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Sajid Khan puts Pakistan on top against England

Jon Fisher
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Sajid Khan puts Pakistan on top against England

Sajid Khan impressed with bat and ball to put Pakistan in firm control of the second Test against England as they look to end a winless streak on home soil stretching back to February 2021.

Sajid took seven for 111 as England were dismissed for 291 in their first innings, a deficit of 75, before the hosts made 221 second time round – Sajid making a belligerent 22 from number 10.

That left Ben Stokes’ side chasing 297 to win the match and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the best-of-three series but they ended the day on 36 for two with both openers back in the pavilion.

England started the day on 239 for six but the match moved on quickly as the pitch finally started to take spin after resembling a road in the first Test last week, a match in which the tourists batted once and made 823 for seven declared.

There was never going to be a repeat of that when England lost a flurry of wickets late on day two and Sajid and fellow spinner Noman Ali met limited resistance as they ran through the tail on Thursday.

Sajid took three wickets to complete his seven-for with Noman snaring dangerman Jamie Smith for 21. Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir added a useful 29 for the final wicket with the former ending with an unbeaten 25.

Leach and Bashir then worked in tandem with the ball to take a combined seven for 133, although England would be frustrated they couldn’t finish Pakistan off earlier.

That was due largely to the efforts of Salman Agha and Sajid. Salman bashed a superb 63 off 89 balls with Sajid happy to prop up the other end.

Having reduced Pakistan to 156 for eight, England would have been looking to polish off the tail and chase down a victory target around the 240 mark. As it was, the pair put on 65 for the ninth wicket to give the hosts room to manoeuvre.

It also gave Pakistan momentum which they carried over into England’s second innings.

First innings centurion Ben Duckett lasted just two balls before an ungainly sweep off Sajid saw him top edge to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. And England were soon in trouble at 11 for two, Zak Crawley skipping down the track to Noman, getting nowhere near the pitch of the ball and having his bails whipped off by Rizwan.

Ollie Pope (21 not out) and Joe Root (12no) saw England through to the close but they face an uphill task if they are close out the series before the third Test in Rawalpindi next week.

Tom Stannard named new chief executive of Manchester City Council

Helen Greaney
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Tom Stannard named new chief executive of Manchester City Council

Manchester City Council has picked Tom Stannard as its new permanent chief executive to lead the delivery of the city’s strategy for the decade ahead.

He will become only the third chief executive to take the reins in more than a quarter of a century.

Tom, who was selected following a rigorous recruitment process, has been chief executive of 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.

He has more than 27 years of experience in local government including senior posts in Oldham, Wakefield, Blackburn with Darwen and London boroughs.

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

He is a chartered surveyor, chair of the UK Institute of Economic Development, Commissioner for the UK Living Wage Foundation and National Spokesman for Health and Social Care for SOLACE (The Society of Local Authority Chief Executives and Senior Managers.)

Tom (pictured) joins one of the best performing councils in the country at a crucial time as Manchester presses ahead with its ambition to be world-class city with top class services. It is also a pivotal moment for the council as it gears up to bring forward and oversee the delivery of the 2025-2035 Our Manchester Strategy, which will guide the city for the next 10 years.

Leader of Manchester City Council, Bev Craig (pictured) said: “This is a big job and we know the Chief Executive of Manchester is one of the most coveted positions in local government. That’s why I’m delighted that we’re appointing Tom Stannard – someone who shares our pride in the city and ambition to deliver for our residents.

“Tom was our unanimous choice in a highly competitive selection process. We were impressed by his energy and passion, his clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Manchester and his ideas for the future. He is already a well-known figure in Greater Manchester and beyond and we are confident that he will help us improve the city over the next decade.”

Tom said: “This is an exceptional role in an incredible city. I’ve spent a significant part of my career living and working in Greater Manchester and have a deep commitment to the city and its people. I’m eager to start work on the next chapter alongside Cllr Craig and all elected members.

“Manchester is a city which is competing on a global stage and successfully attracting investment, jobs and visitors and it’s important that we continue to maximise those strengths. Just as crucial is that the growth generated benefits the whole city, and I know that’s something the council is already working on and determined to achieve.

“While being unapologetically ambitious for the city’s global future, I won’t lose focus on the need to deliver excellent day-to-day services for Manchester people in the here and now.”

Tom is expected to join the council early in the New Year. Eamonn Boylan OBE will remain in post as interim chief executive until then.

People’s History Museum welcomes new director

Helen Greaney
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People’s History Museum welcomes new director

Clare Barlow has been announced as the new director for People’s History Museum (PHM) in Manchester.

She joins PHM from the Foundling Museum in London, where she was director of programmes and audiences.  She brings a wealth of experience and vision to the national museum of democracy, having worked at leading cultural institutions and museums including Science Museum, Wellcome Trust, Tate and the National Portrait Gallery.

In 2017, Clare curated the highly acclaimed exhibition Queer British Art, 1861-1967 at Tate Britain and in 2019 opened Being Human, a new permanent gallery at Wellcome Collection that was shortlisted for the Arts + Heritage award for Permanent Exhibition of the Year.

Bernard Donoghue, chair of People’s History Museum, said: “We are delighted to welcome Clare to People’s History Museum. She has incredible experience of programming ground-breaking exhibitions from roles at world class museums.

“In all of her work Clare’s values of inclusivity, social justice and providing platforms for unheard voices shine through, and fit seamlessly with PHM’s mission and vision.  We are excited that Clare is joining us in our quest to champion and explore the compelling stories of those seeking a fairer world for all and in the creation of the empowering experiences that PHM is renowned for.”

Clare said: “I fell in love with People’s History Museum on my first visit, seven years ago, and I’ve been back many times since to see their superb exhibitions and spectacular collections.  Every time I’ve visited, I’ve found something new with an incredible story, from Thomas Paine’s writing desk to the extraordinary collection of banners.

“I’ve been inspired by their work with community experts on LGBTQIA+ rights, disabled people’s rights and stories of migration, projects that have been beacons to the sector.  It’s an exciting time to be at the home of ideas worth fighting for and I’m delighted to be joining their amazing team and exploring with our audiences how we all can shape a fairer future together.”

It’s an important time for People’s History Museum, which has just completed a year long project to make the museum more accessible to visitors (Welcome Project at PHM) and is about to launch a new programme for schools.

Clare follows in the footsteps of Katy Ashton, who was director for 14 years during a period that saw the museum expand to its current location in Manchester’s Spinningfields, where it occupies a purpose built space combined with a Grade II listed Edwardian building.

People’s History Museum is open from 10am – 5pm, every day except Tuesdays. Entry is free, but visitors can make a donation.

Activity park to open at MediaCity after £2.5 million investment

Helen Greaney
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Activity park to open at MediaCity after £2.5 million investment

Oxygen Activeplay is opening its 10th indoor activity park in MediaCity this February.

Following a £2.5 million investment, the new park located at Quayside, will boast more than 30 trampolines, a mega-air bag and Oxygen’s signature Excite Tunnel – an illuminated, sensory experience, designed to get jumpers ready and raring to play.

Oxygen at MediaCity will sit above food hall Kargo MKT, taking over the 26,400 sq ft former site of I’m a Celebrity Jungle Challenge.

Oxygen at MediaCity will also be home to a high ropes course and a ‘Rollglider’ aerial ride, which will take guests flying over the park, with more activities to be revealed in the coming weeks.

The new park will create more than 50 new jobs for local people, including party hosts, bouncers and members of the management and food and beverage teams, with recruitment already underway.

The new ‘Hero Crew’ will lead optional games and activities during each session and Oxygen at MediaCity will also host Peaceful Play sessions, designed for neurodivergent guests, who prefer a calmer, quieter playing environment.

The park will also include a new food and beverage offer. The café, serving drinks, snacks and meals, will overlook the park, giving parents the chance to relax, while still keeping a watchful eye over children that are playing.

Oxygen at MediaCity will also house dedicated party rooms and areas, complete with personalised chairs for the birthday child. A new series of packages will help families celebrate in style, all of which include an Activeplay session, a designated party host and a selection of food and drinks.

Stephen Wilson, CEO at Oxygen Activeplay, said: “With Oxygen at MediaCity being our 10th park, we knew we had to do something really special, so we have some really big and exciting plans.

“We couldn’t think of a better home for the newest addition to the Oxygen Activeplay family, than at MediaCity. We’re starting the build very soon, we’ve already started recruiting for our new Hero Crew and the countdown is well and truly on for our opening in February.”

Ben Hey, asset director at Peel Retail & Leisure, said: “We’re really pleased to be welcoming Oxygen to Quayside MediaCity. There’s been a concerted effort over the past 12 months to start bringing more experiential and leisure offerings into the centre as part of the 2030 vision for MediaCity and Oxygen fits the bill perfectly. We have no doubt it will be a hit with the incredible number of families already visiting thanks to the likes of Kargo Mkt, Vue Cinema and The Lowry.”

Liam Payne dies following balcony fall in Argentina

Helen Greaney
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Liam Payne dies following balcony fall in Argentina

Popstar Liam Payne has died after falling from his hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, yesterday.

The 31-year-old of former global boyband One Direction, had been on holiday with his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, and had been in Argentina earlier that month to watch his friend, Niall Horan, in concert.

Liam fell from the third floor balcony at Casa Sur where he was staying in Palermo.

Emergency crews said they had initially responded to a 911 report from the hotel manager of an “aggressive man who may have been under the effects of drugs and alcohol”.

When they arrived at the hotel, emergency services found Liam in an interior courtyard with “very serious injuries incompatible with life”. An autopsy will take place.

Fans of the singer held a candlelit vigil at the hotel overnight.

Rise to fame

Payne rose to fame in 2010, while competing in the The X Factor. He was placed in a band with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson.

They went on to become one of the world’s most famous boybands, selling more than 70 million records worldwide.

Liam enjoyed some solo success with his solo singles Strip That Down and Both Ways, following the band’s split.

He had a son, Bear, with former Girls Aloud singer Cheryl Tweedy, in 2017.

Tributes

Many celebrities have expressed their sadness on social media this morning, including Liam Gallagher who wrote on X, “Life is precious kids and you only get to do it ONCE, go easy LGx”.

Singer Olly Murrs, who appeared on The X Factor the year before Liam, said he was “lost for words” after describing the death as “devastating”.

England stunned by Pakistan in second Test

Mitch Fretton
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England stunned by Pakistan in second Test

Pakistan fought back to leave England fighting for their lives in the second Test thanks to some incredible spin bowling.

The match had seemed to be going England’s way, with the tourists appearing set to easily surpass Pakistan’s first-innings total of 366.

However, as the day neared its end. the spinners found some form, changing the game’s direction.

By stumps, England had collapsed to 225 for six, still trailing by 127 runs.

At one point, England appeared comfortable at 210 for two after 41 overs, but within just four overs, they slumped to 225 for six.

In the first two Tests of the series, England have amassed 1,034 runs for the loss of only nine wickets in 191 overs.

But in a stunning reversal, they lost four wickets for just 14 runs in three overs during this match.

Joe Root was the first to go, falling victim to a ball that ricocheted off his bat and foot before striking the stumps.

Duckett, having scored an impressive 114 from 129 balls, attempted to drive Sajid Khan and edged to Salman Agha at slip.

Five balls later, Sajid bowled a delivery that spun past Harry Brook’s bat, knocking into the stumps.

Ben Stokes followed soon after, while Jamie Smith and Brydon Carse managed to survive the remaining eight overs, enduring intense pressure from the Pakistani bowlers.

Before the collapse, Duckett recorded his fourth Test century, and it was the eighth-fastest by an England opener.

Khan’s spell for Pakistan was devastating, particularly when he bowled Brook, one of four wickets he claimed.

His turn and control disrupted England’s rhythm, and it was only after Crawley’s dismissal that Pakistan began to find some control over the pace of England’s scoring.

Speaking after the match, Ben Duckett said: “We kind of knew what the pitch was going to do.

“If we’d batted on that yesterday and there was only one seamer and it wasn’t spinning a great deal, things would have been very different. It’s only going to get harder, I think.

“We’re in a position now where tomorrow morning’s massive.

“We need to try to win that first session, then we’ll be in a good position in the game. I’d be very surprised if it didn’t just continue to spin more and more. Certainly that fourth innings is going to be a bit tricky.”

How Online Casino Bonuses Work: A Guide to Boosting Your Gaming Experience

Helen Greaney
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How Online Casino Bonuses Work: A Guide to Boosting Your Gaming Experience

Online casinos have revolutionised the world of gaming by offering players the opportunity to enjoy their favorite games anytime, anywhere. One of the biggest attractions in the online casino space is the range of casino bonuses available to players. These bonuses offer a way to enhance gameplay, and extend playtime. However, understanding how online casino bonuses work is essential to making the most of them. In this guide, we break down the different types of bonuses available and how players can use them to their advantage.

Types of Online Casino Bonuses

Online casinos offer a variety of bonuses to attract new players and reward loyal customers. Here are the most common types:

1. Welcome Bonuses

One of the most popular types of bonuses is the Welcome Bonus, offered to new players when they sign up and make their first deposit. These bonuses typically come in the form of a match deposit bonus, where the casino matches the player’s deposit up to a certain percentage. For example, a 100% match bonus on a £100 deposit would give the player an extra £100 in bonus funds to play with.

Expert Tip: Always check the terms of the bonus, including maximum bonus amounts and wagering requirements, which we will explain further below.

2. No Deposit Bonuses

A No Deposit Bonus is another highly attractive offer, allowing players to receive bonus funds or free spins without needing to make a deposit. This type of bonus is perfect for beginners or those wanting to try out a new casino without financial commitment.

While no deposit bonuses give players a chance to win real money without risking their own, they often come with strict terms, including higher wagering requirements and lower withdrawal limits.

3. Free Spins Bonuses

Many online casinos offer Free Spins bonuses, especially alongside new slot game releases. Free spins allow players to spin the reels without using their own funds, and any winnings from these spins are often added to the player’s bonus balance.

Some free spins are tied to specific games, while others can be used across a range of slot titles. Be sure to check the eligible games and any wagering requirements that apply to winnings from free spins.

Did you know?: You can find out more about free spins bonuses that do not require a deposit by clicking here.

4. Reload Bonuses

For regular players, online casinos offer Reload Bonuses, which are bonuses available when players make subsequent deposits after their initial one. These are often smaller than welcome bonuses but still provide an excellent opportunity to boost your bankroll.

Reload bonuses are frequently tied to special promotions, such as weekly or monthly offers, and are a great way to keep playing with extra funds.

5. Cashback Bonuses

Cashback Bonuses are designed to give players a portion of their losses back over a certain period. This bonus typically returns a percentage of the money lost during gameplay, offering a second chance to win without additional deposits.

For example, a casino might offer a 10% cashback bonus on losses incurred over the previous week. These bonuses often have fewer wagering requirements, making them an attractive option for players looking to recoup some of their losses.

Understanding Wagering Requirements

One of the most critical elements to understand when accepting any online casino bonus is the wagering requirement. Wagering requirements dictate how many times a player must wager their bonus (and sometimes deposit) before they can withdraw any winnings.

For example, if a player receives a £100 bonus with a 20x wagering requirement, they must bet £2,000 (£100 x 20) before any winnings from that bonus can be withdrawn. These requirements vary between casinos, so it’s essential to check the terms and conditions before opting in for a bonus.

Low vs. High Wagering Requirements

  • Low wagering requirements (e.g., 20x) are more favorable to players, as they make it easier to withdraw winnings.
  • High wagering requirements (e.g., 50x or more) can be challenging to meet, so players should be cautious when claiming such bonuses.

Other Important Bonus Terms to Consider

When deciding to claim an online casino bonus, there are a few other important terms and conditions players should review to ensure they are making an informed decision:

  • Game Restrictions: Some bonuses are limited to certain games. For instance, free spins might only be available for specific slot titles, and bonus funds may not apply to live dealer games or progressive jackpots.
  • Expiration Dates: Most bonuses have a time limit within which the wagering requirements must be met. Bonuses that expire quickly might not be ideal if you don’t plan to play regularly.
  • Maximum Bet Limits: Casinos often impose a maximum bet limit when playing with bonus funds. Exceeding this limit could void your bonus and any associated winnings, so always check the rules.
  • Withdrawal Limits: Some bonuses may cap the amount of winnings you can withdraw, especially with no deposit bonuses or free spins. Be sure to review these limits to avoid disappointment when trying to cash out.

Making the Most of Casino Bonuses

While casino bonuses provide players with more opportunities to win, the key to maximising their potential is to choose the right bonus for your gaming style and to fully understand the terms and conditions.

Tips for Success:

  • Read the Fine Print: Before claiming any bonus, carefully read the terms and conditions to ensure you understand the wagering requirements, eligible games, and any restrictions.
  • Start with No Deposit Bonuses: If you’re new to online casinos, start with a no deposit bonus to explore the platform without risk.
  • Focus on Low Wagering Requirements: Bonuses with low wagering requirements give you the best chance of turning bonus funds into withdrawable cash.

Conclusion: Boost Your Gaming Experience with the Right Bonus

Online casino bonuses are a fantastic way to extend your playtime, explore new games, and increase your chances of winning. By understanding how different bonuses work and paying close attention to the terms and conditions, players can make the most of these offers and enjoy a thrilling, rewarding casino experience.

Whether you’re a new player looking to take advantage of a welcome bonus or a seasoned player claiming reload and cashback offers, online casino bonuses can significantly enhance your gaming journey when used wisely.

How to Spot a Legitimate Online Bingo Site: A Player’s Guide to Security and Fair Play

Helen Greaney
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How to Spot a Legitimate Online Bingo Site: A Player’s Guide to Security and Fair Play

As online bingo continues to grow in popularity, so does the number of bingo platforms available to players.

With hundreds of sites to choose from, it can be difficult to distinguish the trustworthy, secure platforms from those that may not offer the best player protections. For those looking to enjoy bingo online while staying safe, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spot a legitimate online bingo site and ensure a secure gaming experience.

1. Licensing and Regulation: The First Line of Defense

The most important factor in determining whether an online bingo site is legitimate is licensing and regulation. A reputable online bingo site will be licensed by a respected regulatory authority, ensuring that the platform adheres to strict standards of security, fair play, and player protection. Some of the most trustworthy licensing bodies include:

  • UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
  • Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
  • Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner

A legitimate bingo site will display its license information clearly at the bottom of its homepage. Players should also verify the license by checking directly on the regulatory authority’s website.

2. SSL Encryption: Keeping Your Personal Data Safe

Any legitimate online bingo site should use SSL encryption to protect sensitive player data, such as personal information and payment details. SSL (Secure Socket Layer) technology encrypts the data exchanged between a player’s browser and the bingo site, preventing hackers from intercepting or stealing it.

Before entering any personal information, ensure the website URL starts with https rather than http, and look for a small padlock icon next to the address bar. This is a sign that the website is encrypted and secure.

3. Random Number Generators (RNGs): Ensuring Fair Play

A crucial aspect of legitimate online bingo sites is the use of Random Number Generators (RNGs). RNGs ensure that each number drawn in a bingo game is completely random, guaranteeing fair play for all participants.

Reputable bingo sites will have their RNGs tested and certified by independent third-party auditors like eCOGRA or iTech Labs, ensuring the game outcomes are truly random and unbiased. Players can often find these certifications in the site’s “fair play” or “about us” sections.

4. Clear Terms and Conditions: Transparency is Key

A legitimate bingo site will provide clear and transparent terms and conditions regarding gameplay, bonuses, withdrawals, and any other relevant policies. Hidden or vague terms could be a red flag, especially when it comes to promotions like no deposit bonuses or free spins.

Before signing up or accepting a bonus, players should always read through the terms and conditions to ensure they understand the rules, including any wagering requirements that might apply to bonus funds.

5. Payment Options: Reliable and Secure Banking

Trusted online bingo sites will offer a range of secure and reputable payment methods for deposits and withdrawals. These may include:

  • Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)
  • E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller)
  • Prepaid Cards (Paysafecard)
  • Bank Transfers

Legitimate sites will also provide detailed information on deposit and withdrawal times, any fees that may apply, and how to contact support if there are any issues with payments.

6. Strong Customer Support: Responsive and Helpful

A legitimate online bingo site will offer reliable customer support that is available to players when they need assistance. Whether through live chat, email, or phone support, a responsive and helpful customer service team is essential.

Look for sites that offer 24/7 customer support, as this is a sign that the platform is serious about player satisfaction. It’s also a good idea to test the support before signing up by asking a few questions and evaluating how quickly and effectively the team responds.

7. Player Reviews and Reputation: What Other Players Are Saying

Another great way to spot a legitimate online bingo site is by checking its reputation within the player community. Player reviews and feedback on bingo forums, social media, and review sites can provide valuable insight into a platform’s reliability, fairness, and customer service.

A site with consistently positive feedback from real players is a good indicator of its legitimacy. Conversely, numerous negative reviews, especially related to issues like delayed withdrawals or poor customer support, should serve as a warning sign.

8. Responsible Gambling Tools: Protecting Player Well-Being

Legitimate online bingo sites are committed to responsible gambling and offer tools that help players maintain control over their spending and gameplay. These tools may include:

  • Deposit limits
  • Time limits
  • Self-exclusion options
  • Reality checks (reminders of time spent playing)

Sites that take responsible gambling seriously will prominently feature links to organizations like GamCare, BeGambleAware, and GamStop. These resources provide support for players who may need help managing their gambling habits.

Conclusion: Enjoying Bingo Online Safely and Securely

With the growing number of online bingo platforms, it’s essential for players to choose sites that are licensed, secure, and committed to fair play. By following this guide, players can confidently spot legitimate bingo sites and enjoy their gaming experience without worrying about security risks or unfair practices.

When players choose the right platform, online bingo can offer endless entertainment, exciting promotions, and the chance to connect with a vibrant online community – all within a safe and trusted environment.

For recommendations on trustworthy online bingo sites and to learn more about how to find these sites for yourself, click here.

Manchester CEO Sleepout: Public urged to tackle city’s soaring homelessness problem

Helen Greaney
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Manchester CEO Sleepout: Public urged to tackle city’s soaring homelessness problem

A mega annual charity sleepout is taking place to help combat Manchester’s soaring homelessness problem.

CEO Sleepout hopes to raise around £50,000 at the October 28 fundraising event, held at the Emirates Old Trafford County Cricket Ground.

Funds raised will directly benefit local causes tackling the growing number of people ‘on the brink’ of homelessness throughout the city.

One charity CEO Sleepout supports, Only a Pavement Away, has revealed demand for its services has surged by 20 per cent in the past year – with a noticeable increase in the number of older people, families, and former prisoners using the service.

Additionally, a Freedom of Information request by CEO Sleepout found that, on average, seven households per day were placed in temporary accommodation in Manchester last year.

Given the scale of the issues, CEO Sleepout’s Bianca Robinson has urged the public to either donate or, even better, brave the cold to take part in the sleepout.

She said: “This will be the eighth Manchester CEO Sleepout, but given the current climate, it may just be the most important to date.

“The cost-of-living crisis has left more families than ever on the brink of homelessness with many unable to afford rising rent or mortgage payments, while many are struggling to afford food and heating.

“So we are calling on those who can to play their part. Just one night can change local lives forever, and the money raised from the Manchester CEO Sleepout will go towards helping some of the most vulnerable people in the city.”

Having launched just over a decade ago, CEO Sleepout has since raised more than £4.5m nationally – and over £420,000 in Manchester alone –  to support over 200 good causes across Britain.

Participants are asked to try and either raise or donate £1,000 each at the Manchester CEO Sleepout, and so far, almost 40 of the city’s business leaders have signed up for a night under the stars.

And this year’s event comes after the charity launched a major campaign – called ‘Nobody is Safe’ – in the city.

Aimed at highlighting the growing number of teachers, emergency service, and NHS workers living on the breadline, the charity teamed up with Manchester United legend Lou Macari – who runs a homeless shelter in Stoke – to reinforce why it is vital homelessness charities continue to be funded.

“The sad reality is nobody is safe anymore. We have nurses feeding their children with food banks and far too many people in careers that once offered guaranteed security now live in fear of losing everything,” added Bianca.

“Manchester’s business community can help though and everybody who signs up will make a big difference. We are hoping that this could be the most successful sleepout to date, but we need you to make that possible.

“And it isn’t just the business community. Anybody who signs up or simply donates – be it £5 or £500, everything makes a huge difference.”

For more information on how to sign up or donate, visit CEO Sleepout Manchester 28th October 2024

SUDU and Sported team up to make running more accessible in the North West

Helen Greaney
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SUDU and Sported team up to make running more accessible in the North West

Manchester sportswear brand, SUDU and charity, Sported have launched a joint initiative called Project Fair Play.

Sported  uses sport and physical activity to help young people overcome barriers to reach their potential.

But of the 3,000 clubs Sported currently supports, only 50 focus on running so the new project aims to transform community sport by making running accessible and inclusive for young people across Greater Manchester.

Through the partnership, SUDU will work with Sported to fund one Deep Impact Grant to support one of Sorted’s exisiting Manchester grassroots clubs, and alongside this, seek out more running groups to support.

Vinny Clark, CEO of Levy Merchandising (which SUDU sits within) said: “Our goal is not only to help build communities, but to champion mental health and wellbeing and to create a safe space for young people. We hope we can empower dreams to take flight by providing much needed tools, equipment, insights and more.

“If you’re part of a community group with running at its heart, we want to hear from you! As part of phase one of the project we will be providing a number of £1,000 grants to running groups in the North West actively addressing three out of five of the below societal issues outlined by Sported.”

  • Making running accessible to everyone
  • Fostering community cohesion
  • Endorsing health and wellbeing
  • Addressing inequality in sports participation
  • Reducing crime and anti-social behaviour

In year one, it is hoped the project will enable at least 1,000 young people to participate in running with grants that can be used to pay for the likes of venue hire, participant/activity costs, coaching costs, volunteer expenses or equipment.

Mark Woods, head of marketing at Sported, said: “Opening the doors to more young people to take up running is one way to address inequalities in participation as well as improving physical and mental wellbeing. When the SUDU team first approached us to discuss what they’d like to achieve, it was clear they’d be a well-suited partner with Fair Play a core value that’s been ingrained in SUDU from day one as a Levy brand.

“We share the same goals – they’re all about inclusivity, diversity and giving everyone a fair chance in life. Through this programme, we can make a real difference and we’re excited about what we can achieve working together.”

Complimentary to the project’s grant programme rollout and to ensure its effectiveness, SUDU will also work with Sported to commission and fund research investigating the disparity between running and other sports in how it generates a positive social impact.

The funding allocated to this research will enable the development of a comprehensive plan to address these gaps and enhance accessibility for all running groups across North West England and beyond.

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