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Contigo Mobility Expands AI-Powered CoMoAI Globally to Enhance Urban Mobility and Safety

News Desk
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Contigo Mobility Expands AI-Powered CoMoAI Globally to Enhance Urban Mobility and Safety

Contigo Mobility, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) mobility solutions, has announced the international adoption of its AI-powered technology, CoMoAI. Over the next six months, all CoMo and CoMoTo fleet vehicles worldwide will be equipped with state-of-the-art front and rear cameras, capturing real-time video and images. These recordings will be instantly uploaded to a central server for processing and analysis.

This development marks a major advancement in urban mobility by utilising AI-driven insights to enhance journey efficiency, increase safety, and provide real-time information on road conditions. Currently, the CoMo and CoMoTo fleet is equipped with IoT technology that tracks location, vehicle condition, battery health, and riding behaviour. With the addition of high-resolution video analytics, CoMoAI will elevate mobility intelligence to an advanced level.

The AI-based system will use machine learning to process the collected footage, evaluating traffic patterns, environmental conditions, and road infrastructure. The primary objective is to provide riders and delivery service users with optimised route suggestions, enabling them to avoid congestion, identify road hazards, and travel more efficiently. Additionally, the system will contribute to enhanced safety measures, ensuring a more secure riding experience.

“Our vision is to transform mobility intelligence through real-time data collection and AI-powered analytics. By the end of 2025, we are targeting close to 100,000 CoMo and CoMoTo units actively collecting video and image data, making Contigo Mobility the largest moving data collector globally,” said Zuhri Yusof, CEO of Contigo Technology Group.

“Our AI-driven system represents a breakthrough in mobility intelligence. With CoMoAI, we are not only improving the user experience but also laying the foundation for advanced real-time road monitoring, traffic optimisation, and predictive analytics,” said Sudhir Abdul Rahman, CTO of Contigo Technology Group. “This technology will revolutionise how mobility data is collected and utilised, benefitting riders, city planners, and even third-party stakeholders who require real-time mobility insights.”

As part of the initial phase, Contigo Mobility will roll out a pilot programme in London, using the city’s densely populated streets as a testing ground before expanding into major CoMo markets such as Indonesia and other global locations. The newly installed cameras provide a 130-degree field of vision in both front and rear directions, while the dynamic movement of motorcycles enhances the system’s capability to map and assess its surroundings.

Beyond improving travel efficiency, CoMoAI will play a key role in building a safer and more intelligent transport infrastructure. The substantial amount of data collected by the CoMo fleet will also be available for third-party integration, offering critical insights for urban development, traffic regulation, and smart transportation networks.

By taking this step forward, Contigo Mobility is reinforcing its leadership in AI-powered mobility innovation, setting new standards for efficiency, safety, and data-driven transport solutions worldwide.

Campaign of coercion leads to 15-year jail term for Salford man

Helen Greaney
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Campaign of coercion leads to 15-year jail term for Salford man

A man has been jailed for 15 years for rape and a campaign of coercion and control against a woman over several years.

Amaniel Tewelde (36) of Gerald Road, Salford, received a sentence of 15 years after being found guilty in November of two counts of rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and perverting the course of justice. He was additionally given a restraining order.

Manchester Minshull Street Court heard how in 2014, Tewelde (pictured) met up with a woman in Salford. He seriously sexually assaulted her, despite her asking him to stop.

At a later date, a similar incident occurred. The victim was scared as he began touching her, worrying how he would react if she refused. Tewelde then raped her, again being asked to stop.

In the weeks and months that followed, Tewelde continued with controlling and coercive behaviour, in which he would threaten not to see her or care if she did not have sex with him. Due to Tewelde’s abusive behaviour, the woman became in fear of her life if she did not listen to him.

During a visit to Blackpool in that same year, he once again raped her. His victim didn’t understand the situation she was faced with, becoming withdrawn and not having anyone close to talk to her about her situation.

After the woman bravely came forward in September 2020, Tewelde was subsequently arrested and charged following a thorough investigation by officers on Salford’s district.

Detective sergeant Graham Parry said: “Tewelde’s disgusting and manipulative actions led to a woman feeling unsafe and with nowhere to turn to, leaving her isolated.

“By alternating between caring and controlling, Tewelde left the woman feeling trapped and I am glad he is now finally behind bars where he belongs. I would like to commend DC Evans and DC Taylor, who have been instrumental in getting this case over the line.

“After years of suffering abuse at the hands of him, this woman was finally allowed a voice. She was listened to and got to tell her story in a court of law where justice could finally be served. This has been an incredibly tough journey for her, but we are all so thankful for her perseverance as this has allowed her to have a safer future for her and her family.

“I would urge anyone who has been the victim of any form of sexual abuse to get in touch with us. You will be listened to, we will investigate all reports, and we will do all we can to support you.”

India v England, 4th T20I: Preview, line-ups, how to watch and prediction

Jon Fisher
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India v England, 4th T20I: Preview, line-ups, how to watch and prediction

The State of Play

England’s 26-run victory in Rajkot on Tuesday means they are still alive in the series and head to Pune with renewed hope.

Jos Buttler’s side trail 2-1 in the best-of-five contest but having staved off one attempt from India to move into an unassailable lead, the tourists have to do it all again.

Their performances are certainly getting better match by match and they got the job done at the Khandheri Cricket Stadium thanks to a solid batting display led by Ben Duckett and Liam Livingstone and given fresh life at the end by Adil Rashid and Mark Wood.

England followed that up with an excellent all-round bowling performance in which Rashid was the star with a suffocating spell of one for 15 from his four overs.

The Yorkshireman is back at number one in the T20 bowling rankings and Buttler knows he is a key player. 

Speaking after the game in Rajkot, Buttler said: “The guys bowled really well, nice to show off their skills. Adil – he’s the most important player in our team, so many variations, so many different styles of bowling, we’re fortunate to have him in our team.”

India can counter the brilliance of Rashid with their own magical spinner, Varun Chakravarthy, the leggie who claimed five for 24 two days ago.

“I’ve been working on a flipper and it’s coming out well,” he said. “It’s maybe the best I have bowled on this stage but I can definitely get better.”

England will hope that doesn’t happen in Pune as they seek to level things up at 2-2.

Team News

Arshdeep Singh is likely to be recalled after missing the third T20I and with Pune traditionally a venue that offers more assistance to pacemen.

Mohammad Shami is likely to retain his place despite a disappointing return to India duty in Rajkot while Sanju Samson will get another chance to show he can cope with out-and-out pace that England offer in the shape of Wood and Jofra Archer.

England will likely stick with the same XI given it is already seamer heavy.

Expected line-ups

India: Samson (wk), Sharma, Varma, Yadav (c), Pandya, Patel, R Singh, Sundar, A Singh, Shami, Chakaravarthy

England: Salt, Duckett, Buttler (c), Brook, Livingstone, Smith (wk), Overton, Carse, Archer, Rashid, Wood

How to Watch

In the UK, you can watch this series on TNT Sports and Discovery+. The fourth T20I is being screened on TNT Sports 1 from 1pm.

In India, it can be viewed on the Disney Plus Hotstar app and website.

Prediction

India showed a rare vulnerability in the third T20I and England were good enough to capitalise. 

And with Buttler’s side having got up and running, we fancy them to level the series and set up a mouthwatering decider in Mumbai on Sunday.

Manufacturing underway in Hyde as Invopak opens new factory

Helen Greaney
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Manufacturing underway in Hyde as Invopak opens new factory

The sound of machinery echoes once again in Hyde as Invopak opens a new metal packaging factory.

Invopak is a packaging distributor, supplying thousands of businesses with buckets, tubs and tins.

Making the move into manufacturing has been years in the planning and is a real step-change for the business.

CEO Arjen Cooper-Rolfe said: “Creating tins in Manchester is a massive moment for us. For more than 50 years we’ve developed and innovated in the supply of containers into a wide range of industries both here in the UK and abroad and now we’re realising our long-held ambition of manufacturing them too”.

Invopak’s new 60,000sqft manufacturing operation in Dunkirk Lane has already made a positive impact on the local community.

“We have hired several highly skilled engineers, who have helped our plant run smoothly. Moreover, our plant is tailor-made, built from scratch, and offers a brand new and exciting environment, which people find appealing,” said Scott Sandilands, Invopak’s CRO.

Creating skilled job opportunities in the Hyde area is just part of the picture. For Invopak’s customers, it also means they can buy high quality, 100% recyclable packaging that’s made here in the UK.

Image: Gavin Affleck and Claire Rolfe from Invopak with the first pallet-loads of Manchester-made tins

Inaugural gala dinner set to raise thousands for children’s charities

Helen Greaney
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Inaugural gala dinner set to raise thousands for children’s charities

Class of 92 backed-charity Foundation 92 and the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity have revealed plans for its inaugural ‘Champions for Children’ Gala Dinner.

The event, hosted by legendary presenters Jenny Powell and Hits Radio UK DJ Mike Toolan, will take place at Victoria Warehouse on March 20, and aims to raise thousands of pounds for both charities.

A glamorous evening of dining and entertainment will see a host of well-known business figures and famous faces come together to celebrate some life-changing projects.

There will be a three-course meal as well as charity auction and raffle, and live entertainment throughout the evening. A silent auction with one-of-a-kind, money can’t buy prizes – including an appearance on Gary Neville’s The Overlap podcast – will also be on offer.

Foundation 92 was founded by the Class of 92 in 2018 and is based in Salford. The charity works across the North-West with a number of different community groups improving lives through sport, education and bespoke projects, with an emphasis on positive physical and mental wellbeing.

The Foundation supports the wider community, offering help to those living with additional needs and disabilities, those tackling homelessness and young people who have or may be at risk of committing offences.

The charity uses innovative programmes that specialise in health and wellbeing, education and employability skills, community inclusion and youth outreach working closely with partners across Salford and Greater Manchester.

The gala dinner will also support two projects at RMCH (pictured), the largest children’s hospital in the country, including the hospital’s pioneering Youth Service which supports patients aged 11 and over with long-term health conditions. The RMCH service – one of only three hospital youth services in the country – empowers young people to find their voice, build confidence, and navigate the challenges of their condition, both in hospital and at home.

The dinner will also support patients cared for in the hospital’s inpatient mental health unit, funding workshops that enable patients to use music and creative expression to build confidence, self-esteem and re-establish their identity.

CEO of Foundation 92, Tom Hutton said: “We are delighted to announce the first Champions for Children Gala Dinner which has been in planning for many months. The work of both Foundation 92 and Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity does support people across the community with vital projects and this is a night for celebrating them.

“We hope the dinner will not only shine a light on some of the programmes and initiatives we both work on but also support in raising funds to ensure both charities can continue operating and expanding their services across the North-West and beyond.”

Viv Williamson, events manager at Manchester Foundation Trust Charity said: “Every table booking, every auction bid and every raffle ticket purchase at the Champions For Children Gala Dinner has the potential to make a truly life-changing impact on the futures of children and young people in the region, whilst also shedding a light on the pioneering work of both charities.

“We’re so excited to be teaming up with Foundation 92 and this event is such a special opportunity to bring the Manchester business community together for a spectacular evening, knowing that every contribution will make a difference and support life-changing work of both charities in the future.”

The event is sponsored by Godel Technologies, a Manchester-based software company. Tables and sponsorship packages can be purchased by emailing: [email protected]

Image credit: MFT charity

Personal trainer jailed for grooming 15-year-old girl

Helen Greaney
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Personal trainer jailed for grooming 15-year-old girl

A “deplorable” personal trainer who befriended and groomed a child, has been jailed.

Matthew Lawrence (42) of Mount Drive, Trafford, pleaded guilty to sexual communication with a child, and two counts of sexual activity with a child and received a sentence of three years, nine months in jail, when he appeared at Minshull Crown Court on Tuesday.

He is also subject to an indefinite restraining order and sexual notification order, and a 10 year sexual harm prevention order.

In August 2023, Greater Manchester Police received information that Lawrence was having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old child.

At the time, Lawrence was a personal trainer in a gym and had befriended the girl by offering to train her and help her with her diet and nutrition.

The manager of the gym was concerned that the victim was not over the age of 16, as per the gym’s membership requirements, and approached Lawrence advising him to terminate her membership to which Lawrence replied, ‘Don’t ban her, in case she goes to the police.’

In past conversations, Lawrence had said he preferred dating younger girls as he liked their ‘innocence.’ He had also bragged to another member of the gym that he had been exchanging indecent images with the victim.

Staff at the gym were concerned by Lawrence’s behaviour and were fearful that he had groomed the female, so reported him to the police.

Lawrence was circulated as wanted, and he was arrested by GMP officers at London Airport in September 2023. This swift arrest prevented him from starting a new job as a personal trainer on a cruise ship.

Detectives tracked down several witnesses who stated that they were in the presence of Lawrence when he learned that the victim was just 15 years old. Further evidence was found on his mobile device to support this, including text messages between Lawrence and his associates which proved that he knew the victim was a child, and despite them warning him to stop communicating with her, he continued.

In August 2023, the victim bravely confided in her mother and told her that Lawrence had tried to kiss her, and physically forced her to commit sexual acts on him.

When interviewed by specially trained officers, the victim disclosed that Lawrence had taken her to the cinema, as a reward for training so hard in the gym, before sexually assaulting her in his locked car.

Phone analysis was conducted which showed that in the space of just a month, there were more than 3000 calls and texts between Lawrence and the girl. Many of these were of a sexually explicit nature, and there was also evidence that Lawrence bought her several gifts over the period.

Detective constable Amy Brookes said: “Lawrence was warned by acquaintances on several occasions about talking to an underage girl, yet he continued to groom the young victim and sexually assault her. He lied throughout the interview process to try and minimise his actions, so we welcome this sentence today.

“His deplorable behaviour had a huge impact on the young victim, and she has shown such bravery in speaking to us. I hope that she feels some reassurance knowing this man is now behind bars, and our partner agencies will continue to support her moving forward, giving her the care and support she needs.

“We know that coming forward to the police isn’t always easy, and we are working tirelessly to improve the trust and confidence that the public and victims and survivors have in us. I hope from this investigation, anyone who has been a victim of crime, or has experienced abuse or exploitation knows that whenever they are ready to come forward, we will support them.”

Girls’ football team launches fundraiser to play at a national level

Helen Greaney
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Girls’ football team launches fundraiser to play at a national level

A girls’ football team has launched a fundraising campaign in a bid to play at a national level.

The Player Progression Coaching (PPC) Lionesses under 9 girls’ team is raising funds to take them to the UK’s premier national youth football tournament – The One Tournament in Warwickshire.

The Manchester line-up has gone from strength-to-strength since it was formed in September 2024, winning a series of tournament titles and progressing through the ranks of the city’s most competitive football league, dominated by boys’ teams.

The PPC Lionesses recently made history after being announced as the first all-girl squad to reach the top league in the Manchester Youth Super League (MYSL) competing against boys their own age.

The 13-strong team of girls aged 8 and 9 including players from Salford now has several players attending Emerging Talent Centres at professional football clubs throughout the North West.

The community fundraising campaign is aimed at raising £2,500 to cover entry fees, travel and accommodation for each player to attend the national tournament.

Ashley Holland, PPC founder said: “It’s been a joy to be part of the girls’ progression, and to see how far they’ve come in such a short space of time really demonstrates their talent, love for the game and determination to succeed.

“We’re passionate about girls’ development here at PPC and are always on the lookout for opportunities where the team can challenge themselves and progress as young players. That’s why we knew we had to test ourselves against the best boys’ teams in the region, and why we want to attend national tournaments like this one, to compete against the best girls’ teams in the country and show what we can do.

“But getting to these tournaments isn’t always easy and this support will ensure that each and every player will have the access to these amazing opportunities, to become the best that they can be.”

Billy Hilton, owner of Manchester Youth Super League (MYSL), said: “MYSL are proud to play a part in the development of these U9 girls. To play in our highest division at their own age is a testament to both the players and coaches dedication and effort. They are the first all-girls team to do this in the history of MYSL and we welcome and challenge more girls’ teams to follow in their footsteps.”

To make a donation visit: https://fundraising.spond.com/ihGabuqDe

Air Sea Containers Expands Services with New UN Packaging Testing Facility

News Desk
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Air Sea Containers Expands Services with New UN Packaging Testing Facility

Air Sea Containers, a leading UK supplier of compliant packaging for hazardous goods, has established a new testing facility in Wirral, focusing on UN approved packaging.

Accredited by UKAS to ISO/IEC 17025 standards, this state-of-the-art laboratory provides extensive testing capabilities for businesses across the UK. It supports companies in obtaining UN approval through performance testing for packaging used in the transportation of dangerous goods.

State-of-the-Art Testing Services

The new test lab is fitted with high-tech testing equipment and staffed by a team of experienced dangerous goods packaging specialists. The lab’s services cover a wide range of critical tests, including:

Drop Testing:
Drops simulate real-world handling and transit conditions to test packaging durability.

Stack Testing:
Tests the package strength and stability under compression, simulating stacking during long-haul transport or storage conditions.

Material Specification Checks:
Product specifications are examined and recorded, this is to ensure that each production run uses the exact same materials and specifications used to create the UN approved packaging.

All tests are conducted using calibrated equipment under strict environmental conditions providing consistent results.

Testing Services Available

With the new test lab, Air Sea Containers offer clients testing facilities for steel drums, fibre drums, fibreboard boxes and plastic boxes.

Services on offer include:

Testing of Customer’s Own Packaging:

Tests can be undertaken on customer’s own packaging requiring UN approval, including drop tests, stack tests, cold conditioning and material specification checks.

Custom Made Packaging Testing:

A full-service solution for custom made packaging which includes design, development, testing, coordination of UN certification, manufacturing of product and ongoing maintenance of UN certification. The entire packaging design, approval and production process is managed for the customer.

Revalidation Checks:

UN approved packaging requires revalidation checks after a set period of time (typically 5 years in the UK). Air Sea Containers offer Revalidation Testing Services. This is to ensure the UN approved product is still being made to the exact specification which passed the UN Testing process resulting in UN approved packaging.

Capability Testing:

Capability testing of packaging for dangerous goods where UN approved packaging is not mandatory, but capability may be required, such as limited quantity and lithium battery packaging where applicable.

Authorised by the VCA

Each test rigorously adheres to UN packaging requirements stipulated in the UN transport of dangerous goods regulations. After successful testing, Air Sea Containers work with the VCA to gain UN certification, offering fully certified results for their clients.

A Commitment to Compliant Packaging

The Wirral based test lab highlights Air Sea Containers’ commitment to providing compliant and certified packaging options. The company’s expertise in regulatory compliance reinforces its position as a trusted partner for businesses transporting dangerous goods.

About Air Sea Containers

Established in 1981, Air Sea Containers has been a UK leader in compliant packaging solutions for over four decades. Serving industries from petrochemical and pharmaceuticals to retail and manufacturing, the company specialises in UN certified packaging, regulatory compliance, and now UN approval testing services.

For more information on the new test lab or to explore packaging solutions, please contact Air Sea Containers at: [email protected] or visit www.airseadg.com.

Advice for businesses competing in the job market without meeting industry salary expectations

News Desk
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Advice for businesses competing in the job market without meeting industry salary expectations

In today’s competitive job market, businesses that cannot offer salaries matching industry standards may feel at a disadvantage.

However, with strategic approaches and an understanding of what employees value beyond pay, businesses can position themselves as attractive employers. Here are key strategies to help you stand out:

Emphasise non-monetary benefits

Salary is only one component of a compensation package. Consider options such as:

  • Flexible working arrangements: Allow employees to work from home, set their own hours, or work compressed weeks. Flexibility is increasingly valued, particularly by younger generations.
  • Additional leave: Offer extra annual leave, mental health days, or birthdays off. These small perks can have a big impact.
  • Modern payroll options: Implement a flexible wage system with features like on-demand pay access, mobile accessibility, self-service portals, and wage advances. These benefits improve financial wellbeing, transparency, and convenience.

Offering attractive non-monetary benefits can help bridge the gap.

Build a strong company culture

A positive workplace that prioritises work-life balance and job satisfaction can often outweigh monetary concerns. To achieve this:

  • Recognise achievements: Publicly celebrate employee accomplishments, both big and small.
  • Support wellbeing: Provide resources such as wellness programmes, access to counselling services, or gym discounts.
  • Regular team lunches: Build camaraderie and morale with casual, social gatherings.

Implementing these benefits can create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged.

Highlight opportunities for growth

Many employees are drawn to positions where they see potential for advancement. Even if you can’t offer the highest salary, showcasing clear career progression pathways can make your roles more appealing. Regularly discuss growth opportunities during interviews and performance reviews to demonstrate your commitment to their development.

Offer creative incentives

If you can’t provide top-tier salaries, think creatively about additional incentives. Consider options such as:

  • Profit-sharing schemes: Share a portion of the company’s profits with employees to create a sense of ownership.
  • Equity options: Offer shares or stock options to align employees’ interests with the business’s success.
  • Referral bonuses: Reward employees for bringing in new talent through referral programmes.
  • Performance vouchers: Recognise exceptional performance with gift cards or vouchers.

Even small gestures can breed goodwill and enhance employee satisfaction.

Conclusion

While competing on salary alone may not be feasible, businesses can focus on alternative ways to attract and retain top talent. By offering non-monetary benefits, cultivating a strong company culture, and investing in professional development, businesses can position themselves as employers of choice in a competitive job market.

Mill Gate Shopping Centre flushes out competition to win top loos award

Helen Greaney
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Mill Gate Shopping Centre flushes out competition to win top loos award

Mill Gate Shopping Centre has won the Platinum Loo of the Year Award for the third year running.

The prestigious award, recognised as a gold standard for away-from-home washroom facilities, highlights the Bury shopping centre’s ongoing dedication to delivering exceptional hygiene and cleanliness to its customers.

The Loo of the Year Awards is an annual event that evaluates thousands of washrooms across the UK based on 101 judging criteria, including décor, cleanliness, management, and facilities.

An unannounced inspection by the awards committee ensures that only the highest-quality washrooms are recognised.

Mill Gate’s consistent achievement of this top honour speaks to the commitment of its staff and management in maintaining outstanding facilities for visitors.

“We are pleased that our team’s dedication to cleanliness and customer service has once again been recognised with this award,” said Angela Tierney, centre manager.

“We all know a first-class washroom experience is incredibly important and that’s reflected in our customer feedback.”

Image: Crowning glory: Graham Bentley (centre manager) with the trophy

 

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