Business Manchester

QardenToken Unveils NFT Integration and Mini-Game Ecosystem

Business

News Desk

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26/11/2024

QardenToken Unveils NFT Integration and Mini-Game Ecosystem

In an exciting development for blockchain enthusiasts, QardenToken has announced the launch of its NFT and mini-game ecosystem, creating new opportunities for users to engage with the platform and earn rewards. This integration underscores QardenToken’s commitment to combining financial empowerment with entertainment, setting the stage for a vibrant and interactive DeFi community.

A New Dimension of Engagement

NFTs (non-fungible tokens) have become a global phenomenon, transforming how digital ownership is perceived. With its NFT integration, QardenToken allows users to create, trade, and showcase digital collectibles within its ecosystem.

Key features of the NFT platform include:

NFT Minting: Users can mint their own NFTs using WAD tokens, enabling creators to tokenize their art, music, or other digital assets.
Marketplace Integration: A seamless marketplace feature allows users to buy, sell, and trade NFTs directly on the QardenToken platform.
Customizable Collections: QardenToken provides tools for users to curate personalized NFT collections, fostering creativity and individuality.
“By integrating NFTs, we’re providing users with an opportunity to not only invest but also create and showcase their work in a decentralized space,” says a spokesperson from GardenToken.

Mini-Games: Gamifying DeFi

In addition to NFT integration, QardenToken is introducing mini-games as part of its ecosystem. These games are designed to engage users while offering the chance to earn WAD tokens and other rewards. Examples of mini-games include:

Trading Challenges: Competitions where users optimize trades to achieve specific goals.
NFT Treasure Hunts: Gamified activities where players solve puzzles to unlock exclusive NFTs.
Token Collecting Quests: Interactive games encouraging users to explore different aspects of the platform.

The mini-game ecosystem is not just about fun—it’s a strategic move to drive engagement, reward user loyalty, and expand QardenToken’s growing community.

WAD Token: The Core of the Ecosystem

The WAD token remains central to all activities within the QardenToken platform. Beyond being a utility token for governance and fee discounts, WAD tokens can now be used to mint NFTs, participate in games, and access exclusive rewards.

Driving Community Engagement

With the launch of its NFT and gaming features, QardenToken is actively fostering a sense of community. Users can collaborate, compete, and interact through various platform features, creating a dynamic environment that goes beyond financial transactions.

What’s Next for QardenToken’s Ecosystem?

QardenToken’s roadmap for its NFT and gaming ecosystem includes:

Enhanced NFT Tools: Advanced features for creating interactive and dynamic NFTs.
Partnership Collaborations: Collaborations with renowned artists, gaming companies, and blockchain projects to bring exclusive content to the platform.
Virtual Reality (VR) Integration: Enabling immersive experiences for NFT showcases and gaming.

By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in DeFi, QardenToken is positioning itself as a leader in the intersection of finance, art, and entertainment.

Perfect presents for men this Christmas

Blog

Helen Greaney

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25/11/2024

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We know how stressful it can be trying to find the perfect gift for the men in your life. If you’re stuck for present ideas for somebody who seems to have everything, you’ve come to the right place. Whether he likes a drink, exercising, cooking or chilling out, we’ve got some great suggestions.

Top tipple

Étän Rum is an award-winning luxury golden spiced rum created by five sisters in London, with a taste and look that represents their Cameroonian heritage. The warming and flavourful rum goes great with a lot of Christmas-themed cocktails!

Distilled with a unique collection of five botanicals (“spices”): Fevergrass, Orange peel, Cassia, Ginger, and Vanilla, it has no added sugar and is vegan friendly too!

Available: Étän Rum, £41

Fitness fanatic

Enertor Energy Socks The perfect stocking filler for your sole mate. These are every runners’ must-have ultra-light, energy returning, anti-blister socks with a barely there feel.

From hitting the treadmill to taking on a game of Padel, these no-show socks will keep feet happy, cool and dry, step after step. They have a great range of sizes too, from 2.5-15.

Available: Enertor.com £13.99

Crafty cook

If he loves being in the kitchen, he will love this bestselling spices set. Complete with Chinese Allrounder; Salmon Seasoning; Bolognese Seasoning; Avocado Topping; Coffee Kiss and lots more, this is the kit for everyone who loves to cook and eat.

Available: Justspices.co.uk, from £61.19

Racing Club shares

If you want an exciting gift, how about giving her a share in a racecourse? Racing Club has shares available from just £25, or you could buy one of their three-horse packages for £125.

Racing Club is a syndicate that offers people the chance to experience racehorse ownership at a fraction of the price of owning a horse outright. Racing Club members can enjoy plenty of fantastic benefits including table visits, owner badges to see the horse run and the chance to attend events in their hospitality boxes at various venues across the country.

There’s even merchandise to match, including scarves, socks and even a bespoke Racing Club gin!

Available: Racingclub.com, from £25

Fabulous fragrance

How about a spicy, aromatic fragrance that combines the freshness of honeydew melon with the boldness of black pepper and the sensuality of davana oil?

If that sounds dreamy, Jimmy Choo is the aftershave for him. With warm base notes of tonka bean, patchouli, and labdanum add an intense, masculine finish, this is the perfect present for the man who exudes confidence.

Available: Perfumedirect.com, £33.99 for 50ml

Hoppy Christmas gift

How about a cheeky (and very exciting) early Christmas gift? Introducing the ultimate festive count down we all need this December – the SEVEN BRO7HERS advent calendar is back and better than ever!

Made up of 24 of the Salford-based brewery’s most iconic beers the Christmas calendar will include a mix of the vibrant and delicious family core range, including Easy IPA, Helles Lager and Juicy IPA. All beers are a mixture of 330ml and 440ml cans. The calendars are available now, go go go!

Available: Sevenbro7thers.com, £69.95

Throw him into pottery

Looking for the perfect gift experience for that creative person in your life, that also supports an independent Manchester business? How about giving a voucher for a workshop at Seven Limes Pottery? Vouchers can be used anytime over a year and are easily ordered online.

He can make his own mug or try the 2.5 hour introductory workshop. For a clay enthusiast who already has some experience, he would enjoy the two-day intensive throwing workshop (weekends only 10-4pm) after which their five best pots will be twice fired and clear glazed.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, family business Seven Limes Pottery has just moved from its old home in Moss Side to an Ardwick railway arch.

Available: 7limes.co.uk, from £40

Coffee lover

Who doesn’t love a brew in the morning? He would love the new Christmas Trio Gift Box with the 250g roasts of Christmas past, present and future, straight from 200 Degrees Coffee, an independent specialty coffee roaster with a unique store in central Manchester.

This high-spirited bundle allows coffee lovers to explore three distinct flavour profiles from three single-origin coffees, making it the perfect gift for anyone with a coffee machine who enjoys mixing up their daily brew with something exciting and meaningful!

Available: 200 Degrees, £29.95

Super shaving

The Gillette Labs Regime Gift Set Neon Night delivers quick results for both shaving and moisturising, thanks to its rapid foaming and fast-absorbing skincare products.

The set includes recyclable containers and razor blade cartridge refills, featuring a light, refreshing, masculine fragrance for an enhanced shaving experience. Additionally, it comes with a premium magnetic stand to keep your razor dry and neatly stored in your bathroom. The razor blade cartridge provided is also compatible with the Heated Razor.

Available: Pharmacy2u.co.uk, from £25

More boiler engineers needed to meet Manchester demand, research says

Business

Helen Greaney

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25/11/2024

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More boiler engineers needed to meet Manchester demand, research says

Manchester is among the cities where boiler engineers are most in demand, according to new research.

As the mercury drops, gas specialists are hot property in cities up and down England.

Locations including Birmingham, Hull and Coventry also face a shortage of skilled tradespeople, according to the research by leading training company Engineering Real Results.

Managing director Ricky Sharma said: “Skilled tradespeople are in short supply all across the UK.

“At this time of year, when temperatures start to drop and homeowners need help with their boilers and heating systems, it serves as an even greater reminder that as a country we need to invest in filling the skills gap.”

The data was compiled by analysing the number of active jobs on leading online recruitment sites, such as Reed and TotalJobs.

At the top of the list were Birmingham and Hull, closely followed by Manchester.

Coventry was the fourth, while boiler experts are also in demand in Nottingham, Newcastle and Milton Keynes.

Gas engineers specialise in installing, repairing and maintaining gas appliances and heating systems.

According to the National Careers Service they can expect to earn up to £38,000 a year depending on experience.

Mr Sharma added: “We are also seeing a high number of job vacancies for electricians and plumbers.

“Across the construction industry there is a growing demand for skills but unfortunately a shortage of the correct qualifications.

“These are careers which will always be in demand, especially if the government is to meet their ambitious house-building targets.

“We need to be focusing on bridging the skills gap as a matter of urgency to ensure the UK has enough tradespeople to meet the demand.”

ERR specialises in providing skills and training in trades including plumbing, gas, electrics, welding and renewable industries.

A fifth of the UK’s green jobs are in the North, says new data

Helen Greaney

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25/11/2024

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A fifth of the UK’s green jobs are in the North, says new data

According to the PwC Green Jobs Barometer, almost a fifth of jobs adverts in the UK defined as ‘green’ are based in the North.

The barometer, now in its fourth year, tracks the movement in green jobs creation, job loss, carbon intensity of employment, and worker sentiment across regions and sectors. This year’s results show that 18% of green jobs are on offer in the North.

Despite a reduction in green jobs adverts this year, the North West has the highest volume of green jobs adverts in the region with more than 25,000 green roles. This equates to a 3.2% share of the total jobs market in the North West, up from 2.5% in 2023.

Although it has the smallest increase in the share of green job adverts, at 2.4% of the total job market, the North East saw a considerable 25% jump in the number of green job adverts, at nearly 6,100.

Although regionally the UK’s green job creation is improving, the increase is disproportionately concentrated in London and the South East. These regions collectively represent approximately a third (34%) of all new green jobs.

Compared to the North’s best performing area – the North West – which has 25,284 green job advertisements, London and the South East have 92,496 roles on offer. And while population density is a factor, the South’s dominance is reinforced by the fact that more than 34% of all the green jobs being created today are in professional, scientific and technical industries, with a continuing gap in new green trade jobs which are equally vital to the net zero transition.

Adam Waller (pictured), ESG lead for the North and Manchester’s Market senior partner, said: “It’s crucial for the North to be at the centre of the green energy transition. The data shows us that green energy jobs are having an increasing importance in the job market for the North West, and almost 18% of the number of jobs available that meet the barometer’s definition of ‘green’ can be found in the North.

“However, the region’s role in the UK net zero ambitions is not without its challenges. Despite the large amount of green investment in the North – from Atrato’s solar farm in Yorkshire, AESC’s battery plant expansion in the North East and Aira’s climate tech research hub in Trafford – the geographical spread of green jobs is weighted heavily towards the south of the country.

“Given the scale of traditional industry and manufacturing, as well as its natural assets, such as wind and tidal energy generation, the opportunity is there for the North to play a key role in the energy transition. However, it will be critical to create the roles and provide the skills to capture this opportunity.”

Two teenagers and a man stabbed in late night Piccadilly Gardens attack

Crime

Helen Greaney

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25/11/2024

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Two teenagers and a man stabbed in late night Piccadilly Gardens attack

Police are appealing for information after two teenage boys and a man were stabbed in Manchester city centre on Saturday night.

At around 11.45pm, officers were called to a disturbance in Piccadilly Gardens and found two teenagers – aged 17 and 18 – seriously injured with stabbed wounds.

Paramedics rushed them to hospital where they received treatment for their injuries.

Police were later notified that a 20-year-old man presented at hospital with a stab wound to the chest believed to have been sustained during this same incident.

None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.

Detective chief inspector Michelle Buchanan said: “We are investigating an incident that occurred in Manchester city centre, which led to three people in hospital with serious injuries.

“Officers are reviewing CCTV footage and forensic enquiries are being carried out.

“We are making good process in this early stage and are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Piccadilly Gardens and may have witnessed an altercation involving a group of males just after 11pm (on Saturday) to please come forward and speak with us.

“I also urge people who were in the area to check their mobile phones, or CCTV to see if they may have captured any footage that could be useful to our investigation, no matter how small, as any information may help us.

“If you know anything at all, please ring police 101 or speak with the investigating team directly on 0161 856 4227 quoting log 3463 of yesterday (23/11/2024).

“Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“There will continue to be an increased in police presence around the area as we collect evidence, and neighbourhood officers will be patrolling around. If you have any concerns, please speak with them, they are happy to help.”

Image credit: 4kclips

Community Opposes Cemetery on Green Belt Land

News

News Desk

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25/11/2024

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Community Opposes Cemetery on Green Belt Land

Residents of Oswaldtwistle are taking a stand against a proposed cemetery development on Green Belt land following the submission of a new planning application. Concerns over environmental damage, flooding risks, and traffic hazards have reignited local opposition.

A public meeting held this week, organised by local ward councillors and residents, was filled to capacity, demonstrating the strength of community resistance.

The plan, championed by the development arm of the Issa brothers, has been criticised as unnecessary and poorly thought out. Campaigners argue that the proposal would harm the rural landscape, displace wildlife, and exacerbate flood risks. The site, currently a valued agricultural area, could see high levels of traffic, with large funerals expected to attract over 400 attendees, leading to significant urbanisation of the green space.

Environmental and Groundwater Concerns

The proposed site’s geology and high water table pose a risk of groundwater contamination, potentially affecting nearby allotments, gardens, and waterways. Seasonal flooding already impacts the land, raising fears that the development could worsen environmental conditions and harm local aquifers, springs, and ecosystems downstream.

Distrust in Developers’ Record

The community’s mistrust of Monte Blackburn Ltd, the Issa brothers’ development firm, stems from past planning issues. Frontier Park, a project on the same road, has faced widespread criticism for unauthorised expansions and reliance on retrospective permissions, prompting concerns about potential regulatory breaches with the cemetery proposal.

Safety and Sustainability Challenges

The increase in traffic from daily funerals, particularly large events drawing hundreds of mourners, has raised alarms over safety on Blackburn Road, described as “Oswaldtwistle’s most dangerous road.”

The development also contradicts Hyndburn Borough Council’s climate emergency declaration by encouraging long-distance travel. Campaigners point out that most visitors to the site would travel by car, further contributing to the area’s carbon emissions.

Impact on Local Wildlife and Heritage

Protected species such as red-listed birds, bats, and deer are at risk of displacement, while the agricultural heritage and rural aesthetic of the land would be permanently altered. Campaigners stress that the area’s cultural and environmental value must be preserved.

Claims of Exclusion

Opponents argue that the proposed cemetery would largely cater to one religious group, excluding the majority of Oswaldtwistle residents. They highlight a needs assessment confirming that existing burial facilities in Hyndburn are sufficient for the next 90 years.

United Call to Action

The community is urging decision-makers to reject the application, citing long-term maintenance concerns and the risk of Hyndburn Council inheriting financial responsibility for an ill-suited development.

Disappointed by the MP’s absence at the public meeting, residents are pressing for greater political support. They have launched a website, saynothecemetery.com, alongside a GoFundMe campaign to bolster their fight. Campaigners are calling on the Issa brothers to reconsider, urging them to recognise the harm the proposal has caused to the community.

Care2Care Hosts Christmas Charity Ball for Rob Burrow MND Centre Appeal

Business

News Desk

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25/11/2024

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Care2Care Hosts Christmas Charity Ball for Rob Burrow MND Centre Appeal

Care2Care (Yorkshire) Ltd, a Bradford-based care provider, is hosting a glittering charity Christmas ball on Friday 29th November to raise funds for the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal in support of Leeds Hospital Charity.

The festive event will be held at the Coniston Hotel near Skipton and will include a conversation with special guests Stevie Ward, former Leeds Rhinos captain and close friend of Rob Burrow, and Marcus Stewart, the ex-Huddersfield Town footballer who is living with motor neurone disease and works to raise awareness of the condition.

An exciting auction of rare and exclusive items will be one of the evening’s key attractions, led by former rugby player Charlie Beech, who will serve as both auctioneer and compere.

Phill Lautman, Care2Care’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone to our charity ball on 29th November. It’s 10 years since Care2Care was established and 2024 has been great for us, so if we can celebrate that in style while raising money for a good cause, it’s a brilliant way to wrap up the year.”

Rob Burrow, a rugby legend who played his entire career with Leeds Rhinos, was one of the most decorated players in Super League history. Following his motor neurone disease diagnosis in 2019, Rob and his former teammate Kevin Sinfield worked tirelessly to increase awareness and raise funds for the condition. Both players were awarded CBEs for their efforts, and Rob’s legacy continues following his passing earlier this year.

Care2Care specialises in providing tailored in-home care for adults across Bradford and West Yorkshire, with a particular focus on complex care. The company has experienced notable growth in demand for its services over the last two years.

The Care2Care Christmas Charity Ball will be held at the Coniston Hotel, a luxurious venue nestled in a 1,400-acre estate in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside, complete with a fishing lake, shooting grounds, and a spa.

Michelle Wood, Corporate & Events Manager at the Coniston Hotel, said: “We’re delighted to be hosting this event at the Coniston Hotel to help raise funds for such a worthy cause that is close to so many people’s hearts; and we’re really looking forward to welcoming all the guests to what is set to be a great night!”

In addition to the special guest discussion and the auction, attendees can enjoy a three-course Christmas meal, entertainment, and dancing into the early hours. A raffle on the night will raise additional funds for the MS Society, while proceeds from the event will support the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease through Leeds Hospital Charity.

More details about the event, including ticket purchases, are available https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thefirmament/1444696. Alternatively, follow Care2Care on social media or contact the organiser at [email protected].

Residents evacuated as River Irwell bursts banks

News

Helen Greaney

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25/11/2024

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Residents evacuated as River Irwell bursts banks

Weekend downpours caused the River Irwell to burst its banks, leaving many residents in Ramsbottom having to evacuate their homes.

More than 100 flood alerts and warnings were issued around the UK, with winds of up to 82mph recorded across parts of the country on Saturday and Sunday.

Many residents and homes were affected in Ramsbottom, Radcliffe and areas of Bolton, and into Lancashire, with Haslingden Tesco having to shut due to flooded aisles.

There were treacherous conditions on Manchester Road on the border of Ramsbottom and Walmersley and many businesses closed because of the weather. The Irwell reached 2.33 metres near Stubbins.

At Nuttall Park in Ramsbottom (pictured below), fences were ripped down by the rain, causing damaging to fences and newly installed playground equipment. A hut, used to serve hot drinks and housing toilet facilities, was half underwater.

Councillor Gareth Staples-Jones thanked local residents for sending in reports of flooding, as he tried to keep the community updated on facebook. A clean-up operation was underway on Sunday.

Events across Greater Manchester and Lancashire were also cancelled, with 90s boy band East 17 set to turn on the Christmas lights in Rawtenstall. Switch-ons in Romiley and Alderley Edge were also cancelled, while Tatton Park’s Yuletide event was also closed.

Image credit: Jo Brickell Haggan

Understanding the importance of torque in the solar energy sector

Energy

News Desk

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22/11/2024

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Understanding the importance of torque in the solar energy sector

The solar energy sector has grown rapidly as renewable energy becomes a global priority. But achieving efficiency and longevity in solar installations depends on more than just technology – it hinges on precision in assembly.

A critical factor often overlooked in solar installations is torque, which plays a significant role in the stability, performance, and durability of solar systems. Here, we’ll explore why torque is essential in solar panel installation, solar tracker systems, and protecting installations from environmental stresses.

The role of torque in solar panel installation: Ensuring stability and efficiency

In solar installations, torque refers to the rotational force applied to bolts and fasteners, directly impacting panel stability. Correctly calibrated torque settings are essential to avoid problems like panel misalignment, which can decrease energy efficiency and cause damage over time.

Solar panels that aren’t properly secured may loosen, particularly in areas experiencing high winds or fluctuating temperatures, leading to higher maintenance costs and potential system failures.

Using torque-specific tools and technologies, such as a digital torque wrench from Crane Electronics, can help installers apply precise torque settings based on panel type and environmental factors. Such tools ensure uniformity in fastener tension, minimising the risks of loosening and misalignment. Proper torque management not only extends the life of solar panels but also optimises long-term energy output, benefiting both installers and end-users.

Why torque matters for solar trackers: Enhancing performance in dynamic environments

Solar trackers are specialised systems that follow the sun’s path to maximise energy capture. However, these systems operate in dynamic conditions, which requires robust construction to prevent misalignment and wear. Incorrect torque in these trackers can lead to accuracy issues, compromising the system’s ability to capture optimal sunlight and reducing overall energy production.

Torque settings are particularly crucial in tracker systems because they endure constant movement, temperature changes, and vibrations. Without proper torque calibration, trackers may experience increased wear, leading to costly repairs. Regular maintenance and torque adjustments are vital for ensuring that tracker systems perform accurately over time. Advanced tools, like torque sensors, can help monitor these systems continuously, helping solar farms achieve stable and reliable output even in challenging conditions.

Torque and wind load: Safeguarding solar installations against environmental stress

Environmental factors, especially wind loads, are a significant challenge for solar installations. In regions with high wind speeds, solar panels are subjected to additional stress that can affect their structural integrity. This is where precise torque settings become critical – torque acts as the ‘glue’ holding the system’s components together against external forces.

For example, coastal or high-altitude installations often require higher torque settings to withstand harsher weather conditions. With proper torque management, installers can counteract these stresses, ensuring safety and efficiency. Routine checks and adjustments based on environmental changes are recommended to maintain optimal torque in all conditions, keeping panels stable and operational.

As solar technology advances, understanding and applying correct torque becomes an integral part of solar energy efficiency. From installation stability and tracker accuracy to wind load resilience, precise torque management is essential for the durability and performance of solar systems. For companies and technicians in the solar energy sector, incorporating torque monitoring and maintenance practices is a valuable step in ensuring long-term operational success. Leveraging specialised tools from providers like Crane Electronics can significantly enhance accuracy in torque application, supporting safer and more efficient solar energy systems worldwide.

Police continue investigation following discovery of baby remains

News

Helen Greaney

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22/11/2024

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Police continue investigation following discovery of baby remains

Police are continuing to investigate following the discovery of a baby’s remains in Little Hulton.

The baby, named ‘Baby A’, was found on Ravenscraig Road, near Ashtons Field, by a passerby.

There is currently a crime scene in place and an increased presence of officers in the area.

At this stage, detectives are following several lines of enquiry, and working with local partner agencies to understand who this baby could be, how long they have been here, and how they have sadly died.

“If you have seen anyone in the area over the last few days, or know who the parents could be, please call us as soon as you can.

“We would like to thank the community for their tributes to Baby A and their support and compassion at this time. We are truly grateful.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 1319 of 20/11/24. To remain anonymous, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.