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£14 million investment to transform Manchester power network

Helen Greaney
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£14 million investment to transform Manchester power network

An investment worth £14m which will transform a section of Manchester’s power network at Eastlands, has progressed to the next stage.

As well as installing 10km of new underground electricity cables, engineers from Electricity North West will be carrying out upgrades at three substations in the area.

The latest stage of the project will start this month as new cables will be installed on Stuart Street and finishing on Gibbon Street.

Work is expected to be fully completed in two months with the new cables enabling the continued development and growth in the area. 30,000 local residents and businesses in the area will also benefit from a continued secure and reliable electricity supply.

Stephen Forshaw, who is overseeing the work in Manchester for Electricity North West, said: “The Eastlands scheme has been a major engineering project and an important one for the growth in the city.

“The latest stage will see a further 1,100m of underground cables installed and once connected, will provide additional space on the network for homes and businesses in the area.

“We’ve contacted businesses in the immediate area to make them aware of work taking place as we want to be as transparent as possible and work with customers to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.”

The latest phase will start on July 8 and is expected to last for four weeks. While this phase takes place, temporary traffic lights will be used to ensure engineers can work safely in the road.

Engineers have hand-delivered letters to nearby properties and businesses and all work has been agreed with Manchester City Council.

Annnnd relax at Cottons Hotel & Spa

Helen Greaney
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Annnnd relax at Cottons Hotel & Spa

For the ultimate in relaxation, head down to Cottons Hotel & Spa, located on a leafy road in the village of Knutsford, Cheshire. It’s a great location for exploring the local area, including Tatton Park or nipping into Manchester. With 138 bedrooms available and great facilities including a large conference room and a well-equipped gym, it offers fabulous amenities for local businesses.

PXL 20240607 090432511A friendly receptionist greeted us and gave us a tour of the facilities before we were shown to the relaxation area, where fruit-infused water and treats awaited. This was tranquil – a great atmosphere to just chill out with a book.

As the weather was glorious on our visit, we decided to head out to the outdoor terrace to enjoy a coffee. Our first experience was in the outdoor bubbling jacuzzi, which was fabulous. Just the right temperature and a good size for several people to comfortably enjoy at once.

We then ventured into the leisure area, where we enjoyed a refreshing dip in the enticing pool. It was quiet when we visited so plenty of space to lap up and down. The sauna and wetrooms were well looked after. We also spent time on the loungers by the poolside – so no need to guard with towels, as plenty available for all guests.

PXL 20240607 120235192And of course, it would be rude not to experience the treatments while we were there. There was an intriguing range on offer. My friend appeared after her Vinoperfect Radiance Facial looking suitably impressed. The treatment room was the right temperature and the therapist was knowledgeable, explaining what she would be doing and her reasons for using certain Caudalie and Temple Spa products. My friend said she was thoroughly relaxed afterwards and commented that the products were effective and left her skin feeling great – not tight at all. 

I chose the Templespa My Kinda Massage and I wasn’t disappointed. Knowing I had knots galore in my neck, I was pleased to get a sports therapist to sort me out – and she was fabulous. She immediately sussed out my sore spots and used the perfect amount of pressure combined with a delightful massage oil that smelt like ginger and lemon to put the spring back in my step! She used Temple Spa’s juniper, lavender and cypress oil to sort my back tension out and it felt like a great detox. I was completely de-stressed after 50 minutes of full body relaxation.

When it came to food, there were some delightful options. First decision was whether to choose a booth, a table or a spot by the fire. Food offerings included light bites, seasonal dishes or cakes with pots of tea, with lots of local produce offered.

PXL 20240607 135420721 scaled e1719911410971Lunch on our spa day was a two-course meal. While the menu didn’t particularly cater to intolerances, the chef was more than happy to prepare a gluten and dairy-free two-course lunch which was fantastic. I enjoyed a spiced cauliflower soup which was the perfect consistency and flavoursome. For the main course, I had a dairy-free seasonal vegetable risotto which was incredible – great texture with different beans and pea shoots 

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–  and super tasty. 

My friend opted for the Thwaites beer battered fish finger sandwich and chips, which looked sensational – and there wasn’t a crumb left on her plate. For dessert she chose the chocolate and orange tart with a creamy vanilla ice cream, which disappeared without a trace.

 

There are 138 bedrooms available including suites with lounge areas, all with fluffy white dressing gowns included, perfect for lounging about. Generally the rooms are well furnished but perhaps a little dark. Pop-up beds and interconnecting rooms are available for overnight stays, with family rooms able to accommodate two adults and two children. Whilst we didn’t go into the gym, there was state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment to take your performance to the next level.

The overall experience was very pleasant, relaxing and enjoyable – with the spa staff a particular bonus. Whilst we would definitely go back – the treatments were the highlight – we would say there were areas of the hotel and spa that were in need of a little attention, mainly to the paintwork around the corridors and to some tired areas including the loungers at the poolside.

To book spa days and breaks: Cottons Hotel & Spa, Manchester Road, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 0SU.

 

Sustainable Logistics: Reducing Carbon Footprint with Smart Routing

News Desk
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Sustainable Logistics: Reducing Carbon Footprint with Smart Routing

Sustainable logistics is a critical focus for many businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact. As the demand for quick and efficient delivery services grows, so does the need for innovative solutions that mitigate carbon emissions. Smart routing technology is one such solution, offering a way to enhance operational efficiency while promoting sustainability. By optimising delivery routes, companies can significantly cut down on fuel consumption, reduce traffic congestion, and minimise their carbon footprint. Embracing smart routing not only supports environmental goals but also drives economic benefits and improves customer satisfaction, marking a forward-thinking approach in the logistics industry.

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Logistics

Traditional logistics operations have long been associated with significant environmental challenges. The reliance on fossil fuels for transportation contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbate climate change. Additionally, inefficient routing and scheduling practices lead to unnecessary fuel consumption and increased air pollution. The logistics sector is also responsible for a substantial share of traffic congestion in urban areas, further escalating emissions and energy waste. These environmental impacts highlight the urgent need for more sustainable practices in logistics, paving the way for technological advancements that can address these issues effectively.

Smart Routing: A Game Changer for Logistics Efficiency

Smart routing technology revolutionises logistics by leveraging data and advanced algorithms to optimise delivery routes. This innovation allows companies to plan the most efficient paths for their vehicles, taking into account factors such as traffic conditions, delivery windows, and vehicle capacity. By reducing the distance travelled and minimising idle time, smart routing not only lowers fuel consumption but also decreases operational costs. Moreover, it enhances the reliability and punctuality of deliveries, leading to higher customer satisfaction. The integration of smart routing systems in logistics operations exemplifies a strategic move towards efficiency and sustainability, benefiting both businesses and the environment.

The Role of Technology in Sustainable Transportation

Technology plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable transportation. Software for transport management systems enables companies to streamline their logistics operations, ensuring more efficient use of resources. Geo2, for instance, offers a cloud-based transport management system that allows real-time tracking and dynamic route adjustments. These transport management systems utilise data analytics to predict traffic patterns and optimise delivery schedules, reducing unnecessary mileage and fuel consumption. The integration of such technology not only improves operational efficiency but also significantly lowers the environmental impact of logistics activities. By adopting advanced transport management systems, businesses can achieve greater sustainability in their transportation processes, contributing to broader environmental goals while enhancing service reliability and customer satisfaction.

Reducing Fuel Consumption and Emissions with Route Optimisation

Route optimisation is a key strategy in reducing fuel consumption and emissions within the logistics sector. By using sophisticated algorithms and real-time data, route optimisation tools can determine the most efficient paths for delivery vehicles. This reduces the total distance travelled and minimises idle time, leading to lower fuel usage and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, route optimisation helps in avoiding traffic congestion and selecting routes that are less likely to encounter delays, further enhancing fuel efficiency. Implementing these technologies not only benefits the environment by cutting emissions but also reduces operational costs for businesses. Companies adopting route optimisation can thus achieve a balance between economic performance and environmental responsibility, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable logistics practices.

Enhancing Customer Satisfaction Through Eco-Friendly Practices

Eco-friendly practices in logistics are increasingly important for enhancing customer satisfaction. Consumers today are more environmentally conscious and prefer doing business with companies that prioritise sustainability. Implementing green logistics practices, such as using fuel-efficient vehicles and optimising delivery routes, not only reduces carbon footprints but also demonstrates a company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. By ensuring timely and efficient deliveries through smart routing, companies can improve reliability and customer trust. Additionally, transparent communication about sustainable practices can further strengthen customer loyalty. Businesses that invest in eco-friendly logistics solutions often find that their efforts lead to improved customer retention and positive brand perception, aligning economic success with environmental stewardship.

The Economic Benefits of Green Logistics Practices

Adopting green logistics practices offers substantial economic benefits for businesses. Implementing smart routing and fuel-efficient technologies can significantly reduce operational costs by lowering fuel consumption and maintenance expenses. Companies that prioritise sustainability often benefit from government incentives and tax breaks designed to encourage environmentally friendly practices. Moreover, optimising logistics operations can enhance overall efficiency, leading to faster delivery times and improved customer satisfaction. By reducing waste and improving resource utilisation, businesses can achieve higher profit margins while contributing to environmental conservation. The economic advantages of green logistics practices highlight the potential for businesses to thrive financially while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion

Embracing sustainable logistics practices, particularly through smart routing, offers significant environmental and economic advantages. Traditional logistics methods contribute heavily to carbon emissions and inefficiency, highlighting the urgent need for innovation. Technology, such as transport management systems provided by Geo2, plays a crucial role in achieving sustainability by optimising routes, reducing fuel consumption, and enhancing operational efficiency. Eco-friendly practices not only align with environmental goals but also improve customer satisfaction and reduce costs. By integrating these sustainable strategies, businesses can ensure a greener future while maintaining competitive advantages in the logistics industry.

Wimbledon 2024: Sabalenka withdraws after failing to shake off shoulder injury

Jon Fisher
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Wimbledon 2024: Sabalenka withdraws after failing to shake off shoulder injury

Third seed and two-time semi-finalist Aryna Sabalenka has withdrawn from Wimbledon due to a shoulder injury.

The Belarusian injured the joint in the recent WTA event in Berlin and has pulled out of her scheduled first-round match against Emina Bektas this afternoon.

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Erika Andreeva, who lost to Britain’s Sonay Kartal in the final round of qualifying, comes in as a lucky loser.

It’s a major blow for Sabalenka, who has twice won the Australian Open, with her powerful game making her a serious challenger for the trophy.

She practised this morning at Aorangi Park but left abruptly, suggesting all was not well, and her official withdrawal was not long in coming.

Speaking on Saturday, the world number three insisted she would not jeopardise the rest of her season by playing at SW19 if she wasn’t fully fit.

She said: “We’re doing everything we can with my team to make sure I’ll be able to play my first match here but I’m not 100 per cent ready.

“That’s really frustrating. I never deal with serious injuries in my career. The struggles I’m going through right now, that’s a lot. I would say that the past month [has been] really challenging for me. I’ve been fighting through a lot of different pains.

“That’s really tough to manage, this trying to stay positive and at the same time seeing the reality.”

Witnesses sought for road traffic collision in Salford

Helen Greaney
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Witnesses sought for road traffic collision in Salford

Police are seeking witnesses to a road traffic collision in Salford on Thursday evening.

At around 6.45pm, on Southern Street, a vehicle was in collision with a pedestrian.

A five-year-old boy was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries.

The vehicle remained at the scene to assist with enquiries.

No arrests have been made at this stage.

Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) is now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. Officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have any footage, including dashcam, CCTV, or mobile phone footage from the area in the moments leading up to the collision.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting reference number 3072 of 27/06/2024.

Alternatively, details can be shared on www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

General election: Final reminders for electors in Manchester

Helen Greaney
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General election: Final reminders for electors in Manchester

Manchester voters are being reminded of polling day and postal voting arrangements as the nation gets set to case votes in the General Election.

On Thursday, July 4, polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm across Manchester’s six parliamentary constituencies – Blackley and Middleton South; Gorton and Denton; Manchester Central; Manchester Rusholme; Manchester Withington and Wythenshawe and Sale East.

Electors must have an approved photo ID such as a UK, EU or Commonwealth passports, photocard driving licence, a Voter Authority Certificate or other specified forms of ID in order to be able to vote. Accepted ID can still be used for voting even if it has expired as long the photo is still a good likeness of the elector.

Anyone who has lost their approved ID, or who applied for a Voter Authority Certificate before the 5pm on June 26, deadline which hasn’t arrived, should contact the Council’s Electoral Services Unit at [email protected] or on 0161 234 1212.

At polling stations privacy screens will be available for anyone who wants to show their ID in private, for whatever reason, and staff are trained to handle such requests discreetly and with courtesy.

People who have requested and received postal votes are being encouraged to complete and return them as soon as possible. If they can’t post the completed postal ballot themselves they should only ask someone they know and trust to post them. It is a criminal offence for candidates or political campaigners to handle the postal vote of anyone who is not a close relative or someone for whom they provide care.

Postal votes can still be posted back on polling day – Royal Mail carry out a final sweep of post boxes and deliver postal votes to elections staff – as long as they are posted before the final collection time for that postbox. If they are posted after the final collection time, they will not arrive in time to be counted.

Electors can also hand in completed postal ballots to any polling station in the Manchester City Council area on July 4, or at the Customer Service Centre in the town hall extension building, Mount Street entrance, between 9am and 5pm up to and including polling day.

 

Missing Oldham teenager reunited with family after 10 days

Helen Greaney
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Missing Oldham teenager reunited with family after 10 days

An Oldham teenager who had been missing from home for more than a week, has been reunited with family.

Desperate searches began for Dillon Duffy (18) was dropped off at Asda in Chadderton at on June 18. He boarded a train to London, where CCTV captured images of him.

When he failed to return home, the Help Find Dillon Duffy facebook group was set up, with random members of the public offering to search, as well as put up ‘missing’ posters for the youngster.

But Dillon bravely took to the social media platform to admit he had downloaded some betting apps, and that it had developed into a habit.

When he was in London, he saw a news article on his phone which said his dad had been searching for him for six days. He said he felt hurt and decided he needed to get home and asked his parents to pick him up.

Dillon is now safe at home and has been reunited with his family.

He later updated his story on the facebook post on the group, which read: “I didn’t care if I won or lost, I just liked the thrill of it. At this point I had lost too much money. I began to feel very tired, very down and reached an all time low, and as someone who had never suffered from anxiety or depression I think it hit me hardest because I didn’t know what to do or where to go.”

Mum Donna, said: “What Dillon has done is amazing. He has had the confidence to reach out and tell his own story. Immediately I just wanted to find him.

“Everyone was frantically trying to get hold of him To hear my boy’s voice was the best feeling in the world. I stayed on the phone until his dad reached his location.

“These past 10 days have been hell. But what I have learnt is that there is so much kindness in the world. So much love that other people have to share and that’s what’s brought him back. I am truly grateful to every single person who never gave up, who shared a post, who shared a poster, who went out looking and who always thought the best of him.

“Never give up, never stop believing and always have hope.”

 

 

CloudGuard Opens Manchester SOC to Boost SME Cybersecurity

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CloudGuard Opens Manchester SOC to Boost SME Cybersecurity

CloudGuard, a top Microsoft security automation expert and Managed Security Services Provider, is excited to announce the establishment of its Security Operations Centre (SOC) in Manchester.

This strategic initiative is designed to address the increasing needs of customers, offering 24x7x365 security expertise to businesses both in the UK and internationally. This expansion is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that often lack the resources and skills to develop and manage their own SOC teams effectively.

Following the recent move of its Head Office to Manchester, CloudGuard continues to reinforce its presence in the city, leveraging Manchester’s rising status as a key cyber hub. The expanded SOC will deliver exceptional security services, including operational and incident response, security product support, threat hunting, security automation, and advanced data science.

Matt Lovell, CEO of CloudGuard said: “As our customers and their requirements continue to change and evolve, so must we. We are delighted to now include greater round-the-clock UK-based security expertise at all levels from our Manchester home. Manchester is rapidly becoming a major cyber hub for talent and expertise, and our growing partnership with universities in the area to accelerate our data science and automation developments is really exciting.”

Since launching its managed SOC service in 2022, CloudGuard has provided crucial cybersecurity solutions, addressing the increasingly frequent, targeted, and sophisticated attacks faced by SMEs. The SOC’s services now include comprehensive email and integrated application security monitoring, operational technology (OT), and incident response (IR) expertise. This ensures that solutions are fully tailored to meet each business’s unique security requirements.

CloudGuard’s automation-led approach, combined with human intervention for contextual understanding and product expertise, ensures a seamless and integrated incident resolution experience. The newly launched SOC will now offer round-the-clock detection, response, support, and resolution, giving customers peace of mind that their cybersecurity needs are comprehensively met.

Matt added: “Our commitment to continually improving our customers’ cybersecurity posture through AI and automation remains at the core of CloudGuard. Our Guardians work closely with customers to understand their evolving business changes and threat landscapes, helping to continually improve cyber posture and reduce risks.”

CloudGuard has developed long-term strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Microsoft, Recorded Future, Dragos, CrowdStrike, Google, Sophos, and Tenable. Recently, these partnerships have been extended to include Fortinet, CloudFlare, Abnormal, and Wiz. These collaborations enhance CloudGuard’s capabilities to provide closer integration and AI-driven cyber automated response to resolution for email, network, cloud services, and enhanced user behavioural analytics.

For more information about CloudGuard’s expanded SOC services, please visit the CloudGuard website or contact [email protected].

Formula 1: Russell takes the win after Verstappen and Norris tussle

Alex Hoad
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Formula 1: Russell takes the win after Verstappen and Norris tussle

George Russell won the F1 Austrian Grand Prix after late drama saw Lando Norris and Max Verstappen wiped out of contention.

After a ding-dong battle lasting several laps, during which both drivers complained about the other over their race radio, McLaren driver Norris tried to pass the Dutchman for the lead on lap 62 of 71 but Verstappen held his line which saw the two cars collide and both leave the track.

Verstappen’s Red Bull lost a rear tyre and limped back to the pits while Norris did likewise before being forced to retire with damage sustained in the incident.

Verstappen received a 10-second penalty for his part and dropped down to fifth.

Russell, who started third on the grid, took over the lead and saw out the final nine laps, holding off the challenge of the fast-finishing Oscar Piastri, who started in seventh in the other McLaren, with the Ferrari of Carlos Sainz in third.

Russell crossed the line to claim Mercedes’ first win in 36 Grand Prix, since Russell took the chequered flag in Brazil in 2022.

His teammate Lewis Hamilton was fourth, despite a five-second penalty for a pit violation on his first stop, with Verstappen finishing in fifth, still more than 23 seconds ahead of Niko Hulkenberg, despite his penalty.

Verstappen had looked like he was on course for a routine victory with a seven second advantage at one point, but complained about a loss of grip in the closing stages as Norris closed the gap.

Norris had a quicker final pit stop and fitted new tyres while Verstappen used tyres which had been used for three previous laps. He emerged from the pit lane with a 1.7 second advantage but that had disappeared within two laps.

Norris did pass on the 59th lap but ran off the track on exit, earning him a five-second penalty for repeated abuse of track limits.

The critical moment came when Norris attacked on the outside but Verstappen moved across as they approached the apex of the corner. Both cars suffered punctures but though Verstappen’s tyre stayed intact, Norris did not, causing his bodywork irreparable damage.

Finishing fifth means Verstappen extends his lead to 81 points over Norris ahead of next weekend’s British Grand Prix.

England drop Bairstow and Foakes with Smith called up

Jon Fisher
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England drop Bairstow and Foakes with Smith called up

Jonny Bairstow, Ben Foakes and Jack Leach were today omitted from the England squad for the first two Tests against the West Indies.

Bairstow and Foakes have tussled for the wicketkeeping role for the last five years but they have both been overlooked with Surrey’s Jamie Smith set to don the gloves for the games at Lord’s and Trent Bridge.

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Smith averages 50.7 in the County Championship this summer, although he rarely keeps wicket for Surrey in red-ball cricket with Foakes first choice.

Spinner Shoaib Bashir gets the nod over Leach after an impressive tour of India over the winter with Nottinghamshire seamer Dillon Pennington also included after taking 29 Championship wickets this season at an average of 23.03.

The first Test at Lord’s will be Jimmy Anderson’s last for England, bringing an end to a remarkable career that sees him bow out as the seamer with the most wickets in history with 700.

ECB managing director for England’s men’s cricket Rob Key said: “The first Test of the summer is always a special moment, but it will be extra poignant with it being Jimmy’s [Anderson] last Test before he retires. 

“He has given everything to the sport since his Test debut in 2003. We all would like to wish him well as he walks out at Lord’s for the last time for England.

“We are looking forward to getting the season underway against a strong West Indies side in what will be an excellent Test series.”

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