Hope Gallagher

Charlotte Crane, a 51-year-old former marathon runner from Northampton, developed severe mobility problems after radiofrequency ablation surgery in September 2025. Already living with fibromyalgia, she now experiences constant pain, cannot stand or walk for long and requires a wheelchair full-time, while doctors investigate abnormal X-ray results. Supported by her husband, children and friends, she is fundraising to repair a second-hand Flying Start racing wheelchair and buy specialist equipment so she can resume exercise and enter a race next year.

The Food Standards Agency is investigating a Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak that has caused 207 confirmed cases across the UK, with one death, two bloodstream infections and more than a third of patients hospitalized. Investigators have identified a possible link to eggs imported from outside the UK, particularly those used by restaurants and catering businesses, but say there is no evidence that UK-produced eggs are affected. Thorough cooking and hygienic handling remain advised, while vulnerable groups are urged to eat runny or raw eggs only when they carry the British Lion mark or meet the Laid in Britain assurance scheme.

Smoke from ongoing moorland fires near Dovestone, Swineshaw and Tintwistle infiltrated Tameside Hospital, leaving patients suffering from breathing difficulties, heat and severe headaches as windows and air conditioning were shut to limit smoke exposure during a heatwave. A patient with COPD reported worsening symptoms and concern for vulnerable newborns on lower floors. The hospital trust said it follows Health Security Agency wildfire guidance to protect patient health.

A Manchester Metropolitan University student was mistakenly informed by email that she had failed her final year and could not graduate, prompting significant distress just days before her ceremony. Hundreds of students from the School of Education and Manchester Fashion Institute received the same incorrect message, which appeared personalised and led many to believe they had genuinely failed. The university issued a correction and apology minutes later, followed by messages from tutors, though some students felt the apology was insufficient. The student, who had secured a teaching job in Dubai and was preparing to move, described the emotional impact of the error. She and the others ultimately graduated as planned, with the university confirming the mistake affected only specific faculties and that all impacted students were eligible to attend the ceremonies.

Emergency services cordoned off part of Middleton town centre after a man, understood to be wanted by police, climbed onto a roof. Greater Manchester Police, fire crews, ambulance teams and specialist units responded, blocking nearby roads and diverting buses. Additional officers with shields later arrived as the situation continued. Authorities asked the public for patience while the incident was managed.

A woman said she was refused entry to Gourmet Burger Kitchen at the Trafford Centre after failing to present physical ID proving she was over 18, despite only wanting food and no alcohol. Her TikTok video about the incident went viral. The restaurant said its licensing rules require guests to be over 18 unless accompanied by an adult and that only original physical ID is accepted under its Check 25 policy. It acknowledged the frustration but said staff were following legal requirements and noted she found another place to eat.

A man who killed his mother after learning from her that his father had died was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order after medical evidence showed he had undiagnosed mental health issues. Strong forensic and CCTV evidence placed Simon Carter at the scene, leading to his conviction for manslaughter by diminished responsibility. Police described the investigation as extensive, while the victim’s family paid tribute to her character. Carter will remain detained under the Mental Health Act.

A man from Glossop recounts how his father, Glyn Smith, was initially diagnosed with a chest infection before tests revealed terminal lung cancer, leaving him with six to twelve months to live. After declining health and extensive treatment, Glyn died in 2016 at age 66, cared for in Willow Wood Hospice. To mark the tenth anniversary of his father’s death and raise funds for the hospice, his son Darell will walk the 268‑mile Pennine Way with his dog, aiming to support others receiving end‑of‑life care.

Alex’s Bakery has closed its Deansgate location after six years ahead of relocating to a new site just down the street. The business, known for its sweet treats and popular afternoon tea, shared a nostalgic message thanking customers and reflecting on challenges and successes, including lockdown periods. The new unit will reopen on Wednesday, with the team expressing excitement for the next chapter.

Parents report delays at UK airports as liquid-filled NeeDoh and similar squishy toys trigger security scanners, prompting embarrassment for travellers and concern among officials. Manchester Airport advises placing larger toys in hold luggage due to unclear liquid volumes, while councils warn of unsafe counterfeit versions after large seizures at Heathrow and in Scotland.

Students at Manchester Metropolitan University received an erroneous email saying they had failed to earn sufficient credits to graduate, prompting widespread panic days before scheduled ceremonies. A correction and apology were issued about 20 minutes later, followed by a text message confirming their eligibility to graduate. The university stated that the mistake affected only the Manchester Fashion Institute and the School of Education and assured that all impacted students would graduate as planned on July 20.