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Tuesday, January 20, 2026
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Detective jailed for sexual assault

Helen Greaney
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Detective jailed for sexual assault

A detective who sexually assaulted a police officer and staff member has been brought to justice.

Detective sergeant Richard Mills, (42) from Rochdale, was sentenced to 18 months in prison at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday, and has been placed on the sex offender registry for ten years.

This comes after he was found guilty in December, of two counts of sexual assault.

The convictions involved two incidents of forceful sexual touching in 2016 and 2020 while Mills (pictured) was based in GMP’s Oldham district and in the Crime Coordination Unit at Nexus House.

Gross misconduct proceedings are due to take place.

Detective superintendent David Jones said: “DS Mill gravely abused his position of trust and authority within the force when he assaulted his female colleagues for his own perverse gratification.

“It was through their brave disclosure that we built a strong prosecution case.

“Cowardly, Mills denied any wrongdoing. Notwithstanding he has been held accountable for the harm he caused after the victims endured a two-week trial and testified in front of a jury.

“Their tenacity and strength shown throughout our investigation and legal proceedings is commendable and should be recognised as the driving force behind reaching today’s outcome, whereby Mills is starting a jail term as a convicted sex offender.

“He is unfit to serve the public and has been barred from policing. We will now be writing to the deputy mayor of Greater Manchester to appeal for Mills to lose his right to a police pension.

“We take all allegations of sexual violence extremely seriously and we investigate them with the utmost sensitivity. We encourage anyone who has been a victim of this crime to come forward.”

Geonet Mobile Introduces VOIP-to-eSIM Service, Transforming Mobile Connectivity

News Desk
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Geonet Mobile Introduces VOIP-to-eSIM Service, Transforming Mobile Connectivity

Geonet Mobile is delighted to unveil its innovative VOIP-to-eSIM service, providing a seamless way for users to stay connected while reducing mobile expenses. This service enables customers to make and receive calls and access mobile data without requiring a physical SIM card, making it particularly beneficial for frequent travellers or those seeking a more streamlined mobile experience.

Understanding VOIP

VOIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a technology that facilitates voice calls over the internet rather than through traditional phone networks. This allows users to place calls from any location with an internet connection, often at a lower cost compared to standard mobile tariffs.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card integrated into a device, removing the necessity for a physical SIM. This technology allows users to activate their mobile plans directly on their phones, making it easier to switch networks and manage multiple numbers without physically swapping SIM cards.

How Geonet Mobile’s VOIP-to-eSIM Service Functions

By merging VOIP technology with eSIM capabilities, Geonet Mobile’s latest service offers a smooth and cost-effective mobile solution. Whether at home or travelling abroad, customers can activate their plans effortlessly and begin using voice and data services straight away.

Gone are the days of handling physical SIM cards or incurring costly roaming charges. With eSIM technology, users can instantly switch to a local plan while overseas, while VOIP ensures high-quality calls and swift data speeds. Designed to be simple, budget-friendly, and flexible, this service is ideal for those seeking a more convenient mobile solution.

Flexible Plans and Easy Activation

Geonet Mobile provides competitively priced and adaptable plans to cater to a variety of user needs. Whether you require a package for calls, texts, or data usage, there is a suitable option available. Activating the service is straightforward—simply sign up online, select your preferred plan, and begin using your eSIM immediately. There is no need to visit a shop or wait for a physical SIM card to be delivered.

Learn More
To find out more about how the VOIP-to-eSIM service works, visit our How It Works page. For details on our plans and pricing, visit our Rates page. To get started, go to www.geonetmobile.com.

Bolton man jailed for causing death by dangerous driving

Helen Greaney
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Bolton man jailed for causing death by dangerous driving

A Bolton man has been jailed for 14 years after being found guilty of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving.

Mohammed Irshad (35) of Arnold Street, was also issued with a further disqualification from driving to commence when released from prison.

At around 7pm on June 22, 2024, a Mercedes that Irshad was travelling in along St Helen’s Road in Bolton, collided with a Nissan which was travelling in the opposing carriageway.

After the collision, it was confirmed that the passenger of the Nissan, Karen Kimblin (pictured), had died from her injuries.

Detective constable Aarron Cramer, from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Irshad’s actions resulted in an innocent member of the public losing their life in this tragic collision. Our thoughts remain with Karen’s loved ones.

“It is believed that Irshad was using nitrous oxide when he was driving which is totally unacceptable, drink and drug driving are part of our ‘Fatal Four’ main causes of death, and this is another tragic but avoidable outcome for all involved.

“I hope this sentence also serves as a warning and a reminder of the importance of adhering to the rules of the road.”

Karen’s husband, Ken, said: “To this day, I still can’t believe that I’ll never see Karen again.  We were married for 43 years and had so many plans for our future together, but all that has been cruelly ripped away.

“Karen was the greatest thing that happened to me, and she was very highly thought of by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her.  She was the most loving and caring woman, and a beloved mum and grandma.”

Speaking on behalf of Karen’s family, their lawyer said: “The past seven-and-a-half months have been incredibly tough for Ken and the rest of his family as they try to come to terms with losing Karen so suddenly and tragically.

“Not only has Ken understandably struggled with the death of his beloved wife, but he has also had to come to terms with his own injuries which continue to affect him physically and psychologically.

“Nothing will ever make up for what’s happened, but we hope that this incident acts as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences families can be left to face and for the need to stay safe on the roads.”

Manchester Credit Union boosts host of charities

Helen Greaney
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Manchester Credit Union boosts host of charities
Four local charities are receiving a vital funding boost at the start of 2025, thanks to money raised through Manchester Credit Union’s Busy Bee Lottery.
The latest local causes set to benefit from generosity worth £6,837, include a mental health support organisation, an NHS charity, a foodbank and poverty prevention charity, and a sports and social group for young disabled people.
The lottery is exclusive to credit union members and combines the opportunity to support local good causes with a chance of winning a monthly cash prize.
Bury-based Jigsaw is using the money to promote fun, freedom and independence for young disabled people aged 13 plus, in the local community.
Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity, is investing its funding award in transforming the sensory room and will be able to buy comforting and inspirational books for children in care.
In the High Peak, lottery funding has been awarded to Zink – a foodbank provider that offers employment support, advice and advocacy, along with a community eco café.  Cash will help the café provide free meals for homeless people and families in crisis and subsidise meals for families on a low income.
The Anthony Seddon Fund, is a mental health peer support charity based in Ashton-under-Lyne.  It will use the Busy Bee Lottery award to keep peer support drop-in sessions running – a vital lifeline for individuals facing mental health challenges and social isolation.
Mandy Wilcock, chief executive of Manchester Credit Union said: “Once again, the generosity of our members has helped us to support charities making a meaningful impact in the Greater Manchester region. These organisations share our values and we are keen to bolster them as much as possible, as we continue to pursue our mission of helping people to improve their financial futures. The more tickets we sell for the Busy Bee Lottery, the more we’re able to donate to charities, so we’re delighted that so many of our members are taking part.”
Operating from three physical branches, Manchester Credit Union serves members in the City of Manchester, Bury, Rochdale, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, and the High Peak.
The initiative has raised more than £27,000 of charitable funds since its inception in January 2023.

£250 million data centre approved for Salford

Helen Greaney
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£250 million data centre approved for Salford

Salford City Council have approved plans for a £250 million data centre at Peel Waters’ Halo West site.

Peel Waters had previously secured planning permission to redevelop the six-acre industrial site in July 2024, since the planning was granted, they have worked jointly with Digital Land & Development on the planning for the much-needed data centre.

The approved site (CGI pictured) is located between Eccles and Irlam, off Liverpool Road, just north of Salford Community Stadium.

Developers say the site will directly address the digital infrastructure needs of the UK, making the development ‘critical’ for the country’s future.

For the UK to maintain its position as a global leader in technology, the country is now in need of significant levels of new data centre capacity. The buildings have been designated as ‘critical national infrastructure’ by the UK government – the same status given to energy and water systems.

Data increasingly underpins every element of modern life as the world undergoes a digital transformation. Data centres work as a physical storage space for online information, used for websites, applications, and digital services. The data centre at Halo West aims to generate the power to support this as well as being a huge boost for technology in the city.

The approved data centre, which is fit for a low carbon future with the use of sustainable materials, feature 12,000 sq ft of offices, a 56,000 sq ft data hall, and 63,500 sq ft of plant.

Peter Linstead, development director for land and logistics at Peel Waters said: “We’re really pleased that Salford City Council have recognised the need for this development at our Halo West site.

“Receiving unanimous approval from the planning committee demonstrates clear alignment between the public and private sector to bring forward innovative growth opportunities and deliver much-needed technological infrastructure within the region. We look forward to now the delivery of this development and the significant investment it will bring with it to the area.”

Johnny Conway, director at digital land & development added: “Digital Land & Development are excited to be bringing the site forward for a next generation data centre as one of a number of projects across the UK, which given the increasing pace of data processing is driving the necessary requirement for the data centre facilities that house and support this need. We would like to thank Salford City Council for approving this development which will be crucial for the UK to maintain its position as a global leader in technology.”

EdgeSynergies to Unveil Cutting-Edge Edge Data Centre Innovation at DSbD Showcase

News Desk
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EdgeSynergies to Unveil Cutting-Edge Edge Data Centre Innovation at DSbD Showcase

EdgeSynergies will present its pioneering UKRI-funded project at the upcoming UK Digital Security by Design (DSbD) Showcase, highlighting its advancements in secure and sustainable edge data centre technology. This milestone event will showcase EdgeSynergies’ next-generation edge computing solutions, which deliver low-latency performance while repurposing waste heat to support decarbonisation—a crucial step in the UK’s drive towards digital innovation, economic resilience, and Net Zero targets.

During the showcase, EdgeSynergies will introduce MoatE (Morello at the Edge), a breakthrough edge computing solution that integrates cutting-edge digital security with energy-efficient infrastructure. MoatE enables data centres to reuse waste heat, contributing to urban heat networks and supporting the UK’s commitment to green, high-performance digital infrastructure. This innovation aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), reinforcing the UK’s leadership in secure and climate-conscious technology.

With the increasing adoption of AI, IoT, AV, VR, and edge computing, the demand for secure, high-efficiency, low-latency edge data centres is rapidly growing. MoatE, developed using the UKRI-backed Morello architecture, incorporates next-generation security by design, providing robust cyber protection while enhancing computing efficiency.

Joydeep Mondal, Founder & CEO of EdgeSynergies, stated:
“The UK stands at a pivotal moment in defining the future of secure, sustainable computing. EdgeSynergies’ innovation represents a critical leap forward—combining next-gen cybersecurity with circular economy principles to transform edge data centres into green energy hubs. We are excited to present MoatE at the DSbD Showcase and invite governments, investors, and industry leaders to join us in scaling this ground-breaking solution.”

Margaret Blight, Co-Founder & CCO of EdgeSynergies, added:
“The meteoric rise of AI inference is fueling a surge in demand for Edge compute. Without green solutions, that revolution will have an unprecedented impact on energy, water, and carbon emissions. MoatE enables us to decarbonise compute by reusing waste heat for good in the community. Our work under the UKRI Digital Security by Design programme underscores the importance of embedding security at the silicon level while addressing the environmental impact of compute infrastructure. We call on policymakers, industry leaders, and tech innovators to support this mission and drive adoption of climate-positive digital infrastructure.”

EdgeSynergies invites government representatives, investors, compute customers, and industry leaders to join them at the UK Digital Security by Design Showcase on 11th February 2025. This event provides a unique opportunity to support the UK’s vision for secure, energy-efficient, and high-capacity edge computing, a key milestone on the path to Net Zero and digital sovereignty.

Trader fined for illegal sale of knives to child

Helen Greaney
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0
Trader fined for illegal sale of knives to child
A rogue trader has been brought before the courts for selling a pack of knives to a 13-year-old child.

Younis Cash and Carry, trading as Sha Superstore Limited, has been fined nearly £1,000 for failing to adhere to laws governing the sale of age restricted items, following a test purchase carried out in April 2024.

Manchester City Council was made aware of this premises following a complaint in April 2023, that a knife had been sold to an underage person.

Written guidance was sent to the store to remind employees what the law was around the sale of knives.

On April 8, 2024 a test purchase was carried out where a 13-year-old volunteer went into the shop and bought a pack of knives for £1.49.

They were not challenged over their age or asked to provide any form of ID during the sale.

Officers intervened, questioning the sales assistant who demonstrated a total lack of knowledge around age-restricted products.

The company’s director was interviewed in May 2024, and said that verbal training was given to staff around the sale of age-restricted products, but was not documented. It was also confirmed that no refresher training took place around these laws.

He also stated that since the council’s visit, the shop no longer sells knives.

On February 6, 2025, the case was heard before Manchester Magistrates’ Court. During the hearing the director pleaded guilty on behalf of Sha Superstore Limited.

The company was ordered to pay an £800 fine, a victim surcharge of £320 and costs of £607.80.

A spokesperson for Manchester City Council said: “Laws around the sale of knives are extremely strict for a reason. There is absolutely no excuse to sell a set of knives to a child who is quite clearly underage.

“Operations like this show that we as a council are committed to keeping our communities and children safe and we hope this sends a clear message that the sale of restricted products to children will be met with legal action.”
 

 

 

 

Police appeal after victim has Rolex watch stolen

Helen Greaney
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Police appeal after victim has Rolex watch stolen
A victim had a Rolex watch stolen after two men took advantage of his drunken state in Manchester city centre.

In the early hours of Monday, December 30, 2024, two men encouraged their victim to go onto Marron Place where they started talking to him.

They grabbed the victim and started to dance around him. One offender started to undo the victim’s watch whilst the second man tripped the victim to the ground where a struggle ensued.

The offenders stole a Rolex watch valued at £6,000 from the victim’s wrist and ran off in opposite directions.

Police want to speak with the man pictured, to assist them with their investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact officers on 0161 856 3363 quoting the crime number CRI/06A2/0037273/24. Alternatively, details can be shared on www.gmp.police.uk or via Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Former Whitefield library to be converted into health centre

Helen Greaney
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Former Whitefield library to be converted into health centre

The former Whitefield Library is set to be purchased by NHS Property Services if councillors approve the site disposal plans this month.

If approved, this acquisition will enable NHS partners to work to secure a redevelopment of the ex-library site for health services.

Current NHS plans propose the relocation of services from the existing Uplands site nearby, which will be closed, and the site sold.

Whitefield Library closed in 2017 and was subsequently used as a Covid vaccination centre from October 2020 to September 2022.

The current Uplands Medical Centre is in poor condition. Due to increased costs and the complexity of developing the existing site, it has recently been agreed that it would be more beneficial to use the former library as a permanent relocation option.

Next to the former library is the former Pinfold Day Care Centre, which has been empty since October 2020 and will also be sold.

Once the Uplands Medical Centre has relocated to the former library, the current Uplands site will be sold on the open market.

The plans are recommended for approval when the council’s cabinet meets on February 12.

There will be no immediate changes to patient appointments, how they are booked, or the contact details for the practice.

Plans are being finalised in collaboration with the GP practice to ensure the new facility meets the community’s needs. The aim is to begin construction in summer 2025, with the new building anticipated to be ready by summer 2026.

Eamonn O’Brien, leader of the council, said: “This is really a win-win situation for Whitefield residents. Buildings which have lain empty for years will be brought back into use, and medical services will remain in the town centre in modern, fit-for-purpose premises.”

Will Blandamer, deputy place-based lead, NHS Greater Manchester (Bury), said: “By relocating the Uplands Medical practice to the former library site, we’re creating a modern, accessible space that will better serve patients and staff.

“We want to reassure patients that there will be no immediate changes to services, appointments or how you get in touch with the practice.

“We are committed to keeping patients informed every step of the way and will make sure they receive updates as we move forward with the transition.”

Rochdale Feel Good Festival cancelled for 2025

Helen Greaney
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Rochdale Feel Good Festival cancelled for 2025

The popular Feel Good Festival will not go ahead this year, cash-strapped Rochdale Council has announced.

The weekend of entertainment, food and culture which was first staged in 2008 usually takes place in Rochdale town centre, attracting thousands of visitors.

But the event, which saw Ocean Colour Scene, Lottery Winners and Heather Small take to the main stage last year, is not going for good, as it is set to become bi-annual and will take place in 2026.

Now the festival will be alternated with the Feel Good Family Picnic – the free event for families including performances, music, sports, dance, theatre and shows for children of all ages in local parks – which returns this July and August.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “Our new events strategy will see a broader range of events delivered with new additions as well as our established ones.

“We also want to deliver the best experience within our budget and resources, so it isn’t feasible to stage the Feel Good Festival and the Feel Good Family Picnic back to back every summer, but they are both fantastic and very popular events that we very much want to retain, so moving our biggest two events to bi-annual means we can continue to deliver them as well as enhancing our events programme.

“This year, on top of the Feel Good Family Picnic there will be an exciting new urban arts festival, the Street Eat food and drink festival, Ignite Fire Festival and much more to be announced. We have commenced the planning for Rochdale Feel Good Festival in 2026, with tickets going on sale later this year.”

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