A Freedom of Information request made by private plate supplier Regtransfers reveals the banned number plates from the forthcoming ‘75’ release.
These latest plates will appear on cars from September 1, but a total of 436 specific character combinations have been banned by DVLA, deemed as combinations that may be seen as offensive, provocative or otherwise unsuitable for release.
In September 2024, Regtransfers reported that 210 specific character combinations would be censored and removed from the first batch of 2025 registration numbers, the ’25’ registrations. Now, this new list brings the total number of specific banned combinations to 646.
There are also plates containing “wildcard” characters – which could be anything. For example, asterisks in the censored combination **75 HAG indicate that all registrations ending in “75 HAG” will be withheld from release, regardless of which two characters precede the combination.
This means that the actual number of withheld registrations is much greater than the 436 explicitly listed.
As an example of the combinations appearing in this latest list, AU75 WTS and AU75 WTZ appear to reference the infamous Auschwitz complex in Poland, where over a million people were killed by the Nazi regime during WWII. Also banned are the combinations LE75 KLL (“Let’s kill”) and LE75 LSD (“Let’s LSD”), which can both be construed as encouraging criminality.
Concerning modern politics, references to divisive political issues such as Brexit and EU membership appear also, with plates like EU75 OUT, EU75 SHT, EU75 WAR, EU75 YES banned due to their potentially provocative context.
Mark Trimbee, CEO of Regtransfers, said: “These bans ensure that number plates on the road aren’t those that could be translated into something offensive, inflammatory, insulting, obscene or otherwise problematic.
“As always, some inclusions – such as BA75 SHT or KN75 VES – jump off the page, and it’s quite obvious why the DVLA would want to avoid them being on the roads. There are almost always some, however, that might take a bit of deciphering, but the DVLA has to err on the side of caution with matters like this.”
A project devised by Sodexo Health & Care at Wythenshawe Hospital has scooped two awards at the prestigious 2025 Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards.
Sodexo’s team at the hospital has been recognised for its hard work and commitment to maintaining safe and healthy working environments.
The SHE Awards, delivered in conjunction with the British Safety Industry Federation (BSiF) and now in their eighth year, promote the importance of innovation and underline the highest standards of excellence within health and safety.
The project secured top honours in two key categories: Best Health and Safety Project and Best Use of Health and Safety Data to Lower Incidents. Focused on reducing slips, trips, and falls across the hospital, the project has delivered impressive results, including the elimination of slip-related injuries in 2024.
Using data-led approach the project, identified high-risk areas using the digital safety platform Salus Sodexo then partnered with Manchester-based WearerTech to provide 363 staff with ergonomic, anti-slip footwear, while reinforcing safe behaviours through digital campaigns, revised protocols, and over 150 safety walks.
The impact has been profound: zero reportable slip, trip, and fall incidents, alongside marked improvements in staff wellbeing and engagement.
In addition to the two awards, Sodexo Health & Care’s Sally Holdsworth, health and safety manager at Wythenshawe Hospital, was highly commended in the Manager of the Year category for her leadership in health and safety which has played a key role in developing a strong safety culture at Wythenshawe Hospital.
Sally’s proactive approach to risk management, innovative use of the Salus safety system, and dedication to employee wellbeing are just a few of the reasons behind her recognition. She regularly carries out on-site safety walks, encourages colleagues to raise concerns, and has been instrumental in reinstating the site’s Health & Safety Committee.
Philip Leigh, CEO healthcare, Sodexo UK & Ireland said: “This achievement is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and collaboration of our colleagues. At Sodexo, safety is not just a priority – it’s deeply ingrained in everything we do. We aim to ensure that everyone leaves work in the same safe state they arrived. The success at Wythenshawe Hospital shows what’s possible when data, technology, and people come together to drive real change. This positive safety mindset takes real effort to achieve, and it’s something truly worth celebrating.”
Retail and hospitality recruitment is being reimagined with the arrival of Switch Roles, a next-generation platform built by those who know the industry inside out. Created by Zac Clements and Danny Monfea of Zachary Daniels, alongside marketing expert Simon Childs of Childsey, Switch Roles is a fresh take on hiring—developed by retailers, for retailers.
The founders draw on their deep roots in the industry—ranging from managing retail powerhouses like IKEA and BHS to launching recruitment and digital marketing firms. Their practical experience has been poured into Switch Roles to ensure it caters to the sector’s specific hiring needs.
Where Talent Meets Opportunity
Switch Roles is built around people. It connects motivated job seekers with rewarding roles at leading brands, curating listings so users don’t have to sift through irrelevant options. It’s recruitment with purpose and precision.
Trusted by the Best in Retail
The platform has already partnered with renowned names including Hugo Boss, Burger King, Lidl, Footasylum, Matalan and American Golf. With 3,500+ job openings at launch, it’s proving that focused, sector-specific platforms have real value for top brands and ambitious talent.
Designed for the Way People Search
Job hunting can be an overwhelming experience. Switch Roles removes the noise by offering a smooth, easy-to-navigate interface that helps users discover roles that match their skills, interests and location—all without the usual headache.
Fuelled by First-Hand Experience
With a hands-on approach and real passion for retail, Zac, Danny, and Simon have crafted something more than just a job board. Switch Roles has already gained the backing of more than 50 investors from retail, recruitment and e-commerce, signalling strong support for its people-first vision.
Danny Monfea (left), Simon Childs (centre) and Zac Clements (right)
Founders’ Insights
Zac Clements, Co-founder of Switch Roles and Zachary Daniels:
“After managing at IKEA and building up my recruitment experience at Hays and Michael Page, I noticed a real disconnect between retail employers and job seekers. Co-founding Zachary Daniels gave me the chance to start changing that, but with Switch Roles, we’re going even further. We’re creating a platform that really understands the ins and outs of retail, helping employers and candidates find the right fit – without all the hassle.”
Danny Monfea, Co-founder of Switch Roles and Zachary Daniels:
“My journey began in loss prevention roles at Woolworths and BHS, giving me a deep understanding of retail operations. Transitioning into retail recruitment in 2007, I led teams at Randstad and Hays, I then led teams at 260 Talent before co-founding Zachary Daniels in 2011. With Switch Roles, we’re addressing the specific challenges of retail hiring, offering a fair, transparent, and community-driven platform that benefits both employers and job seekers.”
Simon Childs, Founder of Childsey and Co-founder of Switch Roles:
“Starting as an intern at the Theo Paphitis Retail Group and rising to the management board at Ryman over eight years, I gained invaluable insights into retail’s commercial landscape. Launching my marketing agency, Childsey, in 2020, I combined my retail experience with marketing and digital innovation. With Switch Roles, we’re leveraging this blend to create a user-friendly platform that not only connects talent with opportunity but also fosters a vibrant community for retail professionals.”
Why Switch Roles Stands Out
Retail-Focused: Exclusively tailored to the retail sector, providing a targeted, efficient solution for job seekers and employers alike.
User-Friendly: Built with simplicity and accessibility in mind, making the job search process smooth and enjoyable.
Leading Brands: Partnerships with top UK retailers ensure a wealth of quality opportunities for job seekers.
Community: Beyond being a job board, Switch Roles aspires to build a vibrant community for retail professionals, offering career advice and industry insights.
Supporting the Future of UK Retail
Switch Roles is more than just a platform; it’s a movement to support and sustain the thriving UK retail sector. By connecting the right people with the right roles, Switch Roles aims to contribute to the industry’s continued growth and success. Whether you’re a job seeker or an employer, Switch Roles is your partner in navigating the ever-evolving world of retail recruitment.
The second annual canal-side festival at the award-winning Middlewood Locks neighbourhood in Salford is returning next month with fun-packed programme for all the family.
From 2pm – 10pm on Saturday, May 10, crowds can enjoy a daytime market, children’s interactive workshops, face painting, live music with performances from The Ski Band and others, a pop-up pub and street food vendors, water-based activities, as well as a spectacular fire display at dusk.
Key highlights will include a giant Canadian goose puppet celebrating the abundance of waterside wildlife at Middlewood Locks, and a unique speaking and listening bike, recording stories about memories of the canal.
Street food vendors will include Taka Taka Mama, Gingers Ice Cream Emporium and Adams & Rose Bar.
The Makers market will be back bringing together local makers, artisans, performers and creators selling a range of beautiful products such as jewellery, plants, artwork, clothes and produce.
The Canal & River Trust will also be hosting explorer’s activities for families, and children from the local St Philip’s CE Primary School have been working with artists to make decorative items for the event which will be displayed amongst the trees within the landscaping.
Visitors will be able to jump on board rafted canoes for water-based activities and a live DJ set with mesmerising fire and sound installation will provide for a fabulous sunset finale.
The festival is being made possible through sponsorship from Scarborough Group International, the developer and custodian of Middlewood Locks, and Get Living, the build-to-rent operator. Produced in collaboration with the outdoor events production team at Walk the Plank, the event is also supported by Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal Society and Canal & River Trust with funding from GMCA.
Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett, who will officially launch the event, said: “I am thrilled to be able to attend Middlewood Locks Fest and kick off proceedings this year. The event is a fantastic example of community engagement with a day packed with fun things to do for all the family and the local community.
“We are grateful to SGI and all organisations for their support in making this an annual event for the people of Salford and we truly hope that it continues for many years to come.”
UK-based battery recycling expert Cellcycle, part of the SER Group, has signed a Mutual Cooperation Agreement with Kerry Logistics (UK), a member of the global Kerry Logistics Network. This partnership aims to enhance battery logistics and recycling solutions across the UK and internationally, with a focus on high-growth sectors such as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
This collaboration is set to improve operational efficiency in battery logistics, engineering, and environmental management.
Together with its sister firm Cellstorage, Cellcycle will join forces with Kerry Logistics to identify and develop new opportunities across the battery value chain. From global freight and warehousing to maintenance, compliance, and lifecycle services, the partnership will combine expertise to offer end-to-end solutions for businesses working with lithium batteries. Kerry Logistics’ strength in multimodal transport and customs handling will be key to scaling these services effectively.
A Timely Response to Market Growth and Environmental Demand
With the rise of the electric mobility and clean energy sectors, the need for a secure, robust, and environmentally sound battery supply chain has become more pressing. The agreement between Cellcycle and Kerry Logistics seeks to tackle these growing demands by improving sustainability, safety, and compliance within battery logistics and recycling operations.
By fusing Cellcycle’s battery-specific technical knowledge with Kerry Logistics’ global reach and logistics infrastructure, the partnership offers a complete service platform for clients needing transport, handling, or end-of-life management for batteries.
Driving Sustainable Innovation Through Collaboration
A key priority for the partnership is advancing sustainable practices. Cellcycle is at the forefront of developing advanced biotechnological recycling techniques aimed at recovering valuable battery materials. Through this cooperation, those innovations will be supported by Kerry Logistics’ extensive global logistics network, promoting greater efficiency and reduced waste.
“The future of battery logistics requires expertise, efficiency, and a commitment to sustainability,” said Dave Tattersall, Commercial Director at Cellcycle.
“By joining forces with Kerry Logistics, we can provide a complete solution for businesses handling batteries, whether it’s storage, transport, compliance, or end-of-life management.”
Ian Dodsworth, Financial Director at Kerry Logistics, also stated:
“We are excited to collaborate with Cellcycle to strengthen the infrastructure supporting the growing battery market. Our logistics expertise, combined with Cellcycle’s deep industry knowledge, will provide businesses with innovative, reliable, and sustainable battery supply chain solutions.”
A Joint Vision for Long-Term Growth
This agreement marks the beginning of a sustained partnership aimed at delivering a more resilient and responsible battery supply chain. By pooling their expertise, Cellcycle and Kerry Logistics are well-positioned to support businesses through the increasingly complex challenges of the battery sector and to contribute meaningfully to a cleaner, more circular economy.
As the UK prepares for the nationwide ban on disposable vapes coming into force on 1st June 2025, FREESMO is stepping up to support ex-smokers with the launch of a Golden Ticket campaign designed to keep people smoke-free.
Built by people who care, trusted by people ready to change, FREESMO has built its reputation on one simple mission: helping smokers ditch cigarettes for life. Now, with the disposable vape ban fast approaching, FREESMO is taking action to ensure that former smokers don’t return to cigarettes out of confusion or convenience.
Running until 1st June, the Golden Ticket campaign is all about celebrating and supporting the smoke-free movement. All first-time buyers spending £10 or more at FREESMO.co.uk will be entered into a weekly prize draw to win one of twenty Golden Tickets. Each Golden Ticket awards its recipient with a £100 Amazon voucher.
The campaign will run in the lead-up to the disposable ban with prize opportunities updated regularly throughout to include unbeatable discounts and unrivalled multibuy deals. While the prize pool is generous, the message behind the campaign is even more significant: FREESMO is here to support your smoke-free journey, even as the vape landscape shifts.
“The disposable ban will leave many people scrambling for alternatives, and we refuse to let that confusion push anyone back to smoking,” said Georgi Keckarovski. “That’s why we’re launching this campaign — to guide people through the transition, and make sure no one is left behind.”
The upcoming ban — aimed at reducing youth vaping and protecting the environment — will make it illegal to sell or supply disposable vapes in the UK, both online and in shops. While the environmental and public health goals are clear, thousands of adult ex-smokers who rely on disposables to stay smoke-free could be left at risk of relapse.
FREESMO’s expert team of smoke-free product specialists is ready to help. Through its Smoke-Free Questionnaire, FREESMO offers free, personalised product recommendations tailored to each user’s needs — drawing on a wide range of smoke-free alternatives from top brands.
“We’re not here to push one product — we’re here to find the most effective option to help each individual stop smoking,” added Georgi. “For many, disposables were just the start of their smoke-free journey. Now, it’s time to take the next step. From nicotine pouches to nicotine-free vapes, FREESMO can support all disposable users in staying smoke free.”
Visit FREESMO for further help and support in transitioning to a smoke-free lifestyle.
The St George’s Day Parade, a beloved fixture in Manchester’s event calendar for nearly two decades, returns on April 27 with its vibrant celebration of England’s rich heritage and community spirit.
Originating from a grassroots organisation, this event has grown to become a popular, family-friendly celebration that showcases the diverse and eclectic idea of what it means to be English.
The parade aims to celebrate the nation’s spirit and the country’s achievements, particularly those that embody fairness, community, equality, and hard work.
This year’s parade will start from Varley Street at 12 noon. To note, although the Manchester Marathon is being held the same day, the two events are not expected to impact each other.
The parade will commence at Varley Street, turning left onto Oldham Road (southbound only), and will travel towards the city, crossing over Great Ancoats Street to Oldham Street.
It will then turn left on Piccadilly, left on Newton Street, left on Dale Street, right on Lever Street, left on Great Ancoats, right on Oldham (northbound only), right on Butler Street, left on Bradford Road, and finally left back to Varley Street.
The parade will feature performers on decorated floats. As in previous years, a cavalcade of up to 300 mopeds will join the parade for part of the route, along with a regal Queen Victoria in a royal carriage, a blue dragon towering at 7ft and an array of community groups across Manchester.
The parade is expected to take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the route.
The event is managed by the St George’s Day Committee with support from Manchester City Council and other partner agencies.
Councillor Pat Karney said: “I’m thrilled to see the return of the St George’s Day Parade in our incredible city which serves as a reminder and reflection of our proud heritage. This is a day for families, friends and neighbours to come together to celebrate the true meaning of community.
“The parade will be a colourful display of Manchester and our nation’s history, a reminder of our achievements and a proud celebration of our shared, diverse nation. I look forward to seeing thousands of Mancunians come together and I hope to see you there.”
Thelma McGrail, chair of the St George’s Day organising committee, said: “Manchester’s St George’s Day Parade, celebrating England’s Patron Saint, has been an annual event for the last 19 years, this being the 20th. The parade itself is abundant in diversity, growing each year, uniting all communities. The event receives a huge amount of support before and on the day of the parade with hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators.”
Proposed road closure timings
Depart Varley Street at 12.00 – Arrive Varley Street 14.15
Varley St from Ridgeway St to Oldham Rd 09.00 – 16.00
Oldham Rd from Varley St to Grt Ancoats 12.00 – 14.30
GrtAncoats St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 12.45
(Hold Traffic) • Oldham St from Grt Ancoats to Piccadilly 12.30 – 14.00
Piccadilly from Oldham St to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
Newton St from Piccadilly to Grt Ancoats 12.30 – 14.00
Dale St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
Lever St from Dale to Great Ancoats Street 12.30 – 14.00
Great Ancoats St from Lever St to Oldham Rd 13.30 – 13.45
(Hold Traffic) • Oldham Rd from Grt Ancoats St to Butler St 12.30 – 14.00
Butler St from Oldham St to Bradford Rd 12.30 – 14.30
Bradford Rd from Butler St to Varley St 12.30 – 14.30
Detectives are seeking the public’s help with enquires after a serious assault took place in a bar in Stockport.
Sometime around 12.40am on April 19, the victim, a man in his 20’s, was out with friends on Bramhall Lane South and was assaulted using glass causing serious injuries to his face.
Detective sergeant Kirsty Price, of Stockport CID said: “This is a serious assault and what looks to be an unprovoked attack on a young man. He is currently in hospital recovering from his serious injuries.
“We are really keen to speak to anyone who was around the area late last night who may have witnessed this assault, we have released CCTV images of two men (pictured) who we would like to speak to as they may be able to assist with our enquiries.
“We know the bar where the incident occurred was quite bust last night, so we know there may be people out there who witnessed the incident who are yet to come forward and speak to us.
“If you have any information, CCTV or mobile footage please come forward as speak to us as our investigative enquiries continue.
“Contact Stockport CID on 0161 856 9790, quoting incident number 172 of 19/4/25. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Street Eat – the food and drink festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year – is returning to Rochdale Town Hall Square for another serving of food, drink, free entertainment and live music on Saturday, June 21.
Organised by Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID) during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, Street Eat brings together local food and drink establishments.
Visitors will have their taste buds tickled and thirsts quenched as well as enjoying lots of free live music. Tasty food from local restaurant chefs will be on the menu, with dozens of mouth-watering dishes served up including, Italian, Indian, English, American and more.
There will be free activities and rides for children, bars for the adults and a music stage serving up hours of fun for all ages.
BID manager Paul Ambrose who organises the event said Street Eat showcases the vibrant and high-quality food and drink the town has to offer as well as being a great day out: “It’s a fantastic event, giving us the opportunity to champion the very best local food and drink.
“Street Eat is always a great day, bringing friends and families together, celebrating our vibrant town centre eateries and showing what a foodie hotspot the town is. We do all we can to make the event as affordable as possible too and entry is free.”
The line-up of traders for this summer’s edition is yet to be confirmed but will include include Bombay Away, Vicolo Del Vino, The Flying Horse Hotel, The Baum, Masons Creations, Bank Top Farm, Treehouse Bar and many more.
Councillor Sue Smith said: “It’s great to see Street Eat returning during our year as town of culture and it will be fantastic to see the square come alive again with food, fun and community spirit!”
Ben Boothman, consultant to The Flying Horse Hotel added: “Our team loves this event and are looking forward to it returning. With traders serving up smaller portions it means you can sample dishes from different venues and experience amazing food on the menu served up here in the town centre. We’re pleased to be working alongside Rochdale BID again to celebrate the area’s great food and drink offer.”
The entertainment and music line-up will be announced in May.
A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success of the existing Gorton Market.
The new square is located off Garratt Way between the market and Tesco superstore, which has seen the conversion of part of the underused car park into a people-first space for the whole community.
The square has been designed following consultation with local people and community groups to create a splash of colour, a multi-functional space with new trees and plants, plenty of seats and space to host events and activities for children. Aa relaxing space for local people and visitors to eat and spend time.
Key features include a flexible space that can host events and pop-up gatherings, a raised market terrace area with seating for people to relax and an upgraded, outdoor trading space for Gorton Market.
Visitors will benefit from a new nature area with significant planting to screen the square from Garratt Way and introduce biodiversity. There is also an imaginative interactive play features for young people with light projections to animate the space.
Improved and safer walking and cycling routes to and through the local area are also included.
The project was funded by the UK Government. The square was built by Warden Construction.
This investment is part of the wider ambition for Gorton, set out in the Development Framework for the neighbourhood, and complements other investment in the local area, including the opening of the Gorton Hub community space in 2022.
The longer-term regeneration proposals for this part of Gorton include hundreds of new mixed tenure homes housing, including significant affordable homes, that will be built on council-owned land overlooking the new square.
Council leader Bev Craig said: “We are investing in our local communities across the city because we know how important Manchester’s high streets are to the people they serve. This isn’t just about accessing services easily – like health care and shops – this is also about creating pride in our local spaces and neighbourhoods our residents want to live in.
“We know that Manchester people want to live in welcoming, clean and green communities that support businesses, create jobs and provide opportunities for new affordable housing.
“This is what we’re doing in Gorton, Moston Lane, Withington high street and Wythenshawe town centre – and we have our sights set on other district centres, such as Newton Heath in north Manchester, for future investment that will continue our ongoing commitment to investing in the things our local communities want and need.”
Ian Williams, managing director at Warden Construction, said: “Warden Construction is incredibly proud to have played a key role in bringing this vibrant new public square to life for the people of Gorton.
“Seeing this underused space transformed into a welcoming heart for the community, one that complements the existing market and offers opportunities for connection and enjoyment for all ages, is truly rewarding. We believe this thoughtfully designed square will be a cornerstone of Gorton’s ongoing regeneration, and we look forward to seeing it thrive.”
