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WRU ‘truly sorry’ after damaging report finds ‘vindictive’ environment

Kyle Goldsmith
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WRU ‘truly sorry’ after damaging report finds ‘vindictive’ environment

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has said it is “truly sorry” after an independent review found parts of the organisation to be racist, sexist and homophobic.

A BBC programme in January reported allegations against the WRU and prompted a review the following month to investigate the claims.

The report was published on Tuesday and found there to be a “toxic” culture at the WRU that involved bullying and discrimination, as well as racist, sexist, homophobic and misogynistic elements.

The organisation was found to be unfit for purpose and “unforgiving, even vindictive”, while the report made 36 recommendations designed to counter the damning findings, which the WRU accepted, while also apologising to those affected.

In a statement, new WRU chair Richard Collier-Keywood said: “I want to start by saying again that on behalf of the whole WRU, we are truly sorry to those who have been impacted by the systems, structures and conduct described in the report which are simply not acceptable.

“As the report outlines, the WRU is an iconic institution which reflects society across Wales and plays a vital role in our national public life. We have let people down. We have to do better and we will.

“For anyone who cares about rugby in Wales it is a very difficult read and it is a particularly difficult read if you work at the WRU. It is clear that there were many opportunities to avert the serious problems described which were simply not taken.


“We have a lot of work to do to win back the trust of our staff, our players, the volunteers who are the heart of our community game, and the supporters that buy tickets week in week out.

“This report goes some way to show us what we need to do to earn back that trust. And with the oversight body in place, it will help us navigate the journey we need to take.”

Abi Tierney, set to take over as the WRU’s CEO in January, added: “The review’s report is incredibly humbling and describes issues, actions and attitudes that are hugely regrettable. They should not exist in our, nor any, workplace.

“Of course, as leaders of the organisation, we will all wholeheartedly condemn the attitudes and issues described, but we are equally aware that our response needs to be greater than this.

“We will implement all of the recommendations the independent review panel has made. My colleagues have committed to doing this and I commit to doing this too.

“But we will also go deeper than this. We will take what the review has found to heart and not only fix the issues identified but also to build a culture and values that we can all be proud of. We will do this together.”

Police arrest man on suspicion of manslaughter after Johnson death

Jon Fisher
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Police arrest man on suspicion of manslaughter after Johnson death

South Yorkshire Police have arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter following the death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson during an Elite League game last month.

Johnson was playing for the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers on October 28 when he was caught around the neck by a skate. He died later in hospital.

Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall of South Yorkshire Police said in a statement: “Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances.

“We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our inquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation.

“Adam’s death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world.

“We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process.

“Our thoughts remain with all affected by this devastating incident as enquiries continue.”

American Johnson was laid to rest in his native Minnesota last week.

DP World Tour Championship – preview and prediction with McIlroy and Rahm to duel it out

Jon Fisher
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DP World Tour Championship – preview and prediction with McIlroy and Rahm to duel it out

What’s at stake?

Not as much as there could be with Rory McIlroy already guaranteed to finish the year as the European number one. The closest challengers, Adrian Meronk and Ryan Fox, failed to score enough points at the Nedbank Challenge last week to prevent the Northern Irishman from claiming the crown for the fifth time.

That said, there is still a major title up for grabs, not to mention a £2.4million first prize.

Where is it being held?

The Earth Course at the Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai has staged the DP World Tour Championship for the past 14 years.

It’s a par-72 lay-out stretching over 7,675 yards and is known as a course that benefits the longer hitters.

Justin Rose, who is not playing this year, holds the course record having hit a 62 in 2012.

Who’s in the field?

McIlroy is the star attraction, as ever, but he will be joined by nine of his victorious European Ryder Cup team-mates, including defending champion Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland and Matt Fitzpatrick.

Min Woo Lee and Tom Kim lead the overseas charge.

Who is the favourite?

Bet365 have McIlroy as the favourite, followed by Hovland and Rahm.

Rory McIlroy 9/2
Viktor Hovland 11/2
Jon Rahm 11/2
Tyrrell Hatton 12/1
Matt Fitzpatrick 12/1
Tommy Fleetwood 14/1

shutterstock 1587747856 1

What they said

McIlroy on his form in Europe in 2023
“I’ve played well when I’ve came back over to The European Tour this year and won two Rolex Series Events and had some other really high finishes in tournaments that give a lot of points.
“It’s really nice to have my name on the Harry Vardon Trophy for the fifth time and just be one behind Seve [Ballesteros] and still a few behind Monty [Colin Montgomerie].
“I knew now that I could come here and relax, I still wanted to come here and win this golf tournament. This golf course sets up well for me and it’s a place I’ve always done well at. “It’s nice to come in here with at least that off my mind so I can just concentrate on the golf tournament.”

Hovland reflecting on his season and the Ryder Cup
“I’m sitting here after the Ryder Cup and I’m just looking over the year, it’s the moments that we had in Rome, that was incredible, and then just looking back to [the fact] I won three times this year, big-time events.
“I’m really proud of the way I won those events. I don’t feel like I would have been capable of winning those events earlier in the year. I feel like I’ve taken a big step to be able to win those events.
“I’m thinking back to that stretch as, man, I got a lot better this year and I was able to achieve some things that I wouldn’t probably have done before. That’s kind of how I’m sitting here and thinking about that.”

How can I watch the action?

Sky Sports Golf is showing all four days from Dubai, starting at 0700 on Thursday morning.

If you’re in the US, you can find it on the Golf Channel with their coverage getting underway at 0200 EST.

Prediction

Rahm has won this tournament three times and the wide open fairways of the Earth Course suit his power game. McIlroy will challenge, although he may be compromised by trying out a new driver this week.
Lee is another big-hitter to watch as is Nicolai Hojgaard, who came second to American Max Homa at the Nedbank Golf Challenge.
My money is on Rahm.

Check out our other sports stories here:
https://www.businessmanchester.co.uk/category/sport/

The Lowry’s Stage Directions programme launches ‘warm-up’

Helen Greaney
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The Lowry’s Stage Directions programme launches ‘warm-up’

The Lowry in Salford is thrilled to announce the launch of website ‘Warm-Up’  to give youngsters an insight into the performance industry.

Through the theatre’s Stage Directions programme, the new website has been developed to give teenagers support in preparing for job interviews for different roles within the creative industries including ticket sales agent, stage manager, actor, make-up artist, or camera operator.

Warm-Up also offers young people the opportunity to identify their own skills, match them to one of the 14 job roles featured, and then take part in a practice interview with a professional from that field.

Stage Directions

The website launched by Stage Directions, coincides with Discover! Creative Careers Week, which runs until November 17.

Stage Directions was launched by Salford’s Cultural Education Partnership in 2019 – a theatre-making programme for young people living and studying in Salford.

Its focus is ensuring that young people in the region know what pathways are open to them to pursue a career in the creative sector.  Stage Directions works in partnership with local cultural organisations and it commissioned TripleDotMakers to produce the ‘Warm-Up’ website in an effort to demystify the interview process and increase access to roles in arts and media.

Steph Green, Stage Directions manager, The Lowry said: “We can vouch for the exciting array of career options available in the creative industries, and the benefits that a creative career can bring to an individual.

“Through Stage Directions, we are committed to ensuring that the pathways into a sector that is such an important driver of economic growth in our region, is as accessible to as many young people in our communities as possible.

“Through ‘Warm-Up’, we are continuing to nurture creative talent and interest in our young people, by being a stepping stone between learning about what jobs exist and preparing to apply for them, in a tangible way. Warm-Up is just that, a warm-up for a job interview!”

Development

During the development of ‘Warm-Up’ the team ran workshops with students at UTC@MediaCityUK (a technical and creative college for 14-18-year-olds that specialises in creative media) and Oakwood Academy Sixth Form, Salford (a SEND school) to get their input on the resource.

Sharon Cross, head of School UTC@MediaCityUK said: “Warm-Up is a superb interactive resource that will help our students to gain the competitive advantage needed in order to secure a role in the creative industry. The opportunity to practice ‘real’ interview questions with ‘real’ professionals is invaluable in preparation for mock interviews. It is a real game changer.”

The creation of the ‘Warm-Up’ website has been made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England and support from The Noel Coward Foundation.

Masters of Mystery introduces new era of Murder Mystery Games

Helen Greaney
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Masters of Mystery introduces new era of Murder Mystery Games

Masters of Mystery has launched a new and exciting collection of immersive murder mystery games offering the thrill of solving crimes from the comfort of your home.

A world of intrigue, suspense, and imagination awaits all sleuths and amateur detectives in Masters of Mystery.

These games can be played by individuals or in groups and are designed to keep players engaged and motivated as they hunt for clues and solve puzzles. Players can also compete with each other to see who can come up with the best crime-solving strategy.

Suspense

Masters of Mystery offers players a variety of suspense, drama, and thrilling scenarios. A murder mystery game challenges players’ intellect, creativity, and problem-solving skills, ensuring a thrilling experience for everyone.

Family bond

The series encourages players to work together to uncover the truth and solve the mystery. After each play, players can discuss the game and come up with their theories about who committed the crime. It’s a great way to have fun and bond with friends and family.

Get connected with your colleagues

Master of Mystery games are meticulously designed with complex storylines, intricate characters, and clue-driven narratives to engage players in a world filled with suspense and excitement. The series offers an exciting way to get connected. Whether you’re into classic whodunits or thrilling espionage, there’s an experience for everyone in these games.

These games promote collaborative play, strategy,  and putting detective skills to the test. A variety of elements are included in the games: clues, scripts, props, and character assortments – so that families, friends, and team members can have an engaging and thrilling experience.

Delve into a new era of Masters of Mystery

Whether you’re looking for a unique and engaging activity for an upcoming event or simply looking for some entertainment, Masters of Mystery’s murder mystery games are perfect for you. A high-quality, immersive, and thrilling murder mystery experience is at the very heart of what the brand is about. Their murder mystery games are tailored to suit any group or event and can entertain up to 250 guests. 

Customers can explore the range of game options and select the scenario that intrigues them on the official website, where they can unleash their inner Sherlock Holmes.

Join today

Learn the secrets and solve the puzzles to become a detective in the comfort of your own home with Masters of Mystery. With Masters of Mystery’s immersive murder mystery games, you can unravel the mysteries and enter a world of suspense. 

These interactive murder mystery games are designed to challenge your problem-solving skills and test your detective instincts. With a variety of characters, locations, and clues, you’ll discover the secrets of each case and solve the mystery. Enjoy hours of fun and entertainment with Masters of Mystery.

Visit Mastersofmystery.com to learn more about the range of murder mystery games available.

About Masters of Mystery:

Masters of Mystery offers immersive murder mystery games that provide thrilling and entertaining experiences for game lovers. The games are set in a variety of unique locations and feature intriguing characters and challenging puzzles. Players must use their wits and deductive skills to uncover the secrets of the game and solve the murder. The series offers both individual and group packages so everyone can experience the thrill of solving a mystery. In Masters of Mystery, players become detectives in the comfort of their own homes by combining storytelling and innovation.

Chummy’s Bakery irresistible brownies and cookies now available for nationwide delivery

Helen Greaney
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Chummy’s Bakery irresistible brownies and cookies now available for nationwide delivery

With a range of delicious brownies and cookies to choose from, Chummy’s Bakery has announced the launch of a UK delivery service.

Those who love sweets, dessert lovers, and cookies can now indulge in the delicious treats from Chummy’s Bakery.

The delivery service is convenient, and orders can be placed online or over the phone. Customers can choose from a variety of flavours and sizes to suit their tastes. Orders will be delivered to your doorstep in as little as two days.

The baked goods at Chummy’s Bakery have been creating mouthwatering brownies and cookies for years and have earned a reputation for producing handcrafted treats that delight the senses.

It has been a secret for locals that these delectable treats exist. However, in response to the growing demand for their delectable goods, Chummy’s Bakery is extending its reach and offering nationwide delivery.

Hope Bell, owner and founder of Chummy’s Bakery said: “Over the years, we have been overwhelmed by the love and appreciation we have received from our local community.

“We’re thrilled to expand our delivery services nationally, and we’re looking forward to sharing the joy of our handmade brownies and cookies with everyone in the country.”

Wide selection of treats

As part of its commitment to quality, Chummy’s Bakery only uses locally sourced ingredients to create its delectable treats.

The brownies and cookies are lovingly baked to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures that will leave customers wanting more. The bakery also prides itself on using sustainable methods to create its baked goods. 

  • Classic Chocolate Brownies: A chocolate lover’s dream, Chummy’s Bakery’s classic brownies are rich, fudgy, and infused with the finest chocolate. The cookies are chewy and dotted with creamy chocolate chips. They come with a sprinkle of powdered sugar that makes them even more irresistible. All of their baked goods are made with the freshest ingredients and are baked to perfection.
  • Blondies: Butterscotch and white chocolate together melt in your mouth. Brownies: They are rich and fudgy, with a moist texture. Cookies: They are crunchy and flaky, with just the right amount of sweetness.
  • Vegan and gluten-free options: Chummy’s Bakery offers vegan and gluten-free brownies to suit diverse dietary preferences. With a range of different selections, the bakery also offers vegan and gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions. All of the products are baked with love and care to ensure the highest quality.
  • Gourmet cookies: Their gourmet cookies range from gooey chocolate chips to decadent double chocolate. For special occasions, they offer custom-decorated cookies that can be made with nearly any design.

Through Chummy’s Bakery’s website, customers can browse a wide range of tasty treats and order them online for delivery. Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of the bakery’s commitment to customer satisfaction. Chummy’s Bakery has a 24-hour customer service team to answer any questions or concerns customers may have. 

Nationwide delivery

No matter where their customers are in the UK, Chummy’s Bakery guarantees fresh brownies and cookies. The bakery uses secure packaging that preserves the flavor and texture of its creations during transit in order to ensure the highest quality. Chummy’s Bakery also offers next-day delivery and free shipping on all orders over a certain amount. All of their products are 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

Chummy’s Bakery offers this limited-time promotion to celebrate the launch across the country. Discounts on various treats will be offered on orders over a certain amount, and free delivery will also be provided.

Chummy’s Bakery makes irresistible brownies and cookies, available only online. Take advantage of this opportunity to indulge your taste buds with delicious treats from Chummy’s Bakery. Shop now to take advantage of the promotion and get the best deals. 

Follow Chummy’s Bakery on social media:

  • Facebook: @ChummysBakeryUK
  • Instagram: @ChummysBakeryUK
  • Twitter: @ChummysBakeryUK

About Chummy’s Bakery:

Chummy’s Bakery is renowned for its delectable brownies and cookies from the UK. Since Chummy’s Bakery has been dedicated to providing the finest ingredients and quality desserts, it has acquired a loyal following of dessert enthusiasts. It is now possible to order mouthwatering treats from Chummy’s Bakery anywhere in the country by using their nationwide delivery service.

Thompson Wright celebrates 40th anniversary

Helen Greaney
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Thompson Wright celebrates 40th anniversary

Thompson Wright, one of the top chartered accountancy firms in the Midlands and North West of England, is pleased to announce its 40th year in business. 

The practice was formed in 1983 by directors Lawrence Thompson and David Wright.

Speaking of his fond memories, David Wright said: “Back then we were in King Street, Newcastle and though it seems like yesterday, I can’t imagine now a world and an office without computers. In fact that’s one of my earliest memories as a partner, buying our first two IBM PCs complete with floppy disks that cost more than two PCs cost today!”

The firm’s King Street office was soon outgrown, leading to a relocation to Ebenezer House in the year 2000. 

Fast forward to today, and the practice boasts eight directors, has expanded to two other offices in Hale and Leek, and employs over 100 staff members with further growth anticipated.

Director David Wright added: “It has been great to see the development of the practice and how with increasing numbers of highly qualified and able staff we have been able to extend the range of services we offer.’

Managing director Richard Thompson said: “One of my biggest achievements has certainly been taking over from my father, becoming an accountant was a dream I had from a young age and continuing my father’s legacy is a great accomplishment of mine.  Of course, we would not be where we are today without the support of our amazing team and loyal clients, so a big thank you to them!’ 

To find out more about Thompson Wright, visit https://www.thompsonwright.co.uk/ 

Directors  pictured (from left) are: James Kelsall, Jess Swinton, Richard Thompson, David Wright, Sarah Bowen, Rachel Buxton and Jeremy Bostock.

Manchester Arndale market to be shut for a week following blaze

Helen Greaney
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Manchester Arndale market to be shut for a week following blaze

Manchester’s popular Arndale Centre Market will be shut for at least a week, following a blaze at a food stall.

The fire closed the market at the weekend and it will not reopen until the damage has been fully assessed and works have been carried out.

Deputy leader of Manchester City Council, Luthfur Rahman, said they were working to reopen as soon as possible, with traders kept informed.

The wider shopping centre reopened after shoppers were evacuated from the site on Friday, while firefighters tackled the small blaze.

Editorial credit: Anna Mente / Shutterstock.com

Appeal after wooden poppies and soldiers stolen in Bolton

Helen Greaney
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Appeal after wooden poppies and soldiers stolen in Bolton

Police are appealing for information following reports of theft of wooden poppies and soldiers from the central reservation of Bury Road in Breightmet, Bolton.

Somewhere between 3pm – 8pm on Sunday, eight wooden soldiers and several poppies were taken.

Sergeant Zach Keneally from Bolton’s Neighbourhood Team said: “If anyone has any information around the location of these missing soldiers and poppies, please do reach out as we are keen to see them returned.

“The community comes out in their numbers every year to honour those who have lost their lives in conflicts, and it is fantastic to see these soldiers and poppies on the central reservation as a mark of respect to the servicemen and women who have fought for our country.|”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or 0161 856 5761, quoting log number 3265 of 12/11/2023 or crime reference number CRI/06KK/0034005/23.

Alternatively, information can be given to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Eriksen set for one-month absence as Manchester United issue reassuring Hojlund update

Harry Carr
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Eriksen set for one-month absence as Manchester United issue reassuring Hojlund update

Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen will be sidelined for around a month after suffering a knee injury, but fellow Denmark international Rasmus Hojlund should return to action before the end of November.

Both Eriksen and Hojlund were substituted during Saturday’s 1-0 Premier League win over Luton Town with knocks, causing the duo to withdraw from Denmark’s squad for Euro 2024 qualifiers against Slovenia and Northern Ireland on Monday.

Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils have been beset by injury problems this season, with key defenders Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw still sidelined while Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Raphael Varane have also spent periods in the treatment room.

Casemiro is not expected to return before Christmas after sustaining a hamstring issue, and United will also be without fellow midfielder Eriksen until at least mid-December.

An injury update issued by the club on Monday confirmed Eriksen will be out for around a month after landing awkwardly during the first half of United’s win over Luton.

There is more positive news concerning the condition of Hojlund, however, with the striker hoping to return before the end of November after suffering a muscle strain.

United return to action after the international break with a trip to Everton in the Premier League on November 26, before taking on Galatasaray in a vital Champions League group-stage contest three days later.

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