Manchester

Claire Foy and Matthew Macfadyen have been cast to star in a new BBC and Starz television adaptation of David Nicholls' novel 'You Are Here'. The series will be written by Nicholls himself and directed by Lenny Abrahamson, known for 'Normal People'. Foy will play Marnie and Macfadyen will play Michael, two characters who embark on a long walk after a friend's unexpected introduction, leading to an unlooked-for relationship. Filming is set to take place in the Lake District and around Manchester. The project is described as an intimate yet epic romantic comedy with real emotion, produced by Element Pictures. No release date has been announced yet.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 30, 10:07 AM UTC

Hammerson, the FTSE 250 property company, has purchased a 50% stake in the Manchester Arndale shopping centre for £218 million. This marks the firm's first major external acquisition in over a year, as it expands its UK retail real estate footprint. The Manchester Arndale is one of the UK's largest shopping centres, and the deal underscores Hammerson's confidence in the retail property sector, particularly in Manchester. The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the company's presence in a key regional market.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 30, 08:00 AM UTC

Manchester City is undergoing a major transition as legendary manager Pep Guardiola has left the club after a highly successful tenure, with Enzo Maresca appointed as the new coach. Guardiola announced he is taking a break from coaching, leading to emotional farewells from players like Bernardo Silva. Meanwhile, key midfielder Rodri is set to undergo back surgery, and Maresca has stated he counts on the player despite rumors linking him to Real Madrid. The club also faces legal action against Enrique Riquelme over Haaland recruitment promises. On the pitch, Arsenal clinched the Premier League title after City drew with Bournemouth, ending a 22-year drought for the Gunners. Guardiola reportedly expressed anger over the timing of the leak about his departure.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 05:14 PM UTC

Hg, a private equity firm, has made a growth investment in Manchester-based Street Group, valuing the company at over £200 million. Street Group provides vertical software and artificial intelligence tools specifically designed for UK estate and letting agents. The investment underscores the growing interest in proptech and AI-driven solutions within the UK real estate sector. The deal was reported by PE Hub, a source focused on private equity news.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:35 AM UTC

As 14 Indian boxers prepare for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Mohammed Ali Qamar, the first Indian boxer to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal (Manchester 2002), reflects on his historic achievement. The 46-year-old from Kolkata recalls his 48kg final bout against Britain's Darren Langley, where he rallied from a five-point deficit to win 27-25 using a trick learned from Cuban boxers. Qamar contrasts the limited support he received—training in Patiala with one physio shared across sports—with the extensive preparation modern Indian boxers enjoy, including camps in Ireland. He praises experienced women boxers like Lovlina Borgohain and Jaismine Lamboria, and men such as Sachin Siwach and Narender Berwal, expressing optimism for India's performance in Glasgow.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:02 PM UTC

Manchester City, the English Premier League club owned by Abu Dhabi and managed by Pep Guardiola since 2016, is undergoing major changes. Guardiola has announced he will leave the club at the end of the season, marking the end of a highly successful era with 20 trophies. Midfielder Rodri, recently crowned world champion with Spain, reportedly dreams of joining Real Madrid, though the Spanish club's interest is not mutual. Manchester City is also pursuing legal action against Enrique Riquelme for allegedly promising to recruit Erling Haaland to Real Madrid. The club, founded in 1894 and nicknamed the Cityzens or Skyblues, has eight English league titles and was a Champions League finalist in 2021. Guardiola's departure has prompted emotional farewells from players including Bernardo Silva, and the manager plans to take a break from coaching.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:37 AM UTC

Former rugby players Ed Jackson and Olly Barkley founded Vapoura Rum during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to create a category-leading British rum that rivals Caribbean products. Unlike competitors who buy bulk liquid abroad, they control the entire production process from yeast strain to molasses sourcing. The brand targets a contemporary, progressive image through events and music, including working with DJs and releasing an album. Vapoura plans to expand beyond London and the South West to northern UK cities like Manchester and Birmingham, and test export markets in 2028. The founders are seeking investment to hire senior management and step back from day-to-day operations, while continuing premiumization with limited-edition runs like Chapter 3 in partnership with luxury English brands.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 07:34 AM UTC

This opinion article by Alys Denby, published in City AM, criticizes new UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham's first speech for relying on what she calls 'tired socialist talking points' against Thatcherism and neoliberalism. Denby argues that Burnham's pledge to undo 'four decades of neoliberalism' overlooks his own time in the Cabinet and that Britain's stagnation is due to too little capitalism, not too much. She contends that nationalization would harm the economy, citing Manchester's growth as a success of private investment and services-led employment. The piece concludes by warning that Burnham risks repeating past mistakes rather than building a better future.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 03:09 PM UTC

This opinion article by Sam Dumitriu, head of policy at Britain Remade, argues that Mayor Sadiq Khan's draft London Plan is not ambitious enough to address the city's severe housing crisis. London's housing is the least affordable in Britain, with prices ten times incomes. The plan sets a target of 88,000 new homes per year, but the author notes London last built over 60,000 homes in the 1930s and currently builds far fewer. The article compares London unfavorably to Tokyo, Auckland, and Manchester, which have successfully boosted housing supply through policy changes. While acknowledging some positive moves—such as revising rules on golf courses, opening some Green Belt land, and modestly relaxing Strategic Industrial Location (SIL) restrictions—the author argues these are insufficient. The main critique is that the plan fails to lift major burdens on development, including high affordable housing mandates and assessment requirements. The piece concludes by suggesting that if Khan will not plan for London to meet its housing target, the government should intervene.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 10:00 AM UTC

This sponsored article from LabourList, written by Clarion Housing Group, welcomes Andy Burnham as the new Prime Minister and urges him to partner with housing associations to address the UK housing crisis. It references Burnham's recent speech calling Britain a 'housing trap' and his pledge for the biggest council housebuilding programme since WWII. Clarion highlights its partnership with Burnham in Manchester on the Boddingtons brewery redevelopment, which will provide the first new social rent homes in the city centre in 40 years. The article notes the Labour government's £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme but warns against a slow start due to high waiting lists and rising private rents. Clarion positions itself as a strategic partner with a pipeline of over 22,800 homes, including a proposed garden community of 7,750 homes in Tendring. It calls for long-term certainty, flexibility, and treating housing associations as strategic partners from the outset.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 05:00 AM UTC

This sponsored article from Clarion Housing, published on LabourList, welcomes Andy Burnham as he enters Downing Street as Prime Minister. It highlights his previous pledge to launch the biggest council housebuilding programme since the post-war period and his collaboration with Clarion on the regeneration of the former Boddingtons factory site in Manchester, which will provide the first new social rent homes in the city centre in 40 years. The piece argues that good homes are foundational to national health, strong communities, and rising living standards. Clarion positions itself as a strategic partner, noting its delivery of a third of all new affordable homes in London and its pipeline of over 22,800 homes. It calls on the new government to provide long-term certainty, flexibility, and to treat housing associations as key partners to address the housing crisis.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 05:00 AM UTC

Sean Carrington, a 36-year-old roofer from Wigan, went viral after getting a £550 tattoo declaring England the 2026 World Cup winners before the tournament ended. He got the ink after England's Round of 32 victory over DR Congo, convinced Thomas Tuchel's side would win. However, England lost to Argentina in the semi-final, dashing his hopes. Taking the embarrassment in stride, Carrington joked he would add 'just kidding' to the tattoo. To soften the blow, Hotel Football in Manchester, co-founded by Gary Neville and the Class of '92, invited him and a friend for a complimentary overnight stay, including VIP viewing of England's final match. The hotel's marketing director said they wanted to give him something to smile about after his tattoo became one of the tournament's stories.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 08:56 AM UTC

A 36-year-old England fan named Sean Carrington from Wigan, Greater Manchester, got a large World Cup trophy tattoo costing £550 after England defeated the Democratic Republic of Congo. The tattoo reads 'England 2026 World Cup Champions.' However, after England's semi-final loss to Argentina on Wednesday night, Carrington now plans to modify the tattoo by adding the words 'just kidding' below it. He watched the match at a fan zone in Manchester, where the atmosphere turned from optimistic to gloomy after England's late defeat. Carrington says he has no regrets about the tattoo and is glad he abandoned an earlier plan to tattoo 'Football's Coming Home' on his chest.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:30 PM UTC

RB Leipzig has signed a six-year catering contract with Munich-based Levy Europe, replacing long-time partner Gastrobüro for the 2026-27 season. The new caterer, which operates at major venues including the Uber Arena in Berlin, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and Wimbledon, will introduce AI-supported self-checkout systems that have reduced waiting times by up to 60% at other locations. Levy focuses on sustainability, including fermented banana smoothies to minimize food waste and promote gut health. The club emphasized that fan matchday survey insights were incorporated into the selection process. RB Leipzig plans extensive investments in infrastructure and digital processes, though specific details remain undisclosed. The beer offering from Ur-Krostitzer remains unchanged through 2030. Club boss Johann Plenge stated Levy convinced the club through a multi-stage selection process.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:00 AM UTC

Andy Burnham is set to become Prime Minister of Britain after winning a by-election and securing the Labour Party leadership unopposed. The article analyzes his political background, his success as Mayor of Manchester where GDP growth reached 3.1% annually, and the significant challenges he faces. These include a fragmented party system, a stagnant national economy, and the need to balance progressive policies with fiscal discipline. Burnham plans to nationalize certain privatized services, invest in the NHS and social housing, and replicate his Manchester model nationwide. The piece notes the cynical press coverage of his rise but argues he represents a competent progressive leader in a time of political instability.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:00 PM UTC

Andy Burnham is set to become Prime Minister of Britain after a decisive by-election win and near-unanimous nomination by Labour MPs. The former mayor of Greater Manchester, known for his practical left-wing approach, oversaw Manchester's GDP growth of 3.1% annually, far outpacing the UK average. He plans to nationalize his Manchester model, including deprivatizing bus systems and investing in the NHS, social housing, and economic development. However, he faces significant challenges: a fragmented party system, a stagnant economy, and the need to balance progressive spending with fiscal discipline. Burnham must also navigate Brexit-related trade issues and a deteriorating global economy. The article, from The American Prospect, offers a cautiously optimistic analysis of his prospects.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:00 PM UTC

The article reviews Ai Weiwei's exhibition 'Button Up!' at Manchester's Aviva Studios, highlighting his status as a Chinese contemporary artist and activist who has criticized the Chinese Communist Party, leading to imprisonment, house arrest, and exile. The show features large-scale works including a replica cell where Ai re-enacted 24 hours of his 81-day detention, a giant Lego mural 'History of Bombs', a chandelier made of glass body parts, a giant inflatable dinghy addressing the refugee crisis, and house-sized flags made of buttons representing nations that invaded China in 1900. Critics praise Ai's courage and risk-taking but note his work lacks nuance, with heavy-handed symbolism and superficial effects. The exhibition runs until 6 September.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:47 AM UTC

The article reviews Ai Weiwei's new exhibition 'Button Up!' at Manchester's Aviva Studios, highlighting the Chinese artist-activist's re-enactment of 24 hours of his 81-day detention in a replica cell. Critics acknowledge Ai's extraordinary courage and risk as a critic of the Chinese Communist Party, but express disappointment with the exhibition's execution. The show features large-scale works including a 3.5-million-Lego-brick mural 'History of Bombs', a chandelier made from 2,000 glass body-part pieces, a giant inflatable dinghy addressing the refugee crisis, and house-sized flags sewn from buttons representing nations that invaded China in 1900. While some critics find the scale effective, others criticize the heavy-handed symbolism and lack of nuance, with one reviewer stating 'meaningful politics seems to escape Ai Weiwei. So does meaningful art.' The exhibition runs until 6 September.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:47 AM UTC

The article reviews Ai Weiwei's exhibition 'Button Up!' at Manchester's Aviva Studios, highlighting the Chinese dissident artist's re-enactment of 24 hours from his 81-day detention in a replica cell. Critics acknowledge Ai's extraordinary courage and risk-taking as a critic of the Chinese Communist Party, but express disappointment with the show's execution. The exhibition features massive works including a 3.5-million-Lego-brick mural 'History of Bombs', a chandelier made from 2,000 glass body parts, a giant inflatable dinghy filled with lifejacketed figures addressing the refugee crisis, and house-sized flags sewn from buttons representing the eight-nation alliance that invaded China in 1900. While some pieces are praised for their scale and impact, multiple reviewers criticize the heavy-handed symbolism, lack of nuance, and superficial political messaging. The Telegraph reviewer concludes that 'meaningful politics seems to escape Ai Weiwei. So does meaningful art.'

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:47 AM UTC

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has successfully stabilized the club following the controversial dismissal of Ruben Amorim in January 2026. Initially appointed as an interim manager, Carrick exceeded expectations by securing impressive victories against title contenders Manchester City and Arsenal, propelling United to a third-place finish in the Premier League. This performance marks a significant improvement from the previous season's 15th-place standing. While the executive board, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe, faced initial criticism for breaking promises to Amorim, Carrick’s ability to unify the dressing room and deliver results has largely silenced dissent. However, challenges remain as fans raise their standards. Recent draws against teams like Leeds United and Bournemouth have exposed tactical deficiencies, particularly in breaking down defensive low blocks. As the season concludes, Carrick faces the task of addressing these strategic gaps during the summer break to ensure sustained competitiveness. The article highlights the transition from crisis management to higher expectations, emphasizing the need for tactical evolution to maintain momentum heading into the next campaign.

1 reports · 1 sources

British heavyweight boxer Fabio Wardley has officially activated his contractual rematch clause following an 11th-round stoppage loss to Daniel Dubois in Manchester. Dubois recovered from two early knockdowns to win the WBO heavyweight title, marking Wardley’s first professional defeat. Promoter Frank Warren confirmed the clause, setting the stage for a high-profile domestic rivalry. While no specific date is set, the rematch is anticipated before the end of 2026. Wardley expressed determination to correct his mistakes and reclaim the championship belt in this significant upcoming bout.

9 reports · 5 sources · Updated May 15, 09:32 PM UTC

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is seeking Labour Party approval to contest the Makerfield by-election, a strategic move to return to Parliament and potentially challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the party leadership. Endorsed by Wes Streeting, Burnham’s bid faces significant hurdles from the surging Reform UK party in this traditionally safe Labour seat. The outcome is viewed as a critical test of Labour’s resilience and internal unity, with potential implications for the UK’s political landscape and market stability depending on whether Burnham succeeds or fails in this high-stakes gamble.

121 reports · 27 sources · Updated Jun 23, 07:39 AM UTC

UK government borrowing costs have surged to their highest levels since 1998, with 30-year gilt yields exceeding 5.8%, driven by intense political instability following poor local election results for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour Party. Facing resignation calls from dozens of MPs, Starmer’s weakened position has triggered market volatility as investors fear a leadership change could lead to looser fiscal policies and increased spending. This financial strain, compounded by global inflation and rising oil prices, threatens the UK’s fiscal stability and underscores the severe economic consequences of domestic political uncertainty.

19 reports · 10 sources · Updated May 18, 08:27 AM UTC

Bareknuckle Boxing (BKB) returns to the AO Arena in Manchester, England, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, for its BKB 54 event. The main attraction features Super Welterweight Champion Rolando Dy defending his 154-pound title against former WBA Welterweight Champion Paulie Malignaggi. Dy expressed confidence in his preparation, stating that fighting is his passion and promising to finish Malignaggi to provide for his family. The event card also includes other significant bouts, such as Javon Wright challenging for the welterweight title against Dan Gittens, and a Super Lightweight championship fight between Kallum Skhane and Estevan Partida. Fans can watch the ceremonial weigh-ins and final press conference via embedded videos. The live broadcast will be available on VICE TV, talkSPORT, and Telemudo Deportes Ahora. This article serves as a preview of the upcoming fights, highlighting key competitors and providing context for the championship matches scheduled for the weekend.

1 reports · 1 sources

Manchester City has officially confirmed that United States Women's National Team (USWNT) midfielder Sam Coffey underwent minor knee surgery earlier this week. The announcement marks the beginning of her rehabilitation process under the supervision of the club's medical team. This recovery period is aimed at preparing Coffey for the upcoming 2026/27 season, which holds significant importance as Manchester City returns to European football competition. During the recently concluded season, Coffey made ten appearances for the club, contributing to their successful campaign that resulted in them being crowned Women's Super League (WSL) Champions. The surgery is described as minor, suggesting a standard recovery timeline rather than a long-term absence. This update provides clarity on the player's fitness status ahead of the new campaign, ensuring fans and stakeholders are informed about her availability for future matches. The confirmation comes from the club directly, highlighting the transparency regarding player health and squad planning for the forthcoming domestic and European fixtures.

1 reports · 1 sources

Amidst concerns of a potential leadership crisis within the UK's Labour Party, political commentator and former advisor Matthew Torbitt suggests that Prime Minister Keir Starmer is likely to retain his position in the short term. Torbitt highlights that Labour's internal rules make removing a sitting leader difficult, requiring any challenger to secure the backing of at least 81 Members of Parliament. This high threshold means that mere dissatisfaction among MPs is insufficient for a successful coup; opponents must unite behind a credible alternative. According to Torbitt, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham represents the most significant threat to Starmer, described as the favorite among Labour members across all factions due to his electoral popularity. However, Burnham faces a structural barrier to leadership: as he is not currently an MP, he would need to win a by-election to re-enter Parliament before launching a serious bid for the party leadership. The analysis underscores the stability of Starmer's position despite underlying tensions, while identifying Burnham as the key figure to watch in any future leadership contest.

1 reports · 1 sources

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confronts a severe leadership crisis following disastrous local election results, where Labour lost over 1,400 council seats. More than 70 Labour MPs and senior cabinet ministers have publicly demanded his resignation or an orderly transition timeline. Despite Starmer’s refusal to step down, citing risks of political chaos, internal dissent is escalating into factional conflict over potential successors like Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner. This turmoil highlights deep fractures within the governing party and raises significant concerns about national political stability and future electoral viability.

77 reports · 41 sources · Updated May 18, 09:55 AM UTC

British singer Olly Murs emotionally completed his five-day 'Into The Unknown' challenge for Soccer Aid, crossing the finish line at London Stadium after covering 249 miles through running, cycling, and rowing from Manchester to London. The 42-year-old raised £832,003 for UNICEF, surpassing his initial expectations and marking the organization's 20th anniversary. Murs described the final leg of the journey as painful but rewarding, thanking donors for their support which he credited for keeping him motivated. The challenge faced difficulties, including torrential rain and route changes due to a fire. Following this achievement, Murs is scheduled to play for Team England in the upcoming Soccer Aid match on May 31 alongside celebrities like Tom Hiddleston and Wayne Rooney. A documentary chronicling his endurance feat will air on ITV later in May. Murs emphasized the global impact of the funds on children's lives, particularly those displaced by conflict, following his recent visit to a UNICEF hub in Romania.

1 reports · 1 sources

Financial markets in the United Kingdom experienced significant volatility, with the British pound slumping and government bond yields rising, amid growing fears of a leadership challenge within the Labour Party. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is set to contest a by-election in Makerfield, a strategic move that strengthens his bid to replace Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Investors are increasingly concerned that a potential Burnham-led government would adopt left-leaning policies, including substantial additional borrowing for housing and infrastructure, thereby challenging the country's fiscal discipline. This shift has introduced an elevated political risk premium to UK assets. The market reaction follows poor performance by the ruling Labour Party in recent local elections and critical comments from US President Donald Trump regarding Starmer's handling of immigration and energy. Polling data and prediction markets currently favor Burnham over Starmer, intensifying uncertainty. Analysts warn that worsening fiscal credibility and the prospect of higher spending could further depress sterling and increase gilt yields, marking a decisive potential shift in the UK's economic and political landscape.

1 reports · 1 sources

British heavyweight boxer Fabio Wardley has officially activated the rematch clause in his contract following his defeat by Daniel Dubois for the WBO heavyweight world championship. The initial bout, described by promoter Frank Warren as the best heavyweight fight he has ever organized, took place in Manchester. Although Wardley knocked Dubois down twice in the early rounds, he ultimately lost via an 11th-round stoppage, allowing Dubois to become a two-time world champion. Wardley, who suffered facial injuries but did not require hospitalization, stated his intention to correct the errors made during the first fight. He expressed strong motivation to reclaim his title, declaring, "I'm coming for you… and my belt!" The rematch is anticipated to occur later in 2026. This development sets the stage for another high-profile encounter between the two British rivals, with Wardley aiming to avenge his loss and restore his status as the WBO champion.

1 reports · 1 sources