15.6 C
Manchester
Sunday, August 3, 2025
Home Blog Page 35

Manchester Building Society bucks the trend: Flagship city centre branch to open

Newcastle Building Society has announced it is investing millions of pounds into the Manchester Building Society brand, starting with a new flagship branch location in King Street, in the city centre.

Manchester Building Society merged with Newcastle Building Society in 2023, becoming part of Newcastle Building Society Group.

Promising ‘better for Manchester’ the multi-million-pound, long term investment is backed by the experience and strength of the UK’s seventh largest and fastest growing building society.

Newcastle has made commitments to:

  • support the region’s high streets and communities by opening branches
  • provide accessible, regulated financial advice locally in branch
  • recruit locally and provide apprenticeship opportunities
  • make community space in branches available free for use by local groups
  • build deep community relationships to provide life changing opportunities

Andrew Haigh, chief executive of Newcastle Building Society Group, said: “Big banks are placing profit above customers, withdrawing from the high street, and pushing people online as the only way to manage their finances. A better alternative exists and we’re delighted to be bringing it to life in Manchester.”

The North West is in the UK’s top four worst hit regions for bank and building society branch closures. More than 702 branches have closed since 2015, leaving many with few or no options to bank locally, and struggling to access cash.

By contrast, Manchester Building Society will open branches, starting in the heart of Manchester city centre, and ultimately building out across Greater Manchester’s towns and the wider North West, as part of an ongoing consultation with civic leaders and communities.

Alongside a commitment to continuing to build a Manchester team with local roots, its branches will provide access to a range of competitive savings and mortgage products, with market leading customer service and face-to-face financial guidance and advice open to all, not just the wealthy.

The Building Society’s investment in Manchester is based on belonging, pride of place, and unlocking the financial potential of individuals, families, neighbourhoods and communities.  It has proven the success of this approach in its North East heartland where branch savings have been growing at more than double the UK market average (across branch, online and telephone channels combined).

It has opened conversations both online and in person for local people to share their views, which will help shape future investment.

Andrew added: “Manchester has mutuality and the co-operative movement in its DNA.  It’s a city where change happens. But the people of Manchester and the wider region have been underserved by the financial services sector.  They deserve better.

“We want our Manchester Building Society branches to be seen as places people can comfortably walk into and receive expert guidance, advice, support and assistance – even if they are not yet customers. Through our growing customer base, we see how a branch experience is relevant across the generations.”

Having recently received planning permission to renovate a three-storey flagship location at 74 King Street, a grade 2 listed building, the Society’s inaugural branch is expected to open later this year.  Alongside an extensive, modern ground floor customer service area and private meeting rooms, the building’s office space will accommodate hybrid working for the current Manchester Building Society colleague team of 40.  The branch will also welcome local community groups who can use the spacious meeting space for free.

Manchester Building Society will soon announce significant charity partnerships with Forever Manchester and Salford Youth Zone. These follow the model established by Newcastle Building Society with its decades-long track record of community investment and support in the North East.

Andrew said: “We are determined to play our part in increasing financial inclusion in Greater Manchester, building a brand with a visible presence on the high street. Working with local government, community groups and leaders, we will develop an offer based on the principles of face-to-face advice and trustworthy financial products from an organisation that has a long-term stake in the future of the area.

“Across the North East, we have demonstrated the success of a purpose-led mutual – answerable to our members, not shareholders – and we remain committed to a branch-led model.”

Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We are delighted to see the Manchester Building Society brand brought back to life, just over a century since it was first founded.

“Key to any prosperous and inclusive city is access to financial services. With the total number of bank branches nationwide effectively halving in the past decade, new facilities such as this will provide vital in-person services to residents of Manchester and the wider city-region.

“Commitments to providing community space and forging strong charity partnerships are further examples of how the brand’s reintroduction will bring social value to our residents, getting behind our city-wide ambition to Make Manchester Fairer.”

Joe Manning, managing director at MIDAS, Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency said: “Manchester Building Society’s decision to open a flagship branch in King Street demonstrates strong confidence in our city centre as a place to invest.

“The investment in a physical presence is greatly welcomed, creating new community hubs that bring vital financial services back to our local communities while creating new jobs and economic opportunities across Greater Manchester.”

The mutual is starting by listening and encourages the people of Manchester to participate in the conversation by joining its Manchester Building Society online community forum at: https://connectedcommunitiesmanchester.explainonline.co.uk/.

Image: Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, and Andrew Haigh, chief executive, Newcastle Building Society Group

Blue Monday: 5 ways to take care of your mental wellbeing

Blue Monday has long been considered the saddest day of the year. There are many reasons why people may struggle with their mental health around this time, from post-holiday letdown to finances or even the weather.

This year, it falls today (January 20) and experts at Meditopia, the all-in-one mental health solution, have revealed five things you can do this Blue Monday to take better care of your mental wellbeing.

#1 – Add a 30-minute walk to your day

The connection between physical and mental health is undeniable. According to the American Psychological Association, regular exercise reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression and helps to improve sleep quality, which in turn improves emotional regulation and cognitive function.

Start by adding a 30-minute walk to your day and prioritising getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and see the positive changes in your mental state.

#2 – Maintain social connections

Social isolation is one of the leading causes of depression and anxiety, according to the Mental Health Foundation. Staying connected with friends and family, volunteering, or joining social groups can have profound effects on mental health, as social connections provide a sense of purpose and help release feel-good chemicals like dopamine. Those who maintain strong social connections are happier, healthier, and live longer.

However, staying connected isn’t always easy. For those struggling, simple steps like scheduling 15-30 minutes to check in with loved ones or respond to messages can help you maintain relationships without feeling overwhelmed.

Reaching out to one friend or family member each day, even if it’s just a brief text or call, can make all the difference.

#3 – Take time for yourself

It’s easy to forget to slow down and take time for yourself, especially when life gets busy. However, engaging in hobbies and activities that make you happy is crucial for maintaining a positive outlook. Whether it’s playing sports, reading, cooking, or practicing mindfulness, carving out personal time helps you de-stress and refresh your mind.

If you’re struggling to find time, try dedicating 15-30 minutes of your day, perhaps during a lunch break or before bed, to engaging in a hobby you love. You could also set an alarm or reminder to take short breaks throughout the day. Even small moments of joy can make a big difference to your mental health.

#4 – Plan activities to look forward to

Having something to look forward to, big or small, can boost your mood and give you a sense of excitement and hope, according to the Mental Health Foundation. Planning ahead, whether it’s a holiday, a meal at your favourite restaurant, or even a simple walk to your favourite coffee shop, gives your mind something positive to focus on.

Start by thinking about what activities you enjoy and create both short and long-term plans that give you something to smile about.

#5 – Start a journal

Recognising and understanding your emotions is crucial for mental wellbeing. Taking time to identify your feelings—whether it’s sadness, frustration, or anxiety—can lighten the emotional load and help you process them more effectively.

Journaling is a powerful tool for organizing your thoughts and gaining clarity. Spend some time each day writing down what you’re feeling and what triggered those emotions. This can help you spot patterns and gain better control over your reactions.

To start, keep a notebook by your bed or use a note-taking app on your phone. Set aside 10 minutes each night to reflect on your day and jot down your feelings. Though it may seem like a small step, this daily habit can have a profound impact on your mental health, helping you better understand and manage your emotions.

Fatih Mustafa Çelebi, co-founder and CEO of Meditopia, said: “Society often promotes the idea that we should keep our emotions bottled up, and this has made it harder for many people to feel comfortable seeking help and support when they need it.

“The days surrounding Blue Monday are perfect for starting positive, open conversations about mental health. We should feel empowered to talk about our feelings without fear of judgement. When we lead by example and openly express our emotions, it sends a message that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength.

“It’s also important to regularly check in on the people in your life. Sometimes, a simple text asking how your friend is doing can open the door to a conversation that can make a difference.

“The aim is to create an environment where you and the people around you feel safe to express your feelings and ask for support when you need it most.”

IPOS launches Creator Hub, matching brands with influencers

Stockport-based creative agency IPOS has launched a Creator Hub, designed to bring brands and fashion influencers together, with a combined social following of more than 2.8 million among its first cohort of content creators.

The Hub is free to join and members become part of a diverse database of fashion content creators – from nano to macro influencers  – which brands can access to collaborate with creators on campaigns.

IPOS recently launched a campaign for Office Shoes, sourcing talent from the Creator Hub to work on a campaign for footwear brand Converse.

Members of the community have access to regular newsletters featuring campaign news and regular industry tips and insights, as well as the opportunity to work with global brands. In 2025 IPOS will also launch a series of exclusive webinars and workshops for the Creator Hub community.

Izzy Field (pictured), head of IPOS ENGAGE & Talent, says: “The Creator Hub is a one-stop-shop for brands to find creators who are perfectly matched for campaigns, events or gifting initiatives, giving retailers the opportunity to work with familiar faces or discover new and emerging talent.

“Using our database, we source suitable creators according to the brief, then brands can make their final selection and leave the rest to us. There is a new trend for people looking to follow the ‘non-influencers’; normal people who often have a small, niche following. It can be hard for brands to keep up with this type of shift in trends, but our Creator Hub covers everything, making it easy for brands to stay current and get results.”

IPOS ENGAGE & Talent gives brands direct access to an extensive roster of strong and influential voices across Instagram and TikTok to put their products in front of millions of users, while offering a complete management service which maintains transparency with the content creators to help them grow.

Appy Pie Introduces Snappy 3.0

0

Appy Pie, a global leader in no-code app development, is thrilled to announce the launch of Snappy 3.0, its most advanced AI-powered app builder to date. Packed with groundbreaking improvements and innovative features, Snappy 3.0 continues to redefine the no-code industry, exceeding expectations and setting a new benchmark for app development.

1. Enhanced Design Tools for Creative Freedom
Snappy 3.0 delivers an expanded range of professional design tools and a comprehensive library of modern, customisable templates. These upgrades give users the ability to create sleek, visually appealing apps that rival those developed on any other platform.

2. Exceptional Performance and Speed
Built on cutting-edge infrastructure, Snappy 3.0 guarantees lightning-fast load times and a seamless user experience. This upgrade ensures faster, smoother app development and navigation, outperforming competitors in reliability and speed.

3. Affordable Pricing for Everyone
With Snappy 3.0, Appy Pie AI Builder has introduced a new pricing model that combines inclusivity and affordability. This ensures users get exceptional value without compromising on features, making high-quality app development accessible to businesses and individuals alike.

4. Advanced Features for Every Requirement
Snappy 3.0 introduces powerful functionalities, including IoT integration, advanced back-end support, and sophisticated workflow automation. These capabilities empower businesses to create feature-rich, tailored apps for diverse needs.

5. Unmatched Customisation Options
Snappy 3.0 continues to prioritise ease of use while offering users unparalleled flexibility. The new platform allows full customisation of apps, enabling businesses to create unique designs and functions that align with their brand and objectives.

6. Transforming the No-Code Landscape
Snappy 3.0 reflects Appy Pie AI Builder’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. Addressing past concerns, this update reaffirms Appy Pie’s position as the go-to no-code app builder for individuals and businesses aiming for ease, efficiency, and top-tier features.

In addition to these core advancements, Snappy 3.0 introduces several exciting features designed to enhance functionality and the user experience. The SMS Marketing tool enables businesses to boost customer engagement by sending real-time, targeted messages directly through their apps, helping to increase conversion rates. The upgraded header and footer customisation options provide greater design control, allowing businesses to craft apps that perfectly match their branding while maintaining a professional aesthetic. Another standout feature is the live streaming add-on, which allows businesses to connect with their audiences in real time and foster better engagement through interactive experiences.

“With Snappy 3.0, we’re delivering on our promise to make app development easier, faster, and more impactful,” said Abhinav Girdhar, CEO of Appy Pie. “This release brings together powerful marketing tools, enhanced customisation, and innovative features to give businesses everything they need to stand out and succeed.”

Appy Pie remains committed to transforming the no-code industry through innovation, affordability, and accessibility. Snappy 3.0 ensures that app developers of all skill levels can create applications that make a significant impact in today’s competitive marketplace.

Rapist who targeted lone women jailed for life

0

Stuart Thomson (pictured) has been jailed after raping lone women in Manchester.

In the early hours of Tuesday, January 31, 2024, a 999 call was made by a victim stating she had been raped at knife point on Mancunian Way in Manchester.

As police attended the scene, they were approached by a second victim, who had also been raped at knife point. Throughout the day, police received two more reports of a rape and an attempted rape at knife point, in the same location.

Manhunt

With extensive witness statements and descriptions of the offender, a manhunt was launched and the offender was identified as Stuart Thomson (33) of Buxton Road, Stockport.

He was found guilty of three counts of rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, three counts of threatening another with a bladed article, and possession of a bladed article following a ten-day trial at Crown Square Crown Court.

Detectives had trawled CCTV to build a picture of his movements in the lead up to the attacks. On several occasions, he was captured on CCTV wearing distinctive items of clothing, including a hoodie with a grey insert on the back, a coat with green lining, a wool hat, and a high vis style t shirt.

At the scene, police also recovered a wool hat, which was mentioned in one of the victim statements, and it was seized for forensics. While at first it came back matching someone who did not match the description of our offender, police went to the address to conduct enquiries. The address was a hostel, and upon attendance, police spotted the offender, wearing the distinctive green jacket that had been identified during the CCTV trawls.

Detective sergeant Jennifer Savazzi said: “It’s clear that Stuart Thomson is a dangerous sexual predator. He forcibly imposed himself upon these women in a violent and callous way with no consideration for the damage he was doing to them.

“I would like to praise our victims and survivors who have shown extraordinary courage throughout and have done all they can to assist the investigation and prosecution, it is their courage which has got us here today. This has been a lengthy and difficult process for them, and I am full of admiration for the courage and tenacity they have shown.

“By not accepting responsibility, Thompson has forced them to relive their pain throughout this trial. The harm offenders like Thomson cause are incalculable, but I hope this result goes some way in reassuring our victims, survivors, and members of the public that a dangerous man is off our streets, and I welcome this sentence today.”

Brutal

Joanne Lovick, senior crown prosecutor for CPS North West, said: “Thomson targeted lone women and lured them to a secluded location where he raped them at knifepoint.

“He showed no remorse for the trauma he inflicted with his brutal crimes, which have left a lasting impact on the three women he attacked.

“Even though Thomson denied his guilt and put the three women through the pain of a trial, the Crown Prosecution Service arranged for each of the victims to give their evidence in the way that was best for them – to minimise the impact of having to relive their ordeal.

“I would like to offer my deepest thanks to the women who have supported the prosecution and helped the CPS and Greater Manchester Police bring Thomson to justice.”

Help is available

Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to boys and men in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.

Why UK business owners should consider residency in exotic locations

0

The global business environment is evolving rapidly, and UK business owners are increasingly
seeking opportunities beyond the borders of the United Kingdom.

With rising operational costs, taxes, and economic uncertainties at home, many entrepreneurs are turning their attention to international expansion and the growing potential in exotic locations. These destinations are no longer just vacation spots—they’re fast becoming hubs of business innovation and opportunity.

Residency in these locations offers strategic advantages that go far beyond simply enjoying a
change of scenery. For many business owners, it’s a calculated move to secure lower tax rates, access new markets, and gain greater global mobility. Tax incentives in countries like Vanuatu, the Caribbean states, and various Latin American nations present substantial benefits, making them attractive choices for entrepreneurs looking to reduce their tax burdens and improve their bottom lines.

Additionally, residency programs in these exotic locations often come with perks
that allow business owners to operate with greater flexibility and security, whether it’s securing a plan for unforeseen disruptions or tapping into the rapidly growing economies of these regions.

By considering residency in these international hotspots, UK business owners can unlock a world of opportunity, expanding their reach while securing financial and operational advantages.

Whether it’s the appealing tax structures of the Caribbean, the dynamic markets of Latin
America, or the residency-by-investment options in places like Vanuatu, the world is more
accessible than ever before.

Tax advantages

One of the most compelling reasons UK business owners should consider residency in exotic
locations is the potential for significant tax savings. The UK’s tax rates, including income tax, corporate tax, and VAT, can be burdensome for entrepreneurs looking to optimise their profits.

In contrast, many exotic destinations offer tax structures that can be far more favourable, enabling business owners to keep more of their earnings and reinvest them into growth.
In countries like Vanuatu, the Caribbean, and Latin America, tax incentives and exemptions are designed to attract international business owners. For instance, Vanuatu has no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, making it an especially attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to minimise their tax liabilities.

By establishing permanent residency or even gaining citizenship, UK business owners can enjoy the benefits of a tax-free environment, which can significantly enhance their cash flow and long-term profitability.

The Caribbean offers several jurisdictions with low or zero tax rates for businesses. Countries
like St. Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda provide corporate tax exemptions for offshore companies, while also offering programs like citizenship by investment that can secure long-term residency and business-friendly tax environments.

In these regions, the tax burden on business profits is often reduced or entirely eliminated, allowing entrepreneurs to reinvest more in scaling their operations.

In Latin America, countries such as Panama and Costa Rica also offer advantageous tax regimes for foreign investors. Panama, for example, uses a territorial tax system, meaning income earned outside of the country is not subject to taxation. This makes it a prime location for businesses with international operations, as profits from foreign clients or markets are not taxed.

Similarly, Costa Rica has various tax exemptions for new businesses, as well as special economic zones that offer lower rates for companies that set up operations in specific areas.

These regions not only provide tax incentives but also offer a regulatory environment that
supports entrepreneurial activity. The lower tax rates and exemptions found in these exotic
locations allow business owners to retain more earnings, giving them more flexibility to invest in innovation, hire talent, and expand into new markets without the constant pressure of high taxes back home in the UK.

Access to new markets: Expanding beyond the UK

Residency in an exotic location doesn’t just offer tax advantages—it can also serve as a gateway to new and emerging markets that present tremendous growth opportunities. For UK business owners, expanding beyond their local market is a critical step for scaling operations and diversifying their revenue streams.

By establishing residency in strategic locations, entrepreneurs can tap into regions that are seeing rapid economic growth and increasing consumer demand. Southeast Asia is one of the most exciting regions for expansion, with its burgeoning middle class, fast-growing economies, and an increasingly tech-savvy population.

Countries like Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand offer thriving markets for businesses, particularly in technology, consumer goods, and services. For example, Singapore, with its robust business infrastructure, is not only an attractive place to live and work, but it also serves as a regional hub for Southeast Asia, providing access to a large and diverse market.

Establishing residency in Singapore or other Southeast Asian nations can allow UK business owners to build networks, partner with local enterprises, and capture a share of these rapidly expanding economies.

Latin America is another promising market for UK business owners looking to expand.
Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Chile are seeing a rise in consumer purchasing power,
particularly in sectors like e-commerce, technology, and renewable energy. For instance,
Mexico’s close proximity to the United States and its growing middle class make it an ideal
location for companies looking to serve both the North American and Latin American markets.

With the added benefit of residency in a country with fewer regulatory hurdles, business owners can benefit from both a growing customer base and a more favourable operational environment.

The Caribbean also offers compelling opportunities for business expansion, especially for UK
owners in industries like tourism, real estate, and financial services. Countries like Barbados,
Bahamas, and Cayman Islands are not just tax havens—they are also fast-developing economies with growing consumer demand. The Caribbean has seen significant growth in sectors like hospitality, technology, and financial services, fuelled by its strong tourism industry and rising foreign investment.

Establishing a base in this region provides access to international business networks, as well as local markets that are increasingly attractive to investors. By gaining residency in these regions, UK business owners can increase their global reach, positioning themselves strategically in emerging markets with huge potential. These markets offer a blend of growing consumer demand, lower operational costs, and access to new business partners, making them key targets for expansion beyond the UK.

Myerson Solicitors welcomes Victoria Davies to award-winning employment team

0

Myerson Solicitors, a top UK 200 law firm based in Altrincham, is delighted to announce the appointment of Victoria Davies as legal director in its employment team.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the field, Victoria joins from international law firm Addleshaw Goddard, bringing a wealth of expertise to the highly regarded team.

Throughout her career, Victoria has advised a diverse range of businesses, from major corporates to SMEs. Her experience spans day-to-day employment advice, such as handling workforce changes and resolving workplace disputes, to supporting businesses through organisational restructures and managing complex tribunal claims.

She has represented clients in high-stakes employment disputes, including litigation involving post-termination restrictions, confidentiality breaches, and sensitive claims such as whistleblowing and discrimination cases.

Victoria’s career also includes significant in-house legal experience, gained during secondments with a leading commercial airline and a global energy company. This hands-on experience has provided her with valuable insight into the practical challenges faced by businesses and HR teams, enabling her to deliver pragmatic and commercially focused solutions tailored to client needs.

Victoria’s appointment further strengthens Myerson’s Employment Law Team, which was crowned Employment Team of the Year at the 2024 Manchester Legal Awards and is now the largest in the North West outside Manchester City Centre.

The team of 12 advises both employers and employees and has seen growing demand for its services, including its highly popular Myerson HR retainer, which provides comprehensive employment law and HR support to businesses.

Joanne Evans, head of the employment team at Myerson, said: We are thrilled to welcome Victoria to the firm. She and I worked together previously at Addleshaw Goddard before I joined Myerson, so I know what a strong and client-focused lawyer she is. Her depth of experience, particularly in navigating complex disputes and working in-house, adds even more strength to the support we offer our clients. Victoria’s arrival comes at an exciting time for our busy team, and we are delighted to have her on board.”

2024 was an outstanding year for Myerson, marked by 15% organic growth and its transition to employee ownership. The substantial and growing team of talented employment lawyers is well-positioned to support clients through the significant changes in employment legislation introduced by the Labour government, and challenges such as restructures to counter increasing employment costs, a competitive job market and the growing focus on employment disputes.

Aira hosts parliamentary event to accelerate UK transition to heat pumps

0

Aira, the Manchester energy-tech company, hosted its first heat pump event of 2025 in parliament to highlight outdated policy barriers hindering the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating.

The event brought together around 100 stakeholders including Miatta Fahnbulleh, minister for Energy Consumers, Bill Esterson MP, government officials, industry leaders and policymakers.

According to the latest data from MCS, 2024 was a record year with nearly 60,000 heat pump installations across the UK.

However, this is only 10% of the UK’s annual target of 600,000 installations per year by 2028, highlighting the urgent need for change, commitment and action.

Aira explored solutions for accelerating the adoption of sustainable heating technologies amidst the global climate crisis, cost-of-living pressures and increasing need for energy security in the UK.

Currently, 25 million fossil fuel boilers in the UK account for 16% of the nation’s total CO2 emissions, a stark contrast to Sweden where 1% of the country’s carbon emissions are from residential heating and 92% of all new heating systems sold are heat pumps.

As the UK’s North Sea gas fields decline, Britain is heavily reliant on imported gas, leaving British people increasingly vulnerable to volatile international markets and soaring prices; however, as event delegates heard from Aira, heat pumps offer a significant opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions, save people money, balance the electricity grid and achieve net zero by 2050.

By switching from a gas boiler to an Aira Heat Pump and clean electricity tariff, Aira Zero, households will save approximately £525 per year on their energy bills, making the transition to heat pumps even more financially appealing.

Collaboration with government and industry

While applauding initiatives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Aira emphasised the need for further collaboration. The company outlined three key policy asks to accelerate the UK’s transition:

  1. Timeline for planning reform: Aira urged the government to set an implementation date for planning regulation changes by the end of this month to avoid delays.
  2. Reduce electricity costs: Aira called for rebalancing levies on electricity bills to unlock electrification across the country, while enhancing the cost saving benefits even further.
  3. Expand subsidy schemes: Adapting schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to support third-party ownership models would make heat pumps even more accessible to households.

Daniel Särefjord, Aira UK CEO (speaking in picture) said: “The UK heat pump market has just achieved another record-breaking year, with sales doubling in the past 24 months, yet there is much to be done. Aira already increases heat pump accessibility for homeowners with an all-inclusive plan, monthly payment solutions, and a 15-year Aira Guarantee; but we can’t do it alone.

“It is imperative that the government works to establish a market that recognises advancements in heat pump technology and supports a growing network of installers, manufacturers and businesses. Outdated policy barriers that hinder the nation’s transition to low-carbon heating need to be reformed, helping more people to access cleaner, money-saving heating solutions and cementing the UK a global leader in sustainable innovation, driven by British-made renewable energy.”

Bill Esterson MP, chair of the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee said: “We recently launched the Green Skills Inquiry on how to build the workforce to meet the UK’s clean energy mission, so it is hugely encouraging that Aira is looking to hire 20,000 Clean Energy Experts across the UK and Europe to meet the demand for decarbonised homes. Aira’s mission to deliver low-cost, clean, sustainable energy aligns superbly with the ambition of the Government to make Britain a clean energy superpower.”

Lych Gate: 19th century landmark reopened after restoration

A historical 19th century structure in Chorlton has been restored to its former glory following restoration works.

The Grade II Listed Building was officially reopened yesterday.

More than 130 years after it first opened, the renovation means the landmark now has full a timber restoration for its octagonal, black and white, half-timbered bell tower with tiled spirelet.

The triangular roofs incorporate new chutes following damage from damp, the brickwork has been cleaned, and restored pairs have been made to the pathway and infill panels.

Lych Gate was gifted to Chorlton by the politician and barrister Sir William Cunliffe Brooks, 1st Baronet, to mark the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

Garry Bridges, deputy leader of Manchester City Council said: “I am thrilled to see the restoration of Lych Gate complete following the hard work by our teams. “The landmark has a rich history in Chorlton. It is an iconic part of the local community, with connections to the former church and the reign of Queen Victoria.  “It’s restoration means it continues to stand proud in the area for more years to come.”

Peter, a member of the Friends of Chorlton Graveyard Group, said: “We formed the committee to save the graveyard and Lych Gate was the first item on the list. We examined the gate and found a crack so alerted the local councillors. Councillor Mathew Benham then progressed with the council, acquiring the permissions and funding to save this heritage building.”

Man jailed for violent robbery in city centre

0

A robber has been jailed after attacking a man who was enjoying drinks while visiting from Hong Kong.

At around 11.20pm on Friday, July 12, 2024, the victim, in his 30s, had been out enjoying the city centre before walking back to his hotel.

He was approached on Back George Street by Ahmed Elgamodi (27) who offered him cannabis.

Following a short chat, Elgamodi violently threw the man to the floor and assaulted him. The victim suffered swelling to his head.

The offender then grabbed the victim’s phone and ran off.

Police were called and an immediate investigation was launched, with CCTV being obtained by attending officers. Within two hours, an officer was able to identify Elgamodi, who was on a pedal bike in the city centre.

Following a short pursuit in which he refused to stop, Elgamodi was formally arrested for robbery offences. He was convicted of the robbery at Manchester Crown Court on January 14.

Elgamodi, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to five years and two months for the robbery, with an additional two years for being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, following a separate investigation.

A Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) also excludes him from parts of Manchester for eight years.

PC Jamie Acton, from GMP’s Manchester Central Neighbourhood Team, said: “This disgusting attack on a visitor to our city is not something we will ever tolerate, and I am glad that Elgamodi was quickly identified and arrested following the robbery.

“The investigation into this incident was in conjunction with one into drug supply across Manchester, and ensured a seven-year sentencing. I hope Elgamodi takes time to think about his actions while in the four walls of a prison cell.”