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Wimbledon 2024: Krejcikova to face Paolini in final after stunning Rybakina

Cian Cheesbrough
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Wimbledon 2024: Krejcikova to face Paolini in final after stunning Rybakina

Barbora Krejcikova stunned favourite Elena Rybakina to set up a Wimbledon final against Jasmine Paolini.

The Czech 31st seed recovered from losing the first set to beat the former champion 3-6 6-3 6-4 in drama-filled day of women’s semi-final action in SW19.

Krejcikova will hope to follow in the footsteps of fellow Czech Marketa Vondrosouva, who was became the first unseeded winner last year.

Meanwhile, Rybankina’s defeat means there will be an eighth different champion in eight years.

Krejcikova made a disastrous start as she slumped to 0-4 and had to wait until her eighth game to hold serve.

But she found her composure and despite losing the first set, came roaring back in the second, which she claimed in an up-and-down final game which saw her double fault while at 40-0.

Rybankina regrouped in the third set but was then up against a confident opponent, with Krejcikova making the breakthrough in the seventh game before seeing out the contest.

“(There’s) a lot of joy, a lot emotions. Also a lot of relief and I’m just super proud”, the 28-year-old said.

“I was down, I started 0-4, I was happy that I won the first game.

“I started to be in the zone and I didn’t want to leave the zone.”

Paolini wins thriller

Her opponent Paolini is the first Italian to reach the final of Wimbledon after overcoming Croatian Donna Vekic in a two-and-a-half hour epic on Centre Court.

The thrilling semi-final was decided in a final-set tie-break, with Paolini coming through 10-8 after previously missing two match points.

After two hours and 51 minutes of play – which makes it the longest ever women’s semi-final at Wimbledon – the seventh seed claimed a thrilling 2-6 6-4 7-6 (10-8) win.

Paolini, who had never won a match at SW19 before this year, said: “I think these last months have been crazy for me.

“I don’t know, I am just trying to focus on what I have to do on court and enjoying what I am doing.

“I love playing tennis. It is a dream. I was watching finals when I was a kid at Wimbledon. I am just enjoying it and trying to live in the present.”

Legal expert: What to do if your personal data is breached

News Desk
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Legal expert: What to do if your personal data is breached
A legal expert has revealed what you should do if you find yourself victim of a personal data breach, following the cybercriminal attack on the NHS and Ticketmaster.

A data breach occurs when personal information is accessed by unauthorised individuals or released online or into an uncontrolled environment.

Whether the breach results from human error or a hacker attack, it can be unsettling not knowing where private information might end up.

Last month, a cybercriminal group leaked almost 400GB of NHS data, including patient names, dates of birth, NHS numbers, and blood test descriptions. This incident led to the postponement of 6,000 appointments and procedures.

Data breach claim specialists at SJS Legal have provided advice on what people should do when their data has been compromised.

Niamh Wilson, a Risk and Compliance solicitor at SJS Legal, stated, “We trust many different organisations to keep our information safe, but sometimes our personal data can end up in the wrong hands.

“It’s important to know what to do when your information has been leaked in a data breach so you can protect yourself from further risk.”

Change passwords

Using the same password on multiple accounts is a big ‘no-no’ and learning this when your data has been breached is a tough lesson.
Mrs Wilson said: “We all know we shouldn’t use the same password across multiple accounts but many people do. If your password has been compromised on one website, then it is compromised on others too so it’s important to change them as soon as possible.”

Be wary of potential scams

With personal details now accessible online, criminals might use it to scam people out of their hard-earned cash.
“Scammers might have passwords, card details or other personal information which they can use to impersonate banks and other trustworthy bodies,” said the legal expert.
“Be extra attentive when responding to emails and answering the phone. Stop and think, hang up if you’re not sure and contact your bank through the number or contact method you’re familiar with.”

Tell your bank

First of all, check for any suspicious payments you don’t recall making and flag these to your bank.
Mrs Wilson said: “You can cancel your card yourself and request a new one if you are concerned about it being used, or you can ask your bank to put a marker on your account to increase security checks for suspicious activity.”

Monitor your credit reports

Checking your credit report can help you identify any unusual activity related to credit fraud and identity theft.
Mrs Wilson said: “If your data has fallen into the wrong hands, someone could try to get a loan or credit card using your name and information.
“You can keep an eye on your report or use a monitoring service which does this for you. Some cost but you can find free services, too.”

Seek legal guidance

A solicitor can guide you through a data breach compensation claim, so if you are in any doubt it might be best to seek some professional help.
Mrs Wilson said: “Even if you haven’t been financially affected by your data being breached, you can be entitled to claim compensation for anguish or anxiety caused.
“If you have suffered financial harm as a direct result of the breach, the amount of compensation you might be able to claim would likely be far greater.”

GM Business Growth Hub appoints new head of access to finance

Helen Greaney
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GM Business Growth Hub appoints new head of access to finance

A dedicated leader of the region’s funding and finance ecosystem has been appointed as GM Business Growth Hub’s new Head of Access to Finance.

Ian Dixon has been promoted to the new role after 16 years as the Hub’s Access to Finance A2F team leader.

Dixon has more than 20 years of professional and industry experience in a variety of senior roles, and before joining the Hub worked across a wide portfolio of financial projects, including flotations and acquisitions.

Working at A2F, Dixon has played a key role in supporting the region’s SMEs to secure appropriate funding from either the public or private sector.

He has specialised in supporting businesses engaged in equity fundraising, providing guidance on the processes and pitfalls involved and navigating the early-stage funding landscape.

Janine Smith, GM Business Growth Hub director, said: “I’m delighted that Ian will be leading the Access to Finance team supporting Greater Manchester businesses to become investment ready and to secure the finance needed to support growth and scale ambitions.

“Ian has a strong commercial background, is well known and respected across the sector and understands the challenges businesses face in seeking finance and funding, particularly in the equity space.”

As Head of A2F, Dixon will be supporting on delivery of plans to extend the service and its activities, with a particular focus on integrating digital pathways to meet the needs of Greater Manchester’s businesses.

Recruitment of a new network manager and two new A2F advisors is also underway.

Ian Dixon added: “I am delighted to be appointed to support the future development of the Access to Finance service and build upon the tremendous knowledge and experience within the team.

“The pace of change within the investment landscape continues to accelerate and presents both significant challenges but importantly opportunities for the development of the Access to Finance advisory service.

“I hope to build upon the successes of the past as we look to invest in extending the capacity and capabilities of the future service for the benefit of the GM business community.”

Access to Finance and other GM Business Growth Hub projects are funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Businessman and Guinness World Record holder awarded honorary degree

Helen Greaney
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Businessman and Guinness World Record holder awarded honorary degree

A businessman and philanthropist has been awarded an honorary degree from the University of Salford after creating a charity that helps people with disabilities get behind the wheel of a car.

Thanks to John Galloway and his Speed of Sight charity, thousands of people have been able to experience driving, despite being blind, having limbs missing or another disability which means they are not allowed to drive.

Prior to co-founding Speed of Sight, John (pictured) spent over a decade as the managing director of a digital media agency, providing bespoke website and digital media solutions for large blue chips and SME businesses.

His journey with the charity began when he joined forces with Mike Newman, who is blind, to help him achieve his personal quest of setting a blind land-speed record. Together, they achieved seven world records, including setting Guinness World Records in cars, planes, powerboats, and racing trucks.

In 2012, John co-founded Speed of Sight, dedicating himself full-time to the charity’s mission of providing exhilarating driving experiences to individuals, of all ages, who have disabilities that preclude them from holding a driving licence.

He said: “One of my best friends passed away aged 16 with spina bifida and my mother had sea hand syndrome, ended up in wheelchair, and also my dad had two strokes and developed dementia. My career was going well but my personal life was full of issues. But it raised my awareness of disability and drive me to want to help others.

“There are things we take for granted as human beings but not everyone can have those experiences. We are the only charity in the world that provides these kind of life changing experiences for people with life limiting disabilities. People who have been told they will never be able to drive due to their disability, when they get behind a wheel their reactions a are priceless. Many are lost for words, punch the air or cry with joy after they’ve driven round our tracks for the first time.”

Speed of Sight works with people from age seven to 90. The drivers work with an instructor as they navigate round a circuit and have full control over the car.

Dr Francine Morris, associate dean for Enterprise and Engagement at Salford Business School, said: “John has worked with Salford for a number of years and he has contributed so much. He truly is an inspirational figure whose compassion shines through in everything he does. John fully deserves this honour and we look forward to working with him more in the future.”

British streetwear brand Represent comes home to Manchester

Helen Greaney
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British streetwear brand Represent comes home to Manchester

Manchester Arndale has agreed a deal with rapidly growing British streetwear brand Represent for its first permanent retail store outside of London.

The luxury fashion label has chosen a 5,419 sq ft unit on New Cathedral Street which sits near Manchester Arndale and is home to leading retailers including Harvey Nichols, Zara, Paul Smith, Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors.

Founded in 2011 by Greater Manchester-born brothers George and Mike Heaton, Represent’s range of clothing is inspired by retro Mancunian designs and their ranges of T-shirts, hoodies, and trainers, are regularly showcased at top fashion destinations worldwide, including New York and Milan.

With a bespoke store in West Hollywood, and a recently announced planned space in London’s Soho, Represent has collaborated with numerous big name celebrities since its launch including Justin Bieber, The Kardashians, Zayn Malik, and Gigi Hadid, as well as Liam Gallagher.

After creating several pop-up in-store activations in London and Manchester at the likes of Selfridges, Flannels, and Harrods, the new Manchester store will be its first permanent space outside of London.

The Represent store, which is set to open this Autumn, will provide a bespoke luxury shopping experience where customers can book an appointment with an advisor who will be able to offer recommendations tailored to their needs.

George Heaton, founder of Represent, said: “We are very excited to open our first UK retail store in Manchester, our hometown and base. The Represent Manchester location marks an important and iconic milestone for the brand; having spent the past three years planning physical retail footprints, trailing the senses of energy, look, feel, and scent through our partners such as Selfridges and Harrods along the process.

“We’ve been on the lookout for the perfect location during these years and managed to come upon this great store in a prestigious part of the city amongst other luxury brands. The space reflects what Represent looks and feels, through the tones, palette it carries, and the textures used throughout the materials used to craft the interior & exterior. The DNA you’ll notice in our Los Angeles store is carried throughout.”

Auction of UK Home Appliance Factory’s Contents Announced

News Desk
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Auction of UK Home Appliance Factory’s Contents Announced

NCM Auctions, a specialist auctioneer and asset management company, is set to auction the contents of a Merseyside-based factory on behalf of Glen Dimplex, a specialist home appliance manufacturer.

Headquartered in Dublin, this global company has manufacturing and development centres across the world. It produces domestic appliances for prominent brands such as Morphy Richards, Britannia, Belling, and LEC. In November of last year, the company announced the consolidation of its UK manufacturing operations, leading to the closure of their Prescot site.

This largely no reserve online auction features press brakes and punch presses from the distinguished Japanese brand Amada, as well as high-capacity power presses from Taylor & Challen and Wilkens & Mitchell. The auction catalogue also includes lathes, milling machines, precision drills, MIG welding robots, spray booths, powder coating booths, and a fully automated 12-station assembly line from Amber Industries.

Alongside the specialist manufacturing equipment, the auction also includes catering supplies, workbenches, extraction equipment, racking, office furniture, seating, modular buildings, and more.

Glen Dimplex is working with NCM to clear the site in an environmentally sustainable manner. This approach extends the lifecycle of the specialist equipment, allowing it to be reused and redeployed by various businesses and manufacturers. It prevents surplus items from ending up in landfill, benefits the local community, and provides companies with access to equipment at a significantly reduced cost compared to new machinery.

Amy Rutherford, partnership lead at NCM Auctions, commented: “We’re pleased to be working with Glen Dimplex on this project, and their approach to sustainability and opting for a circular approach to their asset disposal has far-reaching benefits for the manufacturing industry and the wider community in and around Merseyside.

“A complete factory auction like this is rare and offers our bidders access to a full range of equipment – covering everything from metal forming and punching to precision welding, assembly, painting and powder coating. We’ve seen a lot of interest from both UK and overseas bidders. In the first instance, I’d ask interested parties to contact us and secure a viewing as soon as possible.”

For businesses seeking to scale up production, expand manufacturing capabilities, or diversify into new service areas, this auction catalogue has a wealth of options.

A viewing day is scheduled for 17 July by appointment only. Please contact NCM on 01302 898260 or email [email protected] to arrange a viewing.

The online auction for Glen Dimplex will end on 18 July from 11am. Interested bidders can browse the catalogue and register to bid now.

Private treaty offers are welcome before the auction ends. For more information, email [email protected].

Aluxury® Launches New Line of 100% Pure Essential Oils

News Desk
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Aluxury® Launches New Line of 100% Pure Essential Oils

Aluxury®, a prominent figure in the luxury home fragrance sector, is pleased to announce the expansion of its essential oil collection with the introduction of new 100% pure essential oils. This launch signifies a major milestone in Aluxury’s ongoing commitment to delivering top-quality, ethically sourced, and meticulously selected essential oils to enhance well-being and cultivate a serene home environment.

The new collection includes notable oils such as Sandalwood, Vanilla Oil, Bergamot, Lavender, and Jasmine, each recognised for their unique wellness attributes and exceptional quality. These Aluxury® pure essential oils are perfect for a variety of uses, including aromatherapy, improving well-being, and creating a calming atmosphere.

These new essential oils are a perfect addition to Aluxury’s diffuser oil range, designed to be compatible with their electric diffusers, including the highly regarded Nebula diffuser. These diffusers are designed to provide the ideal aromatic experience, ensuring that the essence of each oil is fully appreciated.

Aluxury® is dedicated to sourcing only the highest quality ingredients for all its products. Every essential oil in the collection is ethically sourced and chosen for its purity and strength. Each drop of oil is of the finest quality, delivering the best possible benefits for the mind and body, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability and excellence.

From encouraging relaxation and reducing stress to invigorating the senses and boosting mood, Aluxury’s essential oil collection offers a wide range of options to meet every need. The carefully curated selection ensures you can find the ideal oil for any occasion, whether you want to relax after a long day or create an invigorating environment.

The new essential oils are now available on Aluxury’s website. To celebrate the launch, customers can use the code JULY10 to receive a 10% discount on all purchases. This offer is a perfect chance to explore the new range and find your preferred scents.

“As we spend time and effort sourcing the finest quality oils, we’ll continue to expand our essential oil and diffuser oil collections,” says Andrew Gaugler, Director at Aluxury®. “Our goal is to provide our customers with the best in luxury home fragrance, enhancing their well-being and creating a sanctuary in their homes.”

Jack Mason on How Microsoft Is Navigating AI Innovation and Regulation

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Jack Mason says that Microsoft’s recent decision to leave the OpenAI board amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny marks a significant juncture in the tech industry. This move, first reported by Forbes, illustrates the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and its regulation, posing both challenges and opportunities for tech giants.

As regulators intensify their oversight of AI partnerships, the implications for innovation, competition, and ethical considerations are profound. This article delves into the details of Microsoft’s strategic withdrawal, exploring the broader context and potential outcomes for the AI industry.

Jack Mason Explores the Regulatory Pressures

The impetus behind Microsoft’s exit from the OpenAI board can be traced to mounting regulatory pressures globally. Regulatory bodies, particularly in the United States and Europe, have become increasingly vigilant about the potential for monopolistic practices and ethical concerns in the AI sector.

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been particularly active, scrutinising Microsoft’s partnership with OpenAI to determine if it constitutes an “acquisition of control” that could stifle competition.

jack mason open ai microsoft 1
Jack Mason on How Microsoft Is Navigating AI Innovation and Regulation 2

This regulatory scrutiny is not unfounded. With AI’s rapid advancement, concerns about the concentration of power in a few dominant players have grown. The potential for AI technologies to influence various sectors, from healthcare to finance, means that unchecked power could lead to significant imbalances. Regulators are therefore keen to ensure that AI development remains competitive and ethically sound.

Microsoft’s strategic withdrawal

Microsoft’s decision to step back from OpenAI’s board can be seen as a strategic manoeuvre to navigate these regulatory landscapes. By relinquishing its board position, Microsoft aims to alleviate concerns about undue influence and monopolistic behaviour while continuing to support and benefit from AI advancements through its investments and partnerships.

This move also allows Microsoft to focus on its core business areas and maintain its reputation as a responsible tech leader.

In a statement, Microsoft emphasised its commitment to innovation and competition, noting that it would continue to support OpenAI as a non-voting observer on the board. This approach aims to balance compliance with regulatory demands and the pursuit of technological progress.

Implications for the AI industry

Microsoft’s withdrawal from the OpenAI board has significant implications for the AI industry. Firstly, it signals to other tech giants the importance of maintaining transparency and ethical standards in AI development. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies, companies must reassess their governance structures and partnerships to ensure compliance and foster a competitive environment.

Secondly, this development could lead to a more diverse and decentralised AI ecosystem. With major players like Microsoft stepping back from direct control, smaller companies and startups may find more opportunities to innovate and compete. This could result in a richer and more varied landscape of AI technologies, benefiting consumers and society at large.

Balancing innovation and regulation

The tension between innovation and regulation is a central theme in the current AI discourse. While regulatory oversight is crucial to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure ethical standards, it must be balanced with the need to foster innovation.

Overly stringent regulations could stifle creativity and slow down technological progress, undermining the potential benefits of AI.

To strike this balance, regulators and tech companies must engage in continuous dialogue. Collaborative efforts can help shape regulations that protect public interests without impeding innovation. Microsoft’s decision to maintain a non-voting observer role on the OpenAI board exemplifies such a balanced approach, allowing for continued support of AI development while addressing regulatory concerns.

Future outlook

Looking ahead, the AI industry is poised for significant changes. As regulatory frameworks evolve, tech companies will need to adapt their strategies to comply with new rules while continuing to push the boundaries of innovation. Microsoft’s experience offers valuable lessons for other companies navigating this complex landscape.

Moreover, the increased scrutiny on AI partnerships could drive a more ethical and transparent approach to AI development. Companies may invest more in ethical research and development practices, ensuring that AI technologies are developed responsibly and benefit society as a whole.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s exit from the OpenAI board marks a pivotal moment in the AI industry’s regulatory journey. This decision underscores the growing influence of regulatory bodies and the need for tech companies to balance innovation with ethical and competitive practices. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, collaboration between regulators and industry leaders will be key to fostering a fair and dynamic ecosystem.

By navigating these challenges thoughtfully, the AI industry can achieve its potential to transform society positively and sustainably.

References

  1. Hart, R. (2024). Microsoft Quits OpenAI Board As Regulators Crack Down On Big Tech’s AI Dealmaking. Forbes. Link
  2. Engadget. The UK’s Competition Regulator is Reviewing Microsoft’s Links to OpenAI. Link
  3. El País. FTC Opens Investigation into Big Tech’s Partnerships with Leading AI Startups. Link

Learn more about Jack Mason and more blogs on his official site, as well as his thoughts on AI.

England v West Indies: Gus Atkinson makes dream Test debut to outshine Anderson

Alex Hoad
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England v West Indies: Gus Atkinson makes dream Test debut to outshine Anderson

England debutant Gus Atkinson overshadowed James Anderson on his farewell appearance as he claimed seven wickets as West Indies were skittled on day one of the first Test.

The Surrey paceman took advantage of some helpful bowling conditions at Lord’s to pick up the scalps of Alick Athanaze, Jason Holder and Joshua Da Silva in the space of four balls after lunch on his way to figures of 7-45 from 12 overs.

West Indies eventually folded to 121 all-out, losing their final seven wickets for the addition of just 33 runs, with Atkinson finishing with the third best figures on debut for England, although the best in his first innings.

It took the 26-year-old just two balls of his first over to get skipper Kraigg Brathwaite to drag onto his own stumps for six, and he never looked back.

The right-armer was eventually denied the chance of an historic eight-wicket haul by Anderson, who claimed his 701st Test wicket when he pinned Jaden Seales LBW for two to end the innings.

Atkinson’s previous best figures in an innings in First Class cricket were 6-68.

Australian-born John Ferris played one Test for England, against South Africa in Cape Town in 1892, and recorded figures of 7-37, though they were in the second innings.

Dominic Cork also produced a spell of 7-43, also at Lord’s, also against the West Indies, although his figures were posted in the fourth innings of his debut Test in 1995.

Line-up announced for Feel Good Family Picnics

Helen Greaney
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Line-up announced for Feel Good Family Picnics

The line-up has been revealed for the Feel Good Family Picnics being held in Rochdale, Middleton, Littleborough and Heywood this summer (July 30 to August 2).

Visitors to the free family events sponsored by automotive dealer Premier Suzuki will be able to experience more than 20 amazing different attractions each day, including live performances, music, theatre, sports and shows for children of all ages.

Spectacular outdoor performances include ‘Fussy Foodies: Battle of the Pans’ – the new interactive game show by Just More Productions, exploring how foods help define our cultural identity with music, laughs, audience participation and prizes up for grabs. It’s a celebration of food, music roots and culture, a kitchen party where the audience joins in with the fun, starring number one foodie ‘Messy Mama T’.

‘Teabreak,’ a new heart-warming show by live events company Trigger, will be performed each day. It follows the journey of tea across continents and centuries onto our shores, with tea served from Trigger’s beautifully hand-painted Tuk Tuk. As you stir your cup, you’ll learn how it’s found itself into our tea pots featuring soundbites from gardeners, historians, tea-makers, mothers and children speaking about what one of our most-loved rituals means to them, accompanied by dancers.

‘The Lost Opera’ is an interactive sound performance and dance show using the wonders of technology that you can watch as well as join in with on your mobile phone. Featuring three mysterious figures it is inspired by the Bauhaus Ballet of the 1920s.

At 2pm each day a stunning carnival will travel around the parks led by international carnival arts company Global Grooves, reflecting the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect. Expect giant puppets, costumes, funky beats, flags and high energy dance, animated by local communities and professional street performers.

Live music will be provided by last year’s favourites Flat Cap Brass who play fun and friendly arrangements of popular 90’s and 00’s pop songs as you’ve never heard them before.

Master storyteller Gav Cross, who went down a storm last year, is also back with a brand new show mixing wonderful tales with his trademark silly humour.

Rochdale’s M6 Theatre Company will be in the storytelling tent this year, presenting the debut of ‘Even Stevens’ – a touching story from a handy man, gardener and chatterbox who travels around on his trusty old bike. There’ll be clowning, a fascinating story, thankfully a happy ending and lots of fun along the way.

Visitors will be able to try a range of popular sports and games including track bikes, badminton, shotput, and archery with staff from Your Trust as well as boxing training with the team from Middleton Martial Arts Academy.

Skylight Circus will perform a range of spectacular feats including ariel tricks, stilt walking, juggling and clowning, with everyone invited to learn the skills led by professional circus artists.

Bring along your bicycle for a free check by Dr Bike (excludes Rochdale).

Once again organisers want the event to reduce its impact on the environment as well as showing visitors ways to reduce your carbon footprint, save energy and be kinder to our planet so they’ll be lots of sustainable activities to see and try including upcycling, health and wellbeing, nature based craft activities and water saving tips. You’re encouraged to take your picnic waste home, and bring a water bottle as free refills will be available all day.

Picnics are welcome at all events but food is also available to purchase.

The Feel Good Family Picnic will be staged from 12pm to 4pm in Rochdale’s Broadfield Park on Tuesday, July 30, Limefield Playing Fields in Middleton on Wednesday, July 31 and Harehill Park in Littleborough on Thursday, August 1. The final date will be in Heywood’s Queen’s Park on Friday, August 2.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “The Feel Good Family Picnic will be four magical days out in the beautiful setting of lovely parks and gardens. It’s all free and the perfect opportunity to entertain and educate your children or grandchildren during the holidays. I’m looking forward to seeing lots of local people as well as visitors from across Greater Manchester, giving us the opportunity to showcase what the area has to offer.”

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