division and did get a 2-2 draw in the Bernabeu against Real Madrid in the Champions League earlier in the season.
"The hosts will provide a stern test for United, but the Belgian outfit are without a win in their last 10 games against Premier League opposition and I think Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side will get a hard-earned draw in Bruges."
United may take a draw, given the second leg is at Old Trafford. Solskjaer's side are searching for a fifth successive clean sheet in all competitions.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--QUIZ: How well do you know your British banknotes? Test your knowledge with these 10 difficult quest

QUIZ: How well do you know your British banknotes? Test your knowledge with these 10 difficult questions

The new polymer £20 banknote has now been released .
But how well do we really know our money ?
@ @ @ @ @ first unveiled last October , the updated £20 entered circulation on Thursday February 20 .
@ @ @ @ @ Queen , it also pays tribute to English Romantic painter JMW Turner .
He became @ @ @ @ @ banknote after being selected by Bank of England governor , Mark Carney , with 29,701 @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Carney described Turner as `` perhaps the single most influential British artist of @ @ @ @ @ do you know who else has been printed on British banknotes ?
And do you @ @ @ @ @ ?
Thanks to Ocean Finance , you can now test your knowledge on the 70 @ @ @ @ @ notes that circulate across Britain - and put your money where your mouth is in @ @ @ @ @ are 10 questions in total - good luck !
Let us know how you did @ @ @ @ @

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
The new polymer £20 banknote has now been released.
But how well do we really know our money?
While the latest design was first unveiled last October, the updated £20 entered circulation on Thursday February 20.
Featuring a portrait of the Queen, it also pays tribute to English Romantic painter JMW Turner.
He became the face of the new banknote after being selected by Bank of England governor, Mark Carney, with 29,701 nominations from the general public.
Mr Carney described Turner as "perhaps the single most influential British artist of all time."
But do you know who else has been printed on British banknotes?
And do you know which year they appeared?
Thanks to Ocean Finance, you can now test your knowledge on the 70 billion pounds' worth of notes that circulate across Britain - and put your money where your mouth is in the quiz below.
There are 10 questions in total - good luck!
Let us know how you did in the comments below.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--The Midland hotel's popular restaurant Mr Cooper's is undergoing some huge changes

The Midland 's popular restaurant Mr Cooper 's is no more , as the space prepares to relaunch with a new look and new name .
The hotel 's restaurant is due to reopen this April as Mount Street Dining Room & Bar , a modern British dining room .
Mr Cooper 's garden-themed interior will be stripped away and replaced with a black marble bistro interior .
Meanwhile , its new menu will focus on sourcing local ingredients and providing 'elevated home dining in luxe surroundings ' .
It 's all part of the wider refurbishment of the landmark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many rooms upgraded and public spaces revamped .
Mount Street 's modern British menu will be open seven days a week from early morning to late evening , serving snacks , three-course dinners , business lunches , and everything in-between .
At the weekends , there 'll be roast dinners , including whole roast Piper 's Farm chicken or whole roast pork belly to share .
The menu has been created by The Midland 's executive head chef Brian Spark , and will be split into seven sections .
Dishes will include Bury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park ; beef Wellington pie ; and surf and turf .
Both the in-house Bailey ’ s smoker and in-house butchery remain integral to the food offering , with smoking , charring , compressing and acid cooking methods used .
The drinks offer will champion Northern beers , including local breweries Cloudwater , Alphabet and Track .
Although Mr Cooper 's was popular - and well-reviewed by the M.E.N .
way back in 2013 - it was the victim of a scathing Guardian review two years later .
The transformation of the restaurant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lobby - comes after The Midland was acquired last year by Swedish hotel investment company Pandox and Fattal Hotels Group , which now operates it under its Leonardo Hotels brand .
Jason Carruthers , managing director of Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland , said : `` We ’ re really looking forward to unveiling Mount Street Dining Room and Bar and think it ’ s going to be a great addition to the city .
`` The North is famous for its hospitality and that will be key at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s was more of a dinner-orientated destination , we believe Mount Street has all day appeal and we ’ re excited to be embarking on this new chapter at the hotel . ''
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar is due to open at the Midland Hotel in April .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester
The Midland's popular restaurant Mr Cooper's is no more, as the space prepares to relaunch with a new look and new name.
The hotel's restaurant is due to reopen this April as Mount Street Dining Room & Bar, a modern British dining room.
Mr Cooper's garden-themed interior will be stripped away and replaced with a black marble bistro interior.
Meanwhile, its new menu will focus on sourcing local ingredients and providing 'elevated home dining in luxe surroundings'.
It's all part of the wider refurbishment of the landmark Peter Street hotel, which will see many rooms upgraded and public spaces revamped.
Mount Street's modern British menu will be open seven days a week from early morning to late evening, serving snacks, three-course dinners, business lunches, and everything in-between.
At the weekends, there'll be roast dinners, including whole roast Piper's Farm chicken or whole roast pork belly to share.
The menu has been created by The Midland's executive head chef Brian Spark, and will be split into seven sections.
Dishes will include Bury black pudding with roast apples from Tatton Park; beef Wellington pie; and surf and turf.
(Image: Publicity picture)
Both the in-house Bailey’s smoker and in-house butchery remain integral to the food offering, with smoking, charring, compressing and acid cooking methods used.
The drinks offer will champion Northern beers, including local breweries Cloudwater, Alphabet and Track.
Although Mr Cooper's was popular - and well-reviewed by the M.E.N. way back in 2013 - it was the victim of a scathing Guardian review two years later.
The transformation of the restaurant - and of the bar area in the lobby - comes after The Midland was acquired last year by Swedish hotel investment company Pandox and Fattal Hotels Group, which now operates it under its Leonardo Hotels brand.
Jason Carruthers, managing director of Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland, said: "We’re really looking forward to unveiling Mount Street Dining Room and Bar and think it’s going to be a great addition to the city.
"The North is famous for its hospitality and that will be key at Mount Street.
"While Mr Cooper’s was more of a dinner-orientated destination, we believe Mount Street has all day appeal and we’re excited to be embarking on this new chapter at the hotel."
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar is due to open at the Midland Hotel in April.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Turkey has changed its visa rules for holidaymakers - here's what you need to know

Holidays to Turkey are set to be a lot easier as of next month .
From March 2 , British holidaymakers will be able to travel to the popular destination without a visa .
Currently , Brit travellers have to apply for a permit to travel to the country which would cost £27 for the e-Visa - unless you were a cruise ship passenger with a 'British Citizen ' passport .
The new rules will also apply to those travelling to Turkey form Austria , Belgium , the Netherlands , Poland and Spain .
It means visitors can stay for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a statement : `` As of 2 March 2020 , Turkey has decided to exempt visa requirements for the members of the European Union Schengen area , Austria , Belgium , the Netherlands , Spain , Poland as well as the United Kingdom citizens for touristic travels to Turkey for every 90 days within 180 day period .
`` This step aims at increasing our tourism potential with these countries as well as further developing our trade , economic and cultural relations . ''
Turkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with more than two million visiting last year .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Holidays to Turkey are set to be a lot easier as of next month.
From March 2, British holidaymakers will be able to travel to the popular destination without a visa.
Currently, Brit travellers have to apply for a permit to travel to the country which would cost £27 for the e-Visa - unless you were a cruise ship passenger with a 'British Citizen' passport.
The new rules will also apply to those travelling to Turkey form Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain.
It means visitors can stay for up to 90 days per 180-day period.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a statement: "As of 2 March 2020, Turkey has decided to exempt visa requirements for the members of the European Union Schengen area, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland as well as the United Kingdom citizens for touristic travels to Turkey for every 90 days within 180 day period.
"This step aims at increasing our tourism potential with these countries as well as further developing our trade, economic and cultural relations."
Turkey is a popular holiday destination for Brits with more than two million visiting last year.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Dad found guilty of manslaughter after 14-month-old daughter suffered 'catalogue' of injuries

A dad has been found guilty of the manslaughter of his baby daughter .
There was silence in the courtroom as the jury delivered its verdict in Daniel Ashurst 's case .
Jurors found the 33-year-old guilty of 14-month-old Hollie 's manslaughter at the family 's home in Wigan .
Ashurst was found not guilty of murder after the jury deliberated for more than three hours .
His trial heard had been tasked with caring for Hollie on February 28 last year after his partner returned to work following maternity leave .
The child was later rushed to hospital with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died .
During the Manchester Crown Court trial , Ashurst claimed his daughter 's injuries were caused by a series of falls in the hours before he ran into a GP surgery with her limp body in his arms .
Ashurst had previously told a mental health nurse he feared he would struggle to cope to look after Hollie when his partner Leanne Thompson returned to work .
Ashurst had been taking medication for depression and anxiety for several years and used cocaine and drank alcohol most evenings to help him 'relax ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to care for Hollie while Ms Thompson 's started her new job at a beauty salon in Ashton-in-Makerfield .
During Ms Thompson 's second day at work , she received a phone call saying her daughter had been rushed to hospital with serious injuries .
Ashurst was initially arrested on suspicion of inflicting serious serious harm on Hollie , which changed to murder after her death .
Earlier , he had given medical staff differing accounts of how his daughter came about her injuries .
After bursting into Standish Medical Practice holding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had fallen down two steps .
She had started crying , he claimed , so he put her in his car to take her to hospital .
During the journey , he said Hollie stopped breathing so he diverted to the surgery .
Ashurst then told a paramedic she had bumped her head after falling down the two steps , but crawled back up .
He said he did not initially believe she was badly hurt , but realised something was wrong 10 minutes later when Hollie became limp and lethargic , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ashurst said she had stopped responding in the car , so he pulled in at the surgery .
A post-mortem examination revealed Hollie suffered bruising to her head and neck , bleeding to her eyes , brain and spinal cord ; a fractured ankle , and possible bite marks to her left hand and thigh , the trial heard .
Pathologist Dr Charles Wilson told the court he believed the child had been the subject of 'non-accidental injury involving excessive acceleration and deceleration of her head in relation to the rest of her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head and face ' .
Ashurst then changed his version of his events , claiming Hollie had fallen off a bed at their home in Fleming Court , Shevington , earlier that morning .
He said he left her upstairs and went outside to the bin , but returned to find her shaking 'from head to toe ' on the staircase .
As said that as he hurried downstairs with her in his arms , he snagged his shorts on something and lost his grip on Hollie , accidentally dropping her down the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also fallen from her car seat when he braked hard at a red light .
Guy Gozem QC , prosecuting , told jurors : `` This series of alleged accident had not been mentioned to medics .
`` It has been invented because his original account gets nowhere near explaining Hollie 's injuries . ''
On the morning of Hollie 's death , Ashurst had dropped Ms Thompson at work before driving to Asda in Wigan with his daughter .
There , he had 12 photographs of Hollie taken at a Max Spielmann @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He returned home , but left later that morning to see a woman about a diet plan .
She thought he was acting unusual and seemed 'tense ' .
Ashurst returned home but left the house again at about 1.30pm .
About 15 minutes later , he burst into Standish Medical Practice and told receptionists his daughter was not breathing .
A doctor at the surgery examined Hollie , but could not find a pulse and she was not breathing .
She was rushed to Wigan Infirmary before being transferred to Royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from her injuries the following afternoon .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the MyWigan newsletter for the biggest stories direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for the MyWigan newsletter for the biggest stories direct to your inbox
A dad has been found guilty of the manslaughter of his baby daughter.
There was silence in the courtroom as the jury delivered its verdict in Daniel Ashurst's case.
Jurors found the 33-year-old guilty of 14-month-old Hollie's manslaughter at the family's home in Wigan.
Ashurst was found not guilty of murder after the jury deliberated for more than three hours.
His trial heard had been tasked with caring for Hollie on February 28 last year after his partner returned to work following maternity leave.
The child was later rushed to hospital with a 'catalogue' of injuries and later died.
During the Manchester Crown Court trial, Ashurst claimed his daughter's injuries were caused by a series of falls in the hours before he ran into a GP surgery with her limp body in his arms.
Ashurst had previously told a mental health nurse he feared he would struggle to cope to look after Hollie when his partner Leanne Thompson returned to work.
(Image: PA)
Ashurst had been taking medication for depression and anxiety for several years and used cocaine and drank alcohol most evenings to help him 'relax', the trial heard.
He was asked to care for Hollie while Ms Thompson's started her new job at a beauty salon in Ashton-in-Makerfield.
During Ms Thompson's second day at work, she received a phone call saying her daughter had been rushed to hospital with serious injuries.
Hollie died a day later.
Ashurst was initially arrested on suspicion of inflicting serious serious harm on Hollie, which changed to murder after her death.
Earlier, he had given medical staff differing accounts of how his daughter came about her injuries.
After bursting into Standish Medical Practice holding Hollie, he told a doctor she had fallen down two steps.
She had started crying, he claimed, so he put her in his car to take her to hospital. During the journey, he said Hollie stopped breathing so he diverted to the surgery.
Ashurst then told a paramedic she had bumped her head after falling down the two steps, but crawled back up.
He said he did not initially believe she was badly hurt, but realised something was wrong 10 minutes later when Hollie became limp and lethargic, so decided to take her to hospital.
(Image: PA)
Ashurst said she had stopped responding in the car, so he pulled in at the surgery.
A post-mortem examination revealed Hollie suffered bruising to her head and neck, bleeding to her eyes, brain and spinal cord; a fractured ankle, and possible bite marks to her left hand and thigh, the trial heard.
Pathologist Dr Charles Wilson told the court he believed the child had been the subject of 'non-accidental injury involving excessive acceleration and deceleration of her head in relation to the rest of her body, with multiple impacts to her head and face'.
Ashurst then changed his version of his events, claiming Hollie had fallen off a bed at their home in Fleming Court, Shevington, earlier that morning.
He said he left her upstairs and went outside to the bin, but returned to find her shaking 'from head to toe' on the staircase.
As said that as he hurried downstairs with her in his arms, he snagged his shorts on something and lost his grip on Hollie, accidentally dropping her down the stairs.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Ashurst then claimed Hollie had also fallen from her car seat when he braked hard at a red light.
Prosecutors claimed the account was a 'recent invention'.
Guy Gozem QC, prosecuting, told jurors: "This series of alleged accident had not been mentioned to medics.
"It has been invented because his original account gets nowhere near explaining Hollie's injuries."
On the morning of Hollie's death, Ashurst had dropped Ms Thompson at work before driving to Asda in Wigan with his daughter.
There, he had 12 photographs of Hollie taken at a Max Spielmann concession before eating breakfast in the cafe.
He returned home, but left later that morning to see a woman about a diet plan. She thought he was acting unusual and seemed 'tense'.
Ashurst returned home but left the house again at about 1.30pm.
Want more news from Wigan, Atherton or Leigh? Here's where you can find it. We now have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in and around Wigan. To keep up to date with all that is happening in Wigan, Atherton and Leigh - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here. Reporter Tom George covers all things Wigan for the Manchester Evening News, you can follow him on Twitter here.
About 15 minutes later, he burst into Standish Medical Practice and told receptionists his daughter was not breathing.
A doctor at the surgery examined Hollie, but could not find a pulse and she was not breathing.
She was rushed to Wigan Infirmary before being transferred to Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.
Hollie died from her injuries the following afternoon.
Mr Justice Dove will sentence Ashurst next Wednesday (February 26).


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--ADVERTORIAL: The inspiring story of how a LGBT+ couple finally became parents in Greater Manchester

Caring for a child is often described as one of the most rewarding things you can do in life .
It 's important to know that having your own loving family is a possibility , including through adoption .
Agency Adoption Counts works with families across Cheshire East , Manchester , Salford , Stockport , and Trafford to help find loving homes for children .
As a regional adoption agency , they bring together the professional expertise and specialist skills of adoption teams across Greater Manchester and Cheshire to ensure that each child is in the safest and most caring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adoption Counts Head of Service , describes how rewarding it is seeing a child being adopted into a loving home .
She said : `` Adoption Counts is a child-centred agency and we are extremely proud of the work our committed staff carries out every day to make sure that we meet all of our children ’ s needs and do our best by them .
`` It is extremely rewarding to be able to help create new families and witness the start of strong , life-long relationships between adoptive parents and children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are various different methods to try if you want children , whether that 's surrogacy , adoption or fostering .
These thoughts were actually at the back of Ged 's mind at first when he and his partner Shaun first met , but it did n't take much convincing .
He said : `` It was always the plan for Shaun to have a child , but I was n't too keen at first .
Then again I was n't sold on the idea of marriage but we now are and I could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my mind because we always wanted to take our relationship to the next level .
`` Once we got engaged we thought what is the future beyond a wedding and less than a year later we decided to have a child and get the process underway . ''
Ged and his partner wanted to find out more about adoption , and so they attended a LGBT+ fostering and adoption week event .
He said : `` Whilst we were walking around the event we noticed a stall by Adoption Counts .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there and asked them all the questions we had and got some really helpful advice on what to do next .
`` We ended up speaking to a lot of different people , including others who had adopted with them , and it just felt right . ''
After going through the process the couple adopted a boy and Ged could n't be happier .
He said : `` We both felt like we changed as soon as we started the process and we ended up discussing things with the agency which we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` That only brought us closer together and now we find that we are saying things that our parents used to say to us .
`` It 's given us a better understanding of eachother and what it means to be a parent .
`` I would definitely encourage more LGBT+ couples to look at adoption but I would encourage anyone really .
`` There 's always a need for adoption and to give some of these children a second chance . ''
Becoming the legal parent of a child is a thorough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As an adopter you take on the same responsibilities and legal rights as a birth parent , and the child will share your surname .
Through adoption , you will be welcoming your new child into the family for life .
Anyone from the age of 21 can adopt , no matter whether you are single , married , co-habiting , straight or from the LGBT+ community , as every application is treated equally .
You also do n't have to be a homeowner , just as long as you have stable and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do if I want to adopt ?
If you have your heart set on adopting then thankfully the process is very straightforward .
The first step is to get in touch with Adoption Counts .
This way you can find out more about what adoption entails , and the team can also get to know you .
You will then be invited to attend an information event , where you will hear detailed information and also hear from other adopters .
Following this a social worker will come and visit you at your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details about you , your working life , your health and your background .
If you are then asked to come forward in the process , you will need to fill in a 'Registration of Interest ' .
The team will then conduct a series of checks , and you will also be provided with thorough training and given preparation materials .
A social worker will then assess your suitability to adopt , and this should all take place within six months of receiving your 'Registration of Interest ' .
An Adoption Panel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by your social worker and recommend on your suitability to adopt .
The finish line is then in sight as your social worker will support you through the next stage of finding a child you truly connect with , before arranging introductions and a moving in date .
Once you have gone through the process you are n't left to fend for yourself .
Whether you want someone to talk to , or just to let you know that you are n't alone or are doing a good job , there is plenty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proud of the work carried out by Adoption Counts to ensure that everything runs smoothly for each child as well as the new parents .
She explains : `` At various stages throughout your family life , you may need some advice and support to deal with the complexities adoption can bring .
We are here to help , at every stage of your journey .
`` We provide a wide and extensive range of adoption support services and adoptive families are able to request an adoption support assessment at any time and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support groups .
`` We can also support a family on a one to one basis and give them access to additional therapy , if we decide that is the right option for all involved . ''
Adoption Counts is looking forward to welcoming new adopters .
In particular , they are appealing for the BME community to come forward and consider adoption .
Children of a Black African and Caribbean background in particular often wait longer to be adopted , alongside sibling groups ; they are keen to hear from potential adopters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and secure home within their own community .
If you want to find out more about adoption or the adoption process , or if you are ready to welcome a child into your family , you can get in touch by visiting www.adoptioncounts.org.uk or giving the team a call on 0300 123 2676 .

Caring for a child is often described as one of the most rewarding things you can do in life.
It's important to know that having your own loving family is a possibility, including through adoption.
Agency Adoption Counts works with families across Cheshire East, Manchester, Salford, Stockport, and Trafford to help find loving homes for children.
As a regional adoption agency, they bring together the professional expertise and specialist skills of adoption teams across Greater Manchester and Cheshire to ensure that each child is in the safest and most caring hands possible.
Sue Westwood MBE, Adoption Counts Head of Service, describes how rewarding it is seeing a child being adopted into a loving home.
She said: "Adoption Counts is a child-centred agency and we are extremely proud of the work our committed staff carries out every day to make sure that we meet all of our children’s needs and do our best by them.
"It is extremely rewarding to be able to help create new families and witness the start of strong, life-long relationships between adoptive parents and children."
Ged's story
As an LGBT+ couple there are various different methods to try if you want children, whether that's surrogacy, adoption or fostering.
These thoughts were actually at the back of Ged's mind at first when he and his partner Shaun first met, but it didn't take much convincing.
He said: "It was always the plan for Shaun to have a child, but I wasn't too keen at first. Then again I wasn't sold on the idea of marriage but we now are and I couldn't be happier.
"I changed my mind because we always wanted to take our relationship to the next level.
"Once we got engaged we thought what is the future beyond a wedding and less than a year later we decided to have a child and get the process underway."
Ged and his partner wanted to find out more about adoption, and so they attended a LGBT+ fostering and adoption week event.
He said: "Whilst we were walking around the event we noticed a stall by Adoption Counts.
"We got speaking to one of the people there and asked them all the questions we had and got some really helpful advice on what to do next.
"We ended up speaking to a lot of different people, including others who had adopted with them, and it just felt right."
After going through the process the couple adopted a boy and Ged couldn't be happier.
He said: "We both felt like we changed as soon as we started the process and we ended up discussing things with the agency which we hadn't even discussed between ourselves.
"That only brought us closer together and now we find that we are saying things that our parents used to say to us.
"It's given us a better understanding of eachother and what it means to be a parent.
"I would definitely encourage more LGBT+ couples to look at adoption but I would encourage anyone really.
"There's always a need for adoption and to give some of these children a second chance."
(Image: Weekend Images Inc.)
How does adoption work?
Becoming the legal parent of a child is a thorough process but a highly rewarding one.
As an adopter you take on the same responsibilities and legal rights as a birth parent, and the child will share your surname.
Through adoption, you will be welcoming your new child into the family for life.
Anyone from the age of 21 can adopt, no matter whether you are single, married, co-habiting, straight or from the LGBT+ community, as every application is treated equally.
You also don't have to be a homeowner, just as long as you have stable and accommodating living arrangements.
(Image: SolStock)
What can I do if I want to adopt?
If you have your heart set on adopting then thankfully the process is very straightforward.
The first step is to get in touch with Adoption Counts. This way you can find out more about what adoption entails, and the team can also get to know you.
You will then be invited to attend an information event, where you will hear detailed information and also hear from other adopters.
Following this a social worker will come and visit you at your home to find out a few more details about you, your working life, your health and your background.
If you are then asked to come forward in the process, you will need to fill in a 'Registration of Interest'.
The team will then conduct a series of checks, and you will also be provided with thorough training and given preparation materials.
A social worker will then assess your suitability to adopt, and this should all take place within six months of receiving your 'Registration of Interest'.
An Adoption Panel will then consider all the information gathered by your social worker and recommend on your suitability to adopt.
The finish line is then in sight as your social worker will support you through the next stage of finding a child you truly connect with, before arranging introductions and a moving in date.
(Image: FatCamera)
What support will I receive?
Once you have gone through the process you aren't left to fend for yourself.
Whether you want someone to talk to, or just to let you know that you aren't alone or are doing a good job, there is plenty of support there.
Sue Westwood is proud of the work carried out by Adoption Counts to ensure that everything runs smoothly for each child as well as the new parents.
She explains: "At various stages throughout your family life, you may need some advice and support to deal with the complexities adoption can bring. We are here to help, at every stage of your journey.
"We provide a wide and extensive range of adoption support services and adoptive families are able to request an adoption support assessment at any time and access our range of targeted and specialist support groups.
"We can also support a family on a one to one basis and give them access to additional therapy, if we decide that is the right option for all involved."
(Image: stock_colors)
Find out more
Adoption Counts is looking forward to welcoming new adopters.
In particular, they are appealing for the BME community to come forward and consider adoption.
Children of a Black African and Caribbean background in particular often wait longer to be adopted, alongside sibling groups; they are keen to hear from potential adopters that could help them with a safe and secure home within their own community.
If you want to find out more about adoption or the adoption process, or if you are ready to welcome a child into your family, you can get in touch by visiting www.adoptioncounts.org.uk or giving the team a call on 0300 123 2676.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Train station to remain closed for 'foreseeable future' after 'deliberate' fire ripped through ticke

Train station to remain closed for 'foreseeable future' after 'deliberate' fire ripped through ticket office

A train station in Swinton will remain closed for the 'foreseeable future ' after a 'deliberate ' fire ripped through the ticket office .
Crews tackled the blaze at Moorside railway station on Moorside Road at around 2am on Monday morning ( February 17 ) .
The blaze is believed to have started inside the locked-up booking office .
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service launched an investigation and now believe that the fire was caused by 'possible deliberate ignition ' .
It comes just weeks after the station reopened on January 15 following 'extensive refurbishment ' .
Moorside underwent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' project , which included a new booking office being rebuilt and a new ticket machine being installed .
Bosses at Northern have said the station is expected to be closed again for the 'foreseeable future ' .
Customers have been advised to used Swinton station instead .
The fire caused significant damage to the booking office and hall .
Pictures show the main building boarded up with smoke damage on the walls .
A spokesperson for Northern said : “ We are still assessing the extent of the damage caused by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire has caused significant damage to the booking office and hall and , as this provides the only access to the platforms , the station is likely to remain closed for the foreseeable future .
“ In the meantime customers are advised to continue to use nearby Swinton station.
” Shortly after the fire was put out , a GMFRS spokesperson said : `` We were called at 1.52am to reports of a fire at Moorside rail station on Moorside Road in Swinton .
`` Fire engines from Farnworth , Agecroft and Eccles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We left the scene at around 4.30am .
`` The station building was well alight .
`` The fire appeared to have begun within the ticket office which is locked up . ''
British Transport Police have been contacted for a comment .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
A train station in Swinton will remain closed for the 'foreseeable future' after a 'deliberate' fire ripped through the ticket office.
Crews tackled the blaze at Moorside railway station on Moorside Road at around 2am on Monday morning (February 17).
The blaze is believed to have started inside the locked-up booking office.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service launched an investigation and now believe that the fire was caused by 'possible deliberate ignition'.
It comes just weeks after the station reopened on January 15 following 'extensive refurbishment'.
Moorside underwent improvement works under Northern's 'Better Stations' project, which included a new booking office being rebuilt and a new ticket machine being installed.
Bosses at Northern have said the station is expected to be closed again for the 'foreseeable future'.
Customers have been advised to used Swinton station instead.
The fire caused significant damage to the booking office and hall.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
Pictures show the main building boarded up with smoke damage on the walls.
A spokesperson for Northern said: “We are still assessing the extent of the damage caused by the fire at Moorside station.
“The fire has caused significant damage to the booking office and hall and, as this provides the only access to the platforms, the station is likely to remain closed for the foreseeable future.
(Image: STEVE ALLEN)
“In the meantime customers are advised to continue to use nearby Swinton station.”
Shortly after the fire was put out, a GMFRS spokesperson said: "We were called at 1.52am to reports of a fire at Moorside rail station on Moorside Road in Swinton.
"Fire engines from Farnworth, Agecroft and Eccles fire attended at the scene.
"We left the scene at around 4.30am.
"The station building was well alight.
"The fire appeared to have begun within the ticket office which is locked up."
British Transport Police have been contacted for a comment.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Patrice Evra reveals the role he played in Brandon Williams Manchester United breakthrough

Patrice Evra has revealed he pleaded with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to give Brandon Williams an opportunity in the Manchester United first-team .
Williams is enjoying a meteoric rise to fame , having only made his first-team debut for the club back in September .
The 19-year-old was not included on the club 's pre-season tour last summer but hit the ground running while featuring for the reserves at the start of the season .
A number of impressive performances at youth level saw the teenager make his debut against Rochdale in the Carabao Cup last year , before he finally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Williams ' rise has been so impressive United have even halted their plans to sign a new left-back , but things could have been different had Evra not advised Solskjaer .
`` I 'm doing my coaching badges at Manchester United , I go like two weeks per month to do my course , and someone sent me a video about Brandon .
`` I was watching it and was like 'wow , he has got something I really love ' .
I went to the training and actually he was with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do a session as well with the U21s .
`` So , I saw him , and he was tough , and after the training session I went with the first-team and I saw Ole .
I said 'Ole , do you know about that kid Brandon Williams ? '
'Yeah , they say he is good . '
`` I said 'trust me Ole , since I left I can see he can play he can play at left-back . '
I said please give him a chance .
`` To be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he is not disappointing anyone .
He is the future . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Patrice Evra has revealed he pleaded with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to give Brandon Williams an opportunity in the Manchester United first-team.
Williams is enjoying a meteoric rise to fame, having only made his first-team debut for the club back in September. The 19-year-old was not included on the club's pre-season tour last summer but hit the ground running while featuring for the reserves at the start of the season.
A number of impressive performances at youth level saw the teenager make his debut against Rochdale in the Carabao Cup last year, before he finally broke into the first-team a month later.
Williams' rise has been so impressive United have even halted their plans to sign a new left-back, but things could have been different had Evra not advised Solskjaer.
"He's got the Mancunian fight, spirit, desire," Evra told COPA90.
"I'm doing my coaching badges at Manchester United, I go like two weeks per month to do my course, and someone sent me a video about Brandon.
"I was watching it and was like 'wow, he has got something I really love'. I went to the training and actually he was with the U21, and they made me do a session as well with the U21s.
"So, I saw him, and he was tough, and after the training session I went with the first-team and I saw Ole. I said 'Ole, do you know about that kid Brandon Williams?' 'Yeah, they say he is good.'
"I said 'trust me Ole, since I left I can see he can play he can play at left-back.' I said please give him a chance.
"To be fair he is playing so well and he is not disappointing anyone. He is the future."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Police appeal for witnesses following car crash near Metrolink stop in Tameside

Police have confirmed no one was seriously injured in a horror car crash near to a Metrolink tram stop following a police pursuit .
Four people - now confirmed as three men and a woman all aged in their 30s and 40s - were taken to hospital from the scene in Audenshaw , Tameside , on Wednesday night .
Greater Manchester Police initially said two of them , both said to have been passengers , suffered serious injuries .
In a statement GMP now say the injuries are not said to be serious .
Police are now appealing for anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at around 11.35pm , to come forward .
Images show the mangled wreckage of the car involved , a grey Vauxhall Astra , although it 's understood firefighters were forced to cut those inside out using high-pressure cutting equipment .
The car was travelling at speed at the time of the collision near to the tram stop in Audenshaw , according to reports .
Police have confirmed the Astra 'failed to stop for officers in Droylsden ' and a short pursuit followed .
The car went on to lose control and hit a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A635 Manchester Road in Audenshaw was closed in both directions between Snipe Way and the A662 Droylsden Road as emergency services attended the scene .
Droylsden Road was also closed at the Audenshaw Metrolink stop on Manchester Road and all trams were halted between the Velopark and Ashton-under-Lyne .
The roads were finally reopened at around 5am on Thursday morning .
In a statement , GMP said : `` At around 11.35pm on Wednesday 19 February 2020 , police engaged in a short pursuit after a vehicle failed to stop for officers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the grey Vauxhall Astra collided with a post on Manchester Road .
`` Three men , aged 42 , 34 and 32 , and a 32-year-old woman were taken to hospital .
`` No arrests have been made .
`` The injuries are not serious .
`` The incident has been referred to GMP ’ s Professional Standards Branch , in line with normal procedure . ''
One witness said they believed the car 'flipped ' on the tram tracks and rolled over several times , although no further information has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information should contact GMP ’ s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 quoting 3437 of 19/02/2020 , '' added GMP .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyTameside newsletter here to keep abreast of what's happening in your neighbourhood
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyTameside newsletter here to keep abreast of what's happening in your neighbourhood
Police have confirmed no one was seriously injured in a horror car crash near to a Metrolink tram stop following a police pursuit.
Four people - now confirmed as three men and a woman all aged in their 30s and 40s - were taken to hospital from the scene in Audenshaw, Tameside, on Wednesday night.
Greater Manchester Police initially said two of them, both said to have been passengers, suffered serious injuries.
In a statement GMP now say the injuries are not said to be serious.
Police are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, which happened at around 11.35pm, to come forward.
Images show the mangled wreckage of the car involved, a grey Vauxhall Astra, although it's understood firefighters were forced to cut those inside out using high-pressure cutting equipment.
(Image: ASP)
The car was travelling at speed at the time of the collision near to the tram stop in Audenshaw, according to reports.
Police have confirmed the Astra 'failed to stop for officers in Droylsden' and a short pursuit followed.
The car went on to lose control and hit a post near the tram stop.
My Tameside We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Tameside. To keep up to date with all that is happening in Tameside - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here. And you can also follow us on Twitter.
The A635 Manchester Road in Audenshaw was closed in both directions between Snipe Way and the A662 Droylsden Road as emergency services attended the scene.
(Image: ASP)
Droylsden Road was also closed at the Audenshaw Metrolink stop on Manchester Road and all trams were halted between the Velopark and Ashton-under-Lyne.
The roads were finally reopened at around 5am on Thursday morning.
(Image: ASP)
In a statement, GMP said: "At around 11.35pm on Wednesday 19 February 2020, police engaged in a short pursuit after a vehicle failed to stop for officers in Droylsden.
"A short time later, the grey Vauxhall Astra collided with a post on Manchester Road.
"Three men, aged 42, 34 and 32, and a 32-year-old woman were taken to hospital.
"No arrests have been made.
"The injuries are not serious.
"The incident has been referred to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch, in line with normal procedure."
One witness said they believed the car 'flipped' on the tram tracks and rolled over several times, although no further information has been released by police.
"Anyone with information should contact GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 quoting 3437 of 19/02/2020," added GMP.
"Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Man found dead in car in north Manchester

Police have launched an investigation after a man was found dead in a car in Blackley .
Emergency services were @ @ @ @ @ the corner of Rochdale Road and Hilldale Avenue at around 10.45am .
Greater Manchester Police @ @ @ @ @ short time later due to concern for the welfare of a man in a vehicle @ @ @ @ @ pronounced dead at the scene .
Police are investigating and it is believed the man @ @ @ @ @ in a private ambulance earlier this afternoon .
Inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the death @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson said : `` At 10.45am on Thursday 20 February 2020 , police were called @ @ @ @ @ reports of concern for the welfare of a man in a vehicle on Rochdale Road @ @ @ @ @ services attended and , despite the best efforts of paramedics , a man was pronounced @ @ @ @ @ `` Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the man ’ s death @ @ @ @ @ should contact police on 0161 856 4038 quoting 1020 of 20/02/20 .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Police have launched an investigation after a man was found dead in a car in Blackley.
Emergency services were called to the scene at the corner of Rochdale Road and Hilldale Avenue at around 10.45am.
Greater Manchester Police said paramedics contacted them a short time later due to concern for the welfare of a man in a vehicle.
Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police are investigating and it is believed the man's body was taken away in a private ambulance earlier this afternoon.
Inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the death are ongoing.
A GMP spokesperson said: "At 10.45am on Thursday 20 February 2020, police were called by the ambulance service to reports of concern for the welfare of a man in a vehicle on Rochdale Road, Manchester.
"Emergency services attended and, despite the best efforts of paramedics, a man was pronounced dead at the scene.
"Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the man’s death."
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4038 quoting 1020 of 20/02/20.
Alternatively, the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Manchester United news and transfers RECAP Man Utd vs Club Brugge Europa League team news

Manchester United completed their final preparations for Thursday night 's Europa League last 32 tie versus Club Brugge .
The @ @ @ @ @ , AZ Alkmaar and Astana to top their group and seal the spot in the @ @ @ @ @ Belgian opponents drop down from the Champions League after finishing third in a group containing @ @ @ @ @ and Galatasaray .
United went into the game brimming with confidence after securing a vital @ @ @ @ @ on Monday against Chelsea , boosting their chances of securing Champions League qualification for next @ @ @ @ @ League would be another route into the Champions League should Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's men @ @ @ @ @ league .
United are without Scott McTominay , Axel Tuanzebe and Marcus Rashford due to @ @ @ @ @ want-away France midfielder Paul Pogba .
Recap all today 's main United breaking headlines , @ @ @ @ @ below .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Dominic Booth,  Charlotte Duncker)

Manchester United completed their final preparations for Thursday night's Europa League last 32 tie versus Club Brugge.
The Reds battled past Partizan Belgrade, AZ Alkmaar and Astana to top their group and seal the spot in the knockout stages, while their Belgian opponents drop down from the Champions League after finishing third in a group containing Real Madrid, Paris-Saint Germain and Galatasaray.
United went into the game brimming with confidence after securing a vital win in the Premier League on Monday against Chelsea, boosting their chances of securing Champions League qualification for next season.
Winning the Europa League would be another route into the Champions League should Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men fail to qualify through the league.
United are without Scott McTominay, Axel Tuanzebe and Marcus Rashford due to injury, as well as want-away France midfielder Paul Pogba.
Recap all today's main United breaking headlines, injury news and transfer gossip below.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--£175m budget approved for Trafford, including new CCTV cameras and electric vehicle chargers

Trafford Council has officially approved its £175million budget for 2020-21 .
The plans for the coming financial year will see council tax rise by 3.99 per cent ; including a two per cent precept to pay for adult and children 's social care services .
Labour was keen to point out the national `` failed project '' of ongoing austerity and the average 60 per cent cuts central Government has made to local authorities across the country ; something Conservative members took umbrage with .
Labour said £150m has been stripped from Trafford Council 's budget since 2010 and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for `` producing a budget at all in these challenging times '' .
This year 's budget includes a £15.4m investment in early intervention for both adult and children 's social care .
The money will be pumped into early help and intense family support which the authority hopes will save it money further down the line by helping people before they reach crisis point .
The budget also sees more funding being pumped into schools , with £15m to be spent on school buildings .
Other grants and funding have also been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cabinet member for education , Coun Karina Carter , said the funding was `` not enough by any means '' as she alleged the Government had waited until the system was `` on the brink of insolvency '' before releasing funds , but she welcomed it regardless .
Other investments in the budget include : As part of a Conservative group amendment which gained cross-party support , 14 CCTV cameras will also be installed throughout the borough , as well as more than 150 electric vehicle charging points .
This is expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , council leader and Labour leader , said he was proud his party had avoided cuts to front-line services and avoided job losses in the budget .
He said : `` We are the third-worst funded council in the country and our spend on services is among the lowest of any Metropolitan Borough Council .
`` We 've been faced with the choice of what we can do and what we must do .
`` We have to make difficult decisions .
This budget is revolutionary and most welcome .
I could not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an overall budget gap of £18.5m according to figures read out during last night 's full council meeting ( Wednesday February 18 ) .
But Labour explained this gap will be filled by use of £4.47m from reserves , income generation of £6.12m ; £3.98m from additional government funding grants , and £3.98m from invest-to-save measures .
The Labour administration also included a decision to up its borrowing capacity from £400m to £500m as part of its asset investment strategy - something that raised Liberal Democrat eyebrows and led to a few abstentions @ @ @ @ @

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Trafford news sign up to the MyTrafford newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Trafford news sign up to the MyTrafford newsletter here
Trafford Council has officially approved its £175million budget for 2020-21.
The plans for the coming financial year will see council tax rise by 3.99 per cent; including a two per cent precept to pay for adult and children's social care services.
Labour was keen to point out the national "failed project" of ongoing austerity and the average 60 per cent cuts central Government has made to local authorities across the country; something Conservative members took umbrage with.
Labour said £150m has been stripped from Trafford Council's budget since 2010 and the group was congratulated by the Liberal Democrats for "producing a budget at all in these challenging times".
This year's budget includes a £15.4m investment in early intervention for both adult and children's social care. The money will be pumped into early help and intense family support which the authority hopes will save it money further down the line by helping people before they reach crisis point.
The budget also sees more funding being pumped into schools, with £15m to be spent on school buildings.
Other grants and funding have also been provided by central Government.
The Labour cabinet member for education, Coun Karina Carter, said the funding was "not enough by any means" as she alleged the Government had waited until the system was "on the brink of insolvency" before releasing funds, but she welcomed it regardless.
Other investments in the budget include:
Major highways and other key infrastructure improvements - £14.9m
Leisure centre developments - £11.1m
Support to most vulnerable residents - £5.1m
Cycling and walking schemes - £4.8m
Green spaces and tree planting - £1.2m
Town centres improvements - £4.3m
Town centre and business loans - £0.3m
Trafford news We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Trafford. To keep up to date with all that is happening in Trafford - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here. And you can also follow us on Twitter.
As part of a Conservative group amendment which gained cross-party support, 14 CCTV cameras will also be installed throughout the borough, as well as more than 150 electric vehicle charging points. This is expected to cost around £60,000.
Coun Andrew Western, council leader and Labour leader, said he was proud his party had avoided cuts to front-line services and avoided job losses in the budget.
He said: "We are the third-worst funded council in the country and our spend on services is among the lowest of any Metropolitan Borough Council.
"We've been faced with the choice of what we can do and what we must do.
"We have to make difficult decisions. This budget is revolutionary and most welcome. I could not be prouder."
The council has an overall budget gap of £18.5m according to figures read out during last night's full council meeting (Wednesday February 18).
But Labour explained this gap will be filled by use of £4.47m from reserves, income generation of £6.12m; £3.98m from additional government funding grants, and £3.98m from invest-to-save measures.
The Labour administration also included a decision to up its borrowing capacity from £400m to £500m as part of its asset investment strategy - something that raised Liberal Democrat eyebrows and led to a few abstentions in the budget vote.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Industrial firework attack on car 'not being linked' to earlier shooting in Salford

An industrial firework attack in Salford , which led to residents being evacuated from their homes at 2am , is not being linked to an earlier shooting , police have said .
Both incidents have been described as 'targeted attacks ' .
As reported in the ManchesterEvening News , shots were fired at a house in Higher Broughton at around 9.30pm on Wednesday .
No one was hurt .
Residents on Murray Street reported hearing the sound of gunshots and a police cordon was put in place along the entire stretch of the road for forensic investigations .
Little details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was 'no threat to the wider community ' .
Hours later - shortly before 2am - and also in Salford , two industrial fireworks were thrown into a parked car through a smashed window on Sangster Court , off Howard Street near Salford Quays .
Police were initially called to reports a car had exploded .
There were initial fears an explosive device like a pipe bomb had been detonated and as a result , specialist bomb disposal officers were sent to the scene .
The M.E.N .
understands two industrial-strength fireworks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a smashed window .
But the other did and emitted a huge amount of smoke .
`` The explosive ordnance team attended the scene and residents on Sangster Court were temporarily evacuated whilst assessments took place , '' GMP said in a statement .
`` There are no injuries .
An investigation is currently underway .
`` No arrests have been made . ''
Police said it , too , was a 'targeted attacked ' and revealed it 's being 'linked to an ongoing crime matter that GMP is aware of and is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elaborate any further .
Residents were sent to the Travel Lodge on Trafford Road , and it 's understood they were allowed to return home around two hours later .
Writing on Facebook , GMP Salford said : `` GMP would like to provide reassurance to the Salford community .
`` You may be aware of two incidents that have occurred in Salford throughout the night .
`` We would like to stress that the vehicle damaged by fireworks was a targeted attacked linked to an ongoing crime matter that GMP is aware @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further incident in the Higher Broughton area was also a targeted attack and there is no threat to the wider community .
`` The two incidents are not believed to be connected . ''
The worrying incident is the latest firework attack in Salford , with the Higher Broughton attack the latest in a series of recent shootings in the city .
The M.E.N .
reported late last month that a huge explosion which damaged a car and was heard across Salford was caused by an industrial firework .
Police and the bomb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge bang on Bradden Close , near to Clarendon Park .
Witnesses to the latest firework attack are being urged to call police on 0161 8565168 and quote incident number 237 of 20/02/20 .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
An industrial firework attack in Salford, which led to residents being evacuated from their homes at 2am, is not being linked to an earlier shooting, police have said.
Both incidents have been described as 'targeted attacks'.
As reported in the ManchesterEvening News, shots were fired at a house in Higher Broughton at around 9.30pm on Wednesday.
No one was hurt.
Residents on Murray Street reported hearing the sound of gunshots and a police cordon was put in place along the entire stretch of the road for forensic investigations.
Little details have been revealed, but police said there was 'no threat to the wider community'.
Hours later - shortly before 2am - and also in Salford, two industrial fireworks were thrown into a parked car through a smashed window on Sangster Court, off Howard Street near Salford Quays.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
Police were initially called to reports a car had exploded.
There were initial fears an explosive device like a pipe bomb had been detonated and as a result, specialist bomb disposal officers were sent to the scene.
The M.E.N. understands two industrial-strength fireworks were thrown inside the parked car through a smashed window.
One failed to ignite.
But the other did and emitted a huge amount of smoke.
"The explosive ordnance team attended the scene and residents on Sangster Court were temporarily evacuated whilst assessments took place," GMP said in a statement.
"There are no injuries. An investigation is currently underway.
(Image: MEN Media)
"No arrests have been made."
Police said it, too, was a 'targeted attacked' and revealed it's being 'linked to an ongoing crime matter that GMP is aware of and is tackling'.
The force didn't elaborate any further.
Residents were sent to the Travel Lodge on Trafford Road, and it's understood they were allowed to return home around two hours later.
Writing on Facebook, GMP Salford said: "GMP would like to provide reassurance to the Salford community.
"You may be aware of two incidents that have occurred in Salford throughout the night.
"We would like to stress that the vehicle damaged by fireworks was a targeted attacked linked to an ongoing crime matter that GMP is aware of and is tackling.
"A further incident in the Higher Broughton area was also a targeted attack and there is no threat to the wider community.
"The two incidents are not believed to be connected."
The worrying incident is the latest firework attack in Salford, with the Higher Broughton attack the latest in a series of recent shootings in the city.
The M.E.N. reported late last month that a huge explosion which damaged a car and was heard across Salford was caused by an industrial firework.
Police and the bomb squad were called to reports of a huge bang on Bradden Close, near to Clarendon Park.
Witnesses to the latest firework attack are being urged to call police on 0161 8565168 and quote incident number 237 of 20/02/20.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Seven months after it declared a climate emergency, activists says Bury council 'has done nothing'

Bury Council has been accused of not acting on its pledges seven months after declaring a climate emergency .
The local authority voted through an “ aspiration ” to become carbon neutral by 2030 in July .
It also committed to creating a cross-party stakeholder panel to develop a strategic plan and report back to the council within six months .
But speaking at a town hall meeting , Bury Climate Action campaigner Susan Sollazzi asked councillors why a plan has still not been published .
She said : “ The time has come .
The months have gone by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without a plan its difficult to take the decisions .
“ If the months have gone by with absolutely nothing happening , I think you can understand that whatever warm words you say , there ’ s a huge level of concern .
`` There ’ s no money allocated .
Without the money allocated , it may never happen .
That ’ s a matter of immense concern.
” The comments came as the overview and scrutiny meeting discussed the council ’ s proposed budget for the next three years .
Cabinet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eamonn O ’ Brien , admitted that there was no money specifically allocated for the Climate Emergency Strategic plan .
But he said the issue is “ incredibly important ” to the council .
He said : “ Taken in full context , some of the work we ’ ve done already as a council reinforces our commitment to protecting the environment .
“ The scale means that we have to come up with comprehensive proposals to meet the scale of that challenge .
“ When we have that in place , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presenting that to council.
” Newly-appointed executive director of operations Donna Ball confirmed that the council is following guidance from Friends of the Earth .
She told the scrutiny committee that the council is working on plans to make its building carbon neutral as well as boosting cycling , walking and recycling in the borough .
The former Bolton Council director said she has been meeting with officers from other councils in Greater Manchester to help create the plan .
She said : “ There ’ s a great deal going on behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Manchester City Council who are a lot more advanced that we are .
“ I ’ ve only been in post for four weeks .
There ’ s a lot happening .
But I understand the frustration that you feel that it ’ s not progressed .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Bury Council has been accused of not acting on its pledges seven months after declaring a climate emergency.
The local authority voted through an “aspiration” to become carbon neutral by 2030 in July.
It also committed to creating a cross-party stakeholder panel to develop a strategic plan and report back to the council within six months.
But speaking at a town hall meeting, Bury Climate Action campaigner Susan Sollazzi asked councillors why a plan has still not been published.
She said: “The time has come. The months have gone by without any action. I do appreciate without a plan its difficult to take the decisions.
“If the months have gone by with absolutely nothing happening, I think you can understand that whatever warm words you say, there’s a huge level of concern.
"There’s no money allocated. Without the money allocated, it may never happen. That’s a matter of immense concern.”
The comments came as the overview and scrutiny meeting discussed the council’s proposed budget for the next three years.
Cabinet member for finance and housing, Cllr Eamonn O’Brien, admitted that there was no money specifically allocated for the Climate Emergency Strategic plan.
But he said the issue is “incredibly important” to the council.
He said: “Taken in full context, some of the work we’ve done already as a council reinforces our commitment to protecting the environment.
“Declaring a climate emergency wasn’t a case of virtue signalling or bandwagon jumping.
“The scale means that we have to come up with comprehensive proposals to meet the scale of that challenge.
“When we have that in place, as soon as possible, we will be presenting that to council.”
Newly-appointed executive director of operations Donna Ball confirmed that the council is following guidance from Friends of the Earth.
She told the scrutiny committee that the council is working on plans to make its building carbon neutral as well as boosting cycling, walking and recycling in the borough.
The former Bolton Council director said she has been meeting with officers from other councils in Greater Manchester to help create the plan.
She said: “There’s a great deal going on behind the scenes. I’m meeting with Manchester City Council who are a lot more advanced that we are.
“I’ve only been in post for four weeks. There’s a lot happening. But I understand the frustration that you feel that it’s not progressed.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--The ‘life-changing’ secure children’s home that’s just been rated outstanding

A secure children ’ s home in Salford has received an ‘ outstanding ’ grade by inspectors Ofsted , who said it offered children ‘ life-changing opportunities ’ .
Inspectors who visited the home in January found children that feel safe , trust the adults who support them and go on to exceed expectations .
One child told inspectors about staff : “ ‘ They have brought me up.
’ ” Ofsted does not publish the names or addresses of children ’ s homes in its reports .
But it has graded the Salford home - which caters to children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - as ‘ Outstanding ’ .
The centre is a local authority-run ‘ secure children ’ s home , ’ - meaning that it is a locked environment .
There are currently 15 secure children ’ s homes in England and Wales .
They provide care and accommodation to children and young people who have been detained or sentenced by the criminal courts and those who have been remanded to secure local authority accommodation , and those who have been placed there on welfare grounds by local authorities and the courts .
All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commissioned on a contractual basis by the Youth Custody Service .
The Ofsted report , published earlier this week , said : “ Children at this home have positive and life-changing opportunities.
” “ A significant strength of the staff team is its skill and ability to quickly develop strong , respectful and supportive relationships with children .
Consequently , children feel safe and learn to trust the adults who support them .
“ In turn , children become more able to understand and reflect on their past , develop new strategies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make better decisions .
“ The individualised high-quality care and genuine fondness shown to the children permeates throughout the setting .
Warmth , humour and spontaneous hugs when needed contribute positively to the relaxed interactions .
“ Children are seen to seek the company and reassurance of staff .
Children benefit greatly from the support given to them by the mix of professionals who work at this home .
The close coordination achieved by these teams ensures that the care given , and insight and skills of the staff , are of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , children make excellent progress and , in some cases , progress beyond everyone ’ s expectations.
” The report added that staff are ‘ very aware ’ of the children ’ s fears and anxieties when they arrive , and ‘ significant emphasis ’ is placed on making them feel safe .
Support to parents during this time is ‘ excellent , ’ inspectors judged .
“ Once a child is admitted , relevant information is obtained swiftly so that the child ’ s needs are known , support plans can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivered.
” Inspectors also praised the ‘ step down unit ’ which prepares children for their departure , independence , further education or work .
“ When children move from this home , members of staff will continue to support them in the community .
This nurturing approach ensures that they continue to feel cared for and valued even when they have left.
” “ A parent said , ‘ They always do their best for my son .
I have absolute faith in them .
’ ”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MySalford newsletter to keep up with what's happening in and around the city
A secure children’s home in Salford has received an ‘outstanding’ grade by inspectors Ofsted, who said it offered children ‘life-changing opportunities’.
Inspectors who visited the home in January found children that feel safe, trust the adults who support them and go on to exceed expectations.
One child told inspectors about staff: “‘They have brought me up.’”
Ofsted does not publish the names or addresses of children’s homes in its reports.
But it has graded the Salford home - which caters to children between the age of 10 and 18 - as ‘Outstanding’.
The centre is a local authority-run ‘secure children’s home,’ - meaning that it is a locked environment.
There are currently 15 secure children’s homes in England and Wales.
They provide care and accommodation to children and young people who have been detained or sentenced by the criminal courts and those who have been remanded to secure local authority accommodation, and those who have been placed there on welfare grounds by local authorities and the courts.
All places available at the Salford site are commissioned on a contractual basis by the Youth Custody Service.
The Ofsted report, published earlier this week, said: “Children at this home have positive and life-changing opportunities.”
“A significant strength of the staff team is its skill and ability to quickly develop strong, respectful and supportive relationships with children. Consequently, children feel safe and learn to trust the adults who support them.
“In turn, children become more able to understand and reflect on their past, develop new strategies and coping mechanisms, which helps them to make better decisions.
“The individualised high-quality care and genuine fondness shown to the children permeates throughout the setting. Warmth, humour and spontaneous hugs when needed contribute positively to the relaxed interactions.
“Children are seen to seek the company and reassurance of staff. Children benefit greatly from the support given to them by the mix of professionals who work at this home. The close coordination achieved by these teams ensures that the care given, and insight and skills of the staff, are of a high calibre.
“As a result, children make excellent progress and, in some cases, progress beyond everyone’s expectations.”
The report added that staff are ‘very aware’ of the children’s fears and anxieties when they arrive, and ‘significant emphasis’ is placed on making them feel safe.
Support to parents during this time is ‘excellent,’ inspectors judged.
“Once a child is admitted, relevant information is obtained swiftly so that the child’s needs are known, support plans can be devised, and personalised care can be delivered.”
Inspectors also praised the ‘step down unit’ which prepares children for their departure, independence, further education or work.
“When children move from this home, members of staff will continue to support them in the community. This nurturing approach ensures that they continue to feel cared for and valued even when they have left.”
“A parent said, ‘They always do their best for my son. I have absolute faith in them.’”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--'Lifeline' bus service could be cut from Greater Manchester's most isolated village

A ‘ lifeline ’ bus service could be cut from a village which is already ranked as the most isolated place in Greater Manchester .
The 375 is the only service connecting Mellor to Stockport and the region ’ s wider transport system .
Run by Stagecoach it provides a vital link to Stepping Hill Hospital as well as Marple Sixth Form and Aquinas College .
Elderly residents in Mellor and Hawk Green also rely on it for getting to and from their local shops and visiting friends - as do many without their own transport .
But , following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is too expensive to continue subsidising the 375 after the current contract expires in April .
A reduced service operating between Marple and Mellor was also deemed to be financially ‘ unsustainable ’ .
Instead , from April 21 , it will be replaced by a ‘ local link ’ shared minibus service , which has to be booked at least an hour in advance and arrives within a 20-minute window .
But the plans , which are set to go before the Transport for Greater Manchester ( TfGM ) committee tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge backlash .
At the time of writing , nearly 1,700 people had signed a petition launched by Marple North councillor Steve Gribbon in a bid to save the service .
Hazel Grove MP William Wragg has also started an online petition and written to TfGM urging them to reconsider its plans to withdraw the 375 .
Figures from the Reach Data Unit/In Your Area revealed that Mellor is the most isolated place in Greater Manchester .
A GP is an average of 17 minutes away by public transport , while it takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And Coun Gribbon says plans to cut the lifeline 375 service have come as a massive blow to residents .
He said : “ If it was going down from four buses to three , then maybe we would understand , but this is going from one to zero - absolutely nothing .
“ I used to live in Cheadle Hulme - if I wanted to get to Stockport on even Manchester Airport on the bus there were numerous ways to do it .
But this is the only service that goes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it does go to zero .
“ It ’ s worth fighting for , the weight of support we have received proves that.
” The Liberal Democrat also said it needed taking into account that Mellor does not have the rail links enjoyed by areas such as Cheadle Hulme , Reddish or Bramhall .
He said : “ It was a real shock to find an area that has such a rural community and doesn ’ t have the same provision of travel as other communities is potentially going to lose something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re fighting for , if we didn ’ t fight for it we wouldn ’ t be doing our jobs as ward councillors - or doing our job as residents.
” And on the ‘ local link ’ service proposed to replace the 375 he added : “ While I understand they have offered an alternative , the alternative is not a bus .
It ’ s a reduction in service for the community in the most rural area in the borough .
`` There are people who have spoken to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go four stops to see a friend , it ’ s not a lot of distance but when you are of the demographic or of an age where you can ’ t drive , that bus has been a real lifeline . ''
Stockport council ’ s TfGM representative , Coun David Meller , will tomorrow urge bosses not to axe the service .
He said : “ From my perspective , it ’ s another example of having a bus network that doesn ’ t work for people in Greater Manchester .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ people depend on , particularly those who struggle to get around .
“ It just doesn ’ t seem to be working and puts commercial profit above the needs of passengers and residents.
” And William Wragg MP is also throwing his weight behind efforts to save the 375 , which he describes as ‘ a vital link for those communities in the Mellor and Hawk Green area of Marple.
” Mr Wragg added : “ Obviously this proposal would see the service taken away from this area and it really is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elderly constituents - and indeed for students getting to Marple College .
It is a vital link.
” The TfGM committee meets at Friends Meeting House , Mount Street , Manchester from 10.30am on Friday .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyStockport newsletter to keep up with all the top stories
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyStockport newsletter to keep up with all the top stories
A ‘lifeline’ bus service could be cut from a village which is already ranked as the most isolated place in Greater Manchester.
The 375 is the only service connecting Mellor to Stockport and the region’s wider transport system.
Run by Stagecoach it provides a vital link to Stepping Hill Hospital as well as Marple Sixth Form and Aquinas College.
Elderly residents in Mellor and Hawk Green also rely on it for getting to and from their local shops and visiting friends - as do many without their own transport.
But, following a tender process, Transport for Greater Manchester say it is too expensive to continue subsidising the 375 after the current contract expires in April.
A reduced service operating between Marple and Mellor was also deemed to be financially ‘unsustainable’.
Instead, from April 21, it will be replaced by a ‘local link’ shared minibus service, which has to be booked at least an hour in advance and arrives within a 20-minute window.
But the plans, which are set to go before the Transport for Greater Manchester(TfGM) committee tomorrow (Friday) have met with a huge backlash.
At the time of writing, nearly 1,700 people had signed a petition launched by Marple North councillor Steve Gribbon in a bid to save the service.
Hazel Grove MP William Wragg has also started an online petition and written to TfGM urging them to reconsider its plans to withdraw the 375.
Figures from the Reach Data Unit/In Your Area revealed that Mellor is the most isolated place in Greater Manchester. A GP is an average of 17 minutes away by public transport, while it takes 57 minutes to get to hospital.
And Coun Gribbon says plans to cut the lifeline 375 service have come as a massive blow to residents.
He said: “If it was going down from four buses to three, then maybe we would understand, but this is going from one to zero - absolutely nothing.
“I used to live in Cheadle Hulme - if I wanted to get to Stockport on even Manchester Airport on the bus there were numerous ways to do it. But this is the only service that goes to and from Mellor. Take that away and it does go to zero.
“It’s worth fighting for, the weight of support we have received proves that.”
The Liberal Democrat also said it needed taking into account that Mellor does not have the rail links enjoyed by areas such as Cheadle Hulme, Reddish or Bramhall.
He said: “It was a real shock to find an area that has such a rural community and doesn’t have the same provision of travel as other communities is potentially going to lose something else.
“It’s what we’re fighting for, if we didn’t fight for it we wouldn’t be doing our jobs as ward councillors - or doing our job as residents.”
And on the ‘local link’ service proposed to replace the 375 he added: “While I understand they have offered an alternative, the alternative is not a bus. It’s a reduction in service for the community in the most rural area in the borough.
"There are people who have spoken to me who will take the bus to go four stops to see a friend, it’s not a lot of distance but when you are of the demographic or of an age where you can’t drive, that bus has been a real lifeline."
Stockport news We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news, events and community news in Stockport. To keep up to date with all that is happening in Stockport - and to join in the discussion - follow the page here. And you can also follow us on Twitter.
Stockport council’s TfGM representative, Coun David Meller, will tomorrow urge bosses not to axe the service.
He said: “From my perspective, it’s another example of having a bus network that doesn’t work for people in Greater Manchester. This is a vital route that many people depend on, particularly those who struggle to get around.
“It just doesn’t seem to be working and puts commercial profit above the needs of passengers and residents.”
And William Wragg MP is also throwing his weight behind efforts to save the 375, which he describes as ‘a vital link for those communities in the Mellor and Hawk Green area of Marple.”
Mr Wragg added: “Obviously this proposal would see the service taken away from this area and it really is the last remaining public transport link for vulnerable elderly constituents - and indeed for students getting to Marple College. It is a vital link.”
The TfGM committee meets at Friends Meeting House, Mount Street, Manchester from 10.30am on Friday.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-02-20--Club Brugge vs Manchester United LIVE score and goal updates from Europa League plus early team news

Manchester United will be looking to build upon their revitalised form when they face Club Brugge in the first leg @ @ @ @ @ of 16 tie on Thursday evening .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side have already beaten @ @ @ @ @ now be looking to carry their momentum into European competition for their trip to Belgium @ @ @ @ @ have faced each other twice before , with United winning 3-1 away and 4-0 at @ @ @ @ @ qualifying rounds .
Brugge were eliminated from the Europa League at this stage last season @ @ @ @ @ knockout tie in the competition five years ago .
In terms of early team news @ @ @ @ @ to start in goal but Scott McTominay and Axel Tuanzebe are n't available while Mason @ @ @ @ @ illness .
Stick with us for updates and analysis LIVE from the Jan Breydel Stadium @

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Samuel Luckhurst, Richard Fay, Tyrone Marshall)

Manchester United recorded a hard-fought draw against Club Brugge in the first leg of their Europa League round of 32 tie on Thursday evening.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have already beaten Chelsea this week and were looking to carry their momentum into European competition for their trip to Belgium. The start was sluggish, though, as Dennis lobbed Sergio Romero to put Brugge ahead in the first half. Anthony Martial capitalised on a defensive mistake to equalise and United take an away goal into the second leg next week.
Sergio Romero started in goal but Scott McTominay and Axel Tuanzebe aren't available while Mason Greenwood misses the trip through illness. Jesse Lingard also played with Odion Ighalo and Bruno Fernandes on the bench.
United and Club Brugge have faced each other twice before, with United winning 3-1 away and 4-0 at home in 2015-16 Champions League qualifying rounds.
Stick with us for reaction and analysis LIVE from the Jan Breydel Stadium.