Isobel Forbes

Residents remain concerned about the derelict former Withins pub in Breightmet, citing trespassing, unsecured access, rubbish and the risk of injury to young and homeless people entering the building. Bolton Council says it owns the freehold but that a third-party leaseholder is responsible for the property’s security, condition and management. The council has used building safety and building control powers to reduce immediate public risk and says the costs will be recovered from the leaseholder. Councillor Sean Fielding and local resident Katrina Oldham have called for stronger action and potential community use of the site.

The Vulcan Inn in Walkden has reopened after a £170,000 refurbishment funded by licensees Jo Mullineux and Gary Ingham with support from Admiral Taverns. Improvements include a refreshed interior and exterior, upgraded bar and games areas, a new darts board, 24 televisions with sports coverage, and a beer garden seating up to 70 people. The long-serving licensees plan to build on the pub’s community role through live music, darts, quiz nights, fundraising and charity events. The venue also offers premium drinks, wines and signature cocktails.

Greater Manchester Police officers from the Farnworth Neighbourhood Team spotted a suspicious red Honda motorcycle while on patrol and confirmed it had been reported stolen. The vehicle was seized and reunited with its owner. Bolton Police urged residents to report suspicious activity through the appropriate channels, using 999 for emergencies.

Edgworth resident Lynda Dunlevy spent more than £1,000 on taxis to visit her husband in hospital before his death after finding there was no reliable bus connection to Bolton. She and other residents say poor services are isolating older and younger people and undermining their independence. A petition for a restored bus route was rejected because local transport decisions are not Parliament’s responsibility, while Blackburn with Darwen Council says a service previously estimated to cost £120,000 a year is unaffordable. Transport for Greater Manchester says it is working with neighboring authorities to improve connections between the regions.

Manchester Airport passengers faced delays on Friday, August 14, with departures averaging about 25 minutes late and arrivals about 10 minutes late. Several European services were delayed by 30 to 125 minutes, including a Ryanair flight to Copenhagen delayed by 125 minutes, while a Loganair service to Kirkwall was cancelled. Passengers were advised to check with their airline before travelling because departure times could change.

Manchester Airport passengers face cancellations and delays on August 6. Virgin Atlantic’s 9:15 a.m. Orlando flight was cancelled, as were SunExpress services to Bodrum and Antalya. TUI’s Cancun flight was delayed by 7 hours and 42 minutes, while Ryanair’s Murcia flight was 1 hour and 25 minutes late and another Virgin Atlantic Orlando service was delayed by 50 minutes. Numerous other departures were running about 25 minutes late, and the cause of the disruption had not been confirmed. Passengers were advised to check directly with their airlines before travelling.

Coronation Street cast and crew filmed courtroom scenes at Le Mans Crescent and Bolton Crown Court, which are standing in for Weatherfield. Tina O'Brien, Alison King, Lucy Fallon, Vicky Myers, Sam Robertson and Jack Shepherd were among those seen filming scenes connected to Sarah Platt's trial for the murder of Theo Silverton. The storyline follows Sarah's killing of Theo, her attempted cover-up with Gary Windass, and her eventual confessions and arrest. ITV has not confirmed the episode details, but the location shoot indicates that the trial will be a major upcoming plotline.

A 23-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were arrested in Horwich after police responding to a disturbance allegedly encountered a dog being used to help evade detention. Both were arrested on suspicion of attempted Section 18 assault and resisting arrest; the man was also arrested for failing to appear in court. The dog was seized, and both suspects remained in custody while the investigation continued.

St Peter's Way in Bolton was temporarily closed by police during the morning rush hour after a welfare concern, with two fire engines and police vehicles attending. The incident caused significant congestion across Bolton, worsened by emergency repairs closing lanes on the nearby M61. Greater Manchester Police said the person was safe and the incident had concluded. The route fully reopened by midday, traffic returned to normal, and no injuries were reported.

Ali Shoukat Nasri, 36, was found severely decomposed in his Great Lever flat on April 17, after possibly lying dead for up to nine months. A post-mortem could not establish the cause of death, and Assistant Coroner Ceri Owen recorded an open conclusion. Investigators found no evidence of suspicious circumstances or third-party involvement. Medical evidence suggested heavy alcohol use, poor nutrition and possible vomiting before death, while Nasri had a history of depression, PTSD, emotional instability and self-harm linked partly to trauma from Afghanistan.

Bolton's Thai and international Buddhist communities gathered at Wat Srirattanaram Monastery in Kearsley for Asalha Puja Day and a Buddhist Lent candle-offering ceremony. The event included alms-giving, communal lunch, blessings, singing, dancing and a decorated candle procession. Organisers explained that the candles symbolise wisdom and support for Buddhism, while flowers represent life's impermanence; the celebration also helps Thai people living abroad maintain and pass on their cultural traditions.

The Arch Company Properties Limited has submitted plans to Bolton Council to demolish derelict commercial buildings beneath the disused railway viaduct at Arches 45–53A on Turner Street, while retaining the viaduct. The buildings are reportedly in poor condition, with collapsed sections, damaged roofs, waste and vegetation creating safety, security and maintenance concerns. Proposed works include controlled mechanical demolition, recycling of materials where possible, waste clearance, new fencing and secure gates. No redevelopment or tree removal is proposed, and work could run from August 10 to September 18 if planning permission is granted.

New plans have been submitted to Bolton Council detailing fencing, railings and other boundary treatments for phase five of Bellway’s Bowlands Hey development off The Fairways in Westhoughton. The phase has permission for 183 homes, including 64 affordable properties, after the Planning Inspectorate overturned the council’s 2022 refusal on appeal. The proposed treatments must address privacy, landscape integration, railway noise and protection from stray golf balls near Westhoughton Golf Club. The council will decide whether the details satisfy the conditions attached to the planning permission.

Emergency services responded to a collision on Cemetery Road in Farnworth at around 1:55 p.m. on July 28, after a white Ford ended up resting on top of a parked vehicle and another blue vehicle appeared to be involved. Three fire engines and an enhanced rescue unit attended, made the area safe and assisted one casualty. The circumstances of the crash had not been confirmed.

Blenheim Road in Breightmet will close from July 20 to July 29 under a temporary order approved by Bolton Council to enable essential electricity works. Motorists are advised to plan extra travel time and follow diversion routes, with the council noting that closures protect workers and road users. Dates may change depending on weather or delays, and the works are part of wider temporary restrictions across the borough.

Wat Sriratanaram, a Thai Buddhist monastery in Kearsley, offers a peaceful environment featuring prayer halls, Buddha statues, gardens and grazing sheep. Head monk Ajahn PK describes its development since 2006 and its role as a welcoming community hub offering meditation sessions, language classes and events. Supported by volunteers and donations, recent improvements include a new access road and a widely noted Walk for Peace. The monastery will host its annual Buddhist Lent candle procession on July 26, continuing its mission of promoting peace, mindfulness and cultural connection.

Police launched a murder investigation after a 75‑year‑old man was found dead at a property on Ormrod Street in Bolton. A 49‑year‑old woman was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. Crime scene investigators cordoned off parts of Hargreaves House, and the victim’s next of kin have been notified. Detective Inspector Louise Kelly expressed condolences and urged the public to provide information or footage through official channels, including GMP’s portal, 101, Live Chat, or Crimestoppers.

Free ice creams funded by Our Bolton NHS Charity were distributed to patients and staff at Royal Bolton Hospital to help them cope with hot weather and offer a morale boost. Recipients expressed appreciation, and hospital leadership noted that small gestures can significantly improve comfort during challenging conditions. The initiative reflects the charity’s broader support for projects that enhance patient and staff experience beyond standard NHS provisions.

A Bolton mother won the £10,000 rollover Derian House Lottery prize, linking the win to her late sister who had worked at the hospice. She plans to use the money to buy a high‑quality cello to support her daughter’s studies at the Royal College of Music and hopes to afford a family holiday. The hospice celebrated the win, noting the emotional significance of her long‑standing support for the charity.

Harrisons Estate Agents raised more than £8,800 for Bolton Hospice through a series of charity events, including a fancy-dress pub crawl that contributed over £578. Staff and supporters participated in multiple activities as part of an ongoing fundraising campaign, with donations continuing in the final weeks. Funds will support hospice care for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

A 700‑metre stretch of the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal at Nob End in Little Lever has reopened temporarily following major repairs linked to the Creams Mill development by Watson Homes. The works address a long‑unrepaired 1936 breach, with full restoration expected to reach a major milestone in 2027. The reopening allows residents to view ongoing engineering efforts ahead of further closures later in the year. Restoration advocates, including the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal Society, welcomed the progress, and a guided walk and community events will mark the breach’s 90th anniversary.

Three well-known broadcasters from Bolton—Vernon Kay, Clive Myrie and Sara Cox—appear in the BBC’s latest list of highest-paid on‑air presenters, all earning above £320,000. Vernon Kay ranks joint fourth with more than £405,000, while Myrie and Cox fall within the £320,000 to £324,999 band. The article highlights broader trends in BBC presenter pay, including reductions in high‑end salaries over recent years and comments from the deputy director‑general emphasising financial pressures and efforts to balance talent retention with cost control. A full ranking of top‑earning BBC presenters for 2025/26 is provided.

Greater Manchester Police arrested 14 people during targeted operations across Manchester city centre, focusing on locations such as Chinatown and Piccadilly Gardens. Most arrests were linked to drug offences, with additional actions taken for public order issues, noise complaints and stop searches. Project Servator teams contributed six arrests, including wanted individuals identified through live facial recognition technology. Officers emphasized ongoing patrols, community engagement and the importance of public vigilance in maintaining safety.

A proposal submitted by InstaVolt seeks approval to install two rapid electric vehicle charging stations at the McDonald's and China Garden site on Derby Street in Bolton. The plan includes associated electrical equipment and is intended to support demand for public EV infrastructure, using electricity from renewable sources. The submission argues alignment with national and local policies promoting sustainable transport. Bolton Council will review the application.

Bolton Council rejected Cornerstone’s proposal to install a 22.5‑metre mobile phone mast on Harrowby Street in Farnworth, concluding that its height and appearance would harm the area’s character. Planning officers determined that the visual impact outweighed the benefits of improved mobile coverage, leading to formal refusal under local planning policies.

Two Bolton community leaders, Tunde Olasupo and Khadija Patel, have been selected to receive British Citizen Awards at a ceremony at the Palace of Westminster. Olasupo is honoured for his work supporting vulnerable young people through his organisation Believe Achieve, while Patel is recognised for empowering girls through the KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club. The event will include a formal ceremony followed by a celebratory bus tour, marking the awards’ continuing mission to recognise individuals who strengthen communities across the UK.

A Salford taxi driver, Khalafalla Yagoub, received an 11‑year prison sentence with a five‑year extended licence after being convicted of raping a vulnerable 19‑year‑old passenger he picked up in Manchester. The victim realised what happened after Yagoub later described the encounter, leading her to report the assault. Police arrested him at the airport as he attempted to leave the country. The court noted his lack of remorse during proceedings. Authorities issued details of local support services available to survivors of sexual assault.

Plans to revitalise two locations along the Bolton and Bury Canal are progressing, with Groundwork Greater Manchester and the Manchester Bolton & Bury Canal Society inviting residents to shape designs featuring heritage‑inspired seating, planting and interpretation features. Early concepts draw on the canal’s industrial history and aim to highlight wildlife and past events such as the 1936 Great Breach. Initial funding from Bolton CVS has supported community consultation, guided walks and draft designs, while further investment is being sought from grant providers and local businesses. Events and surveys throughout July offer residents additional opportunities to contribute as partners pursue a long‑term vision to restore and celebrate the historic canal.

Kevan Naughton is retiring after 15 years as headteacher of The Valley Community School in Bolton, where he led the school to an Outstanding Ofsted rating and promoted inclusive education. His leadership is credited with improving facilities, supporting other schools in the region, and fostering a strong community-focused culture that colleagues and families say will continue to influence the school.

Halshaw Moor FC celebrates 20 years of growth, community involvement, and long-term player development while pursuing a permanent home in Farnworth and expanding its youth and community programs. The club highlights strong bonds among players, families, and volunteers, with support from sponsor MSB Consult. Discussions with Bolton Council aim to secure a long-term site as the club recruits new players and coaches to shape its future.

A Bolton animal charity will hold its first family fun day on July 19 at the Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel to raise funds for homeless animals. The event will feature a dog show, parade, fashion show, children’s activities, stalls and a raffle, with proceeds supporting the shelter’s work caring for dogs and cats. Local businesses and residents are encouraged to participate or attend to help boost fundraising efforts.

A renewed planning application proposes replacing existing outbuildings with a detached home on garden land east of Chorley Road in Blackrod. A prior bid was rejected due to concerns over loss of mature trees, and the new submission includes an arboricultural assessment indicating only two low-quality trees would be removed, with replacement planting and protective measures planned. The applicant argues the site meets national “grey belt” criteria, contributes modestly to Bolton’s housing supply, sits in a sustainable location and lies outside flood‑risk areas.

George Almond, a former Greater Manchester fire chief, has published Fire Engineering Science, a comprehensive textbook designed for advanced Institution of Fire Engineers examinations. The book covers core technical subjects relevant to fire engineering and builds on Almond’s earlier educational work, including his longstanding handbook used for Level 3 exams. His career highlights include serving as the brigade’s longest‑serving chief, receiving multiple honours and contributing internationally through consultancy. Almond has also played a major role in regional charitable efforts, particularly through Emmaus, where he helped establish and expand homelessness support communities across the North West.

An inquest concluded that Adam James Cheetham died from acute cardiac failure caused by underlying heart disease, with unsupervised testosterone use contributing to cardiac changes. Family members described him as a devoted father and hardworking businessman with a passion for travel, cars and fitness. Medical evidence showed significant heart enlargement, coronary artery disease and fluid on the lungs, while police confirmed no suspicious circumstances. The coroner recorded a narrative conclusion attributing his death to natural disease processes combined with unprescribed testosterone use.

A two‑bedroom apartment in the Grade II listed former Bolton County Grammar School has been listed for online auction with a guide price of £55,000 to £75,000. Converted into residential flats in 2001, the property features high ceilings, large windows and a mezzanine level reflecting its original classroom layout. The listing highlights its distinctive character within one of Bolton’s notable historic buildings and is available through Zoopla and Auction Agent.

Bolton Council rejected plans to convert a former Chinese takeaway in Kearsley into a five‑bedroom HMO, citing poor living standards, inadequate communal space and a harmful dormer extension. Officers noted issues with bedroom outlook, privacy and natural light, and concluded the revised proposal failed to address earlier recommendations. Residents had raised concerns about parking, noise and anti‑social behaviour, though the council found no evidence of HMO overconcentration. Planning permission was ultimately refused due to insufficient accommodation quality and negative impact on the building’s appearance.

Overnight maintenance will close the A666 St Peters Way between the M61 and Topp Way from 10pm Saturday to 7am Sunday, with additional closures planned in July, September and October. Signed diversions via Farnworth and Manchester Road will be in place, and drivers are urged to allow extra travel time. The work aims to maintain road conditions and ensure user safety.

A Grade II listed two‑bedroom cottage in Bolton’s historic Firwood Fold has been placed up for auction with a guide price of £195,000. The listing highlights the hamlet’s heritage as the birthplace of Samuel Crompton and its significance in the development of the textile industry. The property features period elements, views over The Bunk reservoir and surrounding woodland, and was recently used as a filming location. It is being marketed by Cardwells and listed on Zoopla within the Firwood Fold conservation area.

An uninsured motorbike collided with a police vehicle on Market Street in Farnworth while officers were responding to an unrelated incident. The rider was taken to Salford Royal Hospital with minor injuries and later discharged, and the motorbike was seized. The rider will be reported for driving offences. Several emergency vehicles attended the scene, which is part of a road that has seen multiple significant collisions since 2023.

A developer has submitted detailed plans to build six detached family homes on Green Belt land in Lostock following earlier approval in principle from Bolton Council. The proposal outlines a cul-de-sac of three‑storey properties with private gardens, garages and off‑street parking, along with noise‑mitigation measures due to the site’s proximity to the M61. The homes would meet national space and accessibility standards, and potential environmental features include EV charging points, solar panels and heat pumps. Bolton Council will decide whether to grant technical details consent for the development.

A homemade cat crossing sign has appeared near Pleasant View in Tockholes, prompting amusement and support from locals. Photographer Henry Lisowski shared an image of the unofficial traffic warning, intended to encourage drivers to slow down near cottages where cars frequently turn. The sign highlights residents’ concerns for a well‑liked cat and follows broader trends of similar signs across the UK. Recent government guidance has made it easier for councils to install wildlife warning signs, though mainly for species like hedgehogs.

Bolton Council approved a non‑material amendment to an existing planning permission for Green Fold School, allowing boundary fencing to be repositioned and built to a different specification. Planning officers found the changes minor and without additional impact on nearby homes, requiring no new public consultation. The update supports ongoing redevelopment that includes a planned extension, parking improvements and enhanced security measures, with previous approvals covering a glazed canopy and wider upgrades.

A retrospective planning application seeks approval for converting the ground floor of a building on Egerton Street in Farnworth into three studio apartments already in use. Planning documents state the flats meet space standards, require only internal changes, and offer access to local services and public transport. Assessments found the building structurally sound and suitable for residential conversion. Although a previous application was refused, the applicant argues residential use is established due to existing first‑floor apartments. Bolton Council will review and decide the application.

Aldi is introducing a budget-friendly summer holiday range on July 9, featuring returning favourites like the Pull Along Picnic Cooler and affordable beach accessories, clothing and family items. Prices start at £2.99, including swimwear, kites, speakers, beach shelters and character-themed products. The supermarket advises early shopping as many seasonal items are expected to sell out quickly.

A new 24-hour McDonald's restaurant has opened on Cutacre Avenue in Bolton’s Bridgewater development, creating around 70 jobs. Operated by franchisee Lance Flor, the site features updated layouts, technology upgrades and enhanced customer and staff facilities. It joins other eateries at Logistics North, including a Greggs drive-thru, and aims to expand staffing in the future.

Ricordi Italian Restaurant in Horwich has reopened and regained strong customer support after an electricity account transfer issue left it without power, forcing the owner to discard more than £5,000 of stock and cancel bookings. Following intervention from The Bolton News, supplier E.ON Next restored power, allowing the business to recover, with weekends now often fully booked. Owner Giancarlo Bucale plans legal action over financial losses while continuing to focus on the restaurant’s recent success.

Three women were sentenced at Manchester Crown Court for a series of thefts and robberies targeting vulnerable women across Greater Manchester, including stealing an antique bracelet from a 97‑year‑old victim. The offenders, who carried out multiple distraction thefts and attempted robberies between October 2025 and January 2026, received prison terms ranging from 28 to 38 months. Greater Manchester Police emphasised their commitment to tackling such crimes and encouraged the public to report suspicious activity.

Bolton Council plans to install a replacement elephant‑topped bollard outside Bolton Market after the original disappeared, leaving behind a damaged stump. The loss prompted concern among residents and heritage supporters due to the elephant’s longstanding symbolism for the town. Photographer Henry Lisowski first noticed the disappearance, while councillor Linda Thomas welcomed the move to restore the feature. The fate of the original cast‑iron elephant remains unknown.