themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Teden Mengi leads Manchester United into FA Youth Cup fifth round with Norwich win

Teden Mengi produced a captain 's performance for Manchester United 's Under-18s as they deservedly eased past Norwich City to secure a spot in the FA Youth Cup fifth round United were made to work hard for their 2-0 win with both goals coming in the second half .
Charlie McCann opened the scoring from the penalty spot before a superb Mengi header sealed an excellent win for Neil Ryan 's youngsters .
It was a landmark win for United at a Premier League stadium in Carrow Road - and in front of a 3,241 crowd .
The attacking talents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sparkled , although the former endured a rough night and concussion concerns after colliding with the advertising hoardings in the second half .
But with a clean sheet and a goal , the night belonged to the excellent centre-back Mengi .
United Under-18s boss Ryan brought 15-year-old Shola Shoretire into his side , along with the more experienced Reece Devine- who has played regular Under-23s football this season - in two changes from the win over Lincoln in the previous round .
With Mengi as captain , it was a strong United line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the visitors started with promise .
Although Ondrej Mastny was forced into an early save from Norwich forward Thomas Dickson-Peters - who should have done better - United then enjoyed a prolonged period of pressure .
It should have been marked with at least one goal from Hoogewerf who somehow side-footed a simple chance wide from Shoretire 's square , before later squandering another gilt-edged chance after finding himself in acres of space .
In between , Charlie Wellens forced Canaries keeper Samuel Blair into a good save with a 25-yard piledriver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deserved opener , with former Ajax youngster Hoogwerf heavily involved .
Despite his misses , he continued to pressurise the hosts ' back line and forced them into multiple mistakes .
Norwich recovered somewhat as the half wore on and forced another opening for Dickson-Peters around the half-hour mark .
But United 's defence - led by Mengi - stood firm until half-time .
Nicky Butt 's pre-match warning that it would be a cagey opening was borne out ; it was goalless at the break .
Yet United would get their rewards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right from the whistle and won a free-kick on the edge of the box .
Mark Helm drove it goalwards and it looked destined for the top corner until Andrew Omobamidele 's handball , giving the referee little choice but to signal for a penalty .
After a lengthy delay and a scuffle between the sets of players , McCann made no mistake , sending Blair the wrong way and wheeling away in front of the Norwich fans .
A response of sorts followed from the hosts and United were indebted to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scoreline at 1-0 .
Mengi also played a part in keeping the hosts at bay , before killing the game off in the opposite penalty box with a terrific towering header 15 minutes from time .
Mengi 's volley had been blocked by Jaden Warner seconds earlier , but the United skipper rose highest from the next corner to put the tie beyond doubt and secure a second successive 2-0 win for the Reds in the Youth Cup .

Teden Mengi produced a captain's performance for Manchester United's Under-18s as they deservedly eased past Norwich City to secure a spot in the FA Youth Cup fifth round.
United were made to work hard for their 2-0 win with both goals coming in the second half. Charlie McCann opened the scoring from the penalty spot before a superb Mengi header sealed an excellent win for Neil Ryan's youngsters.
It was a landmark win for United at a Premier League stadium in Carrow Road - and in front of a 3,241 crowd. The attacking talents of Dillon Hoogewerf and Hannibal Mejbri again sparkled, although the former endured a rough night and concussion concerns after colliding with the advertising hoardings in the second half.
But with a clean sheet and a goal, the night belonged to the excellent centre-back Mengi.
United Under-18s boss Ryan brought 15-year-old Shola Shoretire into his side, along with the more experienced Reece Devine- who has played regular Under-23s football this season - in two changes from the win over Lincoln in the previous round.
With Mengi as captain, it was a strong United line up and it showed straight away, as the visitors started with promise. Although Ondrej Mastny was forced into an early save from Norwich forward Thomas Dickson-Peters - who should have done better - United then enjoyed a prolonged period of pressure.
It should have been marked with at least one goal from Hoogewerf who somehow side-footed a simple chance wide from Shoretire's square, before later squandering another gilt-edged chance after finding himself in acres of space. In between, Charlie Wellens forced Canaries keeper Samuel Blair into a good save with a 25-yard piledriver.
United continued to push for a deserved opener, with former Ajax youngster Hoogwerf heavily involved. Despite his misses, he continued to pressurise the hosts' back line and forced them into multiple mistakes.
Norwich recovered somewhat as the half wore on and forced another opening for Dickson-Peters around the half-hour mark. But United's defence - led by Mengi - stood firm until half-time. Nicky Butt's pre-match warning that it would be a cagey opening was borne out; it was goalless at the break.
Yet United would get their rewards immediately after restart. They applied pressure right from the whistle and won a free-kick on the edge of the box. Mark Helm drove it goalwards and it looked destined for the top corner until Andrew Omobamidele's handball, giving the referee little choice but to signal for a penalty.
After a lengthy delay and a scuffle between the sets of players, McCann made no mistake, sending Blair the wrong way and wheeling away in front of the Norwich fans.
A response of sorts followed from the hosts and United were indebted to a superb Lukasz Bejger back-tackle to keep the scoreline at 1-0. Mengi also played a part in keeping the hosts at bay, before killing the game off in the opposite penalty box with a terrific towering header 15 minutes from time.
Mengi's volley had been blocked by Jaden Warner seconds earlier, but the United skipper rose highest from the next corner to put the tie beyond doubt and secure a second successive 2-0 win for the Reds in the Youth Cup.
United XI: Mastny; Bejger, Mengi (c), Fish, Devine; McCann, Wellens ( Svidersky , 82), Helm; Mejbri ( Forson , 89), Shoretire, Hoogewerf (Sotona, 76).
Subs not used: Hockenhull, Mee, Stanley, Neville.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Norwich City U18s 0-2 Manchester United U18s highlights as Charlie McCann and Teden Mengi score for

Norwich City U18s 0-2 Manchester United U18s highlights as Charlie McCann and Teden Mengi score for Man Utd

Manchester United 's youngsters booked their spot in the FA Youth Cup fifth round after beating Norwich City 2-0 at @ @ @ @ @ Charlie McCann and Teden Mengi in the second half against the Canaries proved to be @ @ @ @ @ for United .
Before the game Nicky Butt had encouraged the youngsters to express themselves @ @ @ @ @ Some young kids can be a bit scared of losing and apprehensive and you 'll @ @ @ @ @ players who 'll go out and play their normal game - which end up being @ @ @ @ @ So it 's a mindset for them .
It 's a knockout cup game , @ @ @ @ @ and perform , express ourselves and do what United do . ''
United certainly made @ @ @ @ @ and will now wait and see who they will draw in the fifth round .
@ @ @ @ @ below .

Manchester United's youngsters booked their spot in the FA Youth Cup fifth round after beating Norwich City 2-0 at Carrow Road.
Goals from Charlie McCann and Teden Mengi in the second half against the Canaries proved to be enough on a pleasing night for United.
Before the game Nicky Butt had encouraged the youngsters to express themselves.
He said: "Some young kids can be a bit scared of losing and apprehensive and you'll get one or two standout players who'll go out and play their normal game - which end up being the best players.
"So it's a mindset for them. It's a knockout cup game, we have to go out and perform, express ourselves and do what United do."
United certainly made good on Butt's words and will now wait and see who they will draw in the fifth round.
United XI: Mastny; Bejger, Mengi (c), Fish, Devine; McCann, Wellens (Svidersky, 82), Helm; Mejbri (Forson, 89), Shoretire, Hoogewerf (Sotona, 76).
Subs not used: Hockenhull, Mee, Stanley, Neville.
Recap how the game unfolded below.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Why VAR did not order re-take for Dean Henderson penalty save vs Man City

Manchester City fans were furious when they saw a replay of Gabriel Jesus ' missed penalty at Sheffield United .
Not because they felt another City player should have taken the penalty - although Kevin de Bruyne might have been a better option - but because they felt Blades goalkeeper Dean Henderson had stepped off his line when the kick was taken .
Over the summer at the U21 Euros and Women 's World Cup , VAR was used to penalise goalkeepers who stepped off their lines at penalties , causing plenty of re-takes and naturally plenty of controversy in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replays clearly showed Manchester United loanee Henderson was about a yard off his line as he dived to his right to keep out Jesus , yet no re-take was ordered by VAR .
Fans were quick to ask why VAR did not order the spot kick to be taken again , but in fact the offence does not come under the list of incidents the video referee can review .
Instead , it is left to the linesman to look at the position of the goalkeeper on penalties , with on-field officials also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area .
VAR will only intervene in the case of goals , mistaken identity or potential red card offences .
Because the Henderson incident does not fall into those parameters and the linesman missed the keeper 's step forward , play continued at Bramall Lane .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Manchester City fans were furious when they saw a replay of Gabriel Jesus' missed penalty at Sheffield United.
Not because they felt another City player should have taken the penalty - although Kevin de Bruyne might have been a better option - but because they felt Blades goalkeeper Dean Henderson had stepped off his line when the kick was taken.
Over the summer at the U21 Euros and Women's World Cup, VAR was used to penalise goalkeepers who stepped off their lines at penalties, causing plenty of re-takes and naturally plenty of controversy in the process.
At Bramall Lane, replays clearly showed Manchester United loanee Henderson was about a yard off his line as he dived to his right to keep out Jesus, yet no re-take was ordered by VAR.
Fans were quick to ask why VAR did not order the spot kick to be taken again, but in fact the offence does not come under the list of incidents the video referee can review.
Instead, it is left to the linesman to look at the position of the goalkeeper on penalties, with on-field officials also monitoring whether there is any encroachment into the area.
VAR will only intervene in the case of goals, mistaken identity or potential red card offences. Because the Henderson incident does not fall into those parameters and the linesman missed the keeper's step forward, play continued at Bramall Lane.
Watch Jesus' penalty miss here:


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Owen Hargreaves makes Virgil van Dijk and Man City defender Aymeric Laporte comparison

Former Manchester United star Owen Hargreaves has made a Virgil van Dijk related claim about Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte .
The 25-year-old sustained a knee injury last August and underwent surgery a month later but has now returned to action against Sheffield United this evening .
Hargreaves is on punditry duties for the clash at Bramall Lane and he was asked pre-match about the importance of the French-born player .
The former United midfielder was quick to point to City 's difficult season to date as a key example of Laporte 's quality .
Hargreaves also explained that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dijk in his eyes when it comes to the best Premier League players in his position .
`` The return of Aymeric Laporte is absolutely huge .
Outside of Virgil van Dijk , he 's the best centre-back in the Premier League , '' Hargreaves told BT Sport .
`` It 's a big question about whether he can add that stability again .
`` Laporte was the one who could have played every game .
Having lost him and Vincent Kompany , even the great Pep Guardiola has been impacted .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just need to get him back up to speed . ''
City showed their defensive weaknesses without Laporte at the weekend when they dropped two points in a 2-2 draw at home to Crystal Palace .
Hargreaves added : `` The Palace game was sloppy at the back .
City only concede two or three shots a game but they have been getting it wrong around halfway .
`` With Kompany and Laporte in their prime they just deal with all of that . ''

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get the latest City team news, transfer stories, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox - FREE
Former Manchester United star Owen Hargreaves has made a Virgil van Dijk related claim about Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte .
The 25-year-old sustained a knee injury last August and underwent surgery a month later but has now returned to action against Sheffield United this evening.
Hargreaves is on punditry duties for the clash at Bramall Lane and he was asked pre-match about the importance of the French-born player.
The former United midfielder was quick to point to City's difficult season to date as a key example of Laporte's quality.
Hargreaves also explained that the centre-back is only behind Liverpool's Van Dijk in his eyes when it comes to the best Premier League players in his position.
"The return of Aymeric Laporte is absolutely huge. Outside of Virgil van Dijk, he's the best centre-back in the Premier League," Hargreaves told BT Sport. "It's a big question about whether he can add that stability again.
"Laporte was the one who could have played every game. Having lost him and Vincent Kompany, even the great Pep Guardiola has been impacted. It's going to be huge. They just need to get him back up to speed."
City showed their defensive weaknesses without Laporte at the weekend when they dropped two points in a 2-2 draw at home to Crystal Palace.
Hargreaves added: "The Palace game was sloppy at the back. City only concede two or three shots a game but they have been getting it wrong around halfway.
"With Kompany and Laporte in their prime they just deal with all of that."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Three new low-cost routes from Manchester Airport added for summer 2020

Budget airline Ryanair has revealed it will launch three new low-cost routes flying from Manchester Airport .
Flights to Denmark , Ireland and France have been added to the operators Summer 2020 schedule .
The additional routes include a daily service to Copenhagen , a twice weekly service to Kerry and flights to Paris Beauvais four times a week .
The airline have also announced they will be putting on extra flights to Shannon in Ireland over the summer season , increasing from five to six weekly frequencies .
Flights to Copenhagen start at £18.30 , Kerry £16.80 and Paris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To celebrate its new Manchester routes , Ryanair has launched a seat sale on its European network with fares from just £14.99 for travel from now until the end of March 2020 , which must be booked by Thursday ( Jan 23 ) , via the Ryanair website .
Seats are available now , and the airline is accepting bookings for travel as far in advance as October 2020 .
Ryanair ’ s Eimear Ryan said : “ We are pleased to announce 3 new Manchester routes to Copenhagen , Kerry and Paris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will operate daily , twice weekly and 4 times weekly respectively , as part of our summer 2020 schedule . ''
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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
Budget airline Ryanair has revealed it will launch three new low-cost routes flying from Manchester Airport .
Flights to Denmark, Ireland and France have been added to the operators Summer 2020 schedule.
The additional routes include a daily service to Copenhagen, a twice weekly service to Kerry and flights to Paris Beauvais four times a week.
The airline have also announced they will be putting on extra flights to Shannon in Ireland over the summer season, increasing from five to six weekly frequencies.
Flights to Copenhagen start at £18.30, Kerry £16.80 and Paris Beauvais £18.30 when flying from Manchester.
To celebrate its new Manchester routes, Ryanair has launched a seat sale on its European network with fares from just £14.99 for travel from now until the end of March 2020, which must be booked by Thursday (Jan 23), via the Ryanair website.
Seats are available now, and the airline is accepting bookings for travel as far in advance as October 2020.
Ryanair’s Eimear Ryan said: “We are pleased to announce 3 new Manchester routes to Copenhagen, Kerry and Paris Beauvais, commencing in March, which will operate daily, twice weekly and 4 times weekly respectively , as part of our summer 2020 schedule."
Follow tourism writer Zara Whelan on social media To follow Zara on Twitter click here. To connect via Facebook, click here. Zara also runs our Discover The North Facebook group specialising in all the latest on things to do, where to drink, eat, shop, go out, events and travel guides across the north of the UK. You can join the conversation here. Here's a link to the M.E.N.'s main Facebook page where we share our latest stories.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Trainee nurse over the drink-drive limit was 'abusive' to police after skirt 'flew up' while she was

Trainee nurse over the drink-drive limit was 'abusive' to police after skirt 'flew up' while she was arrested

A trainee nurse who was caught behind the wheel over double the drink-drive limit has been banned from the roads after being 'aggressive and abusive ' towards police officers .
Nicola Daniels , 32 , claims her skirt 'flew up ' when she was arrested which left her feeling 'exposed and suffering from indignity ' .
The mum-of-one , from Bolton , was stopped by police at around 11.30pm on Saturday , December 21 , Manchester Magistrates ' Court heard .
An officer saw her tailgating another car in her Mini Cooper in Bolton town centre so followed the vehicle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police ' and turned into a dark car park where she switched off her lights .
Prosecutor Martha Dowd said an officer approached the vehicle and could smell alcohol on the defendant .
She told police that she had consumed alcohol 'about three hours ago ' .
Daniels then failed a roadside breath test and a subsequent reading showed she was over double the drink-drive limit .
She blew a reading of 76 microgrammes - the legal limit is 35 .
`` The defendant was then arrested for driving with excess alcohol and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers '' , the prosecutor added .
`` She was escorted to a police vehicle but then attempted to pull free .
`` She was taken to a custody suite and asked to provide a further reading .
`` The first reading she gave was small and was not enough and it was explained to her that she would have to provide another reading .
`` She failed to provide it and failed the attempt .
She stated she was not doing it on purpose but the second time she failed to blow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obstructive to officers and it was explained to her the impact of failing to provide the test . ''
Daniels was also found to have no insurance on the car .
Defending , Rahil Khan said his client - who had no previous convictions - had been unable to insure the Mini because 'it was the Christmas period ' .
He said she was at her mum 's house when she decided to drive the 'short distance ' home but was stopped by the police .
`` When she was detained , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , Mr Khan added .
`` The short skirt flies up and she feels exposed infront of the four police officers .
`` She was placed in handcuffs and was suffering from that indignity . ''
Mr Khan said his client was then taken to the police station where she became 'emotional ' and began to hyperventilate .
He said it was not a 'deliberate refusal ' to provide the test on her part .
`` She regrets her conduct completely '' , the defence lawyer said .
`` She no longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three-year nursing degree and is the sole carer of her son . ''
Daniels , of Whalley Avenue , Bolton , pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis and using a motor vehicle on a road without third party insurance at Manchester Magistrates ' Court on Tuesday ( January 21 ) .
She was sentenced to a 14-month driving disqualification .
She was also fined £180 and made to pay court costs of £117 .

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 trainee nurse who was caught behind the wheel over double the drink-drive limit has been banned from the roads after being 'aggressive and abusive' towards police officers.
Nicola Daniels, 32, claims her skirt 'flew up' when she was arrested which left her feeling 'exposed and suffering from indignity'.
The mum-of-one, from Bolton, was stopped by police at around 11.30pm on Saturday, December 21, Manchester Magistrates' Court heard.
An officer saw her tailgating another car in her Mini Cooper in Bolton town centre so followed the vehicle.
But Daniels attempted to 'evade the police' and turned into a dark car park where she switched off her lights.
Prosecutor Martha Dowd said an officer approached the vehicle and could smell alcohol on the defendant.
She told police that she had consumed alcohol 'about three hours ago'.
Daniels then failed a roadside breath test and a subsequent reading showed she was over double the drink-drive limit.
She blew a reading of 76 microgrammes - the legal limit is 35.
"The defendant was then arrested for driving with excess alcohol and she became aggressive and abusive towards police officers", the prosecutor added.
"She was escorted to a police vehicle but then attempted to pull free.
"She was taken to a custody suite and asked to provide a further reading.
"The first reading she gave was small and was not enough and it was explained to her that she would have to provide another reading.
"She failed to provide it and failed the attempt. She stated she was not doing it on purpose but the second time she failed to blow an adequate amount.
"She was obstructive to officers and it was explained to her the impact of failing to provide the test."
(Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
Daniels was also found to have no insurance on the car.
Defending, Rahil Khan said his client - who had no previous convictions - had been unable to insure the Mini because 'it was the Christmas period'.
He said she was at her mum's house when she decided to drive the 'short distance' home but was stopped by the police.
"When she was detained, she was wearing a short skirt and boots", Mr Khan added.
"The short skirt flies up and she feels exposed infront of the four police officers.
"She was placed in handcuffs and was suffering from that indignity."
Mr Khan said his client was then taken to the police station where she became 'emotional' and began to hyperventilate.
Greater Manchester court cases We have a dedicated Facebook group covering court cases across Greater Manchester. For all the latest trial coverage and sentencing join the group here. To download our app to get all the latest news visit here.
He said it was not a 'deliberate refusal' to provide the test on her part.
"She regrets her conduct completely", the defence lawyer said.
"She no longer works as she is enrolled on a three-year nursing degree and is the sole carer of her son."
Daniels, of Whalley Avenue, Bolton, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis and using a motor vehicle on a road without third party insurance at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (January 21).
She was sentenced to a 14-month driving disqualification.
She was also fined £180 and made to pay court costs of £117.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram.
If you are on the go, the M.E.N. app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live. Available on iPhone and Android, the app can be tailor-made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Breaking news, the latest on your football club, the pick of the week’s events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Men in Range Rover rip £50k off cash machine - a chain attached to it then flew into an innocent bys

Men in Range Rover rip £50k off cash machine - a chain attached to it then flew into an innocent bystander

Police are searching for three men who stole more than £50,000 from a cash machine before injuring an innocent bystander as they made their getaway .
The group used a crowbar to prise open a cash machine inside Macclesfield station shortly before 10pm on January 16 .
They then used a heavy duty metal chain attached to a green Range Rover they had travelled in to tear the front of the cash machine off , causing considerable damage to the walls and doors of the station ticket hall , and stole a number of cash boxes from inside .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pedestrian , who was outside the Queen 's pub , was knocked off his feet as the chain following behind their vehicle struck him .
The victim was taken to hospital by ambulance where he received treatment for serious bruising and ligament damage .
The men abandoned the Range Rover nearby and transferred the cash into a black Audi A3 sport which they then drove off in .
Officers believe more than £55,000 of cash was stolen and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to contact officers .
The three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ balaclavas on and the driver was wearing a black ski mask with the white Nike tick emblem on the left cheek side .
Detective constable for British Transport Police Jon Price said : “ This was a shockingly brazen incident and clearly these men had absolutely no regard for the passengers or staff who were in Macclesfield station at the time .
“ I would like to appeal to any witnesses who haven ’ t already spoken to police to get in touch with us as soon as possible .
Any information , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crucial to our investigation .
“ In particular I ’ d ask anyone who was in the Macclesfield area at the time to check their dashcam footage which may have caught the vehicle leaving the scene or later being abandoned .
“ Likewise , please think carefully , have you noticed a sudden change in someone ’ s financial situation which has aroused suspicion ?
If so , we ’ d like to hear from you . ''
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident number 623 of 16/01/20 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0800 555 111 .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here

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
Police are searching for three men who stole more than £50,000 from a cash machine before injuring an innocent bystander as they made their getaway.
The group used a crowbar to prise open a cash machine inside Macclesfield station shortly before 10pm on January 16.
They then used a heavy duty metal chain attached to a green Range Rover they had travelled in to tear the front of the cash machine off, causing considerable damage to the walls and doors of the station ticket hall, and stole a number of cash boxes from inside.
As they made their getaway, a 52-year-old pedestrian, who was outside the Queen's pub, was knocked off his feet as the chain following behind their vehicle struck him.
The victim was taken to hospital by ambulance where he received treatment for serious bruising and ligament damage.
The men abandoned the Range Rover nearby and transferred the cash into a black Audi A3 sport which they then drove off in.
Officers believe more than £55,000 of cash was stolen and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to contact officers.
The three men were all dressed in black with balaclavas on and the driver was wearing a black ski mask with the white Nike tick emblem on the left cheek side.
Detective constable for British Transport Police Jon Price said: “This was a shockingly brazen incident and clearly these men had absolutely no regard for the passengers or staff who were in Macclesfield station at the time.
“I would like to appeal to any witnesses who haven’t already spoken to police to get in touch with us as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, could be crucial to our investigation.
“In particular I’d ask anyone who was in the Macclesfield area at the time to check their dashcam footage which may have caught the vehicle leaving the scene or later being abandoned.
“Likewise, please think carefully, have you noticed a sudden change in someone’s financial situation which has aroused suspicion? If so, we’d like to hear from you."
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident number 623 of 16/01/20, or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Manchester United predicted XI vs Burnley

Manchester United welcome Burnley to Old Trafford on Wednesday evening looking to put the weekend 's defeat against Liverpool behind them .
The Reds were unable to make their pressure count at Anfield after Virgil van Dijk 's opener with Anthony Martial missing a wonderful chance before Mohamed Salah raced clear to score with the last kick of the game .
United will take solace in the fact their recent league form at home has been decent - United have scored four goals in their last two games at Old Trafford , the last time the Reds hit four in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November 1997 .
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's men won the reverse fixture 2-0 last month and are looking to do the league double against the Clarets for the first time since 1975/76 .
David de Gea was booked for his protests following Roberto Firmino 's disallowed goal and showed why some United fans feel he should have been made captain .
His save to deny Jordan Henderson in the second half was magnificent but more is still needed from the Spaniard .
Aaron Wan-Bissaka was able to keep Sadio Mane quiet at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he will retain his place at right-back despite Diogo Dalot returning from injury .
In the centre , Harry Maguire will have a new defensive partner if Victor Lindelof fails to recover from illness .
Phil Jones ' disastrous performance against Man City should mean that Eric Bailly returns to make his first appearance for the club since April 2019 .
After featuring at centre-back , Luke Shaw should return to the left of defence to hand youngster Brandon Williams a rest .
Fred was United 's best player in the defeat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justify his enormous price tag .
Injuries to Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay mean Nemanja Matic will partner him in the engine room again .
Solskjaer has a major selection dilemma in the centre with Andreas Pereira and Jesse Lingard both struggling for confidence and form .
Juan Mata 's showing against Wolves should see the Spaniard selected .
Marcus Rashford 's injury could hand more opportunities to Mason Greenwood , starting on Wednesday night .
The youngster has four Premier League goals in just two starts and fans will hope he can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Martial will lead the line , flanked by Daniel James , hoping to atone for his miss that could have rescued a point against their Merseyside rivals .

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
Manchester United welcome Burnley to Old Trafford on Wednesday evening looking to put the weekend's defeat against Liverpool behind them.
The Reds were unable to make their pressure count at Anfield after Virgil van Dijk's opener with Anthony Martial missing a wonderful chance before Mohamed Salah raced clear to score with the last kick of the game.
United will take solace in the fact their recent league form at home has been decent - United have scored four goals in their last two games at Old Trafford, the last time the Reds hit four in three consecutive home league games was in November 1997.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men won the reverse fixture 2-0 last month and are looking to do the league double against the Clarets for the first time since 1975/76.
David de Gea was booked for his protests following Roberto Firmino's disallowed goal and showed why some United fans feel he should have been made captain. His save to deny Jordan Henderson in the second half was magnificent but more is still needed from the Spaniard.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka was able to keep Sadio Mane quiet at the weekend but lacked going forward. Nevertheless, he will retain his place at right-back despite Diogo Dalot returning from injury.
In the centre, Harry Maguire will have a new defensive partner if Victor Lindelof fails to recover from illness. Phil Jones' disastrous performance against Man City should mean that Eric Bailly returns to make his first appearance for the club since April 2019.
After featuring at centre-back, Luke Shaw should return to the left of defence to hand youngster Brandon Williams a rest.
Fred was United's best player in the defeat to Liverpool and is finally starting to justify his enormous price tag. Injuries to Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay mean Nemanja Matic will partner him in the engine room again.
Solskjaer has a major selection dilemma in the centre with Andreas Pereira and Jesse Lingard both struggling for confidence and form. Juan Mata's showing against Wolves should see the Spaniard selected.
Marcus Rashford's injury could hand more opportunities to Mason Greenwood, starting on Wednesday night. The youngster has four Premier League goals in just two starts and fans will hope he can shoulder more responsibility in Rashford's absence.
Martial will lead the line, flanked by Daniel James, hoping to atone for his miss that could have rescued a point against their Merseyside rivals.
Manchester United predicted XI: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Bailly, Shaw; Matic, Fred, Mata; James, Greenwood, Martial.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Hollyoaks fans distraught after popular character Jesse Donovan dies on his wedding day

Hollyoaks fans are raging after the soap killed off much-loved character Jesse Donovan on his wedding day .
The heart-breaking death , due to alcohol poisoning , happened after Jesse drowned his sorrows and knocked back booze after discovering his sister Grace Black shot Mercedes McQueen in the Channel Four soap .
In harrowing scenes Jesse , played by Luke Jerdy , failed to make his way home to his new wife Courtney who was waiting to go on honeymoon with him .
Jesse tried to text Courtney before collapsing and was found by neighbour Martine Deveraux who called her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday night 's E4 episode Mitchell attempted to save Jesse ’ s life , but sadly to no avail .
`` How can you do this to us ?
?
?
Not lovely Jesse , '' tweeted one upset fan .
`` He 's one of the best characters in Hollyoaks .
Finally gets happiness and they kill him off ! ''
raged another .
`` No , no , no !
Do n't kill off Jesse !
!
!
! ''
shouted another viewer .
Luke Jerdy , who played Jesse since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The last four years in Hollyoaks have been the best of my life so far and it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to playing Jesse .
`` I am leaving with the best memories and feel so happy to have been part of the team .
“ The show continues to go from strength to strength and the work is hugely important . ''
He added : `` Jesse ’ s death sadly could happen to anyone and I think we should all be aware of the potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ storyline can help people to stay safe.
” Alcohol education charity Drinkaware said : “ Jesse ’ s death as a result of alcohol poisoning is overwhelmingly tragic , and what Hollyoaks ’ scriptwriters have shown is that the consequences of drinking too much should never be underestimated .
“ If you drink a lot in a short space of time , the concentration of alcohol in the blood can stop the body from working properly , and lead to acute alcohol poisoning .
“ It ’ s crucial to be aware of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help someone quickly , because they won ’ t be in a state to help themselves .
”

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
Hollyoaks fans are raging after the soap killed off much-loved character Jesse Donovan on his wedding day.
The heart-breaking death, due to alcohol poisoning, happened after Jesse drowned his sorrows and knocked back booze after discovering his sister Grace Black shot Mercedes McQueen in the Channel Four soap .
In harrowing scenes Jesse, played by Luke Jerdy, failed to make his way home to his new wife Courtney who was waiting to go on honeymoon with him.
Jesse tried to text Courtney before collapsing and was found by neighbour Martine Deveraux who called her doctor son Mitchell for help.
In Tuesday night's E4 episode Mitchell attempted to save Jesse’s life, but sadly to no avail.
"How can you do this to us??? Not lovely Jesse," tweeted one upset fan.
"He's one of the best characters in Hollyoaks. Finally gets happiness and they kill him off!" raged another.
"No, no, no! Don't kill off Jesse!!!!" shouted another viewer.
Luke Jerdy, who played Jesse since 2016, said about his departure: “The last four years in Hollyoaks have been the best of my life so far and it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to playing Jesse.
(Image: Channel Four)
"I am leaving with the best memories and feel so happy to have been part of the team.
“The show continues to go from strength to strength and the work is hugely important."
He added: "Jesse’s death sadly could happen to anyone and I think we should all be aware of the potential consequences of
drinking too much.
"I hope that the storyline can help people to stay safe.”
Alcohol education charity Drinkaware said: “Jesse’s death as a result of alcohol poisoning is overwhelmingly tragic, and what Hollyoaks’ scriptwriters have shown is that the consequences of drinking too much should never be underestimated.
“If you drink a lot in a short space of time, the concentration of alcohol in the blood can stop the body from working properly, and lead to acute alcohol poisoning.
“It’s crucial to be aware of the signs of alcohol poisoning in order to help someone quickly, because they won’t be in a state to help themselves.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Manchester United transfer target Bruno Fernandes named in Sporting CP line up vs Braga

Bruno Fernandes has started his second game for Sporting CP in five days , as Manchester United continue to explore a January transfer for the playmaker .
United want to sign Fernandes this month , but have reached a stalemate in transfer talks after Sporting suddenly raised their asking price .
Fernandes started in Sporting 's league defeat to rivals Benfica on Friday , playing the entire 90 minutes .
He was again named in the starting XI for the league cup trip to Braga on Tuesday night .
Just as they did on Friday , United fans took to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcing the team .
Like the Benfica team news , fans were hoping Fernandes avoided injury during the game , while others worried that his inclusion was an indication that the deal was under threat .
Before tonight 's game , Sporting assistant Emmanuel Ferro said : `` Bruno trained and being with us will be in the call , '' quoted by A Bola .
`` There is a lot of talk about going to him , I believe that those who are outside feel this more .
We do not feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we do not feel Bruno is going , he is highly competitive and involved with the team .
`` There are no plans B for the team , there is a resolution of circumstances at the moment .
We live with this daily in high competition , whether in training or game situations .
Bruno 's importance in this Sporting is not now , but for some years now . ''

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
Bruno Fernandes has started his second game for Sporting CP in five days, as Manchester United continue to explore a January transfer for the playmaker.
United want to sign Fernandes this month, but have reached a stalemate in transfer talks after Sporting suddenly raised their asking price.
Fernandes started in Sporting's league defeat to rivals Benfica on Friday, playing the entire 90 minutes. He was again named in the starting XI for the league cup trip to Braga on Tuesday night.
Just as they did on Friday, United fans took to Twitter to reply to Sporting's post announcing the team. Like the Benfica team news, fans were hoping Fernandes avoided injury during the game, while others worried that his inclusion was an indication that the deal was under threat.
Before tonight's game, Sporting assistant Emmanuel Ferro said: "Bruno trained and being with us will be in the call," quoted by A Bola.
"There is a lot of talk about going to him, I believe that those who are outside feel this more. We do not feel the question of going and not going, we do not feel Bruno is going, he is highly competitive and involved with the team.
"There are no plans B for the team, there is a resolution of circumstances at the moment. We live with this daily in high competition, whether in training or game situations. Bruno's importance in this Sporting is not now, but for some years now."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--It is the 'jewel in Denton's crown'...but vandals and arsonists are turning a family park into a 'no

It is the 'jewel in Denton's crown'...but vandals and arsonists are turning a family park into a 'no go area'

There are fears that a Tameside park is turning into a 'no go zone ' at night after a spate of arson attacks forced council bosses to lock the gates early and increase security .
Police and fire crews have been called to Victoria Park in Denton at least three times in recent weeks after yobs set fire to the historic bandstand .
The Grade II listed structure is more than 100 years old and is a popular , much-loved landmark .
But since the start of the month it has fallen victim to idiotic youths who torch piles of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flames to take hold .
The most recent incident happened on Monday night .
The following morning , Denton Park Social Bowling Club shared a photo of the burning bandstand on Facebook , writing : `` Third arson attack in a week to Victoria Park Bandstand .
So sad to see Denton Park Green Space becoming a NO GO AREA . ''
Club secretary Tony Moran said both the park and club have been blighted by anti-social behaviour for the last two years .
In 2018 , their clubhouse was burnt down and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fires started on the green .
`` It is sad to see the way the park and club has been subjected to vandalism and criminal damage , '' Tony said .
`` We asked the council to fence off the green but due to austerity we were told we 'd have to fund it ourselves .
`` It is sad that is has got to this point , especially when people have put so much into the club .
`` When the club burnt down there was no bowling for a year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 75+ members .
`` We work with volunteer groups , people who are lonely or who have dementia - people can come along , they do n't have to bowl , just for a cup of tea and a bit of company .
`` But now people are starting to feel threatened and intimidated because of what has been going on and it 's upsetting because we do n't want it to deter people from coming along . ''
On Friday , both Tony and the club chairman will attend a meeting with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Gwynne to forge a plan to tackle the problem .
Mr Gwynne said council bosses were considering bringing in security to keep an eye on things .
He said : `` Victoria Park is the jewel in Denton 's crown and has suffered very little vandalism over the years but in recent weeks the bowling hut has been vandalised and several fires have been lit on the Grade II listed bandstand .
`` Tameside council has now agreed to start locking the park gates at night , as they used to several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considering employing a security presence in the coming days .
`` However I want a long-term solution to this problem which is why I will be convening a meeting this Friday between council officers , the local councillors , the police and the bowling club to see what measures can be actioned to protect the park and restore it once more to the pride of Denton . ''
GMP Tameside 's Chief Inspector Jane Butler confirmed that officers had been called to the park a number of times this month after fires had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said police patrols would be increased as a result .
`` Tameside police are working with Tameside council and GMFRS , '' she added .
`` Tameside council are doing everything they can to secure the park - they are getting it locked up before all other parks ; they have cut back vegetation to open up sightlines across the park and they are clearing up any damage as quickly as they can to ensure the park does n't look uncared for .
`` There will also be an increase in police attendance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days to try and identify those responsible and deter any further incidents .
`` Residents are encouraged to call us with any concerns . ''
A Tameside Council spokesperson said : “ We are very disappointed that a small minority of people are causing criminal damage in Victoria Park , Denton .
`` We have been proactive in ensuring the park is being locked , the resulting damage is quickly cleaned up and the park is well maintained including reducing vegetation to improve sightlines across the park .
`` We have also arranged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the evenings to act as a deterrent .
The Council is committed to working with partners including Greater Manchester Police and the Fire and Rescue Service to stop this current spate of incidents .
`` If any residents know who is causing this damage we urge them to contact the police on 101 and provide them with the relevant information.
” Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .
We have a dedicated Facebook page bringing you all the latest news , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To keep up to date with all that is happening in the area , and to join in the discussion , follow the page here .

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
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Sign up to the MyTameside newsletter here to keep abreast of what's happening in your neighbourhood
There are fears that a Tameside park is turning into a 'no go zone' at night after a spate of arson attacks forced council bosses to lock the gates early and increase security.
Police and fire crews have been called to Victoria Park in Denton at least three times in recent weeks after yobs set fire to the historic bandstand.
The Grade II listed structure is more than 100 years old and is a popular, much-loved landmark.
But since the start of the month it has fallen victim to idiotic youths who torch piles of rubbish and walk off, leaving the flames to take hold.
The most recent incident happened on Monday night.
The following morning, Denton Park Social Bowling Club shared a photo of the burning bandstand on Facebook, writing: "Third arson attack in a week to Victoria Park Bandstand. So sad to see Denton Park Green Space becoming a NO GO AREA."
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Club secretary Tony Moran said both the park and club have been blighted by anti-social behaviour for the last two years.
In 2018, their clubhouse was burnt down and more recently windows have been smashed and fires started on the green.
"It is sad to see the way the park and club has been subjected to vandalism and criminal damage," Tony said.
"We asked the council to fence off the green but due to austerity we were told we'd have to fund it ourselves.
"It is sad that is has got to this point, especially when people have put so much into the club.
"When the club burnt down there was no bowling for a year, now it is back and we have 75+ members.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"We work with volunteer groups, people who are lonely or who have dementia - people can come along, they don't have to bowl, just for a cup of tea and a bit of company.
"But now people are starting to feel threatened and intimidated because of what has been going on and it's upsetting because we don't want it to deter people from coming along."
On Friday, both Tony and the club chairman will attend a meeting with police, Tameside council and Denton MP Andrew Gwynne to forge a plan to tackle the problem.
Mr Gwynne said council bosses were considering bringing in security to keep an eye on things.
(Image: Denton Park Social Bowling Club)
He said: "Victoria Park is the jewel in Denton's crown and has suffered very little vandalism over the years but in recent weeks the bowling hut has been vandalised and several fires have been lit on the Grade II listed bandstand.
"Tameside council has now agreed to start locking the park gates at night, as they used to several years ago.
"They're also considering employing a security presence in the coming days.
"However I want a long-term solution to this problem which is why I will be convening a meeting this Friday between council officers, the local councillors, the police and the bowling club to see what measures can be actioned to protect the park and restore it once more to the pride of Denton."
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
GMP Tameside's Chief Inspector Jane Butler confirmed that officers had been called to the park a number of times this month after fires had been lit on the bandstand. She said police patrols would be increased as a result.
"Tameside police are working with Tameside council and GMFRS," she added.
"Tameside council are doing everything they can to secure the park - they are getting it locked up before all other parks; they have cut back vegetation to open up sightlines across the park and they are clearing up any damage as quickly as they can to ensure the park doesn't look uncared for.
"There will also be an increase in police attendance in this area over the next few days to try and identify those responsible and deter any further incidents.
(Image: Denton Park Social Bowling Club)
"Residents are encouraged to call us with any concerns."
A Tameside Council spokesperson said: “We are very disappointed that a small minority of people are causing criminal damage in Victoria Park, Denton.
"We have been proactive in ensuring the park is being locked, the resulting damage is quickly cleaned up and the park is well maintained including reducing vegetation to improve sightlines across the park.
"We have also arranged for a security presence in the park for the evenings to act as a deterrent. The Council is committed to working with partners including Greater Manchester Police and the Fire and Rescue Service to stop this current spate of incidents.
"If any residents know who is causing this damage we urge them to contact the police on 101 and provide them with the relevant information.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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 the area, and to join in the discussion, follow the page here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Man dies and woman seriously hurt in horror crash on East Lancs Road...a HGV driver has been arreste

Man dies and woman seriously hurt in horror crash on East Lancs Road...a HGV driver has been arrested

A man has been arrested after a fatal crash in Leigh .
A 58-year-old man died at the scene following the crash on the East Lancashire Road .
The collision , between a HGV and a Toyota car , happened at 10.20am this morning ( Tuesday ) .
The HGV was travelling towards Manchester when it crashed with the Toyota Corolla that was turning right onto the A580 .
Despite the best efforts of paramedics , the driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene .
A 56-year-old woman , who was also in the Toyota , suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for treatment .
The driver of the HGV , a 28-year-old man , was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving .
He remains in police custody for questioning .
The road remains closed while an investigation is carried out .
It is expected to open 'in the next couple of hours ' , police said .
Detectives are asking anyone with dashcam footage to get in touch .
Sgt Darren Hancock , of GMP ’ s Serious Collision Investigation Unit , said : “ This was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the victims ’ family and specialist officers are supporting them .
“ We know the East Lancs is a busy road so we are hoping members of the public can assist us with our enquiries by providing us with vital information and/ or dash cam footage .
“ I would also like to thank members of the public for their patience as we have responded to this collision .
I appreciate that closing a busy road for a number of hours can inconvenience people , but I hope the public understand that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and thoroughly investigate , providing those affected with much needed answers.
” Anyone with information is asked to contact GMP ’ s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting 890 of January 21 .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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
A man has been arrested after a fatal crash in Leigh.
A 58-year-old man died at the scene following the crash on the East Lancashire Road.
The collision, between a HGV and a Toyota car, happened at 10.20am this morning (Tuesday).
The HGV was travelling towards Manchester when it crashed with the Toyota Corolla that was turning right onto the A580.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, the driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 56-year-old woman, who was also in the Toyota, suffered serious injuries.
She remains in hospital for treatment.
The driver of the HGV, a 28-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
He remains in police custody for questioning.
The road remains closed while an investigation is carried out.
It is expected to open 'in the next couple of hours', police said.
Detectives are asking anyone with dashcam footage to get in touch.
(Image: Google Maps)
Sgt Darren Hancock, of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This was a devastating incident - our thoughts are with the victims’ family and specialist officers are supporting them.
“We know the East Lancs is a busy road so we are hoping members of the public can assist us with our enquiries by providing us with vital information and/ or dash cam footage.
“I would also like to thank members of the public for their patience as we have responded to this collision. I appreciate that closing a busy road for a number of hours can inconvenience people, but I hope the public understand that it is necessary in order us to properly and thoroughly investigate, providing those affected with much needed answers.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting 890 of January 21.
Alternatively, call the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-21--Police step up investigation after rabbit and guinea pig thefts continue

A spate of pet thefts in Rochdale is continuing with even more families devastated over the loss of their beloved pets .
We reported in December how families were demanding action over numerous thefts of rabbits and guinea pigs .
More than a dozen people had reported their pets missing from hutches in their back gardens around the areas of Milnrow , Newhey , Kingsway , Spotland , Castleton , Moorland and Firgrove .
It came after we highlighted one of the first thefts back in October when a thief jumped over Natalie Clegg 's garden wall and crawled into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arthur .
CCTV footage captured the man crawling on all fours in the garden in Windsor Terrace , in Milnrow , before taking Arthur , and leaving his mate Olive behind .
Then just before Christmas a thief got into the back garden of the property in Percy Street , off Kingsway , and took bunnies Chocolate and Snowflake .
Now there have been even more incidents , including the theft of a rabbit a fortnight ago and the theft of two guinea pigs from the Foxholes Road area on Sunday .
Nicola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grandson 's guinea pigs Winnie and Wilma had been snatched from the hutch in her garden .
She ca n't bring herself to tell the 10-year-old what 's happened .
`` It was his birthday on the day they were taken so we could n't tell him , '' said Nicola .
`` I just found the cage open .
He loves animals and wants to be a vet when he is older , his mum has told him my friend who has a farm has taken them so they can run free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joined a group on Facebook to share details of their stolen pets and compile any evidence .
Some have reported the thief returning within a couple of weeks , looking to see whether stolen pets have been replaced .
`` Sadly I feel it could be for food , '' said Nicola .
`` I think it ’ s 19 that have actually been reported to the police , but how many haven ’ t god knows .
`` I ’ ve been made aware also that he is returning to the property @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the animals have been replaced .
`` I definitely won ’ t be getting any more .
I can ’ t be telling the grandchildren when something horrible happens like this . ''
Another resident 's CCTV captured a man crawling around near the hutch in her garden in the early hours of Saturday .
Thankfully she had taken her son 's rabbits inside after hearing about the recent thefts .
Police have confirmed there have been 19 such incidents since October and have now appointed an officer to deal specifically with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neighbourhood sergeant for Rochdale East , said : `` These incidents have caused a great deal of upset to families who have had their pets stolen and I can imagine how difficult that will have been particularly for those with young children .
`` We have been carrying out work in relation to these offences to identify the offender .
`` Given the number of offences and lines of enquiry which need to be investigated I have taken the decision to have one officer as the single point of contact for these crimes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PC Owen can be contacted by calling 0161 856 8549 or by emailing RochdaleEast @ gmp.police.uk . ''
He added : `` Finally , I would ask that people contact PC Owen about any CCTV or other information they have rather than posting it on social media .
`` There have been instances recently of CCTV being posted and shared on social media but not being sent to the police and there is every chance that the offender will be monitoring social media posts .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Rochdale news sign up to the MyRochdale newsletter here
Something went wrong, please try again later.
To keep up with Rochdale news sign up to the MyRochdale newsletter here
A spate of pet thefts in Rochdale is continuing with even more families devastated over the loss of their beloved pets.
We reported in December how families were demanding action over numerous thefts of rabbits and guinea pigs.
More than a dozen people had reported their pets missing from hutches in their back gardens around the areas of Milnrow, Newhey, Kingsway, Spotland, Castleton, Moorland and Firgrove.
(Image: Natalie Clegg)
It came after we highlighted one of the first thefts back in October when a thief jumped over Natalie Clegg's garden wall and crawled into an outhouse to steal her pet rabbit Arthur.
CCTV footage captured the man crawling on all fours in the garden in Windsor Terrace, in Milnrow, before taking Arthur, and leaving his mate Olive behind.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Then just before Christmas a thief got into the back garden of the property in Percy Street, off Kingsway, and took bunnies Chocolate and Snowflake.
Now there have been even more incidents, including the theft of a rabbit a fortnight ago and the theft of two guinea pigs from the Foxholes Road area on Sunday.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Nicola Leach was shocked when she discovered her grandson's guinea pigs Winnie and Wilma had been snatched from the hutch in her garden.
She can't bring herself to tell the 10-year-old what's happened.
"It was his birthday on the day they were taken so we couldn't tell him," said Nicola.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"I just found the cage open. He loves animals and wants to be a vet when he is older, his mum has told him my friend who has a farm has taken them so they can run free in her barn."
Residents have joined a group on Facebook to share details of their stolen pets and compile any evidence.
Some have reported the thief returning within a couple of weeks, looking to see whether stolen pets have been replaced.
"Sadly I feel it could be for food," said Nicola. "I think it’s 19 that have actually been reported to the police, but how many haven’t god knows.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
"I’ve been made aware also that he is returning to the property a few weeks after in the hope that the animals have been replaced.
"I definitely won’t be getting any more. I can’t be telling the grandchildren when something horrible happens like this."
Another resident's CCTV captured a man crawling around near the hutch in her garden in the early hours of Saturday.
Thankfully she had taken her son's rabbits inside after hearing about the recent thefts.
Police have confirmed there have been 19 such incidents since October and have now appointed an officer to deal specifically with the thefts.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Sergeant Brendan Walsh, neighbourhood sergeant for Rochdale East, said: " These incidents have caused a great deal of upset to families who have had their pets stolen and I can imagine how difficult that will have been particularly for those with young children.
"We have been carrying out work in relation to these offences to identify the offender.
"Given the number of offences and lines of enquiry which need to be investigated I have taken the decision to have one officer as the single point of contact for these crimes which will be PC Victoria Owen. PC Owen can be contacted by calling 0161 856 8549 or by emailing RochdaleEast@gmp.police.uk."
He added: " Finally, I would ask that people contact PC Owen about any CCTV or other information they have rather than posting it on social media.
"There have been instances recently of CCTV being posted and shared on social media but not being sent to the police and there is every chance that the offender will be monitoring social media posts.”


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-22--Manchester United player can prove club decision makers right vs Burnley

With Ander Herrera 's departure long since confirmed , Juan Mata entered the final two weeks of his previous Manchester United contract in a strong bargaining position .
United 's dour form towards the end of last season was compounded by their failure to keep hold of perhaps their most dependable midfielder .
Spain international Herrera , with his United contract due to expire at the end of the 2018-19 campaign , had been free to negotiate a transfer with overseas clubs from January 1 .
It was only when it became apparent that the Basque midfielder was seriously considering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to persuade him to stay .
It was too late , though , and it was confirmed on May 11 that Herrera , a player widely viewed as a serious contender to replace Antonio Valencia , would be leaving for free at the end of June .
Pressure subsequently mounted on the club to guard against something similar happening with another fan favourite .
Mata , one of the club 's longest-serving players , was also facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford , with United initially unwilling to cave to his demands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy , generally , is to offer players aged 30 and over one-year contracts with the option of an additional year that rests with the club .
The player had the power , though , and Mata was granted his wish : two years with an additional year .
Had United not dropped the ball on Herrera , it might have been a different story .
United 's decision to retain Mata appeared questionable for much of this season as he started just five of the club 's first 21 Premier League matches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in each of them .
When he was named in United 's team to face Norwich earlier this month , Mata 's selection was greeted with derision by some fans on Twitter who would rather have seen Mason Greenwood start in his place .
A majestic performance from the Spaniard silenced his critics and four days later he was the hero again , netting United 's winner in their FA Cup victory over Norwich at Old Trafford .
Mata was perhaps unfortunate not to retain his place in the team for Sunday 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intensity over guile , but he should be restored to the XI against Burnley on Wednesday night .
Mata is United 's craftiest creator and is one of few players in this disappointing United squad who can legitimately claim to possess world-class talent in his boots .
Another strong showing against Burnley will go further to justifying United 's decision to bow to his demands .
How United should line up vs Burnley : De Gea ; Wan-Bissaka , Bailly , Maguire , Williams ; Fred , Matic ; Greenwood , Mata , @ @ @

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
With Ander Herrera's departure long since confirmed, Juan Mata entered the final two weeks of his previous Manchester United contract in a strong bargaining position.
United's dour form towards the end of last season was compounded by their failure to keep hold of perhaps their most dependable midfielder.
Spain international Herrera, with his United contract due to expire at the end of the 2018-19 campaign, had been free to negotiate a transfer with overseas clubs from January 1.
It was only when it became apparent that the Basque midfielder was seriously considering a move to France that United attempted to persuade him to stay.
It was too late, though, and it was confirmed on May 11 that Herrera, a player widely viewed as a serious contender to replace Antonio Valencia, would be leaving for free at the end of June.
Pressure subsequently mounted on the club to guard against something similar happening with another fan favourite.
Mata, one of the club's longest-serving players, was also facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford, with United initially unwilling to cave to his demands of a two-year contract.
United's policy, generally, is to offer players aged 30 and over one-year contracts with the option of an additional year that rests with the club.
The player had the power, though, and Mata was granted his wish: two years with an additional year. Had United not dropped the ball on Herrera, it might have been a different story.
(Image: Soccrates Images)
United's decision to retain Mata appeared questionable for much of this season as he started just five of the club's first 21 Premier League matches and was hooked by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in each of them.
When he was named in United's team to face Norwich earlier this month, Mata's selection was greeted with derision by some fans on Twitter who would rather have seen Mason Greenwood start in his place.
A majestic performance from the Spaniard silenced his critics and four days later he was the hero again, netting United's winner in their FA Cup victory over Norwich at Old Trafford.
Mata was perhaps unfortunate not to retain his place in the team for Sunday's trip to Anfield, where Solskjaer favoured intensity over guile, but he should be restored to the XI against Burnley on Wednesday night.
Mata is United's craftiest creator and is one of few players in this disappointing United squad who can legitimately claim to possess world-class talent in his boots.
Another strong showing against Burnley will go further to justifying United's decision to bow to his demands.
How United should line up vs Burnley: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Bailly, Maguire, Williams; Fred, Matic; Greenwood, Mata, Lingard; Martial


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-22--Widow of man killed on smart motorway launches legal fight to ban them

A grieving widow has begun a legal fight to stop any more smart motorways being brought in after her husband 's death on the M1 .
Claire Mercer is taking a legal challenge to the High Court after Jason was hit by a lorry on a smart section of the M1 .
Smart motorways are stretches of motorway without hard shoulders as the lane is used for traffic .
Jason , 44 , had been involved in a minor collision close to junction 34 of the motorway in South Yorkshire .
As he pulled over to exchange details with motorist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no hard shoulder as it is ALR ( all lanes running ) .
The pair were pronounced dead at the scene .
Read more of today 's top stories here Although they had pulled over as far as they could , after they left their vehicles a lorry collided with the pair and they were pronounced dead at the scene .
Five people have died on that section of the M1 in the last year .
Claire 's instructed lawyers to bring a legal case against Highways England calling for the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former hard shoulders were used - to be stopped .
The 43-year-old from Broom , Rotherham , said : `` I fell to the floor when I was told that Jason had died and don ’ t know if I will ever be able to come to terms with his death .
`` He was a truly wonderful man and our entire family is still trying to comprehend how this happened .
`` Because this section of motorway is ALR there was no hard shoulder and they were not to know the nearest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a mile away .
`` Every time you ravel on an ALR it 's like playing Russian roulette with your life .
You could be the best driver in the world but if you break down you 're just a sitting duck . ''
She claims the technology on this section and 80 per cent of smart motorways `` is not capable of detecting when only a few cars stop in live lanes '' .
`` So the lane was n't closed until six minutes after Jason and Alexandru had been knocked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me save lives by helping to fund my legal challenge . ''
A 16-mile stretch of the M1 between junction 32 – the M18 - and junction 35a , near the Meadowhall Shopping Centre , is ALR .
Emergency refuges are based around a mile apart .
Overhead signs indicate the speed limit and whether a lane is closed .
She added : `` Smart motorways and ALRs in particular are clearly very dangerous and something needs to be done .
`` Jason was an amazing , multi-faceted man who stood out in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equality and he fought to defend his and other rights . ''
He was a man who loved all types of music - from classical music to heavy rock .
`` He worked hard , drank knowledge in like a sponge and defined his worth by his ability to look after me and others .
`` My family , his sister ’ s family and I have lost an absolute diamond , in the cruellest manner .
`` The only thing that helps us while we try to come to terms with this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same happening to others . ''
Helen Smith , a specialist public law and human rights solicitor at Irwin Mitchell , said : `` Claire has suffered a truly unspeakable loss in recent months and is understandably determined to gain answers regarding how Jason ’ s death could have happened .
`` The safety of smart motorways which operate without a hard shoulder has been called into question on a number of occasions in recent years and the number of fatalities on such routes both locally and nationwide is a major cause for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do everything we can to support Claire and other families who have been affected by the use of smart motorways .
We hope that people are able to back her campaign as she looks to take this legal action forward . ''
Claire has launched a crowdfunding appeal as part of her campaign and is hoping to raise £20,000 to support the legal challenge .
In the North West , stretches of the M6 , M60 and M62 have been converted to smart motorways .
Work is currently underway to convert the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Motorways , as well as further schemes on the M62 and M6 .
Last year , nine people died on the Smart Motorway network , including five fatalities in 10 months on the M1 near Sheffield .
An average of 26 motorists break down daily on smart motorways , according to government figures .
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device .
You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here .
And you can follow us on Facebook here .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Ashley Pemberton, Helen Carter)

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
A grieving widow has begun a legal fight to stop any more smart motorways being brought in after her husband's death on the M1.
Claire Mercer is taking a legal challenge to the High Court after Jason was hit by a lorry on a smart section of the M1.
Smart motorways are stretches of motorway where the hard shoulder is sometimes used as a lane for traffic.
Jason, 44, had been involved in a minor collision close to junction 34 of the motorway in South Yorkshire.
As he pulled over to exchange details with motorist Alexandru Murgreanu, 22, there was no hard shoulder as it is ALR (all lanes running).
The pair were pronounced dead at the scene.
Although they had pulled over as far as they could, after they left their vehicles a lorry collided with the pair and they were pronounced dead at the scene.
Five people have died on that section of the M1 in the last year.
Claire's instructed lawyers to bring a legal case against Highways England calling for the use of smart motorways - including ALR routes where former hard shoulders were used - to be stopped.
The 43-year-old from Broom, Rotherham, said: "I fell to the floor when I was told that Jason had died and don’t know if I will ever be able to come to terms with his death.
"He was a truly wonderful man and our entire family is still trying to comprehend how this happened.
(Image: Manchester Evening News.)
"Because this section of motorway is ALR there was no hard shoulder and they were not to know the nearest emergency refuge area was out of sight, a mile away.
"Every time you ravel on an ALR it's like playing Russian roulette with your life. You could be the best driver in the world but if you break down you're just a sitting duck."
She claims the technology on this section and 80 per cent of smart motorways "is not capable of detecting when only a few cars stop in live lanes".
"So the lane wasn't closed until six minutes after Jason and Alexandru had been knocked down.
"I hope people help me save lives by helping to fund my legal challenge."
A 16-mile stretch of the M1 between junction 32 – the M18 - and junction 35a, near the Meadowhall Shopping Centre, is ALR.
Emergency refuges are based around a mile apart. Overhead signs indicate the speed limit and whether a lane is closed.
She added: "Smart motorways and ALRs in particular are clearly very dangerous and something needs to be done.
"Jason was an amazing, multi-faceted man who stood out in a crowd.
"He believed in equality and he fought to defend his and other rights." He was a man who loved all types of music - from classical music to heavy rock.
(Image: SWNS)
"He worked hard, drank knowledge in like a sponge and defined his worth by his ability to look after me and others.
"My family, his sister’s family and I have lost an absolute diamond, in the cruellest manner.
"The only thing that helps us while we try to come to terms with this loss, is trying to stop the same happening to others."
Helen Smith, a specialist public law and human rights solicitor at Irwin Mitchell, said: "Claire has suffered a truly unspeakable loss in recent months and is understandably determined to gain answers regarding how Jason’s death could have happened.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"The safety of smart motorways which operate without a hard shoulder has been called into question on a number of occasions in recent years and the number of fatalities on such routes both locally and nationwide is a major cause for concern."
"We are determined to do everything we can to support Claire and other families who have been affected by the use of smart motorways. We hope that people are able to back her campaign as she looks to take this legal action forward."
Claire has launched a crowdfunding appeal as part of her campaign and is hoping to raise £20,000 to support the legal challenge.
In the North West, stretches of the M6, M60 and M62 have been converted to smart motorways.
Work is currently underway to convert the M56 around Manchester Airport into a Smart Motorways, as well as further schemes on the M62 and M6.
Last year, nine people died on the Smart Motorway network, including five fatalities in 10 months on the M1 near Sheffield.
An average of 26 motorists break down daily on smart motorways, according to government figures.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here. And you can follow us on Facebook here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-22--Marcus Rashford gives Manchester United injury update

Marcus Rashford said he hopes to back before the end of the season to help with Manchester United 's push to get in the top four .
There were fears the England international could be ruled out until the next campaign after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could n't offer assurances on how long he would be out for .
The Norwegian was asked if the 22-year-old would feature again this season and refused to rule out a lengthy lay off .
`` Marcus is going to get as long as he needs to get fit , ” Solskjaer replied .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when he has had an injury .
“ I have got the best medical staff in the country and I am sure when Marcus comes back he will be 100 percent fit.
” But Rashford took to social media on Wednesday morning , ahead of United 's game against Burnley , to offer fans some reassurance over his lay off .
`` I 'll be back before the season ends to hopefully help me team claim top four , '' he wrote .
Rashford is suffering from a double back fracture and Solskjaer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the England international off the bench during United 's FA Cup third round replay against Wolves at Old Trafford last week , with many believing it aggravated a previous knock .
However , the United manager moved to hit back at his critics and clarify the situation with the attacker .
`` No , I never put myself before the team , '' Solskjaer said , who clarified Rashford would not require surgery to repair the double fracture to his back .
`` I always put the team and the club before anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here with Marcus , he 's had minor discomfort in his back since the Burnley game .
That 's maybe two weeks [ actually three weeks ] before this game .
`` We 've had scans , we 've monitored him .
There 's not been any injury there .
He 's had complaints , yeah .
I had a discussion and conversation with him the day before or two days before : 'FA Cup , I 'm going to rest you ' .
He felt fine .
`` He was very , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least do half-an-hour because we want to go through in the Cup because it 's a big tournament for us .
That just shows you Marcus 's attitude .
That was the second day after we played Norwich .
`` He had an extra day of treatment and recovery inside because we wanted to give him all the chance to be ready for the coming games .
That 's why we rested him .
He had no complaints training the day before the game , he did really well .
He looked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if it was okay to be on the bench , no problem .
He wanted to come on .
It 's just one of those unfortunate things . ''

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

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox
Marcus Rashford said he hopes to back before the end of the season to help with Manchester United's push to get in the top four.
There were fears the England international could be ruled out until the next campaign after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer couldn't offer assurances on how long he would be out for.
The Norwegian was asked if the 22-year-old would feature again this season and refused to rule out a lengthy lay off.
"Marcus is going to get as long as he needs to get fit,” Solskjaer replied. “We are not going to risk him when he has had an injury.
“I have got the best medical staff in the country and I am sure when Marcus comes back he will be 100 percent fit.”
But Rashford took to social media on Wednesday morning, ahead of United's game against Burnley, to offer fans some reassurance over his lay off.
"I'll be back before the season ends to hopefully help me team claim top four," he wrote.
Rashford is suffering from a double back fracture and Solskjaer has come in for criticism for bringing the England international off the bench during United's FA Cup third round replay against Wolves at Old Trafford last week, with many believing it aggravated a previous knock.
However, the United manager moved to hit back at his critics and clarify the situation with the attacker.
"No, I never put myself before the team," Solskjaer said, who clarified Rashford would not require surgery to repair the double fracture to his back. "I always put the team and the club before anything else. What we've discussed before here with Marcus, he's had minor discomfort in his back since the Burnley game. That's maybe two weeks [actually three weeks] before this game.
"We've had scans, we've monitored him. There's not been any injury there. He's had complaints, yeah. I had a discussion and conversation with him the day before or two days before: 'FA Cup, I'm going to rest you'. He felt fine.
"He was very, very adamant that if needed he could at least do half-an-hour because we want to go through in the Cup because it's a big tournament for us. That just shows you Marcus's attitude. That was the second day after we played Norwich.
"He had an extra day of treatment and recovery inside because we wanted to give him all the chance to be ready for the coming games. That's why we rested him. He had no complaints training the day before the game, he did really well. He looked very free and when I asked him if it was okay to be on the bench, no problem. He wanted to come on. It's just one of those unfortunate things."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-22--Council gets top award for its support of armed services veterans

A scheme that supports armed forces veterans in Trafford has won a top national award .
Trafford Council 's Defence Employer Recognition Scheme gives those who have served their country support with their education and family well-being , provides them with homes and jobs , assists them with accessing healthcare and gives them financial support .
The programme has now received national praise as it received the Covenant Fold Award ; the highest recognition for organisations that have signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant ; which commits an organisation to give outstanding support to former servicemen and women .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the defence community access government and commercial services in particular .
A spokesperson for Trafford Council said : `` Trafford has a positive culture towards employing former servicemen and women , as well as serving reserves .
`` All serving reserves have an extra 10 days ’ paid leave each year to enable them to meet their armed forces commitment , which is 15 days ’ of continuous training and six training weekends . ''
Diane Eaton , corporate director for adult services , Coun Judith Lloyd and armed forces lead Sue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council .
Coun Lloyd , Trafford Council ’ s armed forces champion , said : “ It was a wonderful event .
I am so proud about winning this award which shows that we are fully behind armed forces staff , veterans and their families .
`` They put their lives on the line for us – and we should , and do , help them as much as we can in their everyday lives.
” Ben Wallace , Secretary of State for Defence , said : “ These awards recognise the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employer across Britain and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one.
” Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news .
We are also on Instagram .
If you are on the go , the M.E.N .
app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live .
Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor-made to bring you the latest on what matters to you .
Breaking news , the latest on your football club , the pick of the week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - you can tailor the app to suit you .
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first .

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
A scheme that supports armed forces veterans in Trafford has won a top national award.
Trafford Council's Defence Employer Recognition Scheme gives those who have served their country support with their education and family well-being, provides them with homes and jobs, assists them with accessing healthcare and gives them financial support.
The programme has now received national praise as it received the Covenant Fold Award; the highest recognition for organisations that have signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant; which commits an organisation to give outstanding support to former servicemen and women.
The Gold Award focuses on helping members of the defence community access government and commercial services in particular.
A spokesperson for Trafford Council said: "Trafford has a positive culture towards employing former servicemen and women, as well as serving reserves.
"All serving reserves have an extra 10 days’ paid leave each year to enable them to meet their armed forces commitment, which is 15 days’ of continuous training and six training weekends."
Diane Eaton, corporate director for adult services, Coun Judith Lloyd and armed forces lead Sue Wright received the award on behalf of the council.
Coun Lloyd, Trafford Council’s armed forces champion, said: “It was a wonderful event. I am so proud about winning this award which shows that we are fully behind armed forces staff, veterans and their families.
"They put their lives on the line for us – and we should, and do, help them as much as we can in their everyday lives.”
Ben Wallace, Secretary of State for Defence, said: “These awards recognise the outstanding support for our armed forces from employer across Britain and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one.”
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram .
If you are on the go, the M.E.N. app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live. Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor-made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Breaking news, the latest on your football club, the pick of the week’s events and the latest travel - you can tailor the app to suit you. Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-01-22--Aymeric Laporte analyses why Man City have failed to keep pace with Liverpool FC

Aymeric Laporte has been forced to watch Manchester City ’ s Premier League crown slipping away from a seat in the stands for the past four months .
And that means the France defender has had a grandstand view of why the Blues have not been as good as they were last season , and have slipped to 13 points behind leaders Liverpool , who also have two games in hand .
Laporte returned from his cruciate ligament injury to help City to a 1-0 win – their first clean sheet for a month – and managed 75 minutes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is expected to be involved again on Sunday , when Fulham visit the Etihad Stadium for an FA Cup fourth round tie , and is then hoping he can be involved against Manchester United in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final next Wednesday .
Laporte ’ s absence has been pinpointed as a major reason for City ’ s leaky defence , and for their failure to keep pace with Liverpool – and his return is a boost ahead of the resumption of the Champions League , with a last-16 trip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Laporte has had the frustrating task of having to sit through defeats by inferior teams , with City keeping just six clean sheets in 18 Premier League and Champions League games in his absence .
And he offered two reasons why the Blues have not quite been at the races in the league this season .
“ It ’ s been tough watching from the stands , but it ’ s never easy , ” said the 25-year-old .
“ The last two years were very , very tough but this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some transfers .
“ Others have improved , and they have studied us , too .
It gets more difficult every year so we have to stay focussed , work a lot and concentrate , and be more like we have in the last two years , and try to win every single game.
” Laporte ’ s inclusion against the Blades was a surprise – he had been lined up to return against Fulham this weekend .
But with John Stones injured and manager Pep Guardiola keen to play three at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the medical staff .
But Laporte admits that they have jumped the gun on the original return plan : “ Normally it would have been later but I tried today , and I spoke with the manager and he told me he wanted me to play today .
I ’ m happy to back as soon as possible , and get some minutes earlier than it was .
“ I don ’ t know if I ’ ll be ready for 90 against United - you ’ d have to ask the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the team .
It ’ s for the manager to decide everything.
” Laporte returned with some powerful words of praise from Guardiola ringing in his ears .
The manager described Laporte as the “ best centre back , left , in the world ” - meaning the best left-footed centre back .
Laporte was abashed when told of the comment , and said : “ You have to ask him , but it ’ s very good for me coming from a manager who is one of the best in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I am very happy to hear it but I have to work to be this .
I have to keep going to stay there .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Aymeric Laporte has been forced to watch Manchester City’s Premier League crown slipping away from a seat in the stands for the past four months.
And that means the France defender has had a grandstand view of why the Blues have not been as good as they were last season, and have slipped to 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have two games in hand.
Laporte returned from his cruciate ligament injury to help City to a 1-0 win – their first clean sheet for a month – and managed 75 minutes in that win at Bramall Lane.
He is expected to be involved again on Sunday, when Fulham visit the Etihad Stadium for an FA Cup fourth round tie, and is then hoping he can be involved against Manchester United in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final next Wednesday.
Laporte’s absence has been pinpointed as a major reason for City’s leaky defence, and for their failure to keep pace with Liverpool – and his return is a boost ahead of the resumption of the Champions League, with a last-16 trip to Real Madrid on February 26.
But Laporte has had the frustrating task of having to sit through defeats by inferior teams, with City keeping just six clean sheets in 18 Premier League and Champions League games in his absence.
And he offered two reasons why the Blues have not quite been at the races in the league this season.
(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
“It’s been tough watching from the stands, but it’s never easy,” said the 25-year-old. “The last two years were very, very tough but this year other teams have improved, have made some transfers.
“Others have improved, and they have studied us, too. It gets more difficult every year so we have to stay focussed, work a lot and concentrate, and be more like we have in the last two years, and try to win every single game.”
Laporte’s inclusion against the Blades was a surprise – he had been lined up to return against Fulham this weekend.
But with John Stones injured and manager Pep Guardiola keen to play three at the back, he was given the all-clear by the medical staff.
But Laporte admits that they have jumped the gun on the original return plan: “Normally it would have been later but I tried today, and I spoke with the manager and he told me he wanted me to play today. I’m happy to back as soon as possible, and get some minutes earlier than it was.
“I don’t know if I’ll be ready for 90 against United - you’d have to ask the manager, but I will be there with the team. It’s for the manager to decide everything.”
Laporte returned with some powerful words of praise from Guardiola ringing in his ears.
The manager described Laporte as the “best centre back, left, in the world” - meaning the best left-footed centre back.
Laporte was abashed when told of the comment, and said: “You have to ask him, but it’s very good for me coming from a manager who is one of the best in the world, if not the best.
“I am very happy to hear it but I have to work to be this. I have to keep going to stay there.”