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DJ Dave Sweetmore returns to host Rochdale’s Feel Good Festival

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Popular Rochdale DJ Dave Sweetmore will host the main stage at this August’s Rochdale Feel Good Festival.

It will be the 12th time Dave (pictured) has appeared at the summer event and he said he’s proud to back at Rochdale Town Hall Square after five years away.

Dave, who is well known for his half time interludes at Rochdale Football Club, said: “It’s such a brilliant event and this year’s line-up is the biggest yet.”

The club, radio, concert and festival DJ is a familiar face on the northern and UK music scene, nationally-renowned for his indie tunes and has spent over two decades DJ-ing at venues across the country with residencies at many iconic nightclubs and bars, as well as working with bands including Happy Mondays, James, Inspiral Carpets and Cast.

He’s a regular commentator on North West music, always championing new bands and live music.

Dave has won many accolades and awards from the likes of Sky Sports and the BBC. He plays a broad range of music including classic indie, 90s Britpop, Manchester classics, and in his words “the best and coolest records ever made”.

The festival returns on Saturday, August 10, for another showcase of live entertainment headlined by Ocean Colour Scene, Lottery Winners, Heather Small – the voice of M People and many more to be revealed.

There will be live music across indoor venues, a main stage against the backdrop of the Grade I-listed town hall, plus quality food and drink a quality food and drink village and other entertainment.

The festival is funded by the council together with sponsorship from local businesses, including The Flying Horse Hotel, Premier Kia and The Royal Toby Hotel.

Main stage tickets (£15) and more information at rochdale.gov.uk/feelgoodfestival.

Trader sentenced for stocking £116,000 of counterfeit goods and “dangerous” perfume

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A shopkeeper who sold fake designer sportswear, trainers, jewellery and “dangerous” perfume in Manchester, has been sentenced.

It was a major sportswear brand that alerted police to the Lal Qila shop on Moulton Street in Strangeways.

Officers from City of London Police raided the store in August 2021 and seized £116,200 worth of rogue goods.

Police also reported that laboratory tests of samples of fake perfume previously seized, have shown it can contain poisonous chemicals including cyanide – and even human urine.

Raja Khan (43) of Kearsley Road, Crumpsall, pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court on March 28, to 38 counts of distributing articles infringing trademarks. He was sentenced to a 12 month community order at the same court on Friday, and must also complete 100 hours of unpaid work.

Detective constable Daryl Fryatt, from City of London Police, said: “Counterfeiting can help fund other crimes such as human and drug trafficking and money laundering. Selling counterfeit goods is illegal and Khan’s sentencing should make it clear to criminals that you will get caught and punished for selling them to the public.

“Counterfeiters have little regard for the safety of the people who buy these goods. We found tens of thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit goods inside Lal Qila, including perfume that could have had harmful effects on customers.

“For the public, it’s vital to remember that you don’t know what other crimes you could be enabling when buying counterfeit items, or what conditions they have been made in.”

Police arrested Khan during a search warrant executed at the shop in August. They seized around 4,500 counterfeit items and £12,045 in cash. The total value of the items, as priced and sold at Lal Qila, was estimated to be worth £116,000.

An examination of Khan’s mobile phones showed that he had exchanged a number of messages with clients in which it was apparent that he was selling counterfeit items.

The £12,045 in cash seized from Lal Qila has since been forfeited.

Manchester to host first airport-based science and manufacturing campus

A revised masterplan has been developed which could see the creation of the UK’s best-connected science, innovation and manufacturing campus at Manchester Airport.

Formerly known as Airport City Manchester, the 60-acre site will be brought forward in a phased manner, subject to planning approval.

Mix Manchester will deliver 2 million sq ft of advanced manufacturing and science space. It will be the only UK campus of its kind adjacent to an international airport and will create up to 8,000 jobs.

Driven by occupier demand, a range of buildings will be available, including advanced manufacturing, research and development, laboratory and office spaces, alongside complementary amenities such as hotels, leisure facilities and public realm.

The masterplan has been developed by Sheppard Robson over a two-year period and will be delivered under a revised Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) for the area that will undergo public consultation this summer, prior to formal endorsement by Manchester City Council.

The JV partnership behind Mix Manchester includes a portfolio of clients represented by Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate, Manchester Airports Group (MAG), Beijing Construction Engineering Group International (BCEGI), and Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF).

With £30m of joint venture capital having already been invested in highways and utilities infrastructure, Mix Manchester is being brought to market as a ‘shovel-ready’ site. A new pedestrian bridge linking to the main airport site, the Enterprise Way link road and the installation of high voltage electricity and utilities connections have already been completed, as well as three brand new hotels.

Gareth Jackson, group property director for Manchester Airports Group, said: “In recent years, we have seen occupier demand move away from traditional out-of-town offices. This trend, coupled with rapid growth in the advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital and technology economies and the requirement for highly sustainable work environments has led us to adapt our plans for the next phase of commercial development.

“Occupiers will have the ability to locate to a high-quality working environment with exemplary sustainability credentials, a place where they can grow on a scale that is unrivalled in the North West.”

Leader of Manchester City Council, Bev Craig, said: “The vision presents another significant investment in our city that enhances our reputation as a centre of excellence in science and innovation – and a further platform for economic growth in our emerging industries. The campus will create thousands of jobs and supports the ongoing regeneration of our communities in Wythenshawe, as well as cementing Manchester’s place as a leader in innovation on a global scale.

Sustainable and Ethical Sports Supplements: A Growing Trend in Manchester

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In recent years, the sports supplement industry has undergone a significant transformation. With increasing awareness of environmental and ethical concerns, consumers in Manchester are now more conscientious about the products they choose. This shift has led to a growing demand for sustainable and ethical sports supplements, reflecting a broader trend towards responsible consumption. In this article, we explore the rise of this movement in Manchester and highlight how businesses like the Official Store Brand Hilma Biocare are leading the way in providing high-quality, eco-friendly, and ethically sourced sports supplements.

The Rise of Conscious Consumerism

The concept of conscious consumerism is not new, but its application in the sports supplement industry marks a notable shift. Consumers are no longer just interested in the efficacy of their supplements; they also care about the environmental impact and ethical implications of their purchases. This change is driven by several factors:

  1. Environmental Awareness: The increasing awareness of environmental issues, such as plastic pollution and carbon emissions, has led consumers to seek products that are sustainably sourced and packaged.
  2. Health and Wellness Trends: As people become more health-conscious, they are also more aware of what they put into their bodies. This awareness extends to the ingredients in their supplements, with a preference for natural and organic components.
  3. Social Responsibility: Consumers are more attuned to the ethical practices of companies. They prefer to support brands that prioritize fair labor practices, ethical sourcing, and community engagement.

Sustainable Sports Supplements

Sustainability in sports supplements encompasses several aspects, including ingredient sourcing, manufacturing processes, and packaging. Here’s how companies are addressing these concerns:

  1. Eco-Friendly Ingredients: Sustainable supplements often use natural and organic ingredients that are grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. These ingredients not only benefit the environment but also reduce the risk of contaminants in the final product.
  2. Ethical Sourcing: Ethical sourcing involves obtaining ingredients from suppliers who adhere to fair trade practices and ensure safe working conditions for their workers. This approach supports communities and promotes equitable trade practices.
  3. Sustainable Packaging: To reduce environmental impact, many companies are adopting biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable packaging. This effort helps minimize plastic waste and promotes a circular economy.
  4. Green Manufacturing: Sustainable sports supplement companies are also focusing on reducing their carbon footprint by using renewable energy sources, minimizing water usage, and implementing waste reduction strategies in their manufacturing processes.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations in sports supplements revolve around the welfare of both the producers and the consumers. Companies that prioritize ethical practices often:

  1. Ensure Fair Labor Practices: They work with suppliers who pay fair wages, provide safe working conditions, and do not engage in exploitative labor practices.
  2. Promote Animal Welfare: Ethical companies avoid using animal-derived ingredients or conduct animal testing. Instead, they opt for plant-based or lab-grown alternatives.
  3. Community Engagement: By investing in the communities where they operate, these companies help improve local economies and promote social well-being. This can include initiatives like supporting local farmers, contributing to education, and funding health programs.

The Role of Hilma Biocare

As a leading provider of advanced sports supplements, Hilma Biocare is at the forefront of the sustainable and ethical movement. The Official Store Brand Hilma Biocare has made significant strides in ensuring that their products align with the values of conscious consumers.

  1. Commitment to Quality: Hilma Biocare uses only the highest quality ingredients, sourced from reputable suppliers who adhere to strict ethical and sustainability standards. This commitment ensures that their products are not only effective but also safe and responsibly produced.
  2. Innovative Practices: The company employs innovative manufacturing processes that reduce environmental impact. From using renewable energy in their production facilities to minimizing waste, Hilma Biocare is dedicated to sustainable practices.
  3. Transparency and Trust: Hilma Biocare is transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes, providing consumers with the information they need to make informed choices. This transparency builds trust and reinforces their commitment to ethical practices.
  4. Community Support: The company actively supports the communities where they source their ingredients, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions. Additionally, they engage in various initiatives aimed at improving the social and economic well-being of these communities.

Consumer Impact

The growing trend towards sustainable and ethical sports supplements is not just a passing fad; it represents a fundamental shift in consumer values. Manchester’s fitness enthusiasts and athletes are increasingly choosing products that align with their ethical beliefs and environmental concerns. This shift is driving significant changes in the market, pushing more companies to adopt sustainable and ethical practices.

  1. Market Growth: The demand for sustainable and ethical supplements is driving market growth. Companies that fail to adapt may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage.
  2. Informed Choices: Consumers are becoming more informed about the impact of their purchases. They are looking for brands that provide transparency and align with their values.
  3. Increased Accountability: With the rise of social media and online reviews, companies are held more accountable for their practices. Ethical lapses can quickly lead to public backlash and loss of consumer trust.

The Future of Sports Supplements

The future of the sports supplement industry in Manchester looks promising, with sustainability and ethics playing a central role. Companies like Hilma Biocare are setting the standard, demonstrating that it is possible to produce high-quality sports supplements while also being mindful of environmental and ethical considerations.

  1. Continued Innovation: Expect to see continued innovation in sustainable practices, from ingredient sourcing to packaging solutions. Companies will increasingly adopt technologies that reduce environmental impact and improve efficiency.
  2. Stronger Regulations: As consumer demand grows, there may be stronger regulations and standards for sustainability and ethics in the industry. This could lead to greater industry-wide improvements and accountability.
  3. Consumer Advocacy: Consumers will continue to play a critical role in driving change. By supporting brands that prioritize sustainability and ethics, they can encourage more companies to follow suit.

Conclusion

The trend towards sustainable and ethical sports supplements is more than just a marketing strategy; it represents a meaningful shift in consumer values and industry practices. In Manchester, this movement is gaining momentum, driven by a growing awareness of environmental and ethical concerns. Companies like the Official Store Brand Hilma Biocare are leading the way, demonstrating that it is possible to produce high-quality, effective sports supplements that also respect the planet and its people. As this trend continues to evolve, it promises to bring about positive changes in the industry, benefiting consumers, producers, and the environment alike.

Novak Djokovic crashes out of Italian Open with Tabilo defeat

Novak Djokovic suffered a surprise third-round exit at the Italian Open on Sunday, slipping to a straight-sets defeat against Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo.

Djokovic progressed through the second round with a 6-3 6-1 win over Corentin Moutet on Friday, though the headlines focused on an incident which saw him struck on the head by a water bottle that fell from the crowd as he signed autographs after the match.

He was hoping to tee up a last-16 clash with Karen Khachanov for Tuesday, but was stunned by his 29th-seeded opponent as Tabilo won 6-2 6-3.

Read our other sports news stories here:
James Anderson to retire from Test cricket
Lauren Price beats Jessica McCaskill to win historic first world title
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Tabilo produced a remarkably clean performance as he broke Djokovic’s serve no less than four times, the world number one failing to force a single break point of his own through 68 minutes.

Tabilo, whose only previous fourth-round appearance at an ATP Masters 1000 event came at Indian Wells in 2023, forced the issue with a series of big forehand strokes as Djokovic produced a strangely lethargic display.


Two double faults in the opening game of the second set rather summed up Djokovic’s performance as he handed Tabilo another break, and he was held at arm’s length from there as the Chilean made his first career match against a top-ranked player a memorable one.

Rafael Nadal was also eliminated from the Rome event on Saturday, while Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner were forced to withdraw through injury ahead of the tournament, making Daniil Medvedev the favourite to defend the crown he captured in 2023.

Lauren Price beats Jessica McCaskill to win historic first world title

Lauren Price became Wales’ first female world champion boxer after overcoming Jessica McCaskill in Cardiff on Saturday night.

A dominant display in front of a roaring home crowd at the Ultilita Arena saw Price claim the victory via a unanimous points decision after an accidental head clash in the ninth round meant McCaskill was unable to continue.

Price, a one-time taxi driver who claimed Olympic Gold at Japan 2020, is now unified IBO, WBA and Ring Magazine welterweight world champion.

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“This has got to be up there with winning a gold medal,” Price said.

“Jessica McCaskill is a credit to the sport, but this was my night..

“It took me a couple of rounds to find my rhythm, it was a tough fight… but I enjoyed myself in there tonight.

“I am only going to get better. I am still learning.”

After becoming the 14th Welsh boxing champion, Smith set her sights on becoming a figurhead for the sport in her nation.

She added: “I want to build a legacy and create greatness. This is just the start.

“You see what Katie Taylor did for Ireland, I want to do the same for Wales.

“I’d love to sell out the Principality Stadium, that’s the dream.”

James Anderson to retire from Test cricket

England seam bowler James Anderson will retire from Test cricket this summer.

The 41-year-old made the announcement this morning following speculation he had been told by England coach Brendon McCullum that the team management wanted to explore younger options.

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Anderson has taken 700 wickets in 187 Tests – the most by a pace bowler in the history of Test cricket – but will bow out following the first Test against the West Indies, which starts on July 10.

The Lancashire right-armer, who made his Test debut for England in 2003, said: “Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test.

“It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid. I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to, because there is no greater feeling.

“I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of Daniella, Lola, Ruby and my parents. A huge thank you to them. Also, thank you to the players and coaches who have made this the best job in the world.

“I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years, it’s always meant a lot, even if my face often doesn’t show it.”

Anderson will finish third on the all-time list of Test wicket-takers behind Sri Lanka spinner Muttiah Muralitharan and late Australia great Shane Warne.

It is not known whether he continue to play for the Red Rose.

Why should businesses use friendly faces in their advertising?

Advertising is a complex battlefield for businesses, with many different methods for success depending on the service offered and the target demographic. While some winning strategies can only be discovered through market research and testing, other tactics seem to work across the board.

One marketing technique that has a powerful effect in any field is the use of friendly faces. When people see a smiling person, it may increase the chances that they will interact.

Online casino sector provides evidence for the draw of friendly faces

One of the best places to see the power of human faces in action is in the online casino industry. People who play online casino for real cash will have noticed a rise in live streaming offerings in recent years. There are games like Crazy Time and Live Roulette that use real world hosts who run the games.

When players scroll through these live options, they see the smiling dealers presented clearly on the thumbnails. This may have a welcoming effect, giving players the sense that they will encounter a friendly atmosphere when they click on the games. The use of a person also adds some credibility to the titles, with players knowing that they will get a genuine and fair playing experience.

Various successful brands have used smiling characters in advertising

Small business owners are wise to look at the most successful brands and industries and replicate their methods. It’s clear from some of the best in the world that the use of friendly faces in advertising has a powerful effect. This could be because humans are inherently social creatures, and because the brain possesses a specialised mechanism for recognising faces. The use of faces in advertising, therefore, can evoke emotional responses and build trust.

Coca-Cola is an example of a company that has used this technique to great effect over the years. The drink company often uses imagery of happy people to show positivity and connection. People who see this then associate the beverage with these feelings and associate the brand with joy and refreshment.

Dove is another brand that put the use of smiling faces to good use in its Real Beauty campaign. In addition to the warm expressions on their faces, the company used a wide range of people of all body types so that they were relatable to a broader audience.

How can you implement this in your marketing?

One of the best ways for businesses to market themselves in the internet age is through social media advertising. When users scroll through these sites, they often see images of people. Therefore, using faces in marketing materials helps them to fit in seamlessly.

Gathering client testimonials can have a powerful impact for small businesses. If you get these in video form, you can use them directly in your marketing campaigns and connect with customers in this way.

Putting a face on your marketing materials can help to foster trust in consumers and forge an emotional bond early on. Some of the best businesses in the world have used this strategy, so small businesses should aim to do so as well.

Man charged with murder following death of Michelle Hodgkinson

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A man has been charged with murder in connection with the death of Michelle Hodgkinson (pictured).

Michelle (51) was stabbed and killed as she walked along Edge Lane in Droylsden, in June 2023.

After a lengthy investigation, Paul Hughes (29) has been charged with murder.

He has been remanded in a secure mental health hospital where he remains under treatment.

Mr Hughes is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates court on June 6.

Detective inspector Danny Lee said: “We understand this tragedy may have increased the community concerns in relation to knife crime, but we would like to stress this is a very rare type of incident. However, at the heart of this incident a loved one has been torn away and our thoughts remain with Michelle’s family, whom we continue to support with specialist officers.”

Detectives are continuing to investigate the incident and anyone with further information should call 101 quoting log 1353 of 02/06/2023.

 

INTO University Partnerships Offers New Routes to US Higher Education for International Students

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INTO University Partnerships is expanding its range of supported direct entry routes for international students seeking to study in the United States. This development aims to provide these students with additional support services that will aid in their academic success at several US universities.

These programs provide international students with an invaluable opportunity to enrol in US universities with the added advantage of receiving enhanced support services provided by INTO Centers located on the campuses. These services are tailored to meet the specific needs of international students, providing excellent quality support at an additional but affordable cost. The length of support provided varies from one semester to one year, tailored to the individual needs of the student.

Jeffrey Bialy, Recruitment Director at INTO University Partnerships said: “Supported direct entry programs represent our commitment to empowering international students to thrive in their academic journey. We believe that by providing enhanced support to directly admitted students, we can support them to achieve their full potential and make the most of their educational experience in the US.”
The programs are available for both undergraduate and graduate students, with a variety of options offered by INTO and partner institutions, including Oregon State University, George Mason University, Suffolk University, Hofstra University, Drew University and The University of Alabama at Birmingham.
INTO and its university partners are committed to making this experience and support accessible to all qualified students. Generous scholarship awards for supported direct entry programs are available, ranging from $1,500 to $8,000 for graduate students and from $2,500 for one semester to $10,000 per year for undergraduate students. With scholarships in place, students can enjoy the benefits of supported direct entry without significant financial burden.
Key Benefits of supported direct entry include:
  • Direct Entry Status
  • Dedicated advising and tutoring services
  • Access to scholarships for the full duration of studies
  • Dedicated support for visa process through INTO’s PASS program
  • Opportunity to earn degree credits from day one
  • Pre-arrival support, including assistance with housing and airport pickups
Since the initiative was first launched for graduate routes at The University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2018, INTO’s range of supported direct entry programs have become a huge hit with international students and university partners alike.
The impressive statistics showcase the programs’ effectiveness. Since introducing the supported program for all undergraduate students, Oregon State University has seen retention rates increase to 95% for international students compared to a 75% national average. Additionally, the average GPA for students completing undergraduate supported programs at Oregon State University exceeds 3.1 after their first year of study. For the University of Alabama at Birmingham graduate supported programs, students’ average GPA is above 3.5, showing that students with the right support whatever their academic background can be successful in a US degree program.
Since 2018, over 950 students have enrolled in graduate supported programs at partner universities, while since 2020, nearly 500 students have enrolled in undergraduate supported programs. Notably, over 800 students from India – the single largest group by nationality – have benefited from these supported direct entry programs since 2018.
Diwakar Chandiok, INTO’s Vice President of Recruitment for South Asia said: “More than ever before, Indian students are opting to study abroad to pursue their educational and career aspirations. The supported direct entry programs are designed and optimized to meet their needs and support them in their academic journeys in the United States,” said “Through the supported direct entry programs, we aim to empower students to reach their academic goals and attain success in their careers.”
Shengzong Qi, instructor at Hofstra University said: “In teaching Academic Writing, I’ve been continually impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of our Indian students within the Integrated Master’s Program. Their eagerness to engage with course material and their commitment to academic excellence truly embody the spirit of our educational initiatives.”
Jaskaran, a student from India who opted for supported direct entry at Oregon State University said: “One of the most remarkable aspects of Oregon State University is the quality of its instructors. They are among the best, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom. Their dedication to teaching has truly enriched my learning journey.”
Neha, an Indian student pursuing her master’s degree in public health at The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) said: “I would highly recommend UAB to students from India. UAB offers a wealth of opportunities, especially in the healthcare field. The University’s robust programs, cutting-edge research and renowned faculty provide an excellent platform for aspiring professionals.”
INTO University Partnerships connects ambitious international students with leading universities in the US, UK, and Australia. Since its inception in 2005, INTO has helped over 150,000 students from more than 180 countries achieve their dream of obtaining a degree from a world-class institution.
For more information about supported direct entry programs, please visit: education.intostudy.com/india-launch