Kevin Fitzpatrick

Gamekeepers from the Stalybridge Estate and surrounding areas contributed more than 2,000 hours to help Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service tackle moorland fires above Greater Manchester. Their knowledge of the terrain, access routes and natural firebreaks was described as invaluable. Although the major incident has been stood down, fire remains beneath the surface and firefighters continue monitoring and containing potential spread. The response involved a multi-agency effort, with support from landowners, local residents, the Regional Moorland Group, Oldham Mountain Rescue Team and other organizations.

Bev Craig has won the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election for Labour, taking 47% of first-preference votes and 66% after second preferences. Her victory provides significant relief for Labour after recent setbacks in the region, including the Greens' win in Gorton and Denton and Reform UK's strong performance in the local elections. Craig's experience as Manchester council leader and deputy mayor, together with Labour's control of regional devolution funding, helped give her a detailed policy platform. She has pledged to expand free bus travel to 11- to 18-year-olds, build 50,000 homes over 15 years, support high-street businesses with a £20m grants fund and promote economic growth in Greater Manchester's outer towns. Reform UK finished second, the Greens third, followed by Restore Britain, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and an independent candidate. Craig now has two years to establish her own record before standing for re-election.