Business Manchester

Profit warnings issued by North West listed companies edge up in 2024

Finance

Helen Greaney

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04/02/2025

Profit warnings issued by North West listed companies edge up in 2024

UK-listed companies in the North West issued more profit warnings last year than in 2023 due to a challenging second half of the year, says EY-Parthenon.

According to its latest Profit Warnings report, listed companies in the region issued a total of 29 profit warnings during 2024, up marginally from the 27 warnings issued in 2023.

The increase came despite a resilient first half of 2024, which saw warnings from North West companies fall by 21% year-on-year compared to the opening six months of 2023.

North West companies operating in the Industrials FTSE super-sector issued the most warnings last year with a total of seven, similar to the national trend. Meanwhile, companies in the region operating in the consumer discretionary and technology FTSE super-sectors issued a total of five warnings each.

Nationally, one in five (19%) UK-listed companies issued a profit warning in 2024, the third highest annual proportion in 25 years, behind only the 2020 pandemic (35%) and the impact of the dot-com bubble burst and 9/11 in 2001 (23%).

EY-Parthenon’s report found that UK-listed companies issued 274 profit warnings last year – including 71 in Q4 – down slightly from the 294 issued during 2023.

The leading factor behind profit warnings in 2024 was contract and order cancellations or delays, cited in 34% of warnings, including 39% in Q4 – the highest quarterly percentage for this reason in more than 15 years. Increasing costs triggered nearly one in five (18%) warnings in the last 12 months.

Sam Woodward (pictured), EY-Parthenon UK&I turnaround and restructuring partner in the North West, said: “After an encouraging and resilient start to 2024, the second half of the year was a more difficult period for companies in the North West, with economic challenges including sticky inflation, high interest rates and geopolitical tensions beginning to have a more significant impact on the region’s business community.

“Companies operating in the Industrials FTSE super-sector issued the region’s highest number of warnings last year, so businesses operating in this area in particular should continue to prioritise scenario planning and stress-testing. However, given the UK economy’s performance is expected to be slightly better in 2025 than last year, forward looking prospects appear to be improving. The North West is also home to a wide range of resilient, innovative businesses, so there are undoubtedly reasons for optimism despite last year’s challenges.”

Nationally, the FTSE sectors with the highest number of profit warnings in 2024 were Industrial Support Services – which encompasses business service providers, industrial suppliers and recruitment companies – with 37 warnings issued, and Software and Computer Services, with 22.

CLOSWAP: The ‘Tinder for Clothes’ App Making Fashion More Sustainable

News Desk

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04/02/2025

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CLOSWAP: The ‘Tinder for Clothes’ App Making Fashion More Sustainable

A new wave of sustainable fashion is sweeping across the UK, thanks to CLOSWAP, an app that makes trading clothes as easy as swiping. Often described as the “Tinder for Clothes,” this innovative platform is transforming wardrobes without the need to spend money.

Imagine a world where instead of purchasing a brand-new outfit, you simply trade for one. That was the vision behind CLOSWAP, created by three university students struggling to afford constant wardrobe upgrades.

What began as an experimental clothes-swapping event on campus, attended by hundreds of students, has grown into a national movement. CLOSWAP is now the UK’s leading peer-to-peer clothing swap platform, making fashion more circular and accessible.

After witnessing the popularity of their first event, the three founders realised their idea had huge potential. Unable to keep up with the costs of new fashion themselves, they decided to launch CLOSWAP as a full-scale business. Today, the app has more than 20,000 users, with plans to expand even further.

“At CLOSWAP, we want the pace, price, and practicality of fast fashion to be matched by swapping,” says co-founder Maria Remy.

“That’s why we host events and built the app. It’s fast, engaging, and free, with the added bonus of building an IRL community. For students like us, it’s not just about fashion—it’s about giving everyone the opportunity to constantly upgrade their wardrobe without spending money, EVER. You already have the currency; it’s in your closet!”

The app is rapidly growing, with in-person swap events set to take place in Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh, Liverpool, and Birmingham. These events, complete with live music and interactive activities, bring the CLOSWAP experience into the real world. Meanwhile, the app’s Karma Points system keeps the swapping process engaging and rewarding.

With the average Brit wearing an item just seven times before discarding it, CLOSWAP aims to rewrite fashion habits by giving clothes a second and third life. By connecting wardrobes across the UK, the platform is proving that sustainable fashion can also be fun and accessible.

Having won the 2024 Mayor of London’s Entrepreneurship Award for Creative Industries, CLOSWAP is now firmly established as a leader in circular fashion. The team, now part of several startup accelerators and recognised as a Resolution Fellow, is preparing for further expansion while raising their seed round under the SEIS advanced assurance scheme.

The app is available to download on the App Store and Google Play. To find out more, click here.

New chief executive Stannard “ambitious” for Manchester

News

Helen Greaney

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03/02/2025

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New chief executive Stannard “ambitious” for Manchester

Manchester City Council’s new chief executive Tom Stannard (pictured) starts his role today.

Tom becomes only the third chief executive in more than 25 years in the city.

He brings with him considerable experience, having served as chief executive in neighbouring Salford City Council for the past four years – overseeing achievements including the transformative regeneration of Salford, an ambitious council housebuilding programme and high-performing children’s services – and held a number of senior posts in a long local government career.

Tom is nationally recognised as a leading voice in local government, public service reform and delivering inclusive growth and currently holds the lead chief executive brief for Greater Manchester in the economy, business and international portfolio.

He joins the council at a pivotal moment as it gears up to bring forward the 2025-2035 Our Manchester Strategy which will guide the city in the decade ahead.

The new vision will aim to build on the achievements of the 2015-2025 plan, delivering economic growth including addressing inequalities through the Making Manchester Fairer action plan and pursuing ambitious housebuilding and zero carbon programmes.

As well as driving forward this long-term strategy, Tom will ensure the council stays focused on providing high quality day-to-day services and supporting clean, green and vibrant neighbourhoods across the city.

Tom will also be the place-based lead for Manchester and its locality health arrangements within the Greater Manchester Integrated Care system.

Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Tom brings experience, energy and ideas to this important role for the city and will oversee the delivery of our vision for Manchester’s next decade.

“The city is on a positive trajectory, making an impact on the world stage while continuing to improve its neighbourhoods and create opportunities for its residents, and I’m looking forward to working with Tom in the years ahead to take these achievements to the next level.”

Tom Stannard said: “I’m highly ambitious for Manchester and the people who call it home.

“I’ve lived and worked in Greater Manchester for much of my career so I know the area well and have a deep personal commitment to it. But at the same time, there’s always more insight to gain and I’m looking forward to getting to know more of those who make up Team Manchester – from the elected members and council staff to partner organisations, businesses and residents who all have a part to play in the city’s success.

“This is an incredible job in a remarkable city and I’m delighted to be here to get working on behalf of Manchester and its people.”

Major restoration of historic Broadfield Park Slopes moves forward

Construction

Helen Greaney

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03/02/2025

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Major restoration of historic Broadfield Park Slopes moves forward

The transformation of the Grade II listed Broadfield Park Slopes in Rochdale town centre has taken a significant step forward with the appointment of a local contractor to lead the redevelopment.

The Casey Group has been selected to carry out the restoration of the historic slopes (pictured artist’s impression) behind Rochdale Town Hall, situated within the town’s conservation area.

The site, rich in history, features a natural spring that once supplied the Packer Spout fountain, a key element in Rochdale’s industrial development.

As part of the £3 million project, the fountain and its water supply will be reinstated, along with a natural pond further up the slopes. Nearby obelisks will also be repaired, and historic-style lighting will be installed to replicate the original fixtures that once adorned the site.

Pathways across the area will be restored, with the addition of a new accessible route, making Packer Spout fully accessible for the first time. Improved lighting will enhance the space, while a newly created lawn and terraced seating at the base of the slopes will form a natural amphitheatre for events and performances.

Funded by Rochdale Borough Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the scheme also includes a full activity programme to encourage community engagement across all age groups.

An archaeological dig, which unearthed the remains of a wall and drain, thought to date from the 17^th or 18^th century, has already taken place, and monthly ‘ask an archaeologist’ sessions take place at Rochdale Town Hall. Projects are also ongoing with local schoolchildren and the Young Archaeologist’s Club, a national club for 8-16 year-olds who want to get hands on with archaeology.

The Casey Group, based in Regent Street, Rochdale has delivered a number of projects across the North West, including Rochdale’s own Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum in Maclure Road.

Casey will be employing an apprentice as part of the project and creating a number of work placements, which will focus on supporting the long term unemployed. Site tours will also be offered, so residents can get a flavour of what’s happening on site.

Councillor Danny Meredith said: “Nestled between our recently restored Grade I Listed town hall and the Medieval St Chad’s Church, this area is steeped in history. This fantastic, National Lottery supported project, will help us uncover even more of our borough’s rich heritage and allow our residents to share in the proud stories of Rochdale’s past. Following the extensive restoration of Rochdale Town Hall, as well the work to transform Town Hall Square and the area around the cenotaph, this is the last piece of the jigsaw.

“I’m delighted to see a local company like Casey being awarded this contract and can’t wait for the transformation to begin. And even better, there will be a number of opportunities for residents to get involved and get hands on with this fantastic project.”

Graham Lang, operations director at the Casey Group, said: “There’s nothing better than securing a project in your own back yard. Casey love working with our communities, bringing valued spaces and places back into full public use. Green spaces such as Broadfield Slopes undergo so many evolutionary changes and we are privileged to be part of this next chapter.

“Casey’s HQ is under three miles away, so this scheme is particularly significant for our 250 strong team. We look forward to working with the council and their stakeholders, to deliver a high quality, community asset for the people of Rochdale.”

Helen Featherstone, director of England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said it was fantastic news that the restoration of Broadfield Park Slopes had reached a key milestone.

“We are excited to see the continuation of the heritage-led regeneration of Rochdale, following the revamp of the magnificent town hall, which opened last year. Thanks to National Lottery players, more of the town’s medieval story will be uncovered and this project will ensure that the slopes can be enjoyed by local people and visitors from further afield for years to come,” she said.

Work on site is set to begin in March and is scheduled to complete in Autumn this year. The project is being delivered by RDA on behalf of Rochdale Borough Council.

Police uncover large cannabis farm in Bury

News

Helen Greaney

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03/02/2025

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Police uncover large cannabis farm in Bury

Police uncovered a large cannabis farm as they carried out a warrant in Bury.

At around 8am on Friday, officers attended a mill on Milltown Street in Radcliffe.

They had reason to search the mill following the chase of a suspect over the land previously.

The search unveiled 658 plants and six vacuum packed bags ready for distribution into communities.

Inspector Gareth Edwards said: “On this occasion the find boiled down to some luck, but working collaboratively with key resources we have at our disposal alongside Bury Council, Environmental Health, and the fire service through joint agency work we are looking to prevent further offences at the location.

“We are continuing to conduct enquiries to find those responsible with a view to closing the mill until it is deemed safe, as the wider impact this had on the environment in terms of waste is another serious concern.

“Our work to tackle drugs supply is continuing at pace and we only know too well the devastating consequences drugs has within communities of Bury and across Greater Manchester as well as further afield.

“This was a well-planned setup with intelligence showcasing that drugs supply can lead to other serious criminal offences, including modern slavery.”

Anyone with further information about this discovery, is asked to call 101 in confidence quoting incident 462 of 31/01/2025. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Manchester welcomes Year of the Snake this weekend

Events

Helen Greaney

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31/01/2025

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Manchester welcomes Year of the Snake this weekend

Manchester is expected to be even busier than usual this weekend (February 1 and 2) as the city welcomes the Year of the Snake.

A weekend full of activities, including the annual Chinese New Year Dragon Parade on Sunday, is taking place.

Already a sea of colour with trees decked out in traditional red lanterns in celebration of the Lunar New Year, visitors heading into the city centre this weekend are promised a dazzling display of traditional and contemporary Chinese culture.

The weekend’s activities – organised by the Federation of Chinese Associations of Manchester (FCAM) – will see Manchester’s Chinatown transformed into a festive wonderland with lanterns, music, food, and family-friendly activities.

Anyone planning to come into Manchester and enjoy the activities is advised to use public transport and to travel as light as possible with no big bags, and to consider using back packs or other carriers for babies and toddlers as an alternative to pushchairs.

Visitors should note that the busiest part of the weekend is likely to be from 12 noon to 2pm on Sunday when the Dragon Parade takes place.

People coming in to see the parade should be aware that access into Chinatown may be restricted during this time in order to manage the number of people in the area, and they may be advised to enjoy the parade from elsewhere along the route instead.

Chinatown visitors throughout the weekend will be able to enjoy a host of activities across the two days from 12 noon – 8 pm, including sampling a variety of delicious Chinese delicacies and authentic street food from local vendors.

Mesmerising traditional dance and music performances will also be taking place on both Saturday and Sunday on the main stage in the Chinatown carpark.

Other highlights include performances from the Guizhou Acrobatic Troupe at 2.45 pm and 3.45 pm on Sunday, and a DJ playing Cantonese and Mandarin pop songs from 8 pm – 10 pm on Saturday.

FCAM’s famous Night Dragon will also be making appearances in the Chinatown carpark on Saturday at 6.30 pm and 7.30 pm, whilst Sunday will see the spectacular annual Dragon Parade take place, featuring a stunning traditional dragon, acrobatic performances, dancers and drummers.

Starting from the junction of Oxford Street and George Street at 12 noon on Sunday, the Dragon Parade will make its way along Portland Street, into Chinatown, with a final performance on Princess Street.

This year’s festivities will culminate on Sunday evening with the record-breaking Illuminated Dragon which will take to the streets of Chinatown from 6.30 pm, featuring members of the public recruited earlier in the day by organisers to help take part in dancing the dragon.

Away from Chinatown, activities will also be taking place at Central Library throughout the weekend, with an afternoon of arts and crafts on Saturday from 1 – 4 pm and a Hanfu Show featuring traditional Chinese clothing.

On Sunday, the Library will be throwing open its doors for the day to help even more families celebrate the Year of the Snake, with a fun-filled programme of dance and music performances, arts and crafts, face-painting, and much more.

The day will begin with an unmissable Lion Dance outside the Library at 11 am before the Library opens its doors at 11.30 am for a day of activities which finish at 4 pm.

A number of road closures will be in place over the weekend to allow the activities to take place.

Road closures

Chinatown

From 5am Saturday 1 February to 11.59pm Sunday, February 2:

Nicholas Street (George Street to Faulkner Street)
St James Street (Nicolas Street to Princess Street)

From 5am to 11.59pm Sunday, February 2:

Faulkner Street (Princess Street to New York Street)
Reyner Street (Princess Street to Charlotte Street)
St James Street (Princess Street to Charlotte Street)
Charlotte Street (Portland Street to Mosley Street)
George Street (Princess Street to New York Street)
Chain Street (George Street to Faulkner Street)
Back George Street (Dickenson Street to Charlotte Street)
Nicholas Street (Portland Street to Mosley Street)
Pine Street (Chain Street to New York Street)

Parade route

From 10am to 3pm Sunday, February 2:

Peter Street (Mount Street to Lower Mosley Street) soft closure at the junction of Peter Street / Deansgate. Access for residents and businesses only.
Oxford Street (Peter Street to Whitworth Street West)
Portland Street (Chepstow Street to Chorlton Street)
Princess Street (Major Street to Cooper Street)
George Street (Oxford Street to Princess Street)
St James Street (Oxford Street to Princess Street)
Back George Street (Dickinson Street to Princess Street)
Faulkner Street (Princess Street to Novotel Hotel Entrance/ End of Faulkner Street)
Dickinson Street (Back George Street to Portland Street and Portland Street to Linley House/end of Dickinson Street)
Bale Street (Hall Street to Lower Mosley Street)
Hall Street (Bale Street to Oxford Street)
Soft Closure inbound at Whitworth Street/Princess Street, Whitworth Street/ Sackville Street, and Whitworth Street/Chorlton Street junctions. No through traffic. Access to residents, businesses, and buses only.

Road works are also taking place in the Chester Road roundabout area. Road travel into the city centre will be very busy. Road closure information is also available on the council’s website: manchester.gov.uk/roadclosures

Big Motoring World warranty: The smart choice for worry-free driving

Automotive

Helen Greaney

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31/01/2025

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Big Motoring World warranty: The smart choice for worry-free driving

Buying a used car can be a daunting experience, but a solid warranty can make all the difference.

In the UK, Big Motoring World is a trusted name for providing quality vehicles backed by reliable warranties. With dealerships serving Kent, London, South-East England, and Greater London, Big Motoring World warranties offer the protection you need for peace of mind on every journey.

Here’s why so many drivers are choosing Big Motoring World and why their warranties stand out: the dealership ensures customers are well-informed about their purchase and warranty options by thoroughly reviewing all the details.

Benefits of Big Motoring World Warranty

Big Motoring World understands the importance of having a reliable warranty to protect your investment. Its warranty options provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case anything goes wrong with your vehicle. Here are some benefits of the warranty:

Comprehensive coverage: Warranties cover a wide range of components, including the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. This ensures that you’re protected against major problems that could arise.
Reputable local garage network: It has a network of reputable local garages that can assist you with any repairs or maintenance needs. This means you can get your car serviced or repaired at a trusted local garage without any hassle.

Courtesy car: If your vehicle is in for repairs, you can be provided with a courtesy car to keep you on the road. This ensures that your daily routine is not disrupted while your car is being fixed.
Extended warranty options: Extended warranty options are offered to give you even more protection and peace of mind. Whether you need coverage for a longer period or additional components, options are there to suit your needs
Dedicated support: A dedicated team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have with a 24/7 support app.

Whether you need help understanding your warranty or need to make a claim, Big Motoring World can help.

Reliable coverage with Big Motoring World warranties

One reason why Big Motoring World Warranty Reviews are so positive is the wide coverage options. Whether you’re commuting through London’s busy streets or driving through Kent’s countryside, these warranties offer protection against unexpected repairs.

Many Big Motoring World reviews highlight the convenience and reliability of these plans, helping drivers avoid costly surprises. Unlike other dealerships that focus on high margin sales, Big Motoring World prioritises genuine customer service and satisfaction after the sale.

Drivers in Greater London, who often rely on their vehicles for daily tasks, find the comprehensive warranty packages especially valuable. With Big Motoring World, you get the assurance that your vehicle is covered for potential mechanical and electrical faults, making each journey worry-free.

Warranty options

Big Motoring World, we offer a range of warranty options to suit your needs. Here are some of the options offered:

Standard warranty: The standard warranty provides comprehensive coverage for a set period of time. This includes protection for essential components like the engine and transmission, ensuring you’re covered for common issues.
Extended warranty: An extended warranty options provide additional protection and peace of mind. These plans extend the coverage period and can include more components, giving you extra security.
Premium warranty: A premium warranty offers even more comprehensive coverage, including additional benefits such as a courtesy car. This option is perfect for those who want the highest level of protection and convenience.
Warranty upgrade: If you’re looking to upgrade your warranty, you can. Whether you want to extend your coverage or add more components, there are flexible options to enhance
your warranty.

Big Motoring World in Kent: Trusted for quality service

In Kent, Big Motoring World has built a strong reputation for offering not just high-quality used cars, but also dependable warranty services. Many Big Motoring World warranty reviews from Kent-based customers highlight the professionalism and helpfulness of the sales person.

This makes the dealership a preferred choice for those who want confidence in their car purchases.

Why drivers in Greater London choose Big Motoring World warranties

A reliable warranty from Big Motoring World helps alleviate concerns about potential breakdowns. Many Big Motoring World Reviews emphasise how these warranties offer practical, budget-friendly protection that keeps vehicles running smoothly in urban environments.

Comprehensive protection and courtesy car for South East England drivers

For those living in South-East England, Big Motoring World warranties provide a safety net that helps avoid unexpected repair costs. Big Motoring World also offers support in dealing with finance company issues, ensuring customers are not left to handle problems alone.

Whether you’re driving through suburban areas or commuting to the city, Big Motoring World warranty reviews often highlight how this coverage delivers excellent value and peace of mind.

Get in touch

If you’re looking for a dependable used car warranty in the UK, Big Motoring World
offers comprehensive options that fit the needs of drivers in Kent, London, South-
East England, and Greater London.

Choose a Big Motoring World Warranty to ensure worry-free driving, knowing
you’re protected against unexpected repairs. With their customer-focused
approach and extensive coverage options, Big Motoring World makes smart driving
choices easier than ever.

To learn more about these warranties, contact 03300 297 092 or find the Facebook page: Big Motoring World.

“Banning TikTok is bad for business”, says motor industry expert

Transport

Helen Greaney

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31/01/2025

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“Banning TikTok is bad for business”, says motor industry expert

New data from Regtransfers highlights how the motoring industry is benefiting from China’s popular social media app, TikTok—but could threats to global accessibility create a power vacuum in marketing?

Social media has become an essential tool for business marketing, with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube driving significant audience engagement and revenue. In particular, and in our post-pandemic society, TikTok has stepped forward as a potent new platform for audience engagement.

According to the initial findings of a study from private plate suppliers Regtransfers, TikTok led engagement metrics in 2024, showing a 70.74% increase in follower counts over the course of 2024 and a 102% increase in likes across the 35 analysed brands. The research group in question – which ranged from the likes of Volkswagen, Skoda and Ford to Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini – grew their TikTok content libraries by an average 172% at the end of the year.

Most marketers—around 80%—expect consumers to make more direct purchases through social apps. Social media allows businesses to reach audiences efficiently, offering data-driven marketing strategies for measurable results. 90% of marketers report increased business exposure through social platforms, while 75% of internet users turn to social media for product research.

The study highlights TikTok’s impact on businesses, particularly in visual-driven industries such as automotive and retail. Notably, Skoda—whose account @skodauk had been dormant until early 2024—experienced a 301,900% rise in engagement within 12 months after engaging in regular activity. Additionally, Maserati saw a 355% increase in total likes, reaching 2.3 million by the end of the year. Collectively, the analysed brands gained 77.2 million likes, demonstrating TikTok’s role in brand visibility and audience growth.

TikTok’s uncertain future at the hands of ongoing scrutiny marks a significant hurdle for businesses that rely on the platform for engagement and direct-to-consumer sales. The prospect of losing TikTok in key regions could disrupt digital marketing strategies, particularly if more countries consider similar restrictions.

“These are the initial findings of a broader study we’re engaged in around the social media marketing space, the results of which we hope to release soon”, said Regtransfers CEO, Mark Trimbee, “but with current news surrounding TikTok’s fate in the US, we felt compelled to share our initial discoveries”.

“While our research focuses on motoring brands, many other industries could be faced with negative impacts and a mass exodus if TikTok’s accessibility is restricted in the US. The digital world is now a vital part of our everyday professional and personal lives, and much of our decision-making around product purchases comes from online interactions.

“Businesses lean into the cross-border connectivity of social media platforms to engage with international audiences, showcase new products and create their own culture of customers – the potential loss of which could spell large problems in the short term.”

Man jailed after attacking lone women near Mancunian Way

Crime

Helen Greaney

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31/01/2025

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Man jailed after attacking lone women near Mancunian Way

A man has been jailed for sexually assaulting lone young women near Mancunian Way.

Robert Emmerson (39) of Thirlmere Avenue was found guilty of five counts of sexual assault and seven counts of indecent exposure following a trial at Manchester Crown Court.

A number of sexual assaults were reported to police, between November 2023 and April 2024.

Victims reported that Emmerson exposed himself and committed sexual assaults in the underpass beneath the Mancunian Way, grabbing women from behind in a bear hug before pinning them down and groping them.

After numerous reports of similar incidents, detectives identified a pattern of offending and investigated them as a linked series.

Through an in-depth investigation, hundreds of hours of CCTV were carefully combed through by detectives, and this uncovered an unknown man. This man was seen arriving at the scene after catching the bus from Wythenshawe and seen walking round the city centre after he attacked the women, before catching the bus back to Wythenshawe.

Emmerson’s image was released to the media, and several members of public came forward, suggesting the man was Robert Emmerson. He was arrested on April 22, 2024 at a property in Wythenshawe.

Upon searching the property, a coat was recovered. The same coat that Emmerson was seen in the CCTV footage fleeing the scenes after his offences. Detectives also found that Emmerson had been arrested in 2015 and in his custody image, he wore the same grey coat.

Five victims identified Emmerson in an identity parade. Even though Emmerson pleaded not guilty, he was unanimously convicted by a jury.

Detective constable Tamsyn Muller said: “The investigation team worked tirelessly to get this case to court and diligently worked behind the scenes to gather evidence to create a clear and concise timeline of events to ensure that Emmerson was found guilty.

“We don’t underestimate the impact that this will have on the survivors of this crime as they move forwards with their lives.

“Emmerson targeted lone women and was so brazen that he attacked them in the daytime, not caring if people passing by could hear or see him committing his crimes.

“I’d like to thank the young women who reported these offences to us, and for their support whilst we were building a case against Emmerson. Their bravery in reporting this and assisting us whilst the case was in court must not be underestimated. Emmerson’s crimes were despicable, and he did this purely for his own gratification and throughout the trial had no remorse for the welfare of the women.

“It is with the victim’s support we are here today. This man is behind bars now and we hope this goes some way in showing that these offences are treated with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity.

“We know that this sentence does not make up for the terror these women faced at the hands of Emmerson, but we hope it goes some way in reassuring members of the public that a dangerous man is off our streets.”

He was jailed yesterday at Manchester Crown Court to four years and six months with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order with restrictions for life.

Head to Rochdale Town Hall for half term entertainment

Events

Helen Greaney

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31/01/2025

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Head to Rochdale Town Hall for half term entertainment

Rochdale Town Hall is the location for top notch family fun this February half term, with a series of activities set to keep young ones entertained.

On Tuesday, February 18, a free family fun day will bring art workshops, circus acts and more to the town hall, with families able to drop in between 10am and 12pm and again between 1 and 3pm.

Visitors can take part in art workshops run by Touchstones Museum and the Pioneers Museum and create something beautiful to take home.

The Skylight circus will give young guests the chance to play and explore their circus skills, while Rochdale Borough Council’s library service will also be bringing creative activities along.

The family fun day is free of charge, but booking is essential.

On Saturday and Sunday, February 15 and 16, Goofus Theatre (pictured) will be presenting ‘The Tale of Nobody Nose’. The audience is invited to follow them as they go on a magical wintry journey, led by three clowns (Boz, Yolo and Flo), who travel where their magical map of dreams takes them. Tickets are priced £4 each, with performances at 11.30am and 2.30pm on each day.

Finally, families can join ‘Fantastic Tales’. This magical immersive tour on Monday, February 17, will feature ‘the Folcaonians’, the keepers of secrets and tellers of fantastic stories. This event is most suitable for families with children aged 3+ and lasts around 45 minutes. Tickets are £4 and babes in arms go free.

The events are part of the town hall’s wider offer for children, with activity sheets and dress up available every day, alongside a children’s menu in the Martlet restaurant on the ground floor, including mini fish and chips, tomato pasta, soup of the day and chicken breast.

During the half term break, parents can also pick up a kid’s lunch box for £1, containing a sandwich, a packet of crisps, a piece of fruit and drink, with every adult sandwich bought in the pop up café, which is located on the first floor, close to the Great Hall. The pop up café will be open every day from February 15 to 23 between 10am and 3pm.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “The restoration of his glorious Grade I listed building was all about giving it back to our residents so they can enjoy everything it has to offer and our packed annual events programme is a great way of bringing people into this spectacular space.

“We’re particularly delighted to welcome our younger guests, some of whom will never have been into the town hall, and we’ve ensured these events are either free of charge or low cost because we want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy them.”