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E-fit of man released in connection with rape in Manchester

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Detectives have released a new e-fit from descriptions after a report of rape was made in June 2024.

Enquiries have established the incident happened around 4-5am off Deansgate road in the city centre on Thursday, August 17 2023.

No arrests have been made at this stage, but the investigation is continuing.

Detective Constable Rowan said: “We are now able to ask for the help of the public to try to identify the person involved in this incident.

“After obtaining witness statements and descriptions, we have managed to produce an e-fit that should hopefully help in that process.

“Since we were informed of the incident recently, we have ensured the relevant support has been provided to the woman whilst ensuring we can move swiftly to see if we can identify the person responsible.

“In the background, we are continuing with our enquiries despite the time passed since the incident took place and remain committed on tackling serious sexual offences.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting incident 2435 of 27/06/2024. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The complete lift installation process explained

Whether you are installing a lift in a commercial or residential building, it will require planning, attention to detail and knowledge to complete to the best standard. Understanding the process of lift installation will help to ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish. 

1. Initial consultation and site survey

The first thing to do when installing a new lift into a building is perform an initial consultation and site survey. During this process, our experts will evaluate the building’s needs and requirements. The aim of this consultation is to figure out what the most suitable lift is for your building, this is dependent on space, capacity, the structure of the building and how often it is being used.

2. Design and planning

Once the site survey has been completed, it is then time to plan the installation. The team will work closely with you to create a lift that meets the specific requirements of the building as well as a lift that is suitable for you too. During this phase of the installation, you will need to select the lift type for the building, the design of the interior and also any additional technical aspects such as lift shafts, existing infrastructure and electrical systems. A project plan will follow this meeting which will summarise the timeframe, cost and any issues you may come across during the project.

3. Obtaining necessary approvals and permits

When installing a new lift, it is important to ensure you have access to the necessary permits and approvals. You may need to apply to local authorities for permits which will ensure compliance, safety regulations and building codes are followed. If you employ a company to deal with this on your behalf, then they will ensure all of these approvals are sorted ahead of the installation process beginning.

4. Lift installation

Arguably the most important phase in the whole process is the actual installation of the lift. Our skilled technicians will assemble the lift and install all of the necessary equipment, this includes the lift car, rails, motors and control systems. There are precise rules to follow when installing the lift that have been set during the planning phase. The whole process should take around a week to complete, however it can take up to several weeks depending on the complexity of the process.

5. Testing and commissioning

Once installed, it is important to fully test the lift to make sure it is functioning correctly and safely to carry passengers. These tests will include but are not limited too: 

  • Load capacity 
  • Speed
  • Emergency system
  • Overall performance

Once the lift has passed the above checks, it will be ready for official use. 

6. Handover and training

As soon as the lift is fully operational, our technicians will hand over the lift operation to the building owner or manager. This handover will include full training on how to operate the lift and its emergency procedure as well as routine maintenance tasks to be completed. Alongside this you will receive documentation including when the lift will need to be serviced and contact information for additional support should you need it.

PanzerGlass Unveils CARE: A New Standard for Mobile Protection and Environmental Sustainability

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PanzerGlass, a global leader in screen protection, has unveiled its latest product range, CARE by PanzerGlass, which sets a new benchmark in mobile phone protection and environmental sustainability. The CARE collection, comprising cases and cardholders, has been meticulously crafted with an emphasis on durability, style, and eco-consciousness.

As the global mobile accessories market, valued at USD 93.34 billion in 2023, continues to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.80%, spurred by the rise of affordable smartphones and enhanced functionalities, PanzerGlass is responding to consumer demands for superior protection combined with sustainable practices. The CARE range boasts improved drop protection of up to 4.8 metres, an anti-yellowing guarantee, and is crafted entirely from recycled plastic, marrying robustness with sustainability in a stylish design.

“From the start, we wanted CARE to be the first choice for consumers looking to protect their phones while also making a positive impact on the environment,” said Michael Broend, Vice President for Marketing at PanzerGlass. “By listening to our community, we’ve shaped a product that not only meets their needs for durability and style but also aligns with their values of sustainability and self-expression.”

The CARE by PanzerGlass range also taps into the growing trend of mobile accessories being seen as both functional and fashionable. With its sleek, stylish design and additional features such as a kickstand for hands-free use, CARE seamlessly blends protection with convenience. This launch underscores PanzerGlass’s commitment to innovation and customer insight, enhancing the longevity and value of mobile devices.

Alongside its environmental advantages, the CARE range distinguishes itself in the market with a pioneering anti-yellowing guarantee, ensuring that the products retain their visual appeal over time. This innovation directly addresses consumer concerns about the durability and appearance of their phone accessories.

As the mobile accessories market continues to expand, PanzerGlass is poised to lead with products that not only provide protection but also advance sustainability and personal expression. With CARE by PanzerGlass, consumers can protect their devices with confidence, knowing they are contributing to a more sustainable future.

Oasis announce first UK and Ireland shows in 16 years

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Oasis have ended years of feverish speculation with the confirmation of a long-awaited run of UK and Ireland shows, forming the domestic leg of their OASIS LIVE 25 world tour.
The band will hit Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Manchester’s Heaton Park, London’s Wembley Stadium, Edinburgh’s Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium and Dublin’s Croke Park in the summer of 2025.
Ticketholders can expect a set full of wall-to-wall classics and the crowd singing back every word – and of course, the charisma and intensity that only comes when Burnage brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher are on-stage together.
The brothers have flourished with their own projects since the band split in 2009, with ten UK number one albums between them as well as countless festival headline sets and stadium and arena shows.
There has been no great revelatory moment that has ignited the reunion – just the gradual realisation that the time is right.
This Thursday represents thirty years to the day since their electrifying debut album ‘Definitely Maybe’ was released, while 2025 will see the equally essential second record ‘(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?’ reach that same anniversary.
Oasis said: “The guns have fallen silent. The stars have aligned. The great wait is over. Come see.
It will not be televised.”
Plans are underway for OASIS LIVE ’25 to go to other continents outside of Europe later next year.
The classics that Liam and Noel have played in their solo shows have inspired phenomenal public demand for the band to make a long-awaited return, while the ‘Knebworth 1996’ film provided a taste of their exhilarating live performances to a whole new generation.
They remain a huge draw in the streaming era, with 21.5 million monthly listeners at Spotify alone and a total of 12 billion streams to date. This Friday will also see the release of the Deluxe 30th Anniversary Edition of ‘Definitely Maybe’, which is available to pre-order here.
Tickets for the UK dates go on sale from 9am on Saturday, August 31, available at:www.ticketmaster.co.ukwww.gigsandtours.com and www.seetickets.com
Image credit: Simon Emmett

Transforming your BMW with a spoiler: A comprehensive guide

A BMW spoiler is more than just an accessory; it’s a performance-enhancing and stylistic upgrade that can transform the look and feel of your vehicle. Whether you’re enhancing your driving experience or the aesthetics of your BMW, spoilers play a pivotal role. This article delves into what a BMW spoiler is, its benefits, why you should consider installing one, and how Maxton Design, a UK-based company, offers excellent options for your BMW.

What is a BMW spoiler?

A BMW spoiler is an aerodynamic addition typically installed on the rear of a vehicle, although front spoilers or air dams are also popular. The primary function of a spoiler is to disrupt airflow, reducing lift and improving the car’s stability at high speeds. It manipulates the air around the car to keep it firmly planted on the road, which is crucial for performance-oriented drivers.

In modern car design, spoilers have transcended their original purpose. While their aerodynamic benefits remain, they are also highly regarded for their aesthetic appeal. For BMW owners, a spoiler adds an aggressive, sporty look that accentuates the sleek design of the vehicle.

Benefits of a BMW spoiler

1. Enhanced aerodynamics

The primary benefit of a BMW spoiler is aerodynamic efficiency. By minimising lift, the spoiler improves grip, particularly at high speeds. The reduced lift allows the tyres to remain firmly in contact with the road, enhancing overall handling and reducing the risk of losing control during sharp turns or high-speed manoeuvres.

This feature is especially beneficial if you regularly drive your BMW on highways or participate in track days. The stability that comes with improved aerodynamics makes for a safer, more controlled driving experience.

2. Improved fuel efficiency

One lesser-known benefit of a BMW spoiler is improved fuel efficiency. By cutting down drag, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to propel the vehicle, leading to reduced fuel consumption. While the savings might be marginal for daily driving, they can add up over time, particularly for those who frequently engage in high-speed driving.

3. Aesthetic appeal

A BMW spoiler not only improves performance but also elevates the car’s appearance. Whether you opt for a subtle lip spoiler or a more dramatic wing, the aesthetic transformation is noticeable. A spoiler can make your car look more aggressive and performance-focused, setting it apart from standard models.

Maxton Design offers a wide range of spoiler designs, from sleek and minimalistic to bold and eye-catching, allowing you to customise your BMW’s appearance according to your style preferences.

Why should you install a BMW spoiler?

1. Performance and safety

For those who enjoy pushing their BMW to its limits, a spoiler provides an extra layer of safety. When driving at high speeds, particularly on tracks or highways, improved traction and stability can prevent accidents caused by loss of control. Even in everyday driving, the improved grip and aerodynamics can enhance the overall handling of your vehicle, making it feel more responsive.

2. Customisation

Personalisation is one of the key reasons BMW owners choose to install spoilers. A BMW spoiler allows you to differentiate your car from the others on the road. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a drastic makeover, Maxton Design offers numerous options that cater to different tastes and preferences.

The wide variety of spoiler options available from Maxton Design ensures that you can find the perfect fit for your BMW, whether it’s a 3 Series, M3, or X5. Each spoiler is crafted with precision using state-of-the-art 3D scanning technology, guaranteeing a perfect fit for your vehicle.

3. Increased resale value

Upgrading your BMW with performance-enhancing parts like a spoiler can increase the resale value of your vehicle. Potential buyers are often willing to pay a premium for cars that have been well-maintained and thoughtfully customised. A spoiler not only improves the car’s performance but also boosts its appeal in the used car market.

Types of BMW spoilers

Maxton Design offers an extensive range of spoilers designed for different BMW models. Below are the most popular types of BMW spoilers you can find:

1. Lip spoilers

A lip spoiler is subtle yet effective. It’s mounted on the rear edge of the car’s boot lid and is designed to give the vehicle a sportier look without being too flashy. This is ideal for those who want the aerodynamic benefits of a spoiler while maintaining the classic lines of their BMW.

2. Wing spoilers

Wing spoilers are larger and more prominent, designed to maximise downforce. This type of spoiler is popular among those who take their BMW to the track or are simply looking for an aggressive look. Wing spoilers not only enhance the car’s performance but also make a bold design statement.

3. Roof spoilers

Roof spoilers are installed on the rear of the car’s roof, particularly on hatchback or SUV models like the BMW X5. This type of spoiler helps to streamline the airflow across the top of the vehicle, further enhancing the car’s aerodynamic profile.

4. Ducktail spoilers

A ducktail spoiler sits slightly higher than a lip spoiler and offers a more aggressive profile without the bulk of a full wing spoiler. This is a popular choice among those looking for a balance between performance and style.

Why choose Maxton Design?

Maxton Design, based in the UK, has established itself as a leader in the automotive styling industry, especially for BMW spoilers. What sets them apart is their use of cutting-edge technology and materials like ABS plastic and carbon fiber, ensuring that their products are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and reliable.

1. Quality craftsmanship

Maxton Design prides itself on using advanced 3D scanning technology to create precise, vehicle-specific spoilers. This ensures that each spoiler perfectly complements the contours of your BMW, providing both aesthetic and performance enhancements.

2. Variety and customisation

The wide variety of designs available allows BMW owners to pick a spoiler that aligns with their personal style. Whether you want a spoiler in gloss black, a carbon look, or a textured finish, Maxton Design provides various customisation options to suit every preference.

3. Easy installation

Maxton Design spoilers are designed for easy installation. Each product comes with detailed instructions and can be installed with basic tools, making it an accessible modification for any BMW enthusiast.

A BMW spoiler is a worthy investment for any BMW owner looking to enhance both the performance and appearance of their vehicle. By improving aerodynamics, increasing fuel efficiency, and adding a unique aesthetic flair, spoilers provide a blend of functionality and style. Maxton Design stands out as a premier provider of high-quality spoilers, offering UK-manufactured products that guarantee a perfect fit for your BMW.

England axe Bairstow and Moeen ahead of Australia series

World Cup winners Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali have been left out of England’s white-ball squad to face Australia next month, with five new faces included.

Warwickshire all-rounders Jacob Bethell, 20, and Dan Mousley, 23, have been called up for the first time ahead of the three-match T20 series while Jordan Cox of Essex, Hampshire paceman John Turner and Leicestershire’s left-armer Josh Hull, fresh from a maiden Test call-up, have been picked in the 15-man squad.

Hull, Bethell and Turner are also in named in the squad for five ODIs which follow the T20 series.

Marcus Trescothick is England’s interim coach following the departure of Matthew Mott in July after the defeat to India in the T20 World Cup semi-finals.

The selection might spell the end of the England careers of Bairstow, 34, after 287 appearances and Ali, 37, who has played 298 matches in all formats and has been Jos Buttler’s vice-captain at the past three World Cups.

Chris Jordan is another notable omission while Joe Root is ‘rested’ from the ODI squad and Mark Wood and Ben Stokes are missing through injury.

Buttler is fit after a calf injury while bowler Saqib Mahmood has been picked in the T20 squad for the first time since sustaining a second stress fracture of his back last year.

Durham seamer Brydon Carse features in both squads, with his suspension from cricket for breaching betting regulations set to end this week.

All-rounder Liam Livingstone is only named in the T20 squad having been a fixture in the 50-over side in recent years.

2025 Team Cup: Rose and Molinari handed captaincy in Ryder Cup warm-up

Justin Rose will captain Great Britain & Ireland against Francesco Molinari’s Continental Europe side in the 2025 Team Cup in Abu Dhabi.

The three-day Ryder Cup-style matchplay contest debuted in 2023 when Italian Molinari led Continental Europe to victory.

The 2025 instalment will take place at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort’s National Course from January 10-12.

Rose helped Europe to victory in the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, with Molinari one of Luke Donald’s vice-captains, and Rose admitted: “It’ll be strange going up against Fran in a matchplay competition rather than him being on the same side.

“But it’s something I am really looking forward to, even though I know it will be tough given Fran’s history not just in this contest but in the Ryder Cup too.

“There is so much exciting talent from Great Britain and Ireland on the DP World Tour right now – it will be great to have the chance to try and mould them into a winning team.”

‘I have immense respect for Justin’

Molinari added: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to captain Continental Europe again and to try and successfully defend the Team Cup.

“It was a really special week in 2023 and was great to see players from so many different countries across the continent working towards one single goal.

“I have immense respect for Justin, he is a great competitor and going up against him and his team is a challenge I’m really relishing.”

The pair will lead 10-strong teams comprising the leading four available players from the final 2024 Race to Dubai Rankings, plus five wildcard picks.

Donald will oversee the event and consult on the selections made by both captains, adding: “I’m really pleased that the Team Cup is returning as it provided some invaluable experience for a lot of players last year.

“I think all of us got a lot out of the week in terms of experiencing the uniqueness of a team environment.

“It also helped everyone involved to understand, through the past Ryder Cup captains who came and spoke to the players during the event, just what it means to represent Europe in the Ryder Cup.”

US Open 2024 schedule, draw, seeds and prize money for tennis Grand Slam

World number ones Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek and defending champions Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff are among the stars about to start their US Open 2024 campaigns.

The action runs for two weeks at Flushing Meadows, where home favourite Gauff begins her defence on Monday.

2024 Summer Olympics champion Djokovic is aiming to take the outright record for major titles.

The Serbian world number two is currently on 24 Grand Slam triumphs alongside Margaret Court.

US Open 2024 schedule

The tournament runs from Monday, August 26 until Sunday, September 8, with play usually starting at 11am ET, which is 4pm BST.

The quarter-finals start an hour later, and the semi-finals start at midnight and 8pm BST.

Timings are slightly different again for the finals: the women’s edition is at 9pm BST on Saturday, September 7, followed by the men’s final on September 8 at 7pm BST.

US Open 2024 draw

Sinner starts against an American in the form of world number 72 Mackenzie McDonald on Tuesday.

Djokovic takes on Moldovan world number 139 Radu Albot on the same day, when Swiatek also faces Russian world number 79 Kamilla Rakhimova.

Women’s second seed Aryna Sabalenka meets world number 286 Priscilla Hon in the early hours of Tuesday.

US Open 2024 seeds

2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz has been seeded third behind Djokovic and Sinner, while 2020 finalist Alex Zverev is third in front of 2021 winner Daniil Medvedev.

Gauff is the third seed behind Sabalenka and Swiatek in the women’s draw, in which fourth seed Elena Rybakina is aiming to progress beyond the third round for the first time.

US Open men’s seeds

Here’s how the top 10 men’s seedings look, including 2022 finalist Casper Ruud in eighth place.

1 Jannik Sinner (Italy)
2 Novak Djokovic (Serbia)
3 Carlos Alcaraz (Spain)
4 Alexander Zverev (Germany)
5 Daniil Medvedev (Russia)
6 Andrey Rublev (Russia)
7 Hubert Hurkacz (Poland)
8 Casper Ruud (Norway)
9 Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria)
10 Alex de Minaur (Australia)

US Open women’s seeds

2020 finalist Elena Rybakina is the women’s fourth seed. 2022 finalist and world number 17 Ons Jabeur is a notable absentee with a shoulder injury.

1 Iga Swiatek (Poland)
2 Aryna Sabalenka (Belarus)
3 Coco Gauff (US)
4 Elena Rybakina (Kazakhstan)
5 Jasmine Paolini (Italy)
6 Jessica Pegula (US)
7 Qinwen Zheng (China)
8 Barbora Krejcikova (Czech Republic)
9 Maria Sakkari (Greece)
10 Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia)

US Open 2024 prize money

The $75 million total prize fund is an all-time record for a tournament, with $3.6m each going to the men’s and women’s singles champions.

The runners-up each receive $1.8m. A place in the final four is worth $1m.

Winner: $3.6m

Runner-Up: $1.8m

Semifinalists: $1m

Quarterfinalists: $530,000

Round of 16: $325,000

Round of 32: $215,000

Round of 64: $140,000

Round of 128: $100,000

Mayweather vs Gotti III: ‘Money’ fires ref during fight, lauds Chavez

Boxing great Floyd Mayweather fired the fight referee during a routine win over John Gotti III in their rematch in Mexico City.

Five-weight champion Mayweather was clearly unhappy about being warned over punching to the back of the head during the second round of the exhibition bout, reacting with a demand that was met for the official to be replaced.

The incident was perhaps the only surprise during Mayweather’s latest uneventful novelty scrap.

Mayweather vs Gotti result

As was the case for many of Mayweather’s 50 opponents during his professional career, Gotti had few answers for the American’s jab and speed during the eight rounds of two minutes each.

Mayweather had also toyed with Gotti throughout the first fight between the pair in June 2023.

Tensions had been boiling before that showdown, spilling over into mass brawls when the fight was waved off in the sixth.

Mayweather had said he was looking to “vanquish” Gotti, who has two wins from two as a professional and is the grandson of notorious mob boss John Gotti.

Mayweather: Chavez ‘a legend’

Speaking after his win, 47-year-old Mayweather again downplayed the prospect of an exhibition against three-weight champion Julio Cesar Chavez.

The 62-year-old Mexican last competed when he took part in an exhibition fight in July 2015.

“He’s a legend,” said Mayweather, calling Chavez “one of the guys who paved the way for me”.

“An unbelievable fighter. He beat my uncle, Roger, twice. I take my hat off to him.

“He’s one of the legends I look up to. He’s done so much for the sport of boxing and for all of the Mexican fighters after him.”

Image: BZA PR

England vs Sri Lanka: Pope praises ‘greedy’ Root after first Test

Joe Root inspired a “sense of calmness” in England before scoring an unbeaten 62 to help defeat Sri Lanka in the first Test, captain Ollie Pope has said.

At 70-3 on the fourth day at Old Trafford, England’s prospects of reaching the required 205 to move ahead in the three-Test series looked uncertain, Kamindu Mendis posting 113 and Dinesh Chandimal 79 for the visitors.

Root and Harry Brook hit 49 for the fourth wicket, while Jamie Smith contributed 39 from 48 balls as part of a five-wicket win.

Sri Lanka vs England: Root ‘calmness’

“He’s a greedy Yorkshireman, isn’t he?” joked Pope, who is England’s stand-in skipper for the injured Ben Stokes, speaking to Sky Sports Cricket about Root.

“So everyone likes it when he’s walking out to the crease. There was a sense of calmness when he was in to bat. Everyone had a sense of confidence that he was going to take it home.”

Mendis and Chandimal had added 117 for Sri Lanka’s seventh wicket in the morning, but England took the final four wickets for 19 runs with the help of the second new ball.

Pope: England ‘cashed in’

Pope praised Gus Atkinson and Chris Woakes in England’s attack, saying his bowlers had “led from the front”.

“It was the kind of pitch that suited the new ball,” he observed. “We knew that once it got past 15-to-20 overs, we could really cash in.

“I enjoyed it in the field, reading the game and trying to find different ways of taking 20 wickets on a pitch that, once you got past 15 or 20 overs, was pretty tough to bowl on.

“We really enjoyed it. The first day was more taxing than I expected but that was always going to be the case.”

Jamie Smith ‘honoured’

Smith, who was named Player of the Match for his century in England’s first innings, described the action as “slightly attritional at times”.

“Rooty anchored the innings nicely and allowed people to go and play around him,” added the 24-year-old.

“It’s a really enjoyable team to be a part of. There’s a lot of learning to be taken and there are a lot of experiences to come. To be out there and representing your country is a great honour.”

The second Test at Lord’s starts at 11am BST on Thursday.