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Rochdale man jailed after drug dealing during Covid

Helen Greaney
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Rochdale man jailed after drug dealing during Covid

A Rochdale man has been jailed for five years and three months for his role in an Organised Crime Group (OCG) involved in the large-scale drug supply.

Kane Worthington (34) of Boarshaw Road, Rochdale, played a significant role in the distribution of drugs, acting as the middleman between suppliers and customers.

He will serve 63 months for conspiracy to supply class A drugs and 36 months concurrently for conspiracy to supply class B drugs.

At the forefront of this investigation is the use of encrypted mobile phones, which falls under Operation Venetic, the UK’s response to disrupt the encrypted communication system used by organised criminal networks.

The technology behind these devices previously made it impossible for police to obtain any data or evidence from the devices.

Unfortunately for Worthington, the disruption of Encro chat allowed officers to access the encrypted data which has ultimately resulted in his conviction.

Content on the encrypted phone revealed messages from Worthington, who was using the alias ‘loftyrocket’, was messaging suppliers and customers across Manchester, arranging drop offs and pickups of cannabis and cocaine, prices and how much money he owed to one supplier.

The court heard how between March 26, 2020 and May 23, 2020, Worthington was in conversation with 25 different handles during that period.

It is thought that the street value of the 4kg of cocaine and 16lbs of cannabis would have yielded a return of close to £500,000.

Detective inspector Richard Castley said: “Worthington not only dealt drugs but showed utter contempt for public safety during a national pandemic, continuing his criminal enterprise while law-abiding abiding citizens made sacrifices to protect the NHS.

“This sentence sends a clear message to criminals who think they can operate outside of the law. Our teams will continue to work tirelessly to disrupt drug supply chains and bring offenders to justice.

“Though some work into drug investigations can’t always be seen – there is a lot going on behind the scenes. We will always listen to our communities’ concerns and any information or issues that are fed to us can sometimes hugely assist our on-going investigations.”

Anyone with information or concerns should report to police online at www.gmp.police.uk or via 101.

Belfast Writer Launches Second Edition of The Irish Bucket List

News Desk
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Belfast Writer Launches Second Edition of The Irish Bucket List

New Insights and Destinations Highlighted in Updated Travel Guide

Belfast-born author and travel entrepreneur Stevie Haughey has announced the release of the second edition of The Irish Bucket List: 101 Places to See in Ireland Before You Die. This updated guidebook showcases the most stunning attractions and hidden gems across Ireland.

Originally published in 2017, the first edition quickly became a favourite among travel enthusiasts, offering a unique perspective on Ireland’s most breathtaking locations.

After years of further exploration, Haughey has refreshed the book, adding new destinations, untold stories, and expert insights, providing readers with an even richer travel experience.

Haughey’s journey of rediscovery began at 19 when he moved from Belfast to study in England. Living abroad sparked a newfound appreciation for his homeland’s beauty.

“Living away from home made me realise just how special Ireland is,” says Haughey. “People spoke about it with such admiration, and yet I had barely scratched the surface of what was on my own doorstep. That realisation changed everything.”

Inspired to explore his native land more thoroughly, Haughey set out on a mission to uncover Ireland’s best-kept secrets. This personal quest eventually grew into Ireland Before You Die, now one of Ireland’s largest independent travel platforms, followed by over 700,000 people.

Following the success of Ireland Before You Die, Haughey published the first edition of The Irish Bucket List, which became an Amazon bestseller in the Irish travel category. With many new experiences gained, he felt the time was right for an update.

“Ireland has evolved, and so has this book,” Haughey explains. “The new edition is bigger, more detailed, and packed with fresh insights. From world-famous landmarks to off-the-beaten-track gems, this guide is designed to help travellers experience Ireland in the most authentic way possible.”

For Haughey, The Irish Bucket List is more than just a travel guide – it’s a celebration of Ireland’s culture, landscapes, and heritage.

“This book is for anyone who has ever felt a connection to Ireland,” he adds. “Whether you were born here, have Irish roots, or simply dream of visiting, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most incredible adventures are closer than we think.”

The second edition is now available for pre-order, with copies shipping from 27th February 2025 – just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. It can be purchased on Amazon and via shop.irelandbeforeyoudie.com.

ICC Champions Trophy – India v Bangladesh: Preview, expected line-ups, how to watch on TV and prediction

Jon Fisher
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ICC Champions Trophy – India v Bangladesh: Preview, expected line-ups, how to watch on TV and prediction

The State of Play

Tournament favourites India get their ICC Champions Trophy campaign up and running tomorrow when they take on Bangladesh in Dubai.

Pakistan is staging its first ICC event in 29 years with seven of the eight teams based in the main host country. The exception is India whose government refused to allow its cricket team to travel to Pakistan as political tensions continue to simmer.

And while that is a disappointment for cricket fans in Pakistan, it’s a bonus for those in the United Arab Emirates as arguably the best ODI team in the world get set to play all their tournament matches in Dubai.

It is also potentially not a bad thing for India’s chances of success.

They won’t have to play in a country where India are always the arch enemy and can instead enjoy the support of the many expats in the Middle East.

The pitches should also play into India’s hands with their spinners set to benefit from the slow turn normally associated with that part of the world.

If the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja get it right, then India may not miss the injured Jasprit Bumrah too much.

Bumrah’s failure to recover from a back injury saw the India selectors alter the dynamic of the squad and bring in Varun Chakaravarthy and Harshit Rana with young batter Yashasvi Jaiswal relegated to the reserves list.

Opting for Chakaravarthy as a fifth spinner in the squad rather than paceman Mohammed Siraj has caused a stir but former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik can see the sense in the decision.

He told Cricbuzz: “If you had to go with experience, then yes, Siraj could have been the ideal choice, but I thought Harshit bowled very well against England. What I feel is the Indian camp is very impressed with Harshit Rana. I think Harshit Rana was the debate, but I feel Team India backs him right now more than Siraj.”

The batting line-up is full of quality and veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli showed flashes of their best in the recent three-match series against England.

Bangladesh come into the tournament with little warm-up and looking short of the quality required to challenge the likes of India and Australia.

But captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was in bullish mood when asked to assess his team’s chances.

“We are going to the Champions Trophy to become champions,” Shanto said. “All eight teams deserve to be champions in this tournament. They are all quality teams. I believe our team has the ability. No one will feel extra pressure. Everyone genuinely wants [to become champions], and believes in their capabilities. We are working hard and doing our best. I believe we can achieve our goal.”

Team News

India will likely go with three spinners and rely on Hardik Pandya as their third seamer. With Bumrah injured, much will rest on the experienced Mohammed Shami with India hoping he can replicate his brilliant displays at the 2023 World Cup.

Bangladesh are missing senior all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who has been suspended due to an illegal action, while Litton Das and Tamim Iqbal are also absent.

Paceman Nahid Rana is the man to watch.

Expected line-ups

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami.

Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman

How to Watch

The ICC Champions Trophy can be watched in the UK on Sky Sports. Thursday’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.

Prediction

Although Rana could pose problems for India’s top order, their strength in depth should see them past a tricky first opponent.

Bangladesh should not be underestimated but it’s tough to look past India.

Plans submitted for banqueting hall in Middleton

Helen Greaney
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Plans submitted for banqueting hall in Middleton

Plans have been submitted to reimagine the former Middleton Conservative Club as a banqueting hall and community space.

Architecture Unknown’s plans, on behalf of local business Kohinoor Banqueting Ltd, show the site transformed into a wedding venue and multifunctional community area.

The planning proposal includes internal refurbishments and renovation of the existing heritage façade, as well as a double storey contemporary brick extension.

The proposed transformation will see the disused area at the back of the building adapted into a car park, containing new plants, green swales and a green-wall with the promise to retain existing trees and where possible improve the biodiversity of the site.

In 2022, The Middleton Town Masterplan aimed to bring buildings in the town back to life through creative reuse, enhancing facades and shop fronts. The project was aimed at driving footfall to the area.

The modern and contemporary extension, on 77 Long Street, would takes cues from the existing Middleton Conservative Club and the architecture in the surrounding area.

Daniel Kelso, director from Architecture Unknown, said: “The plans for 77 Long Street are contemporary and fresh, nodding respectfully to the buildings heritage while making it fit for purpose – an exciting building that will service the community for events and celebrations, for many years to come.

“From conception to plans, it has been a collaborative process with the client to ensure we can put forward a beautiful space Middleton town can be proud of. There has been a real focus in maintaining the green space the local community loves, whilst improving access and making the building a go-to destination for events.”

Architecture Unknown is a Manchester-based practice founded by Charlie Butterwick and Daniel Kelso.

77 Long Street falls under the Middleton Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal, a list of buildings of local importance.

Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council will make the ultimate decision on the plans.

Defibrillators to be fitted on 50 TransPennine Express trains

Helen Greaney
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Defibrillators to be fitted on 50 TransPennine Express trains

Life-saving defibrillators are being installed across a fleet of TransPennine Express (TPE) trains over the next two months.

The train operator has started work to install the life-saving units on all 51 of its 185 trains by the end of March.

The defibrillators will be fitted by technology company Siemens Mobility on behalf of TPE and can be used by both staff and passengers if someone goes into cardiac arrest.

They will be located in an emergency equipment cupboard in the middle of the train.

Bushra Khan, head of engineering at TransPennine Express, said: “Our defibrillators are a huge benefit to both our customers and the communities we serve.

“This rollout will ensure that people travelling on our services will feel safe and confident that defibrillators are available to help in the event of an emergency, potentially saving lives.”

Every defibrillator has step-by-step, spoken word instructions built-in to it which explain how to use it on someone in an emergency.

Computers inside the defibrillators work to analyse a person’s heart rhythms to find out if an electric shock is needed. Electrodes then automatically deliver the shock if required.

Sambit Banerjee, joint CEO of Siemens Mobility UK & Ireland, said: “The skilled team at our Ardwick Traincare Facility play an important part in Siemens Mobility’s mission to transform rail travel, so it’s great to see the collaborative work with TransPennine Express to install life-saving defibrillators on our Class 185 trains.”

The defibrillators have been purchased from the British Heart Foundation charity which is the  biggest independent funder of heart and circulatory research in the UK.

Defibrillators are already in place on TPE’s Nova 1 trains.

Police appeal following violent disorder at Parklife

Helen Greaney
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Police appeal following violent disorder at Parklife

Police are seeking the public’s help in an investigation of violent disorder which occurred at the Parklife music event in Heaton Park last year.

It is believed that a fight occurred on Sunday, June 9, near the Hangar Stage.

Footage of the incident later emerged online and while no serious injuries have been reported, police would like to identify those involved.

Anyone who may have been at the event or has crucial information, is asked to come forward.

Officers are keen to speak to the people pictured, as it’s believed that they can assist with the investigation.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: “Every year we work closely with event organisers and partners to keep those attending the event safe, and minimise disruption to local communities, and this year will be no different.

“The vast majority of those attending last year’s event had a safe and enjoyable experience, but given the violent nature of this isolated event, it’s important that we do everything possible to identify those involved, and deal with them as firmly as possible.”

If you have any information which could assist the enquiry, contact police on 101 quoting log 1159 of 09/06/2024. Alternatively, to report anonymously, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Principal contractor appointed to redevelop historic Manchester recording studio

Helen Greaney
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Principal contractor appointed to redevelop historic Manchester recording studio

A derelict site which was famously used as a rehearsing studio by Liam Gallagher, is set to be redeveloped.

Big Red Construction – which forms part of the BR2.0 Group – has been appointed as principal contractor at Brunswick Mill in Manchester – a scheme which will convert the building into 153 new apartments.

The site, which hosted top talent from the music world and even featured in a music video for Gallagher, is being brought back into use by the Arrowsmith Group, which has approval to create a range of 502-1006 sq ft stylish apartments at the historic mill.

Located a stone’s through from Manchester City Centre, Big Red will be restoring the seven-story Grade II listed premises – in line with Heritage England’s requirements – into one-to-three-bedroom apartments.

Phase one of the project will include the specialist removal of materials, loose fittings, large equipment, and the existing windows on the first three floors. The site will include car parking areas, cycle stores and communal landscaped courtyard areas.

Mike Lomas, founder of the BR2.0 Group, said: “Brunswick Mill holds such historical significance for Manchester, and our teams are excited to be taking on this unique residential build for Arrowsmith.

“As we continue to expand our projects across the north, with a particular hotspot for sites in and around Manchester, we’re looking forward to playing a part in bringing the mill back to life.”

Built in c1839-40, Brunswick Mill is also known as one of the first mills in Manchester to be converted to electric power.

The mill has been an important cultural asset for the city. Whilst acting as a backdrop for various films and tv shows, the Mill has more notably acted as a rehearsal and meeting space for Manchester’s musicians, notably Liam Gallagher, who recorded the music video to One of Us at the venue.

Training for Counsellors Introduces Level 6 Advanced Diploma in Clinical Supervision

News Desk
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Training for Counsellors Introduces Level 6 Advanced Diploma in Clinical Supervision

Blackburn-based Training for Counsellors, specialists in experiential learning, are now offering a new opportunity for counsellors and psychotherapists to enhance their expertise with the Level 6 Advanced Diploma in Clinical Supervision.

This highly respected programme provides a comprehensive framework for developing ethical and effective clinical supervision practices. It has been awarded Advanced Specialist Training Recognition by the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), underscoring its outstanding quality and relevance for professionals in the field.

Scheduled to commence on 10th May 2025, the course will take place at Haydock House in Blackburn and will be led by Samantha Crapnell and Claire Hasting—both experienced clinical supervisors. Their extensive expertise and lived experience bring a rich, practical dimension to the learning environment, ensuring participants benefit from a deeply engaging and relational teaching approach.

This programme is designed for professional counsellors and psychotherapists working across private, public, and voluntary sectors. It aims to refine supervision skills, explore unconscious processes, and nurture the essential qualities required to excel in clinical supervision. By combining theoretical knowledge with experiential learning, the course equips participants with the confidence and skills to support counsellors, psychotherapists, and other helping professionals in a variety of settings.

Participants will engage in monthly cohort-based sessions over 12 months, supplemented by two additional CPD days, and will gain practical experience through supervised practice hours. The course covers two key supervision models, core competencies, ethical frameworks, and unconscious processes within supervisory relationships.

Upon successful completion, graduates will be qualified to practise as Clinical Supervisors in both individual and group settings. The course is structured to recognise and cultivate the inherent qualities needed to develop professional skills, discipline, self-awareness, and a strong theoretical foundation. Participants will also explore two supervision models, understand key competencies, and examine their application in clinical settings. Additionally, the programme provides opportunities to analyse unconscious processes, engage with current research, and critically reflect on their own supervisory practice in a supportive and structured environment.

Many who have undertaken the course describe it as both professionally and personally transformative, valuing the relational and supportive learning experience provided by Training for Counsellors. Graduates are already delivering regular clinical supervision across Lancashire, Manchester, Cumbria, Merseyside, and the South East, supporting a wide range of professionals, including counsellors, psychotherapists, trainee therapists, health and wellbeing practitioners, teachers, head teachers, pastoral staff, and managers working in the helping professions.

For those wishing to deepen their knowledge and expertise, the Advanced Diploma in Clinical Supervision offers a unique opportunity to build confidence and refine essential skills in this critical area of practice.

For further details or to sign up, contact Samantha on 01254 476 704 or email [email protected].

ICC Champions Trophy – Pakistan v New Zealand: Preview, expected line-ups, how to watch on TV and prediction

Jon Fisher
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ICC Champions Trophy – Pakistan v New Zealand: Preview, expected line-ups, how to watch on TV and prediction

The State of Play

Pakistan open the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy tomorrow when they take on New Zealand in a momentous moment for cricket in the country.

It is the first ICC tournament staged in Pakistan since the terror attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in 2009 and there will be huge pressure on local authorities to provide a safe and welcoming environment for seven of the eight participating teams.

India will not be visiting its near neighbour with ongoing political tensions meaning all their games will be staged in Dubai, including their clash with Pakistan on February 23.

Before that, Pakistan have the chance to get the defence of the title they won in 2017 up and running and gain revenge on the Black Caps, who won the recent tri-series that also involved South Africa.

The hosts can still veer from the brilliant to the dreadful and captain Mohammad Rizwan knows consistency is the key in tournament cricket.

He said: “There are ups and downs and certain deficiencies in our side. We are aware we need to bring about certain improvements in our professionalism and consistency.

“We tried to learn from the tri-series, which is why we batted first in the final to work out where our weaknesses lie. We used that series as a training experience. We hope we’ve learned enough to cover for those weaknesses tomorrow.

“Every player is desperate for this title. And we’re doing everything we can to work out how to win. I don’t think any country works as hard as we do.”

New Zealand are canny operators and come into the game as favourites, despite some key absentees.

Spinning all-rounders Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell could be important if the wickets throw up the usual recipe of spin and bounce.

Team News

Pakistan’s main injury concern is Haris Rauf but the paceman is expected to be fit after bowling several overs in the nets in the build up. Rauf sustained a chest injury against New Zealand on February 8 but is set to return to the starting XI.

New Zealand come into the tournament without injured fast bowlers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears but opener Rachin Ravindra is likely to be fit after not playing since being hit on the head while fielding in the first game of the tri-series. 

Expected line-ups

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

New Zealand: Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke

How to Watch

The ICC Champions Trophy can be watched in the UK on Sky Sports. Wednesday’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.

Prediction

New Zealand were much too strong for Pakistan in the recent tri-series and it’s hard to see anything changing here.

Add in the fact Pakistan will be under enormous pressure to succeed on home soil under the gaze of an expectant fan base, and it could be a tricky opening day for Rizwan and Co.

The Black Caps are tricky customers and could go deep if their spinners find their range.

We’re going for New Zealand to rain on the Pakistan parade.

Vehicle Safety in Focus as Demand for Auto Parts Surges

News Desk
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Vehicle Safety in Focus as Demand for Auto Parts Surges

With the global automotive parts industry projected to reach $532 billion by 2029, growing vehicle demand and technological advancements are driving rapid change. While innovations such as 3D printing and automation enable faster production, industry experts warn that the authenticity of vehicle components must remain a priority to safeguard both performance and road safety.

Cox Motor Parts, a leading UK distributor of genuine Honda, SEAT, and Volkswagen components, has built a reputation for supplying high-quality OEM parts. Their advanced VIN-based identification system and multi-stage authenticity verification process ensure that drivers receive manufacturer-approved parts that support both performance and safety.

“Honda’s quality assessments show that 80% of competitor brake discs fail to meet Honda’s engineering standards,” states Dan O’Hare, Manager at Cox Motor Parts. “Genuine Honda components are precisely engineered for each model. Using non-genuine alternatives can compromise ABS performance and extend braking distances – a risk no driver should take.”

Although non-OEM parts may initially seem more affordable, they frequently lead to higher long-term costs due to performance issues and increased maintenance needs. These aftermarket alternatives often wear out faster, requiring more frequent replacements, which not only impacts vehicle reliability but also results in more time spent in the garage—causing inconvenience and potential transportation difficulties for drivers.

“We consistently see how genuine parts maximise vehicle performance and safety,” explains O’Hare. “Beyond the immediate performance benefits, customers see longer component life and maintained vehicle warranty coverage, which is important in keeping the total ownership cost down.”

Today’s advanced vehicle systems depend on precisely calibrated components for everything from engine management to emissions control. Non-genuine parts can disrupt efficiency and trigger system warnings, particularly in cars equipped with complex safety and sensor technology. These integrated systems require seamless component communication to function correctly and ensure passenger safety.

When considering the overall cost of vehicle ownership—including diagnostic checks, servicing, and potential mechanical issues—the initial savings from non-genuine components often translate into greater expenses over time. This becomes particularly relevant when factoring in manufacturer warranties, the necessity for specialised diagnostic tools, and the increasing complexity of vehicle electronics requiring precise calibration.

Cox Motor Parts offers a streamlined way for customers to find the right parts through its intuitive online platform. By entering a vehicle registration or VIN number, drivers can easily access genuine Honda, SEAT, and Volkswagen components at competitive prices. The company also provides flexible delivery services, including next-day shipping, ensuring a hassle-free experience for those who prioritise both quality and affordability.

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