themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Man City chief answers critics and explains transfer strategy

Manchester City 's COO has spent 50 minutes discussing the club 's transfer business in the past , the present and the future when he is asked if there is ever time to pause .
The answer , of course , is no - and you suspect that is exactly the way Berrada likes it .
City have just reached the end of a transfer window where they believe they hit all of their objectives , strengthening key areas of the team that were planned before the pandemic hit the sport and the wider world but `` executed in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way '' .
Yet already attention has moved on ; there are crucial decisions looming for both Pep Guardiola and Sergio Aguero , while Lionel Messi could be a free agent in months after coming closer than ever to leaving Barcelona this summer .
Initial verdicts on the most recent window have been mixed .
City spent more than £120m on strengthening but also have also counted £75m in player sales , leaving a healthy net spend of £45m .
They are generally accepted to have made three excellent acquisitions but some supporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midfield and up front while from outside the club and sport there has been extra focus on the morality of football teams spending millions of pounds while the world is in crisis .
Coronavirus quickly came onto City 's radar in the early months of 2020 and they acknowledge that they have to continue to monitor it - the longer fans are not allowed back into the Etihad , the more danger that those lost revenues could impact on budgets - yet at the same time it could not drive their thinking in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transitional with Blues bosses expecting its impact to dwindle before next season , so can not be allowed to detract from the number one objective of ensuring they have a team capable of winning the Premier League .
More importantly , the planning for the window is done months and years in advance - as the signings of Zack Steffen and Bernardo Silva to replace Claudio Bravo and David Silva respectively show - and the potential consequences of the pandemic did not change the long-term approach of conscious spending .
If there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not being seen to spend excessively , City were ready for it .
`` We have a clear plan , we are not reactive to certain situations , we have a very clear idea of what the valuation is for every player , we 've said and I think it has been demonstrated that when we think a deal does n't make sense we walk away from it and when we think it does n't make sense to sell a player because he can have worth we do n't sell .
`` Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid crisis and we were able to execute them .
`` When you say the optics , we 've been saying for many years now that our goal is to be financially sustainable and we have been financially sustainable and Manchester City has been profitable .
`` If our net spend is low comparatively to other rivals - I think we 're seventh for net spend this season and it has also been one of our lowest net spends of recent seasons - it is not a reaction to anything , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knew the position we wanted to get , what players would potentially be sold but it is also the work that has been done over the last years to build a very strong squad that does n't require so much investment to be competing at the highest level . ''
This summer , City demonstrated three of their core principles in the market : attaching a value to every single target that they wo n't go above , weighing up the benefit of selling current players against the worth in keeping them , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can add to a squad that is already very talented .
Ruben Dias is the club 's new record signing with £62m paid up front to Benfica and did n't arrive until three games into the season , despite centre-back being a priority after failing to replace Vincent Kompany last year .
Given that , would n't it have been easier to secure either Dias , Kalidou Koulibaly or Jose Gimenez for more money and earlier in the window ?
`` That could have been the temptation but it was n't .
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when you get it wrong it has a significant impact over many years so we needed to get it right at the right valuation at the right time but more importantly for the right player .
`` In the same way that we did n't rush into buying a centre-back last season after not wanting to sign [ Harry ] Maguire for that valuation , this summer we had a very clear idea of what we wanted and fortunately we got the player we wanted at the valuation that we wanted . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ better if they had taken Barcelona 's money for Eric Garcia - a 19-year-old defender who will see fewer minutes because of the arrival of Dias and Nathan Ake and had his heart set on a return to the Nou Camp - yet it was deemed more valuable from both a financial and football view to keep him rather than accept a much lower offer for him .
With the striker , midfield , and left-back situations , Berrada says it is very difficult to improve on a squad that contains so many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We believe that we have a top left-back , a specialist in Benjamin Mendy who unfortunately has had two serious injuries that have impacted his career with us so far but we believe that he is going to be a very important player .
`` Hopefully he will be injury-free this year and show his maximum potential .
Aleks has done an extremely good job in the left-back position .
It 's not his natural position but whenever he has played there he has done a really good job .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playing left-back and not only that but with the acquisition of Ake we now have five players that can potentially play in that position : Mendy , Zinchenko , Ake , [ Aymeric ] Laporte who is also left-footed and can potentially play in that position , and [ Joao ] Cancelo did it last season a few times and in the left-back position .
We feel we have more than enough cover there and anybody that plays there will step up and do well .
`` It goes back to the decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that can play that position better than the options we have and the answer for us was no .
We 're satisfied with the options that we have that can play in that position and it 's not something that we were actively looking for .
Had there been a movement in any of those players , we would have potentially considered bringing somebody in but it did n't happen and we 're very comfortable with the players that can play in that position .
`` It becomes difficult because we 're operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is why when you hear people say you have to strengthen this position or that position or replace that player , in reality all of our players are some of the best players in the world in their positions if not the best so to improve that is quite difficult .
`` There are very few players out there who can do that , which is why we 've had to apply a common sense in our approach and have a long-term perspective on what we want to achieve .
`` A lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just about buying new players - it could be about setting new challenges for the existing squad . ''
As Berrada alludes to , City could have spent more in the summer window had they wanted to .
The funds were there had the opportunity arisen for a Messi or another extraordinary addition , for instance , and will be again next year .
They have to be in that position with Aguero and Guardiola potentially on their way by then , although there is a relaxed feel about both situations because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was anything about the recent window he would have done differently , Berrada can not name anything .
The club are confident that they got good value in all of their major decisions - signing Dias , Ake and Torres and keeping Garcia while selling Sane , Nicolas Otamendi and all-but offloading Angelino - and believe they have a squad capable of achieving their main objective of winning the league and competing for every other trophy .
With such confidence , it is fair to wonder why they feel the need to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nobody at other clubs does , there is a danger that the Blues become the poster boys of big spending .
The answer to that may lie in the past .
City have always had a reputation for lavish spending ever since their lucrative takeover in 2008 and they have been bombarded even more heavily over the last 12 months during their fight with UEFA over Financial Fair Play ( FFP ) .
While the Blues kept their silence , eight Premier League clubs tried to keep them from participating in the Champions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were two of the clubs to react poorly to the decision of an independent panel to overturn their ban ; Jose Mourinho said this summer that no club that respects FFP could sign Messi .
If City 's transfer strategy has not been influenced by outside perceptions , frustration at the characterisation of how the club operates still lingers .
`` Yes , there is no doubt that there is a narrative in certain aspects of the media and other clubs to say that we 've invested our way to success , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have invested in our squad .
There was an initial phase 10-12 years ago when there was a significant investment in the squad to get the club where it is now , one of the top clubs in Europe competing at the highest level every single year , winning four PL titles in the last eight years or so .
`` There is a narrative - why that exists there could be multiple reasons .
I think there is a general sense of heightened tribalism generated by social media , the need for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Other clubs will have their own perspectives but we 've been successful and we 've done it the right way and now we 're in a very strong financial position to continue growing and also to deal with this unfortunate crisis that we 're all having to deal with now .
`` It 's important for our fans to hear from us directly and in terms of the dedication of everybody that is working for this club - from our shareholders , the board , our execs , our staff - we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our competence for the benefit of the club .
Whatever happens with the narrative outside of the club about our investment , we 've had a very successful window in very difficult circumstances so the club is in good hands on and off the pitch and we continue to have a tremendous amount of ambition over not just the season but the coming years . ''
Fans and rivals alike can be certain of one thing to expect from City : they will not hit pause any time soon .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you 'll receive our free daily MCFC newsletter with all the latest breaking news and analysis , sent straight to your inbox .
If you ca n't see the form above , click here .

Omar Berrada laughs.
Manchester City's COO has spent 50 minutes discussing the club's transfer business in the past, the present and the future when he is asked if there is ever time to pause.
The answer, of course, is no - and you suspect that is exactly the way Berrada likes it.
City have just reached the end of a transfer window where they believe they hit all of their objectives, strengthening key areas of the team that were planned before the pandemic hit the sport and the wider world but "executed in the context of Covid in a financially sustainable way". Yet already attention has moved on; there are crucial decisions looming for both Pep Guardiola and Sergio Aguero, while Lionel Messi could be a free agent in months after coming closer than ever to leaving Barcelona this summer.
Initial verdicts on the most recent window have been mixed.
City spent more than £120m on strengthening but also have also counted £75m in player sales, leaving a healthy net spend of £45m. They are generally accepted to have made three excellent acquisitions but some supporters wanted extra strengthening at left-back, in midfield and up front while from outside the club and sport there has been extra focus on the morality of football teams spending millions of pounds while the world is in crisis.
Coronavirus quickly came onto City's radar in the early months of 2020 and they acknowledge that they have to continue to monitor it - the longer fans are not allowed back into the Etihad, the more danger that those lost revenues could impact on budgets - yet at the same time it could not drive their thinking in summer. The crisis is viewed as transitional with Blues bosses expecting its impact to dwindle before next season, so cannot be allowed to detract from the number one objective of ensuring they have a team capable of winning the Premier League.
More importantly, the planning for the window is done months and years in advance - as the signings of Zack Steffen and Bernardo Silva to replace Claudio Bravo and David Silva respectively show - and the potential consequences of the pandemic did not change the long-term approach of conscious spending.
If there was an increased scrutiny this summer on clubs not being seen to spend excessively, City were ready for it.
"We spend smartly," Berrada told M.E.N Sport.
"We have a clear plan, we are not reactive to certain situations, we have a very clear idea of what the valuation is for every player, we've said and I think it has been demonstrated that when we think a deal doesn't make sense we walk away from it and when we think it doesn't make sense to sell a player because he can have worth we don't sell.
"Our transfer plans were done way before the Covid crisis and we were able to execute them.
"When you say the optics, we've been saying for many years now that our goal is to be financially sustainable and we have been financially sustainable and Manchester City has been profitable.
"If our net spend is low comparatively to other rivals - I think we're seventh for net spend this season and it has also been one of our lowest net spends of recent seasons - it is not a reaction to anything, it is part of our strategy.
"We knew the position we wanted to get, what players would potentially be sold but it is also the work that has been done over the last years to build a very strong squad that doesn't require so much investment to be competing at the highest level."
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This summer, City demonstrated three of their core principles in the market: attaching a value to every single target that they won't go above, weighing up the benefit of selling current players against the worth in keeping them, and assessing how much a new signing can add to a squad that is already very talented.
Ruben Dias is the club's new record signing with £62m paid up front to Benfica and didn't arrive until three games into the season, despite centre-back being a priority after failing to replace Vincent Kompany last year. Given that, wouldn't it have been easier to secure either Dias, Kalidou Koulibaly or Jose Gimenez for more money and earlier in the window?
"That could have been the temptation but it wasn't. When you make investments of that type, when you get it wrong it has a significant impact over many years so we needed to get it right at the right valuation at the right time but more importantly for the right player.
"In the same way that we didn't rush into buying a centre-back last season after not wanting to sign [Harry] Maguire for that valuation, this summer we had a very clear idea of what we wanted and fortunately we got the player we wanted at the valuation that we wanted."
City's net spend would have been better if they had taken Barcelona's money for Eric Garcia - a 19-year-old defender who will see fewer minutes because of the arrival of Dias and Nathan Ake and had his heart set on a return to the Nou Camp - yet it was deemed more valuable from both a financial and football view to keep him rather than accept a much lower offer for him.
With the striker, midfield, and left-back situations, Berrada says it is very difficult to improve on a squad that contains so many of the best players for their position.
"We believe that we have a top left-back, a specialist in Benjamin Mendy who unfortunately has had two serious injuries that have impacted his career with us so far but we believe that he is going to be a very important player.
"Hopefully he will be injury-free this year and show his maximum potential. Aleks has done an extremely good job in the left-back position. It's not his natural position but whenever he has played there he has done a really good job. We won important trophies and titles with Aleks playing left-back and not only that but with the acquisition of Ake we now have five players that can potentially play in that position: Mendy, Zinchenko, Ake, [Aymeric] Laporte who is also left-footed and can potentially play in that position, and [Joao] Cancelo did it last season a few times and in the left-back position. We feel we have more than enough cover there and anybody that plays there will step up and do well.
"It goes back to the decision of is there any player out there that can play that position better than the options we have and the answer for us was no. We're satisfied with the options that we have that can play in that position and it's not something that we were actively looking for. Had there been a movement in any of those players, we would have potentially considered bringing somebody in but it didn't happen and we're very comfortable with the players that can play in that position.
"It becomes difficult because we're operating at the very very top, which is why when you hear people say you have to strengthen this position or that position or replace that player, in reality all of our players are some of the best players in the world in their positions if not the best so to improve that is quite difficult.
"There are very few players out there who can do that, which is why we've had to apply a common sense in our approach and have a long-term perspective on what we want to achieve.
"A lot of times, maintaining success is not just about buying new players - it could be about setting new challenges for the existing squad."
As Berrada alludes to, City could have spent more in the summer window had they wanted to. The funds were there had the opportunity arisen for a Messi or another extraordinary addition, for instance, and will be again next year. They have to be in that position with Aguero and Guardiola potentially on their way by then, although there is a relaxed feel about both situations because of the mutual trust.
Asked if there was anything about the recent window he would have done differently, Berrada cannot name anything. The club are confident that they got good value in all of their major decisions - signing Dias, Ake and Torres and keeping Garcia while selling Sane, Nicolas Otamendi and all-but offloading Angelino - and believe they have a squad capable of achieving their main objective of winning the league and competing for every other trophy.
With such confidence, it is fair to wonder why they feel the need to say it. If they speak out and nobody at other clubs does, there is a danger that the Blues become the poster boys of big spending.
The answer to that may lie in the past.
City have always had a reputation for lavish spending ever since their lucrative takeover in 2008 and they have been bombarded even more heavily over the last 12 months during their fight with UEFA over Financial Fair Play (FFP). While the Blues kept their silence, eight Premier League clubs tried to keep them from participating in the Champions League next season and Liverpool and Tottenham were two of the clubs to react poorly to the decision of an independent panel to overturn their ban; Jose Mourinho said this summer that no club that respects FFP could sign Messi.
If City's transfer strategy has not been influenced by outside perceptions, frustration at the characterisation of how the club operates still lingers.
"Yes, there is no doubt that there is a narrative in certain aspects of the media and other clubs to say that we've invested our way to success," said Berrada.
"Clearly, we have invested in our squad. There was an initial phase 10-12 years ago when there was a significant investment in the squad to get the club where it is now, one of the top clubs in Europe competing at the highest level every single year, winning four PL titles in the last eight years or so.
"There is a narrative - why that exists there could be multiple reasons. I think there is a general sense of heightened tribalism generated by social media, the need for constant news, debate and controversy.
"Other clubs will have their own perspectives but we've been successful and we've done it the right way and now we're in a very strong financial position to continue growing and also to deal with this unfortunate crisis that we're all having to deal with now.
"It's important for our fans to hear from us directly and in terms of the dedication of everybody that is working for this club - from our shareholders, the board, our execs, our staff - we're working really hard and putting all of our competence for the benefit of the club. Whatever happens with the narrative outside of the club about our investment, we've had a very successful window in very difficult circumstances so the club is in good hands on and off the pitch and we continue to have a tremendous amount of ambition over not just the season but the coming years."
Fans and rivals alike can be certain of one thing to expect from City: they will not hit pause any time soon.
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themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Man City send Lionel Messi transfer message for next summer

Manchester City will be in a position to move for Lionel Messi next summer if the opportunity arises .
Messi stunned Barcelona in August when he sensationally requested to leave the club , alerting the Blues and other top clubs to the possibility of signing the best player in the world .
The 33-year-old eventually agreed to see out the final year of his contract after a fortnight of speculation and days of intense talks with the club , but he made clear how unhappy he was about the situation .
City were interested observers , watching from the sidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to tempt him to the Etihad .
It never did , and may never do , but as it stands the `` smart spending '' from the Blues over a number of years sees them in a position where they would be able to afford the superstar were he to be in a position to join .
While the veteran does not fit the usual profile of the players targeted at the club , City 's chairman has previously outlined that they are flexible to make exceptions for the right talent and club @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed that they would be able to afford a move for Messi .
`` He 's an amazing talent , he 's somebody that can make a significant impact at any club in the world on and off the pitch immediately , '' Berrada told M.E.N Sport .
`` He 's the best player in the world , he 's the best player of his generation .
I think any club in the world would like to explore the possibility of him joining their team .
The fact that it was commented that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City just shows you how far the team has come over the last years where the best talent of his generation and potentially saying he wants to come and play for us .
`` It 's hard to guess what could happen .
If you think back to those two weeks where everything played out at Barcelona , it 's almost impossible to guess what will happen next summer .
Messi is a generational talent , he 's the best player in the world and probably an exception to potential investments that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our planning has been done with this current squad and it is being considered with the current opportunities that we have .
`` For every single position we have to be prepared because there can be so many things that can happen but at the same time I think we have the financial strength and system ability to make that investment [ in a striker ] when required .
`` That 's what puts us in a position where we feel comfortable that we 'll be able to take the right decision because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll have to rush into anything - first because Sergio [ Aguero ] and Gabriel [ Jesus ] are performing very well , they are two of the best strikers in the world right now , and when we do decide to bring in potentially someone else , whether it is next season or the one after that then we will be in a financial position to do it for the right price . ''
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If you ca n't see the form above , click here .

Manchester City will be in a position to move for Lionel Messi next summer if the opportunity arises.
Messi stunned Barcelona in August when he sensationally requested to leave the club, alerting the Blues and other top clubs to the possibility of signing the best player in the world. The 33-year-old eventually agreed to see out the final year of his contract after a fortnight of speculation and days of intense talks with the club, but he made clear how unhappy he was about the situation.
City were interested observers, watching from the sidelines to see if the chance would come to tempt him to the Etihad. It never did, and may never do, but as it stands the "smart spending" from the Blues over a number of years sees them in a position where they would be able to afford the superstar were he to be in a position to join.
While the veteran does not fit the usual profile of the players targeted at the club, City's chairman has previously outlined that they are flexible to make exceptions for the right talent and club's Chief Operating Officer Omar Berrada has confirmed that they would be able to afford a move for Messi.
"He's an amazing talent , he's somebody that can make a significant impact at any club in the world on and off the pitch immediately," Berrada told M.E.N Sport.
"He's the best player in the world, he's the best player of his generation. I think any club in the world would like to explore the possibility of him joining their team. The fact that it was commented that he wanted to come to play for City just shows you how far the team has come over the last years where the best talent of his generation and potentially saying he wants to come and play for us.
"It's hard to guess what could happen. If you think back to those two weeks where everything played out at Barcelona, it's almost impossible to guess what will happen next summer. Messi is a generational talent, he's the best player in the world and probably an exception to potential investments that we'd do out of the ordinary but our planning has been done with this current squad and it is being considered with the current opportunities that we have.
"For every single position we have to be prepared because there can be so many things that can happen but at the same time I think we have the financial strength and system ability to make that investment [in a striker] when required.
"That's what puts us in a position where we feel comfortable that we'll be able to take the right decision because it also doesn't mean that we'll have to rush into anything - first because Sergio [Aguero] and Gabriel [Jesus] are performing very well, they are two of the best strikers in the world right now, and when we do decide to bring in potentially someone else, whether it is next season or the one after that then we will be in a financial position to do it for the right price."
If you submit your email in the form above you'll receive our free daily MCFC newsletter with all the latest breaking news and analysis, sent straight to your inbox. If you can't see the form above, click here.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Bolton Wanderers v Grimsby Town streaming details and match odds

Bolton Wanderers return to League Two action this weekend to take on Grimsby Town .
After back-to-back away games over the past week , Ian Evatt 's side return to the University of Bolton Stadium to take on the Mariners .
And for Bolton , it 's an opportunity to build on the first win of the League Two season gained last weekend on the road against Harrogate Town .
For the Mariners , it will be the club 's first game since September 19 after a positive coronavirus test in the Grimsby camp led to the players and management @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Two fixtures against Cheltenham Town and Bradford City were postponed , as was the EFL Trophy clash against Hull City .
It will means the clash against Bolton will be Ian Holloway 's side 's first game in three weeks .
The game will be played behind closed doors with fans not permitted to attend .
But it is available to watch and we 've put together a guide of how you can see it .
When is the game ?
The League Two match between Bolton Wanderers and Grimsby Town will kick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 , at the University of Bolton Stadium .
How can I watch the match ?
The match is being played behind closed doors and supporters are not permitted to attend .
However , the match is being streamed live on the iFollow platform .
A match pass costs £10 .
This can be streamed on a laptop and then hooked up to a television using a standard HDMI cable .
For more information and to purchase a pass , click here .
Wanderers season ticket holders can watch the match for free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previous meeting between these two clubs ?
Bolton and Grimsby last locked horns in 2016 when the two sides met in the first round of the FA Cup .
Wanderers , then in League One , beat the League Two Mariners 1-0 at the Macron Stadium , as the ground was known then .
Liam Trotter 's goal on 20 minutes secured passage to the next round for Bolton .
In terms of league meetings , the most recent of these came in 2001 in the old Division One , when the sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ odds ?
According to The Pools , Bolton are evens to claim all three points , while a Grimsby win is priced at 13/5 .

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Bolton Wanderers return to League Two action this weekend to take on Grimsby Town.
After back-to-back away games over the past week, Ian Evatt's side return to the University of Bolton Stadium to take on the Mariners.
And for Bolton, it's an opportunity to build on the first win of the League Two season gained last weekend on the road against Harrogate Town.
For the Mariners, it will be the club's first game since September 19 after a positive coronavirus test in the Grimsby camp led to the players and management staff self-isolating.
The club's League Two fixtures against Cheltenham Town and Bradford City were postponed, as was the EFL Trophy clash against Hull City.
It will means the clash against Bolton will be Ian Holloway's side's first game in three weeks.
The game will be played behind closed doors with fans not permitted to attend.
But it is available to watch and we've put together a guide of how you can see it.
When is the game?
The League Two match between Bolton Wanderers and Grimsby Town will kick off at 3pm on Saturday, October 10, at the University of Bolton Stadium.
How can I watch the match?
The match is being played behind closed doors and supporters are not permitted to attend.
However, the match is being streamed live on the iFollow platform. A match pass costs £10.
This can be streamed on a laptop and then hooked up to a television using a standard HDMI cable.
For more information and to purchase a pass, click here.
Wanderers season ticket holders can watch the match for free via iFollow.
What happened in the previous meeting between these two clubs?
Bolton and Grimsby last locked horns in 2016 when the two sides met in the first round of the FA Cup.
Wanderers, then in League One, beat the League Two Mariners 1-0 at the Macron Stadium, as the ground was known then.
Liam Trotter's goal on 20 minutes secured passage to the next round for Bolton.
In terms of league meetings, the most recent of these came in 2001 in the old Division One, when the sides drew 2-2.
What are the match odds?
According to The Pools, Bolton are evens to claim all three points, while a Grimsby win is priced at 13/5.
A draw is priced at 12/5.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Rishi Sunak to announce job support for businesses 'that may have to close'

The Chancellor , Rishi Sunak , is to announce further support for jobs and businesses that are affected by coronavirus shutdowns amid calls to help the hardest-hit industries and regions .
Mr Sunak will detail “ the next stage ” of the furlough scheme later on Friday , ahead of new restrictions expected for the hospitality sector .
Cities in Northern England and other areas suffering a surge in Covid-19 cases may have pubs and restaurants temporarily closed to combat the spread of the virus prompting demands for greater financial support .
Regional leaders and unions have been calling for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when new restrictions are imposed .
A Treasury spokeswoman said : “ The Chancellor will be setting out the next stage of the Job Support Scheme later today that will protect jobs and provide a safety net for those businesses that may have to close in the coming weeks and months.
” The announcement will come as new figures showed the pace of the UK ’ s economic recovery has slowed considerably , with GDP up 2.1 per cent in August , less than half of what economists had forecast .
Sources were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new package as a local furlough scheme , which some have urged the government to develop .
The furlough scheme , which supported millions of workers and prevented further job losses , will cease at the end of the month .
It will be replaced by the less generous Jobs Support Scheme , where the government will pay up to 22 per cent of wages for workers who come back part-time .
Ministers are expected to outline a three-tier local lockdown system on Monday , which may see high-risk individuals told to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for businesses .
There are particular concerns for the hospitality sector , which has seen significant number of transmissions .
England 's Chief Medical Officer , Professor Chris Whitty , briefed MPs representing constituencies in Northern England and the Midlands , where infection rates are at their highest .
He showed them evidence that 30 per cent of infections are coming from hospitality settings , including restaurants , bars and cafes , according to Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi .
Mr Zahawi told BBC Breakfast : “ It is only right that we take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health local teams , because they know their area best.
” MPs were also led to believe that the NHS may not cope if case numbers continued to rise in their areas .
Skills Minister Gillian Keegan told BBC Question Time : “ This is serious , it is getting out of control , and we have to do something to bring it back under control.
” Among the regional leaders criticising the government for failing to consult them on changes is Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham , who said he would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use whatever means I can to challenge it to get support for people because otherwise they are going to suffer real hardship this winter , we are going to see businesses failing , ” he told Question Time .
New restrictions on Scotland ’ s pubs , bars , restaurants and cafes come into force from 6pm on Friday .
Across most of the country venues will only be allowed to operate indoors between 6am and 6pm and not serve alcohol , but they will be able to sell drinks until 10pm in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ licensed restaurants in five health board areas across the central belt will be forced to close for 16 days as of Friday evening .
Establishments in Greater Glasgow and Clyde , Lanarkshire , Ayrshire and Arran , Lothian , and Forth Valley can only provide takeaways during this time with the temporary measures set to end on October 25 .

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The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, is to announce further support for jobs and businesses that are affected by coronavirus shutdowns amid calls to help the hardest-hit industries and regions.
Mr Sunak will detail “the next stage” of the furlough scheme later on Friday, ahead of new restrictions expected for the hospitality sector.
Cities in Northern England and other areas suffering a surge in Covid-19 cases may have pubs and restaurants temporarily closed to combat the spread of the virus prompting demands for greater financial support.
Regional leaders and unions have been calling for fresh monetary support to prevent further layoffs when new restrictions are imposed.
(Image: PA)
A Treasury spokeswoman said: “The Chancellor will be setting out the next stage of the Job Support Scheme later today that will protect jobs and provide a safety net for those businesses that may have to close in the coming weeks and months.”
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The announcement will come as new figures showed the pace of the UK’s economic recovery has slowed considerably, with GDP up 2.1 per cent in August, less than half of what economists had forecast.
Sources were saying it was wrong to describe the new package as a local furlough scheme, which some have urged the government to develop.
(Image: PA)
The furlough scheme, which supported millions of workers and prevented further job losses, will cease at the end of the month.
It will be replaced by the less generous Jobs Support Scheme, where the government will pay up to 22 per cent of wages for workers who come back part-time.
Ministers are expected to outline a three-tier local lockdown system on Monday, which may see high-risk individuals told to stay at home for months and fresh measures for businesses.
There are particular concerns for the hospitality sector, which has seen significant number of transmissions.
(Image: PA)
England's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, briefed MPs representing constituencies in Northern England and the Midlands, where infection rates are at their highest.
He showed them evidence that 30 per cent of infections are coming from hospitality settings, including restaurants, bars and cafes, according to Business Minister Nadhim Zahawi.
Mr Zahawi told BBC Breakfast: “It is only right that we take action with the local leadership, with public health local teams, because they know their area best.”
MPs were also led to believe that the NHS may not cope if case numbers continued to rise in their areas.
Skills Minister Gillian Keegan told BBC Question Time: “This is serious, it is getting out of control, and we have to do something to bring it back under control.”
(Image: PA)
Among the regional leaders criticising the government for failing to consult them on changes is Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who said he would challenge any closures.
“I will use whatever means I can to challenge it to get support for people because otherwise they are going to suffer real hardship this winter, we are going to see businesses failing,” he told Question Time.
New restrictions on Scotland’s pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes come into force from 6pm on Friday.
Across most of the country venues will only be allowed to operate indoors between 6am and 6pm and not serve alcohol, but they will be able to sell drinks until 10pm in outside areas.
However, pubs and licensed restaurants in five health board areas across the central belt will be forced to close for 16 days as of Friday evening.
Establishments in Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Arran, Lothian, and Forth Valley can only provide takeaways during this time with the temporary measures set to end on October 25.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Man police want to find in connection with 'serious stabbing' in Salford

Police have released a mugshot of a man they are searching for in relation to a serious stabbing in Salford .
The incident took place in Eccles town centre last Thursday ( October 1 ) and left the victim with `` serious , potentially life-changing '' injuries .
Officers are searching for Eccles man Robert Wolfe , 31 , in connection with the stabbing .
Wolfe is also known to have links to Weaste and Ordsall .
Anybody with information regarding the whereabouts of Robert Wolfe is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5351 or the independent charity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
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Click on this link , enter your email address , and select 'MySalford News ' .
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Police have released a mugshot of a man they are searching for in relation to a serious stabbing in Salford.
The incident took place in Eccles town centre last Thursday (October 1) and left the victim with "serious, potentially life-changing" injuries.
Officers are searching for Eccles man Robert Wolfe, 31, in connection with the stabbing.
Wolfe is also known to have links to Weaste and Ordsall.
Anybody with information regarding the whereabouts of Robert Wolfe is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5351 or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Sign up to the free MySalford email newsletter Get regular updates from Salford direct to your email inbox with the free MySalford newsletter. Click on this link, enter your email address, and select 'MySalford News'. That's all there is to it.
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--2020-10-09--Manchester gold thief jailed over 'abhorrent' daylight burglaries

A thief has been jailed over three 'abhorrent ' burglaries .
George Price , 29 , was convicted after 'family gold burglary offences ' , police said .
Price , from Newton Heath , Manchester , struck with others at homes in West Derby , Liverpool , and Widnes , Cheshire , in broad daylight .
Detectives said the break-ins last year caused ' a great deal of distress ' to victims and their families .
Price , of Ainsley Street , Newton Heath , was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison this week at Liverpool Crown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not guilty to three counts of conspiracy to commit burglary , but was found guilty after a trial .
Jewellery and cash were stolen in one of the raids , but the force said all the victims were targeted 'for high-value jewellery items ' .
Detective Inspector Steve Ball , speaking after the sentencing hearing , said : `` It is pleasing to see that Price has been dealt with .
`` The case should act as a strong deterrent to anyone else who would consider targeting homes in such an abhorrent way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the day and caused a great deal of distress to all the victims , but hopefully the verdict offers some comfort . ''
Price was brought to justice as part of Operation Castle , a forcewide operation focusing on burglaries .
The first offence took place on Wednesday , September 4 last year at a home in West Derby , Liverpool .
Merseyside Police said in a statement : `` Entry was gained to a house while the occupants were out and jewellery and cash were stolen . ''
Then , on October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in West Derby .
The force said 'offenders ' ran away after they were disturbed by the occupiers .
The third and final offence happened three days later at a house in Widnes , Cheshire .
`` Access was gained to a house and a search carried out , but no items were stolen , '' said the force .
Detectives urged the public to keep all gold , jewellery and other valuables in a safety deposit box , or use an approved safe .
Det Insp Ball said : `` If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in your home , there are some steps you can take to make yourself and your home more secure .
`` Please share these as far and wide as you can . ''
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A thief has been jailed over three 'abhorrent' burglaries.
George Price, 29, was convicted after 'family gold burglary offences', police said.
Price, from Newton Heath, Manchester, struck with others at homes in West Derby, Liverpool, and Widnes, Cheshire, in broad daylight.
Detectives said the break-ins last year caused 'a great deal of distress' to victims and their families.
Price, of Ainsley Street, Newton Heath, was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison this week at Liverpool Crown Court.
Merseyside Police said he pleaded not guilty to three counts of conspiracy to commit burglary, but was found guilty after a trial.
Jewellery and cash were stolen in one of the raids, but the force said all the victims were targeted 'for high-value jewellery items'.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
Detective Inspector Steve Ball, speaking after the sentencing hearing, said: "It is pleasing to see that Price has been dealt with.
"The case should act as a strong deterrent to anyone else who would consider targeting homes in such an abhorrent way.
"These offences took place during the day and caused a great deal of distress to all the victims, but hopefully the verdict offers some comfort."
Price was brought to justice as part of Operation Castle, a forcewide operation focusing on burglaries.
(Image: Liverpool Echo)
The first offence took place on Wednesday, September 4 last year at a home in West Derby, Liverpool.
Merseyside Police said in a statement: "Entry was gained to a house while the occupants were out and jewellery and cash were stolen."
Then, on October 8, another property was broken into in West Derby.
The force said 'offenders' ran away after they were disturbed by the occupiers.
The third and final offence happened three days later at a house in Widnes, Cheshire.
"Access was gained to a house and a search carried out, but no items were stolen," said the force.
Detectives urged the public to keep all gold, jewellery and other valuables in a safety deposit box, or use an approved safe.
Det Insp Ball said: "If you do keep valuable jewellery or other items in your home, there are some steps you can take to make yourself and your home more secure.
"Please share these as far and wide as you can."
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--2020-10-09--Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard have been handed final lifelines at Man United

You always have to wonder about the players who do n't get deadline day moves .
Some of their tales are infamous ; who can forget Peter Odemwingie 's fruitless wait in the Queens Park Rangers car park ?
Or Daniel James ' failed Leeds move after promotional pictures had already been taken , David de Gea and the famous faulty Real Madrid fax machine .
United had their own players waiting in limbo this time around .
Thankfully for Chris Smalling the paperwork on his permanent transfer to Roma was completed just in time , although Sergio Romero and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The pair have both been subject to approaches from Everton in the past two summer transfer windows , neither of them successful .
They may end up getting their moves with other windows remaining open for a time , but Romero 's wife was not happy that United blocked the loan enquiry from Carlo Ancelotti 's side this summer .
It was n't quite Odemwingie levels but it was close .
Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata are two Manchester United players who were never going to kick up a fuss and try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now being linked with a move to Porto , with the Portuguese window still open , but his emotional pull to United is such that — even if he 's nowhere close to being first choice in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's mind — he is reluctant to leave .
Solskjaer has actually stood by the 27-year-old during a difficult two years off the pitch , and Lingard will be keen to repay him .
The England 2018 World Cup star has n't been a regular Three Lions pick for some time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any of United 's Premier League games this season .
It was telling that his only league game of last term came with the very last kick of the season , an opportunistic goal in the decisive 2-0 win at Leicester to secure United 's third place finish .
Both he and Mata slipped out of the reckoning , especially after Bruno Fernandes ' January arrival .
Lingard only made nine league starts , the fewest of his career since 2014/15 when he spent part of the season on loan at Derby .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal all season , the first time he 's done so since he arrived on these shores in 2011 .
But while Solskjaer allowed Andreas Pereira to leave on loan , and recently left out Odion Ighalo and Daniel James from his matchday squads on form , he now looks to be keeping Lingard and Mata in the fold .
There 's a sense that they are firmly in the reckoning to feature as semi-regular squad players .
Solskjaer saw a better Lingard return to Carrington after the lockdown , which was reflected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can kick on , '' Solskjaer said in the summer .
`` He has scored vital goals for us , and has been a vital player for us .
Let ’ s see what the future will hold .
At the moment he is looking really sharp and focused .
He has come back after the lockdown with a smile on his face and loads of energy . ''
That focus yielded the Leicester goal and another one in the Europa League against LASK Linz .
Lingard 's challenge now , having been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to capitalise on those opportunities in the cups and force his way into the league reckoning , too .
As for Mata , he has already shown his worth this season , with two goals in the League Cup and two Man of the Match performances to boost his status within the squad .
With his contract expiring at the end of this campaign , it could be a United swansong for Mata , but he certainly seems keen to make the most of it .
His class is enduring .
The elephant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Mata could benefit from United 's failure to sign a senior right-winger .
Both look comfortable on that flank playing with Fernandes or Donny van de Beek in the No.10 role .
Neither possess the lightning pace or outrageous skill of Jadon Sancho but they can do a job for a season , especially if James ' miserable form continues .
Both Lingard and Mata may well be in the last chance saloon at Old Trafford , but it would be a little hasty to write them off just yet .

You always have to wonder about the players who don't get deadline day moves. Some of their tales are infamous; who can forget Peter Odemwingie's fruitless wait in the Queens Park Rangers car park? Or Daniel James' failed Leeds move after promotional pictures had already been taken, David de Gea and the famous faulty Real Madrid fax machine.
United had their own players waiting in limbo this time around. Thankfully for Chris Smalling the paperwork on his permanent transfer to Roma was completed just in time, although Sergio Romero and Marcos Rojo were not so lucky.
The pair have both been subject to approaches from Everton in the past two summer transfer windows, neither of them successful. They may end up getting their moves with other windows remaining open for a time, but Romero's wife was not happy that United blocked the loan enquiry from Carlo Ancelotti's side this summer. It wasn't quite Odemwingie levels but it was close.
Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata are two Manchester United players who were never going to kick up a fuss and try to leave, for different reasons.
Lingard is now being linked with a move to Porto, with the Portuguese window still open, but his emotional pull to United is such that — even if he's nowhere close to being first choice in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's mind — he is reluctant to leave. Solskjaer has actually stood by the 27-year-old during a difficult two years off the pitch, and Lingard will be keen to repay him.
The England 2018 World Cup star hasn't been a regular Three Lions pick for some time, however, and hasn't appeared in any of United's Premier League games this season. It was telling that his only league game of last term came with the very last kick of the season, an opportunistic goal in the decisive 2-0 win at Leicester to secure United's third place finish.
Both he and Mata slipped out of the reckoning, especially after Bruno Fernandes' January arrival.
Lingard only made nine league starts, the fewest of his career since 2014/15 when he spent part of the season on loan at Derby. Mata failed to register a Premier League goal all season, the first time he's done so since he arrived on these shores in 2011.
But while Solskjaer allowed Andreas Pereira to leave on loan, and recently left out Odion Ighalo and Daniel James from his matchday squads on form, he now looks to be keeping Lingard and Mata in the fold. There's a sense that they are firmly in the reckoning to feature as semi-regular squad players.
Solskjaer saw a better Lingard return to Carrington after the lockdown, which was reflected in his performances.
(Image: 2020 AMA Sports Photo Agency)
"Hopefully he can kick on," Solskjaer said in the summer. "He has scored vital goals for us, and has been a vital player for us. Let’s see what the future will hold. At the moment he is looking really sharp and focused. He has come back after the lockdown with a smile on his face and loads of energy."
That focus yielded the Leicester goal and another one in the Europa League against LASK Linz. Lingard's challenge now, having been retained by United, is to continue to capitalise on those opportunities in the cups and force his way into the league reckoning, too.
As for Mata, he has already shown his worth this season, with two goals in the League Cup and two Man of the Match performances to boost his status within the squad. With his contract expiring at the end of this campaign, it could be a United swansong for Mata, but he certainly seems keen to make the most of it. His class is enduring.
The elephant in the room is that both Lingard and Mata could benefit from United's failure to sign a senior right-winger. Both look comfortable on that flank playing with Fernandes or Donny van de Beek in the No.10 role. Neither possess the lightning pace or outrageous skill of Jadon Sancho but they can do a job for a season, especially if James' miserable form continues.
Both Lingard and Mata may well be in the last chance saloon at Old Trafford, but it would be a little hasty to write them off just yet.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Police cordon off park following report of a sexual assault

Police are investigating reports a man was sexually assaulted in a park in Rochdale .
A large part of Hare @ @ @ @ @ cordoned off for much of Thursday following the incident .
Police were called to the @ @ @ @ @ after a man reported he had been sexually assaulted by another man .
On Thursday @ @ @ @ @ guard in the band stand and witnesses reported seeing forensics officers searching part of the @ @ @ @ @ been made .
In a statement Greater Manchester Police said : `` Police were called @ @ @ @ @ , October 8 , to a report of sexual assault at Hare Hill Park , @ @ @ @ @ a reported that a man had been approached by a second man in the park @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Enquiries are ongoing and no arrests have been made . ''
Anyone with @ @ @ @ @ on 0161 856 8635 quoting incident number 121 of October 8 or Crimestoppers , anonymously @ @ @ @ @ .

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Police are investigating reports a man was sexually assaulted in a park in Rochdale.
A large part of Hare Hill Park in Littleborough was cordoned off for much of Thursday following the incident.
Police were called to the park at 1am on Thursday after a man reported he had been sexually assaulted by another man.
On Thursday morning officers were seen standing guard in the band stand and witnesses reported seeing forensics officers searching part of the park.
No arrests have been made.
Enquiries are ongoing.
In a statement Greater Manchester Police said: "Police were called at around 1am on Thursday, October 8, to a report of sexual assault at Hare Hill Park, Littleborough.
"It was a reported that a man had been approached by a second man in the park who has sexually assaulted him.
"Enquiries are ongoing and no arrests have been made."
Anyone with any information should contact police on 0161 856 8635 quoting incident number 121 of October 8 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--The coronavirus heroes honoured by the Queen

They are the ordinary people who have gone above and beyond during the coronavirus crisis .
From the shopkeeper working round the clock to ensure his customers get everything they need , to the railway worker who volunteered to help build Manchester 's Nightingale hospital , they are living proof that the worst of times often bring out the best in people .
And now their extraordinary efforts have been recognised in a Queen 's Birthday Honours List unlike any other .
Normally published in June , this year it 's been delayed to recognise the incredible way people pulled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Covid heroes from Greater Manchester who have been honoured by the Queen .
When the call went out for volunteers to help build the North West 's Nightingale Hospital , Gareth Mallion 'did n't think twice ' .
Within an hour the Network Rail operations manager was on-site at Manchester Central Convention Complex .
And then the hard work really began .
Working 13-14 hour days , seven days a week , Gareth , from Timperley , co-ordinated deliveries for everything the hospital required - from building materials and medical equipment to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Using Network Rail trucks and the organisation 's huge warehouse in Warrington , he made sure everything 'got from A to B to where it needed to be ' .
Remarkably just 14 days after construction began the hospital was ready to take its first patient .
The dad-of-four , 40 , said : `` It was a massive thing for the North West .
It was an incredible achievement and I feel proud to have played a part in it .
`` It was a great experience and I met some incredible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different disciplines and so many people there , but everyone worked together and there was no mither , no arguments .
`` It was chaos though - I was trying to be the calming influence that made sure everything got from A to B to where it needed to be .
`` You 'd walk through the hall in the morning and when you walked back past the same spot later on a wall had been built , or a cubicle had gone up .
`` For me I thought some of my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end up in here , so when the SOS went out at work I dropped everything .
I did n't think twice about it .
`` It 's really something to be look back on and be proud of what it means .
`` But it really feels like I ma accepting it on behalf of all the Network rail staff who helped build the Nightingales . ''
During the pandemic our ability to communicate with each other was more crucial than ever .
And that 's where Peter Harding , from Whitefield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three months of the pandemic the 40-year-old , a jeopardy escalation manager at telecoms firm Talk Talk , and a his team got key infrastructure connected to broadband despite unprecedented logistical challenges , including the Nightingale Hospitals in ExCel London , Harrogate and Exeter , 80 care homes , 80 GP surgeries , 200 schools and 250 food distribution and logistics providers , among others .
They managed to get the new sites connected in less than 72 hours , when normally these connections would take several weeks to install .
Peter said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have enjoyed it .
`` I 've been lucky - a lot of people have n't been able to work - but me and my team have been really busy doing something that is beneficial .
`` Normally our job is getting a circuit in for a customer who wants it quickly , but this has the added benefit of helping the country .
`` We had to get a lot of extra people in to help and we were working much longer hours than normal , but it was just 'This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done ' .
`` A lot of people put in a lot of effort .
`` It does give you warm , fuzzy feeling .
knowing that we 're helping at a time like this .
`` But I just see it as my job .
It 's nice getting the reward , but it 's not something I coveted and it 's very much a surprise . ''
The African Caribbean Care Group in Hulme is a lifeline for many elderly members of the community .
But lockdown struck the charity had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many of its users suddenly found themselves isolated and lonely .
However long-time charity worker Leon Mundell , from Whalley Range , was determined that vital connection was n't going to be lost .
'The Dinnerman ' , as he 's affectionately known , began working from home , cooking and delivering hundreds of meals to pensioners either shielding or unable to get out to the shops .
He also makes around 30-40 phone calls to week to his clients and even carries out chores and does the odd spot of gardening on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done to the soundtrack of him cracking jokes and singing old Caribbean songs .
The dad-of-four , 68 , said : `` I love to see people cheerful , I love to see them happy .
`` I love working here , I love seeing their faces and their smiles .
`` If I 'm driving around in my van I just go and knock on them to check they 're OK. '' When they called me from the Cabinet Office I was like 'Pull the other one ' .
I had to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But I am very , very proud .
I 'm just sad my mum is n't here to witness it . ''
When panic buying stripped the shelves of the essential and supermarkets experienced one of their busiest periods ever Asda store manager Simon Lea could have been forgiven for concentrating on his day job .
But alongside working extra shifts and giving up his holidays , Simon 43 , took it upon himself to make sure many of his Marple store 's elderly and vulnerable customers were OK .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivered groceries and care packages to customers who were struggling to get out .
The dad-of-two , from Marple Bridge , even got the National Lottery to stump up for an electric bike , so yet more deliveries could be carried out .
When one customer faced the prospect of celebrating her 98th birthday alone while shielding , he rallied staff and customers and delivered gifts and cards to her home .
And even though he 's since moved stores he 's still delivering to between 30-40 homes in Marple every Wednesday on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now general manger at Altrincham Asda , said : `` It 's amazing .
I 'm really chuffed .
`` I 'm just looking after customers and looking after the community .
`` I just look at things a bit differently and I just want to make sure people are alright .
`` You don 't do things like this for the recognition , you do them because you want to help .
`` But it is a nice thing to be recognised .
I am really proud . ''
Keeping busy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the worry and stress of lockdown .
Kathryn , 48 , of Tameside , normally works in the complaints department of the Co-operative Bank 's city centre headquarters .
But when the lockdown was announced she stepped up and took on lots of extra roles and responsbilities .
She helped hundreds of customers navigate online banking for the first time and assisted holidaymakers stranded abroad or who were struggling to get refunds from travel companies .
And she also volunteered during her spare time to put together comfort packages for NHS workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ donated by Co-op Bank staff .
Overall 400 packages , including items such as iPads , walkie talkies and toiletries for use by patients and toiletries , were sent out to hospitals across the North .
Kathryn , who has daughter and a step-daughter , said : `` It was a very , very scary time for everybody , but I think me keeping busy and focused was a positive thing I could do .
`` I think that was the best way for me to cope with everything .
`` I talked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home or had been furloughed and they had lots of time to worry about what was happening , whereas I was just focused on helping .
`` It 's only now when I look back that I realise how much I did .
`` At the time I was just so busy it flew by .
`` But I am incredibly proud of what I did and feel really , really lucky to get this recognition . ''
During the pandemic Damian , who runs Damian 's Genral Store in Alkrington , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clock .
He visits a cash and carry at 5am every day and has even been live streaming what he buys on Facebook , so customers know what he 's got in .
The shop is open from 10am to 6pm , and once it closes , he spends the night driving around to drop off deliveries to vulnerable people and customers who are self isolating , until 11pm , somehow also finding time to stack the shelves .
He 's been delivering to nursing homes and customers across a 50 mile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am really overwhelmed and very , very proud .
`` My mum died 10 years ago , but she would have been absolutely delighted and very proud .
`` It really is an absolute honour and I hope I 'll get to meet the Queen at one of her garden parties because I 'm a big fan . ''
When Michele Nel did a favour for a friend early in the pandemic , she could have never imagined helping make and deliver more than 13,000 headbands for key workers .
Headbands for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now a team of 99 sewers , four administrators and 73 couriers .
Michele , 58 , of Standish , is proud of how far the volunteer group has come in the past six months .
She said : `` It 's just been an incredible adventure .
`` I started it when a maternity nurse friend of mine told me her ears were really painful and asked if I could make anything to help .
`` I made a few and more people kept asking and then within a week it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` With the distribution I asked a gentleman from church , who is a biker , if any of his biker friends could help .
The next thing I knew , 60 or 70 bikers were lined up collecting orders from the house .
It was just mind-blowing . ''
Michelle will be awarded an MBE for services to the community and frontline workers in Wigan during Covid-19 .
It 's something she could have never dreamed of when she moved to England from South Africa 22 years ago .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' she admitted .
`` It 's not something I would have ever imagined and thought of .
I did n't believe it at first and it was only when I researched the phone number and email address . ''
Girlguiding has been a huge part of Pat Mayle 's life for more than 50 years .
Five years ago , following the death of her husband , she came up with the idea of the 'Comfort Bags Scheme ' for people who have unexpected stays in hospital .
`` They 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 73-year-old from Eccles said .
`` The bags are given to visitors that have to stay in hospitals overnight unexpectedly , because if you have to stay in hospital unexpectedly , you 're obviously not in a very good state and will have nothing with you .
`` It just took off , it 's been incredible .
Within 12 months we 'd given out 1,000 .
`` Girl Guides of all ages can help with it as well .
The young ones can bring things in they 've collected and the eldest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' More than 18,000 comfort bags have now been made and distributed by Girlguiding units across the north west .
Throughout the Covid-19 crisis , Pat has delivered 2,600 bags to hospitals over the North West through her network of volunteers and units and , for NHS staff , started to include over 700 treat bags , containing hand cream , coffee sachets , sweets , hand sanitiser , and drink cans .
Around 1,000 laundry bags have also been distributed NHS staff to store their scrubs prior to washing .
On her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm a bit astounded by it .
`` It came as a bolt from the blue , I heard about it around two weeks ago but I 've had to keep schtum .
`` I 've had such a good team and it was n't just me .
The other leaders have been brilliant . ''
Here are the other people from our region honoured for their efforts during coronavirus : Gary Frith , Bickershaw : Health and safety advisor , Her Majesty 's Prison , Hindley .
For services to prison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 .
Juliana Mary Taylor , Manchester : Nurse consultant in urology service , Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust .
For services to the NHS during Covid-19 .
Steven Barton , Stalybridge : For services to the community in Tameside during Covid-19 .
Anthony Lee Cocker , Oldham : Plumber , Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust .
For services to the NHS during Covid-19 .
Eno-Obong Esin , Denton : Ward clerk , adult critical care services , Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust .
For services to the NHS during Covid-19 .
Malcolm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oldham General Hospital .
For services to the NHS during Covid-19 .
Vajid Mahmood , Bury : PPM strategy and implementation lead , NHS England and NHS Improvement .
For services to the NHS during Covid-19 .
Helen McMahon , Middleton : Home manager , Four Seasons Healthcare .
For services to care homes during Covid-19 .
Tracey Ann Pearson , Stockport : Senior care worker , Grove Lodge Care Home .
For services to care home residents during Covid-19 .
Kirsty Taylor , Wythenshawe : Co-ordinator , Bideford Community Centre .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 .
Andrea Margaret Greenall , Bolton : Health care assistant , Royal Bolton Hospital , Bolton NHS Foundation Trust .
For services to the NHS during Covid-19 .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (Damon Wilkinson, Thomas Molloy)

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They are the ordinary people who have gone above and beyond during the coronavirus crisis.
From the shopkeeper working round the clock to ensure his customers get everything they need, to the railway worker who volunteered to help build Manchester's Nightingale hospital, they are living proof that the worst of times often bring out the best in people.
And now their extraordinary efforts have been recognised in a Queen's Birthday Honours List unlike any other.
Normally published in June, this year it's been delayed to recognise the incredible way people pulled together during the pandemic.
Here are the Covid heroes from Greater Manchester who have been honoured by the Queen.
Gareth Mallion MBE
When the call went out for volunteers to help build the North West's Nightingale Hospital, Gareth Mallion 'didn't think twice'.
Within an hour the Network Rail operations manager was on-site at Manchester Central Convention Complex.
And then the hard work really began.
Working 13-14 hour days, seven days a week, Gareth, from Timperley, co-ordinated deliveries for everything the hospital required - from building materials and medical equipment to the sheets for the hospital beds.
Using Network Rail trucks and the organisation's huge warehouse in Warrington, he made sure everything 'got from A to B to where it needed to be'.
Remarkably just 14 days after construction began the hospital was ready to take its first patient.
The dad-of-four, 40, said: "It was a massive thing for the North West. It was an incredible achievement and I feel proud to have played a part in it.
"It was a great experience and I met some incredible people.
"There were so many different disciplines and so many people there, but everyone worked together and there was no mither, no arguments.
"It was chaos though - I was trying to be the calming influence that made sure everything got from A to B to where it needed to be.
"You'd walk through the hall in the morning and when you walked back past the same spot later on a wall had been built, or a cubicle had gone up.
"For me I thought some of my family members or people I know could end up in here, so when the SOS went out at work I dropped everything. I didn't think twice about it.
"It's really something to be look back on and be proud of what it means.
"But it really feels like I ma accepting it on behalf of all the Network rail staff who helped build the Nightingales."
(Image: Handout)
Peter Harding MBE
During the pandemic our ability to communicate with each other was more crucial than ever.
And that's where Peter Harding, from Whitefield, came in.
During the first three months of the pandemic the 40-year-old, a jeopardy escalation manager at telecoms firm Talk Talk, and a his team got key infrastructure connected to broadband despite unprecedented logistical challenges, including the Nightingale Hospitals in ExCel London, Harrogate and Exeter, 80 care homes, 80 GP surgeries, 200 schools and 250 food distribution and logistics providers, among others.
They managed to get the new sites connected in less than 72 hours, when normally these connections would take several weeks to install.
Peter said: "As weird as it sounds I have enjoyed it.
"I've been lucky - a lot of people haven't been able to work - but me and my team have been really busy doing something that is beneficial.
"Normally our job is getting a circuit in for a customer who wants it quickly, but this has the added benefit of helping the country.
"We had to get a lot of extra people in to help and we were working much longer hours than normal, but it was just 'This needs doing, let's get it done'.
"A lot of people put in a lot of effort.
"It does give you warm, fuzzy feeling. knowing that we're helping at a time like this.
"But I just see it as my job. It's nice getting the reward, but it's not something I coveted and it's very much a surprise."
Leon Anthony Harley Mundell MBE
The African Caribbean Care Group in Hulme is a lifeline for many elderly members of the community.
But lockdown struck the charity had to close its doors to visitors and many of its users suddenly found themselves isolated and lonely.
However long-time charity worker Leon Mundell, from Whalley Range, was determined that vital connection wasn't going to be lost.
'The Dinnerman', as he's affectionately known, began working from home, cooking and delivering hundreds of meals to pensioners either shielding or unable to get out to the shops.
He also makes around 30-40 phone calls to week to his clients and even carries out chores and does the odd spot of gardening on the weekend.
And it's all done to the soundtrack of him cracking jokes and singing old Caribbean songs.
The dad-of-four, 68, said: "I love to see people cheerful, I love to see them happy.
"I love working here, I love seeing their faces and their smiles.
"If I'm driving around in my van I just go and knock on them to check they're OK.
"When they called me from the Cabinet Office I was like 'Pull the other one'. I had to sit down and really think about it.
"But I am very, very proud. I'm just sad my mum isn't here to witness it."
(Image: Asda)
Simon Lea BEM
When panic buying stripped the shelves of the essential and supermarkets experienced one of their busiest periods ever Asda store manager Simon Lea could have been forgiven for concentrating on his day job.
But alongside working extra shifts and giving up his holidays, Simon 43, took it upon himself to make sure many of his Marple store's elderly and vulnerable customers were OK.
He gathered shopping lists and then picked and delivered groceries and care packages to customers who were struggling to get out.
The dad-of-two, from Marple Bridge, even got the National Lottery to stump up for an electric bike, so yet more deliveries could be carried out.
When one customer faced the prospect of celebrating her 98th birthday alone while shielding, he rallied staff and customers and delivered gifts and cards to her home.
And even though he's since moved stores he's still delivering to between 30-40 homes in Marple every Wednesday on his day off.
Simon, who is now general manger at Altrincham Asda, said: "It's amazing. I'm really chuffed.
"I'm just looking after customers and looking after the community.
"I just look at things a bit differently and I just want to make sure people are alright.
"You don 't do things like this for the recognition, you do them because you want to help.
"But it is a nice thing to be recognised. I am really proud."
Kathryn Davies MBE
Keeping busy was Kathryn Davies' way of coping with the worry and stress of lockdown.
Kathryn, 48, of Tameside, normally works in the complaints department of the Co-operative Bank's city centre headquarters.
But when the lockdown was announced she stepped up and took on lots of extra roles and responsbilities.
She helped hundreds of customers navigate online banking for the first time and assisted holidaymakers stranded abroad or who were struggling to get refunds from travel companies.
And she also volunteered during her spare time to put together comfort packages for NHS workers and patients from items that had been donated by Co-op Bank staff.
Overall 400 packages, including items such as iPads, walkie talkies and toiletries for use by patients and toiletries, were sent out to hospitals across the North.
Kathryn, who has daughter and a step-daughter, said: "It was a very, very scary time for everybody, but I think me keeping busy and focused was a positive thing I could do.
"I think that was the best way for me to cope with everything.
"I talked to lots of people who were working from home or had been furloughed and they had lots of time to worry about what was happening, whereas I was just focused on helping.
"It's only now when I look back that I realise how much I did.
"At the time I was just so busy it flew by.
"But I am incredibly proud of what I did and feel really, really lucky to get this recognition."
(Image: Damian Edwards)
Damian Edwards BEM
During the pandemic Damian, who runs Damian's Genral Store in Alkrington, Middleton, has been working almost around the clock.
He visits a cash and carry at 5am every day and has even been live streaming what he buys on Facebook, so customers know what he's got in.
The shop is open from 10am to 6pm, and once it closes, he spends the night driving around to drop off deliveries to vulnerable people and customers who are self isolating, until 11pm, somehow also finding time to stack the shelves.
He's been delivering to nursing homes and customers across a 50 mile radius.
The 42-year-old said: "I am really overwhelmed and very, very proud.
"My mum died 10 years ago, but she would have been absolutely delighted and very proud.
"It really is an absolute honour and I hope I'll get to meet the Queen at one of her garden parties because I'm a big fan."
Michele Nel MBE
When Michele Nel did a favour for a friend early in the pandemic, she could have never imagined helping make and deliver more than 13,000 headbands for key workers.
Headbands for Heroes, set up by Michele, is now a team of 99 sewers, four administrators and 73 couriers.
Michele, 58, of Standish, is proud of how far the volunteer group has come in the past six months.
She said: "It's just been an incredible adventure.
"I started it when a maternity nurse friend of mine told me her ears were really painful and asked if I could make anything to help.
"I made a few and more people kept asking and then within a week it was a little out of control.
"With the distribution I asked a gentleman from church, who is a biker, if any of his biker friends could help. The next thing I knew, 60 or 70 bikers were lined up collecting orders from the house. It was just mind-blowing."
Michelle will be awarded an MBE for services to the community and frontline workers in Wigan during Covid-19.
It's something she could have never dreamed of when she moved to England from South Africa 22 years ago.
"It's a total shock and a bit overwhelming," she admitted.
"It's not something I would have ever imagined and thought of. I didn't believe it at first and it was only when I researched the phone number and email address."
Pat Mayle MBE
Girlguiding has been a huge part of Pat Mayle's life for more than 50 years.
Five years ago, following the death of her husband, she came up with the idea of the 'Comfort Bags Scheme' for people who have unexpected stays in hospital.
"They're essentially bags of toiletries," the 73-year-old from Eccles said.
"The bags are given to visitors that have to stay in hospitals overnight unexpectedly, because if you have to stay in hospital unexpectedly, you're obviously not in a very good state and will have nothing with you.
"It just took off, it's been incredible. Within 12 months we'd given out 1,000.
"Girl Guides of all ages can help with it as well. The young ones can bring things in they've collected and the eldest can make the bags for us."
More than 18,000 comfort bags have now been made and distributed by Girlguiding units across the north west.
Throughout the Covid-19 crisis, Pat has delivered 2,600 bags to hospitals over the North West through her network of volunteers and units and, for NHS staff, started to include over 700 treat bags, containing hand cream, coffee sachets, sweets, hand sanitiser, and drink cans.
Around 1,000 laundry bags have also been distributed NHS staff to store their scrubs prior to washing.
On her MBE, Mrs Mayle added: "I'm a bit astounded by it.
"It came as a bolt from the blue, I heard about it around two weeks ago but I've had to keep schtum.
"I've had such a good team and it wasn't just me. The other leaders have been brilliant."
Here are the other people from our region honoured for their efforts during coronavirus:
MBE
Gary Frith, Bickershaw: Health and safety advisor, Her Majesty's Prison, Hindley. For services to prison staff, their families and prisoners during Covid-19.
Juliana Mary Taylor, Manchester: Nurse consultant in urology service, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust. For services to the NHS during Covid-19.
BEM
Steven Barton, Stalybridge: For services to the community in Tameside during Covid-19.
Anthony Lee Cocker, Oldham: Plumber, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust. For services to the NHS during Covid-19.
Eno-Obong Esin, Denton: Ward clerk, adult critical care services, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. For services to the NHS during Covid-19.
Malcolm Kilpatrick, Saddleworth: Electrician, Royal Oldham General Hospital. For services to the NHS during Covid-19.
Vajid Mahmood, Bury: PPM strategy and implementation lead, NHS England and NHS Improvement. For services to the NHS during Covid-19.
Helen McMahon, Middleton: Home manager, Four Seasons Healthcare. For services to care homes during Covid-19.
Tracey Ann Pearson, Stockport: Senior care worker, Grove Lodge Care Home. For services to care home residents during Covid-19.
Kirsty Taylor, Wythenshawe: Co-ordinator, Bideford Community Centre. For services to vulnerable families in Wythenshawe during Covid-19.
Andrea Margaret Greenall, Bolton: Health care assistant, Royal Bolton Hospital, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust. For services to the NHS during Covid-19.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-10-09--Marcus Rashford awarded MBE after launching campaign to end child food poverty

Marcus Rashford has been awarded an MBE in the Queen 's Birthday Honours list for services to vulnerable children during the Covid-19 pandemic .
It comes after a year in which the Manchester United striker , 22 , has emerged as one of the UK 's most powerful and eloquent voices in the campaign to end child food poverty .
In June he forced Boris Johnson into a spectacular U-turn over extending free school meals into the summer holidays .
Following that victory the England star joined forces with many of the UK 's major supermarkets and food retailers to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Food Strategy ' .
It would see a major expansion of free school meals , school holiday support and the Healthy Start voucher scheme in a bid to ensure no child goes hungry .
Drawing on his own experiences of childhood as the son of a single mother in Wythenshawe Rashford has met with families across the UK who are going through similar hardships .
Reflecting on his ‘ humbling ’ MBE , Rashford vowed to continue fighting to protect the most vulnerable children .
“ I ’ m incredibly honoured and humbled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wythenshawe , never did I think I would be accepting an MBE , never mind an MBE at the age of 22 , ” Rashford said in a statement via Manchester United .
“ This is a very special moment for myself and my family , but particularly my mum who is the real deserving recipient of the honour .
“ The fight to protect our most vulnerable children is far from over .
“ I would be doing my community , and the families I have met and spoken with , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this opportunity to respectfully urge the Prime Minister to support our children during the October half-term with an extension of the voucher scheme , as the furlough scheme comes to an end and we face increased unemployment .
“ Another sticking plaster , but one that will give the parents of millions of children in the UK just one less thing to worry about .
“ Let ’ s stand together in saying that no children in the UK should be going to bed hungry .
As I have said many times before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not having access to food is never the child ’ s fault.
” Following the launch of the National Food Strategy he wrote to every MP in the country urging them to back the campaign .
In the powerful letter he told of meeting the mother of two young sons living off three slices of bread a day , which she she soaks them in hot water and sugar , hoping that the 'porridge consistency might better sustain the hunger of her one-year old child ' .
He also told of speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one mattress on the floor , as they 'd sold everything else of value to put food on the table .
`` This is the true reality of England in 2020 '' , he wrote to MPs .
The letter added : `` Within two days of sitting with these families , I could better understand how food poverty is contributing to social unrest .
`` Watching a young boy keeping it together whilst his mother sobbed alongside him , feeling like he has to step up to protect his family and alleviate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nine-years-old ... '' I know that feeling .
I remember the sound of my mum crying herself to sleep to this day , having worked a 14-hour shift , unsure how she was going to make ends meet .
`` That was my reality and thankfully I had the talent to kick a ball around to pull us all out of that situation .
Many can ’ t find that way out and aren ’ t being offered a helping hand to do so .
`` Those most at risk aren ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have the platform to scream help from the top of the rooftops but , for those ready to speak , my intention is to offer them the platform to do so , and for those who aren ’ t , I will continue to be their voice and act on their behalf . ''
The 2020 Queen ’ s Birthday Honours list was due to be published in June , but was pushed back to enable nominations for people playing crucial roles during the first months of the coronavirus crisis .

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Marcus Rashford has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list for services to vulnerable children during the Covid-19 pandemic.
It comes after a year in which the Manchester United striker, 22, has emerged as one of the UK's most powerful and eloquent voices in the campaign to end child food poverty.
In June he forced Boris Johnson into a spectacular U-turn over extending free school meals into the summer holidays.
Following that victory the England star joined forces with many of the UK's major supermarkets and food retailers to call for the creation of a 'National Food Strategy'.
It would see a major expansion of free school meals, school holiday support and the Healthy Start voucher scheme in a bid to ensure no child goes hungry.
Drawing on his own experiences of childhood as the son of a single mother in Wythenshawe Rashford has met with families across the UK who are going through similar hardships.
Reflecting on his ‘humbling’ MBE, Rashford vowed to continue fighting to protect the most vulnerable children.
“I’m incredibly honoured and humbled. As a young black man from Wythenshawe, never did I think I would be accepting an MBE, never mind an MBE at the age of 22,” Rashford said in a statement via Manchester United.
“This is a very special moment for myself and my family, but particularly my mum who is the real deserving recipient of the honour.
“The fight to protect our most vulnerable children is far from over.
“I would be doing my community, and the families I have met and spoken with, an injustice if I didn’t use this opportunity to respectfully urge the Prime Minister to support our children during the October half-term with an extension of the voucher scheme, as the furlough scheme comes to an end and we face increased unemployment.
(Image: Instagram)
“Another sticking plaster, but one that will give the parents of millions of children in the UK just one less thing to worry about.
“Let’s stand together in saying that no children in the UK should be going to bed hungry. As I have said many times before, no matter your feeling or opinion, not having access to food is never the child’s fault.”
Following the launch of the National Food Strategy he wrote to every MP in the country urging them to back the campaign.
In the powerful letter he told of meeting the mother of two young sons living off three slices of bread a day, which she she soaks them in hot water and sugar, hoping that the 'porridge consistency might better sustain the hunger of her one-year old child'.
He also told of speaking a family who were all sleeping on one mattress on the floor, as they'd sold everything else of value to put food on the table.
"This is the true reality of England in 2020", he wrote to MPs.
The letter added: "Within two days of sitting with these families, I could better understand how food poverty is contributing to social unrest.
"Watching a young boy keeping it together whilst his mother sobbed alongside him, feeling like he has to step up to protect his family and alleviate some of that worry. He was nine-years-old...
"I know that feeling. I remember the sound of my mum crying herself to sleep to this day, having worked a 14-hour shift, unsure how she was going to make ends meet.
"That was my reality and thankfully I had the talent to kick a ball around to pull us all out of that situation. Many can’t find that way out and aren’t being offered a helping hand to do so.
"Those most at risk aren’t in a position and don’t have the platform to scream help from the top of the rooftops but, for those ready to speak, my intention is to offer them the platform to do so, and for those who aren’t, I will continue to be their voice and act on their behalf."
The 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours list was due to be published in June, but was pushed back to enable nominations for people playing crucial roles during the first months of the coronavirus crisis.