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Depraved man jailed for grooming Manchester girl

Helen Greaney
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Depraved man jailed for grooming Manchester girl

A man who groomed and abducted a Manchester girl, was jailed yesterday.

David Stewart (25) of Fordhouse Lane, Birmingham, will service nine years after pleading guilty to two charges of sexual activity with a child under 16, meeting a child following sexual grooming, child abduction, and witness intimidation.

He is also subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order.

In August 2023, Manchester Children’s Services received a disclosure from a parent who had serious concerns about the inappropriate behaviour of Stewart towards her teenage daughter.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police’s Complex Safeguarding Hub launched an investigation to understand the serious allegations whilst specialist agencies were deployed to safeguard the victim and her family.

The investigation uncovered that around May 2023, Stewart (pictured) contacted the 13-year-old girl on social media.

Over several months, he groomed his victim, isolated her from support, lured her away from family and went on to sexually exploit her.

In September 2023, Stewart was arrested on suspicion of sexual grooming. He was bailed whilst detectives built a case, with a child abduction warning notice.

In December 2023, intelligence showed that Stewart was still in contact with the victim.

Detectives identified that he had lured her to the airport and following an extensive CCTV trawl, they found crucial footage of Stewart sexually abusing the victim.

A man hunt was launched to trace Stewart, and he was swiftly arrested in Shropshire in the West Midlands. He was transported back to Manchester, and remanded.

Detective inspector Chris Chadderton said: “Stewart manipulated and abused this young girl to satisfy his own depraved sexual urges. He continued to offend whilst under police investigation, demonstrating his callous and brazen nature, so I am pleased that this sentence has been passed down and he is now behind bars.

“I, and the entire partnership in our Complex Safeguarding Hub, would like to praise the victim for her courage in providing evidence in this case. Without her support, we would not have had the strong case that we built, which ultimately left Stewart with no choice but to plead guilty to his crimes.”

Gallery Oldham exhibition shows Old Library brought back to life

Helen Greaney
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Gallery Oldham exhibition shows Old Library brought back to life

The latest exhibition at Gallery Oldham looks forward to the next chapter in the long history of a much-loved building.

The exhibition is titled “New life in an old building” and is a celebration of the skilful restoration of the Old Library, which is set reopen in 2025.

The displays look back and explore the history of this Victorian venue which has served the community since 1883.

It is a place where many Oldhamers attended their first exhibition or borrowed their first library book.

The exhibition also gives an insight into the work that has been carried out to restore the building to its former glory.

A series of specially commissioned images by photographer Ingrid Turner has captured the stories of those who have contributed to the restoration.

Later this year a new chapter will begin as the Old Library building becomes home to new civic functions. These will include the Mayor’s Parlour and the Council Chamber.

The building will also contain studio spaces so the creativity of Oldham Theatre Workshop’s young people can flourish. On the second floor one of the original art gallery spaces will be beautifully restored for visitors to enjoy.

Councillor Peter Dean said: “As a born and bred Oldhamer who has visited the building many times since I was a little, I can’t wait to see the Old Library building back open.

“This restoration project has been really popular with a lot of residents as the building has been a big part of their lives. It’ll soon be accessible to a new generation of visitors and is a big part in our overall regeneration plans for the town centre.

“If you want to find out more and gain a real insight into how skilled men and women have brought this building back to life I’d urge you to take a trip down to Gallery Oldham and see the great photos Ingrid Turner has taken.”

The exhibition “New life in an old building” will run at Gallery Oldham from March 15 to May 31.

There is also a scheduled gallery talk at 2pm on Wednesday, April, 23 for visitors.

Notts Sport Introduces CocoTurf: The Future of Non-Plastic Artificial Grass

News Desk
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Notts Sport Introduces CocoTurf: The Future of Non-Plastic Artificial Grass

Notts Sport, a UK leader in play and sports surfacing, has announced the launch of CocoTurf, the world’s first completely plastic-free artificial grass. Made from natural coconut fibres, CocoTurf presents a sustainable, environmentally friendly alternative for playgrounds and recreational spaces, offering exceptional durability and high performance.

As the demand for eco-friendly solutions grows, Notts Sport has taken a pioneering step by eliminating plastics from artificial turf. Unlike traditional synthetic grass, which relies on plastic-based materials, CocoTurf is entirely free from plastics, microplastics, and harmful per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), ensuring both environmental and safety benefits.

CocoTurf is produced using coconut husks, a renewable resource that is processed into robust, high-performance fibres. The surface is reinforced with a natural rubber latex backing, making it 100% plastic-free and non-toxic. This sustainable composition makes CocoTurf an ideal solution for playgrounds, schools, parks, and high-traffic outdoor areas.

One of the standout features of CocoTurf is its positive environmental impact. Unlike conventional artificial turf, which can contribute to microplastic pollution, CocoTurf is biodegradable, reducing its impact on the planet. By using coconut fibres instead of synthetic materials, the product also lowers carbon emissions associated with plastic-based surfacing. Additionally, it is designed for longevity, offering resilience against harsh weather conditions and heavy use.

Each coconut produces approximately 200 grams of usable fibres, with 600 coconut husks providing enough material to surface a 60-square-metre play area.

Duncan Bennett, CEO of Notts Sport, emphasised the importance of this innovation: “This is a milestone in the evolution of outdoor play surfaces. Our drive to find ever more sustainable surfacing solutions has led us to invent the world’s first non-plastic synthetic grass—CocoTurf. This is not just another product—it’s a revolution in sustainability. For the first time, communities can install an artificial surface without the harmful impact of plastics. This is the future of play surfaces, and we’re thrilled to lead the charge.”

With its advanced design and strong performance, CocoTurf is the perfect choice for those seeking an environmentally responsible, durable, and safe surfacing option. It promises to transform outdoor spaces by providing a green alternative that upholds the highest safety and performance standards while minimising the environmental impact of synthetic grass.

Notts Sport is leading the way towards a more sustainable future with CocoTurf, enabling communities to enjoy the benefits of artificial turf while protecting the environment and future generations.

Samuel and Co Trading Champions Affordable Financial Education Amidst Tuition Fee Increases

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Samuel and Co Trading Champions Affordable Financial Education Amidst Tuition Fee Increases

As higher education costs continue to climb, Samuel and Co Trading stands out as a leading provider of accessible and high-quality financial education. Established in 2012, the company has been instrumental in equipping students with practical trading skills and the confidence to navigate financial markets.

The financial strain on UK university students is increasing, with tuition fees set to rise to £9,535 per year from September 2025, marking the first increase in eight years. Coupled with maintenance loans that fail to cover basic living costs, students now face average annual study expenses exceeding £22,000.

In response, Samuel and Co Trading provides Ofqual-regulated Diplomas in Financial Trading, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional university degrees. Students can achieve a Level 5 Diploma—equivalent to a Foundation Degree—in just 12 weeks, or complete a Level 7 Diploma, comparable to a Master’s Degree, at a significantly lower cost than a university education. With some graduate salaries now on par with minimum wage, these accelerated programmes offer an efficient and affordable pathway into the financial sector.

The company’s dedication to excellence has been recognised through multiple industry awards. In the 2025 Global Banking and Finance Awards®, Samuel and Co Trading secured “Best Online Financial Education & Training UK 2025” and “Best Forex Education UK 2025”. Additionally, Finance Derivative Magazine awarded them “Best Online Trading Course Provider UK 2025”, while World Business Outlook presented accolades for “Best Trading Guidance and Support Provider Europe 2025”, “Leading Trading Education Management Company Europe 2025”, and “Most Trusted Personal Trading Strategies Provider Europe 2025”. Furthermore, Brands Review Magazine recognised them with “Innovation in Trading Strategies UK 2025” and “Trading Education and Mentorship Award UK 2025”. These awards highlight Samuel and Co Trading’s commitment to educational excellence.

Founder and CEO, Samuel Leach, reflects on the company’s mission:

“When I started Samuel and Co Trading in 2012, I wanted to democratise financial education. The aim was to provide practical, affordable, and high-quality training to people who are passionate about trading. Our recent accolades and the success of our students show that we’re on the right path.”

As tuition fees continue to rise and the financial sector evolves, Samuel and Co Trading remains dedicated to delivering affordable, high-quality financial education, shaping the next generation of traders.

About Samuel and Co Trading

Samuel and Co Trading was founded in 2012 by Samuel Leach with the mission of assisting individuals to succeed in financial trading. The company provides accredited and industry-recognised financial education, including Ofqual-regulated diplomas designed to fast-track students into trading careers. With courses led by seasoned professionals, Samuel and Co Trading ensures that students gain practical, real-world experience. Recognised as a leader in the sector, the company has trained thousands of individuals.

Be Cool Refrigeration Achieves 100 AC Installations in 2024

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Be Cool Refrigeration Achieves 100 AC Installations in 2024

Be Cool Refrigeration, a leading air conditioning installation, maintenance, and repair service provider, has successfully installed 100 air conditioning units in 2024. The company’s recent market study highlights important consumer trends, revealing the distinct needs and preferences of homeowners and businesses in the UK.

Key Insights on Consumer Trends in Air Conditioning Installations

As the demand for air conditioning solutions continues to rise, Be Cool Refrigeration’s recent findings shed light on the changing landscape of the industry. The company analysed 100 installations completed in 2024, providing a snapshot of the evolving trends in air conditioning preferences.

Domestic vs. Commercial Installations

Of the 100 air conditioning units installed by Be Cool Refrigeration, 31.66% were for domestic clients, while the remaining 68.34% were for commercial customers. This clear division highlights the growing commercial demand for air conditioning systems across various business sectors, from office spaces to retail outlets.

Domestic Consumer Preferences

Domestic customers showed a strong preference for split system air conditioners, with 74% opting for this type of installation. Known for their affordability and ease of installation, split systems remain the go-to choice for homeowners seeking cost-effective cooling solutions. However, 26% of domestic customers selected ducted air conditioning, which offers a more discreet and whole-home cooling solution.

An emerging trend among domestic buyers was a focus on affordability. Many consumers prioritised the upfront cost of their air conditioning systems rather than considering the long-term energy efficiency of their purchases. While this cost-conscious approach is understandable, it often overlooks the potential savings that more energy-efficient systems can offer over time.

Commercial Consumer Preferences

Commercial clients demonstrated a clear preference for ceiling cassette air conditioning systems, with 83.33% of all commercial installations opting for this solution. Ceiling cassette units, ideal for offices, restaurants, and retail environments, provide powerful cooling while maintaining a sleek, unobtrusive design. The remaining 16.67% of commercial clients selected a range of alternative systems, including ducted, floor-mounted, and VRF/VRV units, depending on their specific business needs.

This preference for ceiling cassette units in commercial spaces aligns with the growing trend towards high-efficiency, space-saving designs in modern office and retail environments. These systems provide businesses with reliable, consistent cooling while helping to minimise disruption to the aesthetics of their spaces.

The Future of Air Conditioning Installations in the UK

Looking ahead to 2025, Be Cool Refrigeration predicts a shift in consumer behaviour, particularly within the domestic market. With rising energy costs and increasing awareness of sustainability, more consumers are expected to prioritise long-term energy efficiency over short-term cost savings. This shift may lead to greater demand for more energy-efficient air conditioning systems that provide higher performance at a lower lifetime cost.

“Our data shows that domestic buyers often opt for lower-cost solutions upfront, whereas commercial clients prioritise functionality and efficiency,” said Ali Elm, Managing Director of Be Cool Refrigeration. “We encourage homeowners to consider energy efficiency and total lifetime cost savings when investing in air conditioning.”

As the air conditioning market continues to grow, Be Cool Refrigeration remains committed to providing high-quality installations, expert guidance, and ongoing maintenance support to both residential and commercial clients. The company’s dedication to sustainability and customer satisfaction ensures that all clients receive the most efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for their cooling needs.

About Be Cool Refrigeration

Be Cool Refrigeration is a trusted provider of air conditioning and refrigeration solutions across London and beyond. Specialising in installation, servicing, and maintenance, the company delivers energy-efficient cooling solutions tailored to both residential and commercial clients. With a commitment to high-quality service and expert advice, Be Cool Refrigeration continues to lead the industry with reliable, sustainable air conditioning solutions.

Reflect Clinic Highlights Upper Blepharoplasty as a Popular Anti-Ageing Solution

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Reflect Clinic Highlights Upper Blepharoplasty as a Popular Anti-Ageing Solution

Reflect Clinic, a trusted name in cosmetic surgery across Manchester, Cheshire, and the North West, continues to offer Upper Blepharoplasty as a highly requested procedure. This treatment is ideal for rejuvenating the eye area and can also benefit those with obstructed vision due to sagging eyelids.

As time passes, the skin around the eyes naturally loses elasticity, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and excess skin that can create a tired or aged look. Upper Blepharoplasty effectively restores a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Upper Blepharoplasty also referred to as an Upper Eyelid Lift, or an Upper Eyelift, removes excess skin and, in some cases, small fat deposits to enhance the natural contours of the eyes.

The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance that restores confidence without altering unique facial expressions.

Consultant plastic surgeon Mr Gerard Lambe explains why this procedure remains a popular choice among patients, stating,

“Upper Blepharoplasty can have a life-changing impact. Many patients report feeling more youthful and re-energised, and for those with drooping eyelids obstructing their vision, the functional improvements can be significant.”

Anti-Ageing and Functional Benefits 

Upper blepharoplasty stands out for its anti-ageing advantages. By tightening and lifting the upper eyelid, the procedure effectively reduces the appearance of drooping skin and fine lines, giving patients a refreshed, vibrant look.

Learn more about the anti-ageing benefits of upper blepharoplasty from Reflect Clinic.

The procedure also provides functional improvements for individuals experiencing restricted sight from sagging eyelids. Removing excess skin helps expand the field of vision, making daily activities such as reading or driving safer and more comfortable.

Performed as a minimally invasive day case under local anaesthesia, Upper Blepharoplasty typically takes around 45 minutes.

With stitches removed within a week and most individuals returning to normal routines within two weeks, the recovery process is quick and straightforward.

About Reflect Clinic 

Reflect Clinic is a trusted name in cosmetic surgery, known for its patient-focused approach and personalised care.

Under the leadership of consultant plastic surgeon Mr Gerard Lambe, the Clinic has established a strong reputation for delivering natural-looking results in Manchester, Cheshire, and the North West.

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Ben Miller
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India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play

India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first semi-final of the ICC Trophy 2025 on Tuesday.

With two titles each, the most successful sides in the history of the trophy meet in Dubai after India’s spinners took nine wickets for the first time in 14 years to complete a perfect group stage with a 44-run win over New Zealand.

Rohit Sharma, who was part of a top-three dismissed in only 6.4 overs alongside Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, called momentum “very, very critical” ahead of the semi-finals.

“You try and possibly win every game that is in front of you and try and do everything right,” said the only captain to win three out of three games.

 

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“It is going to be a good game and we know Australia have a rich history of playing ICC tournaments well. We do understand that.

“It’s about what we want to do against the opposition and trying to do that right. We’re all looking forward to the contest and hopefully we can stitch one [more win]”.

Australia finished behind South Africa, signing off with their second group match to be abandoned by rain against Afghanistan in Lahore on Friday.

Ben Dwarshuis belied his One-Day International experience to take 3-47, with Spencer Johnson and leg-spinner Adam Zampa each collecting two wickets and Travis Head posting an unbeaten 59 off 40 deliveries.

India vs Australia team news

Matt Short sustained a quad injury against Afghanistan, so Australia have called up all-rounder Cooper Connolly.

Jake Fraser-McGurk is the obvious option to come in at the top of the order. If the 22-year-old is not used, Josh Inglis could move up the order.

Mitchell Starc opted out of the tournament for Australia for personal reasons, while Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Marsh have all missed out through injury.

All-rounders Sean Abbott and Aaron Hardie and spinner Tanveer Sangha could be options if Andrew McDonald’s team selection is to spring surprises, while Ben Dwarshuis’s total of six wickets is bettered only by New Zealand’s Matt Henry, of the players still involved in the tournament.

 

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Sharma says Varun Chakravarthy’s five-wicket haul against New Zealand has given him a “good headache to have”.

“He’s got something different about him, there’s no doubt about it,” he added. “Varun was class. If he gets it right, it’s very difficult to read him. We’ve got to think about what we want to do.”

India vs Australia expected line-ups

India: Sharma (c), Gill, Kohli, Iyer, Patel, Rahul (wk), Pandya, Jadeja, Rana, Yadav, Chakravarthy

Australia: Head, Smith (c), Inglis (wk), Labuschagne, Carey, Maxwell, Connolly, Dwarshuis, Ellis, Zampa, Johnson

How to watch India vs Australia: TV channel, live stream

The ICC Champions Trophy can be watched in the UK on Sky Sports. Tuesday’s coverage starts on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Cricket at 0830.

In India, it is being shown on the JioStar network with JioHotstar providing live streaming. On television, in addition to the English feed, coverage will also be available in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada across Star Sports and Sports18 channels.

 

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India vs Australia prediction

India have played all of their matches in Dubai and it would be a significant surprise if they do not advance a game from repeating their 2013 triumph with another win there.

Australia’s absentees do not help their cause as they try to hold off a formidable set of spinners. Fast-bowler Mohammed Shami also claimed five against Bangladesh during the group stage.

“Australia have been such a great team over the years, so we will expect some fightback and some nervy times in the middle as well,” predicted Sharma.

“We are talking about a semi-final. There will be pressure on both teams to win.”

Police seek dashcam footage following fatal collision on M62

Helen Greaney
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Police seek dashcam footage following fatal collision on M62

Police are searching for witnesses or dashcam footage of a fatal collision on the M62 last night.

At around 11.30pm, officers and other emergency services responded to the fatal road traffic collision between junction 19 and 18 (Middleton) of the M62.

An Audi A5 S line car was travelling on the M62 before it came off the carriageway and collided with a bridge. It is believed that no other vehicles were involved.

The 24-year-old male driver died from his injuries at the scene.

This section of the motorway is still closed whilst enquiries continue, and delays are expected to continue into today.

Motorists are advised to find alternative routes and plan if they can.

Detective constable Rachael Stafford from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) said; “Since we became aware of the incident last night, we deployed officers to the scene and are now in a position to appeal to any members of the public who were on that stretch of road last night and can help with our enquiries, this could include those who have access to dashcam footage.

“At the heart of this is a man that has sadly lost his life in tragic circumstances and family and friends who are now having to come to terms with losing a loved one this morning.”

Anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to call 0161 856 4741 or 101 quoting incident 3219 of 02/02/2025. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Image cred: Google maps – M62

New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Ben Miller
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0
New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand vs India: The State of Play

Two teams in excellent form meet on Sunday when New Zealand and India collide in their final Group A matches of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their opener and proceeded to win by the same margin against Pakistan in Dubai last Sunday.

New Zealand saw off Pakistan by 60 runs before recording a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on Monday.

“It could be a contest of spin,” India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate says, observing one of the strengths these sides share.

“Coming into the competition, we weren’t expecting such an over-reliance on spin. But the guys have bowled nicely and the pitch has helped a little bit, so I’m sure it’s going to be the same for the next game.”

Glenn Phillips believes the variety of pitches in Pakistan has prepared New Zealand well to play in Dubai, where the all-rounder expects the surface to be “different again”.

“We’ve had a lot of different situations,” reflected Phillips. “We’ve had balls that have spun, we’ve had surfaces that have been flat and fast, and boundaries that are small.

“This ground presents us with a different challenge of being potentially a little bit slower, more void of grass and maybe having slightly slower outfields. We pride ourselves on trying to be as adaptable as possible.”

New Zealand vs India team news

Changes could be on the way with both teams through to the semi-finals, with India potentially giving Rishabh Pant a start in place of KL Rahul, among the big names who could be rested.

Ten Doeschate played down an injury concern for captain Rohit Sharma against Pakistan, saying: “He’s all right. It’s an injury he’s had before, so he knows how to manage it really well.”

Daryl Mitchell is likely to return for New Zealand after missing their encounter with Bangladesh through illness, and Phillips says top spot would give them a “great deal of confidence”.

“In a tournament like this, we always go out to win every game possible,” he added. Momentum is a strange thing – in cricket, especially.”

India are more likely to “share out” the bowling to “get the balance right” rather than make wholesale changes, according to Ten Doeschate. “It’s important that we keep that momentum going and top the group,” he said.

India icon Virat Kohli is set to play his 300th One-Day International, making the 36-year-old the 22nd player and seventh from India to do so.

“That’s a lot of ODI games and a lot of international games,” said Rahul. “Words fall short to express how good a player and what a great servant of Indian cricket he’s been.”

New Zealand vs India expected line-ups

New Zealand: Conway, Ravindra, Williamson, Mitchell, Latham (wk), Phillips, Bracewell, Santner (c), Jamieson, Henry, O’Rourke

India: Sharma (c), Gill, Kohli, Iyer, Pant (wk), Pandya, Jadeja, Sundar, Rana, Yadav, Shami

How to watch New Zealand vs India: TV channel, live stream

The ICC Champions Trophy can be watched in the UK on Sky Sports. Sunday’s coverage starts on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Cricket at 0830.

In India, it is being shown on the JioStar network with JioHotstar providing live streaming. On television, in addition to the English feed, coverage will also be available in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada across Star Sports and Sports18 channels.

New Zealand vs India prediction

India’s status as warm odds-on favourites is perhaps a little short given the unpredictability of the teams and the reduced stakes for each team, but expect the side with 60 wins from their 118 matches against New Zealand – their opponents have 50 victories – to mark Kohli’s 300th game in style.

This is a storied fixture, including a 70-run win for India in the 2023 World Cup semi-finals, and the likes of New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell and Will O’Rourke and India’s Mohammad Shami and Harshit Rana could shine in attack, with that quartet taking a combined 19 wickets so far.

New Zealand start the day above India on net run rate, with the group winners facing Australia and the second-placed team taking on South Africa.

We review: Med-inspired ‘Mélange’ comes to Ramsbottom

Helen Greaney
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We review: Med-inspired ‘Mélange’ comes to Ramsbottom

When we were offered the chance to sample the fusion of flavoursome food at Bury’s newest restaurant, we found it hard to turn down.

Mélange – which translates as ‘mixture’ – offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu, drawing from memories and unforgettable holidays, bringing with it a medley of flavours and colours.

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The 80-seat bar and restaurant has recently opened inside the Red Hall Hotel on Manchester Road, near junction 1 of the M66, and replaces the former eatery, Oscar’s.

Overlooking picturesque Ramsbottom, it was easy to find with plenty of free parking available.

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Stepping inside we were greeted by both the friendly receptionist and bar tender, before being taken to our seats in a booth, by waiter, James.

The newly renovated bar and restaurant was bright and airy, with a modern feel. With plenty of soft lighting and candles, cream walls and green plants,  it made for a welcoming, relaxed ambience.

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There were plenty of areas to eat, including cosy pockets away from the general room for smaller groups or those going solo.

With everything from signature bread, to small plates, sharing experiences, pizzas and steaks, and a very well-stocked wine list on offer, there were major decisions to be made.

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Our waiter welcomed us to the restaurant, brought some soft drinks over and recommended my friend and I had the nibbles to start. So, we picked the olives in herbs, which were perfectly plump and juicy. The patatas bravas was sensational – an incredible spicy tomato sauce with perfectly soft potato, was a satisfying start for us both.

For mains, my partner opted for the maple-baked salmon served with potato puree, which was a really decent portion, well cooked and complemented well by the broccoli and carrot, with a decorative tuile.

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As a gluten and dairy-free eater (groan) I’m often dismayed by the food choices on offer, but the chef went out of his way to cater to my needs, so I was able to have the king prawn linguine. Huge – and I mean bigger than king-looking – prawns were served in a velvety tomato sauce with a fair amount of heat. Delicious and cooked to perfection.

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For dessert across the table, it was the chocolate cheesecake, which was perfect. Not too rich – as they often are – and with a deliciously crunchy base. I was happy with the gluten and dairy-free brownie, which came topped with walnuts and a dairy-free vanilla ice cream to cut through the sweetness.

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It’s safe to say we will be back. The prices were fair, the service was excellent, the food was fabulous. Overall, it was a great dining experience with plenty on offer for all, even the more awkward among us.

Perfectly located, it’s a great option for a special evening meal or a casual lunch date. And of course, you could just take advantage of the beautiful bar for a vast range of spirits, wines and non-alcoholic drinks.

To book your table at Mélange, visit: red-hall.co.uk/melange/

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