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FREESMO Rallies to Support Ex-Smokers Ahead of the Disposable Vape Ban with Golden Ticket Campaign

News Desk
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FREESMO Rallies to Support Ex-Smokers Ahead of the Disposable Vape Ban with Golden Ticket Campaign

As the UK prepares for the nationwide ban on disposable vapes coming into force on 1st June 2025, FREESMO is stepping up to support ex-smokers with the launch of a Golden Ticket campaign designed to keep people smoke-free.

Built by people who care, trusted by people ready to change, FREESMO has built its reputation on one simple mission: helping smokers ditch cigarettes for life. Now, with the disposable vape ban fast approaching, FREESMO is taking action to ensure that former smokers don’t return to cigarettes out of confusion or convenience.

Running until 1st June, the Golden Ticket campaign is all about celebrating and supporting the smoke-free movement. All first-time buyers spending £10 or more at FREESMO.co.uk will be entered into a weekly prize draw to win one of twenty Golden Tickets. Each Golden Ticket awards its recipient with a £100 Amazon voucher.

The campaign will run in the lead-up to the disposable ban with prize opportunities updated regularly throughout to include unbeatable discounts and unrivalled multibuy deals. While the prize pool is generous, the message behind the campaign is even more significant: FREESMO is here to support your smoke-free journey, even as the vape landscape shifts.

“The disposable ban will leave many people scrambling for alternatives, and we refuse to let that confusion push anyone back to smoking,” said Georgi Keckarovski. “That’s why we’re launching this campaign — to guide people through the transition, and make sure no one is left behind.”

The upcoming ban — aimed at reducing youth vaping and protecting the environment — will make it illegal to sell or supply disposable vapes in the UK, both online and in shops. While the environmental and public health goals are clear, thousands of adult ex-smokers who rely on disposables to stay smoke-free could be left at risk of relapse.

FREESMO’s expert team of smoke-free product specialists is ready to help. Through its Smoke-Free Questionnaire, FREESMO offers free, personalised product recommendations tailored to each user’s needs — drawing on a wide range of smoke-free alternatives from top brands.

“We’re not here to push one product — we’re here to find the most effective option to help each individual stop smoking,” added Georgi. “For many, disposables were just the start of their smoke-free journey. Now, it’s time to take the next step. From nicotine pouches to nicotine-free vapes, FREESMO can support all disposable users in staying smoke free.”

Visit FREESMO for further help and support in transitioning to a smoke-free lifestyle.

St George’s Day parade returns to Manchester

Helen Greaney
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St George’s Day parade returns to Manchester
The St George’s Day Parade, a beloved fixture in Manchester’s event calendar for nearly two decades, returns on April 27 with its vibrant celebration of England’s rich heritage and community spirit.
Originating from a grassroots organisation, this event has grown to become a popular, family-friendly celebration that showcases the diverse and eclectic idea of what it means to be English.

The parade aims to celebrate the nation’s spirit and the country’s achievements, particularly those that embody fairness, community, equality, and hard work.

This year’s parade will start from Varley Street at 12 noon. To note, although the Manchester Marathon is being held the same day, the two events are not expected to impact each other.

The parade will commence at Varley Street, turning left onto Oldham Road (southbound only), and will travel towards the city, crossing over Great Ancoats Street to Oldham Street.

It will then turn left on Piccadilly, left on Newton Street, left on Dale Street, right on Lever Street, left on Great Ancoats, right on Oldham (northbound only), right on Butler Street, left on Bradford Road, and finally left back to Varley Street.

The parade will feature performers on decorated floats. As in previous years, a cavalcade of up to 300 mopeds will join the parade for part of the route, along with a regal Queen Victoria in a royal carriage, a blue dragon towering at 7ft and an array of community groups across Manchester.

The parade is expected to take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the route.

The event is managed by the St George’s Day Committee with support from Manchester City Council and other partner agencies.

Councillor Pat Karney said: “I’m thrilled to see the return of the St George’s Day Parade in our incredible city which serves as a reminder and reflection of our proud heritage. This is a day for families, friends and neighbours to come together to celebrate the true meaning of community.

“The parade will be a colourful display of Manchester and our nation’s history, a reminder of our achievements and a proud celebration of our shared, diverse nation. I look forward to seeing thousands of Mancunians come together and I hope to see you there.”

Thelma McGrail, chair of the St George’s Day organising committee, said:  “Manchester’s St George’s Day Parade, celebrating England’s Patron Saint, has been an annual event for the last 19 years, this being the 20th. The parade itself is abundant in diversity, growing each year, uniting all communities. The event receives a huge amount of support before and on the day of the parade with hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators.”

Proposed road closure timings

  • Depart Varley Street at 12.00 – Arrive Varley Street 14.15
  • Varley St from Ridgeway St to Oldham Rd 09.00 – 16.00
  • Oldham Rd from Varley St to Grt Ancoats 12.00 – 14.30
  • GrtAncoats St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 12.45
  • (Hold Traffic) • Oldham St from Grt Ancoats to Piccadilly 12.30 – 14.00
  • Piccadilly from Oldham St to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
  • Newton St from Piccadilly to Grt Ancoats 12.30 – 14.00
  • Dale St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
  • Lever St from Dale to Great Ancoats Street 12.30 – 14.00
  • Great Ancoats St from Lever St to Oldham Rd 13.30 – 13.45
  • (Hold Traffic) • Oldham Rd from Grt Ancoats St to Butler St 12.30 – 14.00
  • Butler St from Oldham St to Bradford Rd 12.30 – 14.30
  • Bradford Rd from Butler St to Varley St 12.30 – 14.30

Police appeal following serious assault in Bramhall

Helen Greaney
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Police appeal following serious assault in Bramhall
Detectives are seeking the public’s help with enquires after a serious assault took place in a bar in Stockport.
Sometime around 12.40am on April 19, the victim, a man in his 20’s, was out with friends on Bramhall Lane South and was assaulted using glass causing serious injuries to his face.
Detective sergeant Kirsty Price, of Stockport CID said: “This is a serious assault and what looks to be an unprovoked attack on a young man. He is currently in hospital recovering from his serious injuries.
“We are really keen to speak to anyone who was around the area late last night who may have witnessed this assault, we have released CCTV images of two men (pictured) who we would like to speak to as they may be able to assist with our enquiries.
“We know the bar where the incident occurred was quite bust last night, so we know there may be people out there who witnessed the incident who are yet to come forward and speak to us.
“If you have any information, CCTV or mobile footage please come forward as speak to us as our investigative enquiries continue.
“Contact Stockport CID on 0161 856 9790, quoting incident number 172 of 19/4/25. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Street Eat festival returns to Rochdale in June

Helen Greaney
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Street Eat festival returns to Rochdale in June

Street Eat – the food and drink festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year – is returning to Rochdale Town Hall Square for another serving of food, drink, free entertainment and live music on Saturday, June 21.

Organised by Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID) during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, Street Eat brings together local food and drink establishments.

Visitors will have their taste buds tickled and thirsts quenched as well as enjoying lots of free live music. Tasty food from local restaurant chefs will be on the menu, with dozens of mouth-watering dishes served up including, Italian, Indian, English, American and more.

There will be free activities and rides for children, bars for the adults and a music stage serving up hours of fun for all ages.

BID manager Paul Ambrose who organises the event said Street Eat showcases the vibrant and high-quality food and drink the town has to offer as well as being a great day out: “It’s a fantastic event, giving us the opportunity to champion the very best local food and drink.

“Street Eat is always a great day, bringing friends and families together, celebrating our vibrant town centre eateries and showing what a foodie hotspot the town is. We do all we can to make the event as affordable as possible too and entry is free.”

The line-up of traders for this summer’s edition is yet to be confirmed but will include include Bombay Away, Vicolo Del Vino, The Flying Horse Hotel, The Baum, Masons Creations, Bank Top Farm, Treehouse Bar and many more.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “It’s great to see Street Eat returning during our year as town of culture and it will be fantastic to see the square come alive again with food, fun and community spirit!”

Ben Boothman, consultant to The Flying Horse Hotel added: “Our team loves this event and are looking forward to it returning. With traders serving up smaller portions it means you can sample dishes from different venues and experience amazing food on the menu served up here in the town centre. We’re pleased to be working alongside Rochdale BID again to celebrate the area’s great food and drink offer.”

The entertainment and music line-up will be announced in May.

 

 

New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre

Helen Greaney
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New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre
A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success of the existing Gorton Market.
The new square is located off Garratt Way between the market and Tesco superstore, which has seen the conversion of part of the underused car park into a people-first space for the whole community.

The square has been designed following consultation with local people and community groups to create a splash of colour, a multi-functional space with new trees and plants, plenty of seats and space to host events and activities for children. Aa relaxing space for local people and visitors to eat and spend time.

Key features include a flexible space that can host events and pop-up gatherings, a raised market terrace area with seating for people to relax and an upgraded, outdoor trading space for Gorton Market.

Visitors will benefit from a new nature area with significant planting to screen the square from Garratt Way and introduce biodiversity. There is also an imaginative interactive play features for young people with light projections to animate the space.

Improved and safer walking and cycling routes to and through the local area are also included.

The project was funded by the UK Government. The square was built by Warden Construction.

This investment is part of the wider ambition for Gorton, set out in the Development Framework for the neighbourhood, and complements other investment in the local area, including the opening of the Gorton Hub community space in 2022.

The longer-term regeneration proposals for this part of Gorton include hundreds of new mixed tenure homes housing, including significant affordable homes, that will be built on council-owned land overlooking the new square.

Council leader Bev Craig said:  “We are investing in our local communities across the city because we know how important Manchester’s high streets are to the people they serve. This isn’t just about accessing services easily – like health care and shops – this is also about creating pride in our local spaces and neighbourhoods our residents want to live in.

“We know that Manchester people want to live in welcoming, clean and green communities that support businesses, create jobs and provide opportunities for new affordable housing.

“This is what we’re doing in Gorton, Moston Lane, Withington high street and Wythenshawe town centre – and we have our sights set on other district centres, such as Newton Heath in north Manchester, for future investment that will continue our ongoing commitment to investing in the things our local communities want and need.”

Ian Williams, managing director at Warden Construction, said: “Warden Construction is incredibly proud to have played a key role in bringing this vibrant new public square to life for the people of Gorton.

“Seeing this underused space transformed into a welcoming heart for the community, one that complements the existing market and offers opportunities for connection and enjoyment for all ages, is truly rewarding. We believe this thoughtfully designed square will be a cornerstone of Gorton’s ongoing regeneration, and we look forward to seeing it thrive.”

Detective convicted of sexual offences is dismissed

Helen Greaney
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Detective convicted of sexual offences is dismissed
Greater Manchester Police have dismissed detective sergeant Richard Mills and barred him from policing at an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing.
Mills was sentenced to 18 months in prison after he was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault by a jury verdict in December last year.
The convictions involved two incidents of forceful sexual touching in 2016 and 2020. In both cases, Mills grabbed his co-worker’s hand and forced them to touch his genitals over his trousers.
His offending occurred when he was based in GMP’s Oldham District and in the Serious Crime Directorate at Nexus House.

Detectives within the Professional Standards Directorate began investigating Mills in 2016 following a report from a member of staff.

He later made inappropriate comments of a sexual nature in an open working environment within earshot of several colleagues, sparking numerous complaints.

Following this incident, 37 police officers or staff who worked alongside Mills, were asked for testimonies, and significant evidence was gathered to support criminal proceedings.

In addition to the offences Mills was convicted, there were numerous other allegations made against him that amounted to breaches of GMP’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Behaviour.

Detective superintendent David Jones said: “Our investigation into DS Mills uncovered alarming circumstances, whereby he preyed on women in the workplace who were simply just trying to do their jobs.

“Mills sexually assaulted his colleagues, made inappropriate remarks of a sexual nature, and acted in a disgraceful manner. He abused his position in the force and the trust of his colleagues for his own perverse gratification.

“Mill’s actions continue to have an adverse impact on many of our staff and officers who have been offered specialist support.

“Irrespective of Mills inevitably being dismissed, given he is rightly currently serving a prison sentence as a convicted sex offender, it was important we still hold these proceedings to ensure he is not only dismissed from GMP but also placed on the barred list. Mills will never work in law enforcement again.

“It is our hope today’s outcome provided closure to those who may have been seeking it, as well as reassurance that when allegations are raised, they will be thoroughly investigated and outcomes pursued.

“The actions of Mill’s are reprehensible, and there is no place for him in policing.

“We are committed to upholding the highest professional standards, and our dedicated team investigating internal matters are working tenaciously to root out offenders like Mills, who are interfering with the safety of our workplaces and unworthy of serving the public as part of Greater Manchester Police.”

University of Manchester ranks in top 5 universities for spinout generation

Helen Greaney
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University of Manchester ranks in top 5 universities for spinout generation

The University of Manchester has been ranked the fourth highest academic institution for the total number of spinout companies generated in the Spotlight on Spinouts 2025 report.

Between 2011 and January of this year, 114 spinout companies were tracked for The University of Manchester in data produced by the Royal Academy of Engineering and Beauhurst.

There has been a significant rise (32.6%) in the number of Manchester spinouts since the last report, jumping from 86 to 114. Eight additions were due to the revised HESA definition of what constitutes a spinout.

The University’s Technology Transfer Office, The University of Manchester Innovation Factory, has been at the forefront of spinout generation at the University, helping to bring ideas to life by licensing intellectual property (IP) and making an impact on industry.

Catherine Headley, CEO of the Innovation Factory, said: “With many years of experience delivering commercialisation from The University of Manchester’s research and intellectual property, we are proud to play a key role in the University’s impressive ranking as a top-tier institution for spinout generation.

“The Innovation Factory is excited to build on the success of the more than 100 existing spinout companies we have created from the University’s academic research, driving further innovation and impact for the region and beyond.”

The report highlighted how the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Oxford, Cambridge and London, the UK’s research and development (R&D) cluster, accounts for 27.7% of the total spinout population.

The University of Manchester fell just behind Imperial College London (132) for number of spinouts, with the University of Cambridge (175) and University of Oxford (225) taking the second and first spots respectively.

The report also highlighted the top sectors by number of spinouts, with pharmaceuticals (399), data provision and analysis (282) and electronics hardware (269) making up the top three. The highest emerging sectors in this report include artificial intelligence (214), software-as-a-service (180) and CleanTech (169).

In keeping with Manchester’s innovation drive, the University of Manchester recently established its new innovation capability, Unit M, to connect and catalyse the innovation ecosystem in Manchester and the wider region.

By making the University’s world-class research, innovation assets and talent more accessible to all, Unit M is attracting and growing innovation-intensive businesses in the region. It is designed to address all aspects of the innovation challenge – from R&D and innovation adoption through to talent and skills – creating an economy that creates good jobs, higher pay, and improved productivity, alongside supporting and nurturing spinout talent.

Professor Lou Cordwell OBE, CEO of Unit M, said: “The University of Manchester has long been the innovation engine of the city, making it no surprise that it has ranked so highly for spinout generation.

“This stellar track record has paved the way for Unit M to drive a more inclusive model of innovation-led growth, bridging the gap with other participants in the innovation economy. This outward facing ethos will make the innovation assets and talents of the University more accessible to all – enabling Manchester to fulfil its economic potential and supercharge growth both regionally and nationally.”

Sale Sharks signs new wellbeing partner

Helen Greaney
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Sale Sharks signs new wellbeing partner

Sale Sharks are delighted to announce Altius Healthcare as the club’s new official health and wellbeing partner. 

With six clinics based around Greater Manchester, Altius’s team of 20 staff, led by former Sharks’ physio Doug Jones (pictured right), delivers physiotherapy, massage, podiatry and wellness services to more than 1500 patients each month. 

The team provides a range of services to elite organisations including Honda UK and sporting teams including Manchester City and Red Bull Racing.  

They’ll now extend their services to Sharks’ staff and men’s, women’s and academy players, and support the club with its work in schools. 

As part of the partnership Altius will offer free lunchtime injury assessments and screening to pupils at secondary schools all over the North West. Altius will follow up in clinic with anyone who requires further treatment. 

And Altius will also work with the Sale Sharks Business Club, showcasing their services and providing massage chairs at networking events. 

Sharks’ commercial director Luisa d’Aprano (pictured left) said: “The health and wellbeing of our staff and players is vitally important to make sure we perform at our very best on and off the field. 

“Doug and the team at Altius are right at the top of their game and we’re excited to see what we can achieve as a team and as a club through this partnership. 

“We’re committed to working with and supporting northern business and making a difference in our community and Altius’s work with our partner schools will genuinely make a difference to the lives of young people.” 

Doug Jones said: “We are thrilled to be collaborating with our local Premiership Rugby team Sale Sharks this year.    

“Our mission is to offer the world class health care services that Sale Sharks enjoy to all our customers from elite athletes to corporate office workers, school children in the community and weekend warriors.”

Easter feasts: Is the ‘Creamosa’ a step too far?

Helen Greaney
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Easter feasts: Is the ‘Creamosa’ a step too far?

Levenshulme restaurant My Nawaab is adding a rather unusual offering to its menu this Easter.

Just when you think you’ve heard it all when it comes to Easter feasting, the team at My Nawaab might turn your head.

They’ve got an eggcellent idea for the bank holiday… the ‘Creamosa’ – or Cream Egg Samosa. It’s a fusion of the beloved South Asian staple and the UK’s favourite treat.

The limited-edition dessert will be available to diners exclusively from tomorrow until Easter Monday.

Only 200 of these indulgently sweet treats will be available, so are being dished out on a  come, first served basis.

Handcrafted in-house by head chef Shama Rahman and her team, the Cream Egg Samosa wraps the sweetness of a cream egg and chocolate ganache in a delicate homemade pastry shell, lightly fried until golden and topped with cinnamon sugar.

She says it’s the ultimate treat for those who enjoy a savoury and sweet combination.

“At My Nawaab, we love blending flavours and traditions in a way that brings joy to our guests,” she added. “This Easter, we wanted to have a bit of fun and create something totally unexpected – and what could be better than wrapping a cream egg in a samosa? It’s different, delicious, and gives our diners something new to try in fusion food.

“We are only serving up a limited number of the Creamosas each day and we expect them to be popular, so we would encourage people to get down early if they are keen to try one, so they don’t miss out.”

Eight years behind bars for man who threw acid at teenager’s face

Helen Greaney
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Eight years behind bars for man who threw acid at teenager’s face

A man has been jailed after throwing a corrosive substance over a 16-year-old boy during an attack in Stockport.

Gilson Martins (23) of Ashton Street, Rochdale, was sentenced to eight years, two months at Minshull Street Crown Court yesterday, having earlier pleaded guilty to robbery, possession of a corrosive substance, and witness intimidation.

The court heard how in March 2024, Martins (pictured) made plans to attack his teenage victim. He even produced the substance and demonstrated its effect to another man by pouring it on a piece of paper.

Hours later, an accomplice rang the victim and planned to meet him at an address in the Woodley area, leaving for the location with Martins.

Martins confronted his victim and an altercation broke out. Martins producing a bottle, which he threw over the male. He then fled the scene and emergency services soon arrived, with tests confirming that a corrosive substance had been used.

The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries and was later transferred to a specialist burns unit for intensive treatment. He has since undergone numerous treatments and procedures following the attack.

After a different man spoke to the police about the attack, Martins attended his home days, kicking his back door in and threatening to stab him, throw acid on him, and carve his name into the man.

While the man barricaded himself in his bedroom, Martins continued to make threats, knifing the bedroom door and leaving the blade behind. Police were called, with Martins leaving shortly before their arrival.

Martins was subsequently sought by police, and arrested by armed officers. Upon his arrest, he was discovered to be in possession of acid, being kept in a bottle of hair dye.

Detective constable Heather Parke said: “The effects of attacks involving corrosive substances are well-known, and can result in severe, life-changing injuries or even death.

“Using them in attacks is utterly vile and I am glad Martins is now behind bars for his vicious assault. His victim received injuries from which he is still suffering, and has already received numerous treatments.

“We have zero tolerance for these sort of crimes, and we put considerable resources into ensuring that Martins was arrested, charged, and sentenced. He now has a long time to think about his actions inside a prison cell.”

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