Ruby Watson

Hive Homes and Bury Council are progressing with Scholar’s Park, a 90-home development on the former Riverside High School site in Radcliffe. Construction of 57 homes has been signed off, while electric vehicle charging points have been installed at parking spaces serving 65 properties. The scheme includes 22 affordable homes and 68 for open-market sale, supported by £882,000 in brownfield funding and a £246,000 Section 106 contribution to local community facilities. The development forms part of wider Radcliffe regeneration plans, alongside a new high school and Radcliffe Hub scheduled to open in 2026.

Prestwich sandwich shop The Butty Club will close for just over two weeks from Saturday, August 8, allowing owners Michelle and Kelly to take a summer break with their families. The café on Bury New Road is scheduled to reopen on Monday, August 24. The business serves breakfasts, sandwiches, wraps, salads, hot hoagies, soups, barms and paninis, and also offers low-calorie meal-preparation services, protein boxes, overnight oats and protein cheesecakes.

The Little Luxe Soft Play Centre in Bury has received a five-star food hygiene rating following a recent inspection. Founded by sisters Tasha Dixon and Paris Gardner in May, the centre caters particularly to younger children and those with sensory needs, offering interactive play areas, a multi-sensory room, a café and spaces for parties. The owners said they plan to develop the venue as a wellbeing-focused community space for new mothers, nurseries and childminders.

Heaton Park Astronomy Group will host a free public viewing of a partial solar eclipse near The Stables Café on August 12. The eclipse is expected to reach about 91–92% coverage in Greater Manchester, with viewing scheduled from 6:13pm to 8:04pm. Visitors will be offered eclipse glasses, solar binoculars and telescopes, while experts warn that the Sun must not be viewed directly or through unfiltered optical equipment because of the risk of permanent eye damage. Visibility will depend on weather, and coverage across the UK will range from 90% to 96%.

The Community Security Trust recorded 49 antisemitic incidents in Bury during the first half of 2026, making it Greater Manchester’s third-highest local authority area after Manchester and Salford. Greater Manchester recorded 222 incidents, a 14% increase from the same period in 2025, while the UK total reached 1,926. CST said antisemitic incidents have stabilised since the 7 October 2023 Hamas attacks at a substantially higher level than before. The figures follow a deadly synagogue attack in Manchester and the sentencing of Mohammad Asim Bashir to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 17 years, for preparing acts of terrorism.

Bury Council refused a retrospective application to retain a 1.5-metre fence at a property on Beeston Grove in Whitefield, requiring the family to remove it. Officials said the fence was out of character with the area and seriously reduced visibility at the junction of Beeston Grove and Harlech Avenue, creating highway-safety risks, particularly near a school. Four residents objected, while one supported the fence on security grounds. The council said privacy and security could be achieved through an alternative boundary or hedge.

Residents on Rufford Drive in Whitefield whose tickets matched postcode M45 8PD won £1,000 in the Postcode Lottery's daily draw. The subscription lottery awards daily prizes across 20 postcodes and contributes money to charities and local community projects.

Pennine Vets in Tottington is warning dog owners that car sickness can appear through subtle symptoms such as lip licking, yawning, panting, restlessness, drooling, whining, refusal to enter the car or withdrawal, not only vomiting. Younger dogs are particularly susceptible, although motion sickness and travel anxiety can affect dogs of any age. The practice recommends gradually introducing short car journeys, ensuring ventilation, avoiding large meals before travel and using familiar bedding or toys; veterinary treatment may also be appropriate.

The Official World Black Pudding Throwing Championship will return to Bridge Street in Ramsbottom on Sunday, September 13, 2026, running from 11am to 6pm. The annual event, held since 1984, features black pudding throwing, entertainment, food stalls and fairground rides, with proceeds donated to charity. Contestants throw weighted black puddings at Yorkshire puddings from a designated platform, and the event attracts participants and visitors from around the world. Chadwicks Black Puddings supplies the black puddings, while Aunt Bessies provides the Yorkshire puddings.

Kirklees Valley Wildlife Rescue will host a charity coffee morning at the Tottington Centre on Sunday, August 2, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will offer homemade cakes, coffee and tea, with proceeds supporting the rescue and rehabilitation of sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs, foxes, birds and other wildlife across Greater Manchester.

Pamela Gwinnett, 63, was arrested by Greater Manchester Police at Manchester Airport after returning from Tenerife on a Ryanair flight. She had been convicted in her absence of fraud by abuse of position and theft after taking just over £296,000 from Joan Green, an elderly woman for whom she acted as an unofficial carer. Gwinnett allegedly isolated Green, obtained power of attorney, manipulated her finances and continued using a joint account after the power of attorney was suspended. She fled to Tenerife after breaching bail conditions and was previously arrested by Spanish authorities. She is due to appear at Preston Crown Court over failing to appear, and has been ordered to pay £350,180 under a confiscation order.

Greater Manchester Police are appealing for information to locate Ayesha, who was last seen on Manchester Road in Bury at around 6:50 p.m. on July 28. She is described as Asian, slim, 5ft 8in tall, with long straight black hair, and was wearing black trousers, a black jumper and black-and-white Adidas trainers. Police are increasingly concerned for her welfare and have asked anyone with information to call 0161 856 4353.

Police arrested a driver in Whitefield after finding a knife in the vehicle’s centre console during a proactive patrol. The Whitefield Neighbourhood Team said tackling weapon possession remains a national policing priority and pledged to continue targeting offenders and acting on intelligence. The public was urged to report crime or antisocial behaviour.

A week of celebrations at St Stephen’s CE Primary School in Bury honored the late teacher Laura Smith, who taught at the school for 25 years. Activities included crafts, races, a TikTok dance recreation, and a large colour run attended by hundreds of pupils, families, and former students. Family members expressed gratitude for the community’s support, and local businesses sponsored the events. The school plans to install outdoor features in her memory.

Holy Cross College’s Art and Design team was named runner‑up in the Inspiring Teaching category at the SFCA Awards, recognising exceptional teaching, student outcomes, and innovative practices. Principal Carina Vitti and curriculum leader Laura Watt highlighted the team’s dedication, creativity, and consistent high performance. The annual SFCA Awards honour impactful contributions across the sixth‑form sector, celebrating educators who shape long‑term student success.

A fundraising fun day at the Brown Cow Pub in Burrs Country Park aims to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association following the death of a local resident earlier in the year. Organised by pub manager Matt Ferns, the event on August 15 will feature live music, family activities, food stalls, and a raffle, with all proceeds donated to the charity.

Residents of Walker Street in Bury each receive £1,000 after their postcode wins a daily Postcode Lottery prize. The subscription lottery, which guarantees daily winners, also funds numerous charities and community projects, having raised over £1.8 billion. The report highlights the mechanics of the lottery and recent significant winnings in the area.

A three‑day medieval re‑enactment event will take place at Radcliffe Tower Grounds, featuring craft displays, combat shows, workshops, games, and a trebuchet demonstration. Organised by Radcliffe Manor Heritage, the event is largely credited to local historian Carol Kemp and is supported by Radcliffe Rotary Club and Radcliffe First. Historical group The Red Wyverns will present fifteenth‑century living history, and a hog roast will be available over the weekend. Admission is free, and organisers hope the event becomes annual.

Nando's at The Rock in Bury has reopened following a six‑week refurbishment, unveiling expanded seating, new artwork, and updated equipment. The redesign features South African‑inspired art through the restaurant’s partnership with the Spier Arts Trust. The upgraded location introduces new menu items, including the Super Caesar Wrap, and now offers bottomless iced tea via a RUBRO machine. The branch is also participating in the UK Government’s summer VAT reduction scheme for children’s meals.

Police officers from Project Servator conducted visible patrols across Greater Manchester, including Bury, carrying out stop searches, vehicle checks and safeguarding vulnerable individuals. The operation aimed to deter crime and terrorism while encouraging the public to report suspicious activity. Authorities highlighted the role of trained officers in identifying potential criminal behaviour and maintaining community safety.

Three men received sentences for their involvement in the fatal stabbing of Vernard Murray in Cheetham Hill after a targeted attack involving a car ramming and pursuit. Lee Williams was sentenced to life with a minimum of 21 years for murder, while Riley McDermott and John Harte received eight and six years for manslaughter. Emotional statements from Murray’s family described profound and lasting grief, and Greater Manchester Police welcomed the sentences, citing the severity of the violence and the extensive investigation that led to the convictions.

Sir Garfield Sobers, widely regarded as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, has died at 89. Celebrated for his exceptional Test record and transformative impact on the sport, he was also fondly remembered in Radcliffe, where he played for five seasons beginning in 1956. His prolific performances there helped establish his early reputation, preceding a distinguished career with Nottinghamshire and South Australia, including his historic six sixes in an over in 1968. Tributes from global cricket bodies praised his legacy, influence and lasting inspiration to the sport.

Food influencer JustJackTV returned to Bury Market for a second visit after feeling he missed several stalls during his first trip. He reviewed food from Katsouris, Falafels and More, and King Cuisine, offering mixed but generally positive comments on items such as sandwiches, wraps, masala chips, and mango lassi. His video shows the market busier than before, and he hints at returning again after another enjoyable experience.

Three primary schools in Bury—Our Lady of Lourdes, Guardian Angels, and St. Marie’s—have voluntarily joined the St Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Academy Trust as academy converters under the Academies Act 2010. The article explains that academy converters are treated as new legal entities and may not yet have Ofsted inspections, though Ofsted considers previous inspection histories when scheduling first inspections. It also notes a recent unrelated police investigation involving St Gabriel’s RC High School, another school in the trust, with the trust declining comment due to privacy obligations.

Bury Council approved plans for five padel courts at Unsworth Cricket and Tennis Club, including a canopy, lighting, seating, and a small food kiosk. Officials concluded the development fits Green Belt policy, poses no significant noise or lighting issues, and can be supported by existing parking. The club expects the project to boost financial stability, increase community participation, and expand year‑round sports offerings, receiving backing from statutory consultees and club director Ian Murphy.

A Bury grandfather, Sam Price, has written a memoir about his granddaughter Sorrelle’s battle with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia to raise awareness of the rare cancer and support affected families. MP James Frith endorsed the initiative, praising its impact and pledging further support. Most proceeds will go to the Cancer and Oncology Department at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, with a portion helping fund Sorrelle’s future treatment needs.

A Whitefield man received a suspended 24‑month sentence after multiple incidents involving stolen vehicles, dangerous driving, drug driving, and repeatedly failing to attend court. Police reported pursuits reaching high speeds, collisions with a police vehicle, and significant public risk. The judge cited his disregard for road safety but suspended the sentence due to mitigating factors, including family responsibilities, expressed remorse, and sobriety. Additional penalties include a three‑year driving ban, rehabilitation requirements, unpaid work, and costs.

Police are searching for Marwan Jumaa, a 20‑year‑old who escaped custody while receiving treatment at North Manchester Hospital. Greater Manchester Police issued a renewed appeal urging the public not to approach him and to report any sightings immediately. Officers continue efforts to locate him, with reassurances that significant resources are dedicated to returning him to hospital.

Emergency services, including an air ambulance, responded to a welfare concern involving a woman on Rutland Drive in Bury. Residents reported being woken by emergency vehicles and a helicopter. Greater Manchester Police confirmed attending but provided no further details, while the North West Air Ambulance Service said it could not release additional information because the incident occurred at a private address.

Andy Burnham voiced support for a £250 million government package to strengthen policing and security for Jewish communities across England and Wales amid rising antisemitism and a heightened terror threat level. The funding will expand police presence, introduce specialist operations such as Project Servator, enhance training on antisemitism, and increase officer hours, including significant resources for Greater Manchester following last year’s fatal synagogue attack. Keir Starmer emphasized the initiative as part of a broader national strategy to counter antisemitism through security, education, and community engagement.

Residents in Bury were advised by the council to keep windows and doors closed as smoke from a large moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir was carried by strong winds. Firefighters continued working in difficult conditions to contain the blaze, which began on July 11. A 20-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of arson, with police urging the public not to speculate and to report relevant information. Emergency services were thanked for their ongoing efforts and updates were directed to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

A Whitefield-based charity that organises day trips for home-schooled children is raising funds for a new bus after its current vehicle broke down during a return trip from Scarborough. Co-founders Louise Donohue and Stef Kilanski have had to cancel upcoming outings, including a Lake District visit, while they work to replace the vehicle. Fundraising efforts include a sponsored hike up Helvellyn and community appeals for donations and raffle prizes, with a target of £10,000 to resume regular activities for the children who rely on the service.

Bury failed to make the shortlist for the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition despite submitting a bid emphasizing its cultural heritage and ongoing investment in the arts. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport selected 15 towns across three size categories to advance and awarded them funding for full proposals. Local officials expressed disappointment but highlighted the town’s cultural strengths and plans to pursue future opportunities.

Bury’s first film festival attracted strong community support with packed screenings at Broad Street Social and a sold‑out main event at The Met, showcasing short films from emerging regional filmmakers. Founder Nathaniel Thompson highlighted the emotional resonance of the films for attendees. Awards were presented to young filmmaker Leo Robert Vale, sci‑fi creator Tom Bohan, and Sam Bond for a film depicting Manchester. Filmmakers and visitors stayed after the screenings to network, reinforcing the festival’s potential as a new cultural fixture in Bury.

Prestwich restaurant Lupo ranked 19th in The Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants of 2026, highlighting the rising popularity of small, community‑focused venues and Italian cuisine. La Locanda in Lancashire took first place, while several other regional restaurants, including The Spärrows and Thomas the Brasserie, also made the list. The guide notes growing interest in diverse global cuisines and a shift toward more casual, affordable dining models. Square supported the awards for a second year, emphasising its role in helping independent hospitality businesses operate efficiently.

A Tottington technology business, The PC Guy, won the Tech Community Expert award at the Tech Awards 2026 for the fifth consecutive year, recognised for excellence within the UK and Ireland’s computer repair industry. Owner Jay credited his team and community support for the achievement, noting strong competition and extensive public voting. The award, presented at the TechMAX event by Tech For Techs, highlighted the company’s sustained dedication and industry impact.

A group of Radcliffe First councillors has proposed that Bury Council apply for Endometriosis UK’s Endometriosis-Friendly Employer status to improve workplace support for employees affected by endometriosis. The motion highlights the significant physical, mental, and professional impact of the condition and argues that adopting the scheme would promote awareness, provide staff training, and strengthen the council’s existing health and wellbeing commitments. If approved at the July 15 council meeting, Bury Council would formally apply for the status and publicly promote it to encourage other employers to follow.

An annual Learner of the Year event hosted by Bury Adult Learning Service at the Fusilier Museum celebrated adult learners for their achievements. Local officials, including Mayor Mohammed Tahir Rafiq and Councillor Gavin McGill, commended participants and volunteers for their dedication. The event highlighted the wider community impact of adult learning and announced the availability of the new course guide for upcoming programmes.

A jury convicted Anthony Junior Murray of murdering Joe Burton on New Year’s Eve after footage from a pet camera showed Murray stabbing Burton during an argument. The trial detailed escalating tensions fueled by alcohol, drugs, and long‑standing family issues. Evidence included witness testimony, Murray’s inconsistent statements, and police body‑camera recordings. The jury rejected the defense’s claims that Murray acted without intent, finding the stabbing deliberate. Murray will be sentenced in August and faces a life term.

Munro Greenhalgh Insurance Brokers won the Small Insurance Broker category at the British Insurance Awards 2026, held at the Royal Albert Hall and presented by Alan Carr. Director Stephen Cadman celebrated the recognition during the company’s centenary year, highlighting the team’s dedication and service. Judges cited the firm’s independence, long-term relationships and strong service as key strengths. The company also marked its 100-year milestone with charity events raising over £10,000 for Bury Hospice.

Nearly 400 people attended the Building Futures in Bury North Jobs Fair, which featured around 1,000 job vacancies and focused on supporting young people into employment. The event, organised by MP James Frith, coincided with the Labour Government’s new Youth Jobs Grant offering £3,000 to employers hiring eligible young adults. Local employers, training providers, and public-sector organisations participated, and the success of the fair may lead to it becoming a recurring event in the borough.

Bev Craig announced a series of investment and regeneration proposals aimed at revitalising high streets and town centres across Greater Manchester. Her plan includes a £20 million Good Growth High Streets Fund, a Fix It Fund for local improvements, business rate holidays, tougher action on problem properties, and targeted protection for pubs and hospitality venues. An additional £180 million is pledged for broader town regeneration, with funding directed to several boroughs including Stockport, Oldham and Middleton. The proposals emphasise economic support, community ownership and boosting local retail and hospitality sectors.

Tottington High School will end GCSE Business Studies from September 2026 due to the loss of specialist staff, transferring current students to a one‑year GCSE Statistics course taught by an experienced lead practitioner. The school says the replacement subject provides strong analytical skills and supports future academic pathways, but at least one parent strongly objects, arguing the decision disrupts students’ plans and disadvantages those who struggle with maths. The school maintains it will support all affected students through the transition.

Greater Manchester Police wildlife officers delivered a large collection of donated supplies to Kirklees Valley Wildlife Rescue in Tottington. The items, gathered through a community appeal, included towels, blankets and cleaning products to support the centre’s care of injured and orphaned wildlife. PS Sam De Gouveia thanked residents for their generosity, noting the donations will significantly aid the charity’s rehabilitation work. The centre continues to welcome essential items from the public.

A Bury resident waited 13 days for her food and garden waste bin to be emptied after a missed collection, leading to foul smells, maggots and health concerns. Bury Council attributed the delay to warm weather, staffing shortages and access problems on Nuttall Street, apologising and saying crews have since caught up with missed rounds. The council reported that most collections occur on schedule and urged residents to keep access routes clear to avoid future disruptions.

Starling Road in Radcliffe will close for five days starting July 13 for gas works, with designated diversion routes for eastbound and westbound traffic. Bury Council announced the closure and apologized for the short notice. Additional roadworks are scheduled nearby, including works on Spring Lane, Vicarage Street, and Bridgefield Street, carried out by Electricity North West and Virgin Media, with varying durations and expected traffic impacts.

Fifty-seven homes have been completed at the former Riverside High School site in Radcliffe as part of a 90‑unit development delivered by Hive Homes in partnership with Bury Council. The project, supported by brownfield funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, forms part of wider regeneration efforts including a new high school and the Radcliffe Hub scheduled for 2026. Developers have submitted verification documents to discharge planning conditions, while a Section 106 agreement will fund improvements to local community facilities.

A Prestwich pub opposite Heaton Park continues to benefit from last year’s Oasis concerts, drawing large crowds and generating more than £10,000 for Joseph Holt’s annual children’s charity appeal. Landlady Julie Maloy credits the gigs for boosting donations and interest in the venue, which now regularly hosts community events. The brewery highlights the concerts’ positive impact on local pubs and fundraising efforts, with further community activities planned at The Ostrich throughout the year.

Bin collections in Bury will start earlier than usual on July 10 to protect crews from forecast temperatures reaching 30C. Residents are asked to place bins out by 6am as the change helps workers operate during cooler morning hours. Forecasts show Bury experiencing hotter conditions than several European destinations and matching Miami’s temperatures, prompting the temporary schedule adjustment announced by Bury Council.

A mugshot of Anthony Junior Murray was released after a jury convicted him of murdering his sister’s boyfriend, Joe Burton, on New Year’s Eve. Pet camera footage shown at trial captured Murray stabbing Burton with an 18cm knife, contradicting his claim of self‑defense and lack of recollection. Toxicology reports showed both men had alcohol and cocaine in their systems, and evidence detailed an argument that escalated before the attack. Police interviews revealed shifting statements from Murray, but after eight hours of deliberation the jury returned a majority guilty verdict.

A 30‑year‑old Oldham man, Mohammad Azad, received a suspended 18‑month sentence for dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and without insurance after being stopped on the M60 in Bury. The court heard he was previously convicted of dangerous driving in 2023 following a high‑speed police chase in Royton. Despite an extensive record of driving offences, mitigation citing mental health issues and family support led the judge to suspend the sentence for two years, requiring unpaid work, rehabilitation days and mental‑health treatment. Azad was banned from driving for two years and ordered to take an extended retest and pay costs.

Labour’s new caps on branded school uniforms and expansion of free breakfast clubs aim to reduce costs for families, with Bury North MP James Frith supporting the measures. Four additional schools in Bury North will join the breakfast club scheme, part of a nationwide rollout now reaching over 2,700 schools. The initiatives are expected to save families up to £1,000 annually through cheaper uniforms, expanded free school meals for households on Universal Credit, and childcare savings. The changes, despite criticism from Conservatives and Reform UK, form part of Labour’s broader programme to ease financial pressures on families through expanded childcare and seasonal savings initiatives.

Major roadworks are scheduled on Spring Lane in Radcliffe from July 13 to July 21, involving Electricity North West installing a new service connection under multi‑way traffic signals. Additional maintenance works by Virgin Media on nearby Vicarage Street are set from July 9 to July 13, while ongoing Electricity North West works on Bridgefield Street are expected to conclude on July 13.

Gareth Baty, winner of the 2026 MasterChef: The Professionals, will perform a live cooking demonstration at the Foodies Festival in Tatton Park, joining a lineup of celebrity chefs and music acts. The festival features food demonstrations, interactive theatres, competitions, drinks masterclasses, children’s activities and an artisan market, offering a wide range of attractions for visitors.

A Bury woman, Lily‑Rose Nightingale, will face trial in November after being charged with four counts of intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance following multiple safety incidents at The Rock shopping centre car park in May. Her arraignment was postponed to allow time for a psychiatric report, which must be completed by August 24. The incidents involved prolonged emergency responses lasting from 12 to 48 hours, with authorities repeatedly called to concerns for welfare at the multi‑storey car park. Nightingale remains in custody at HMP Forest Bank.

A jury found Anthony Junior Murray guilty of murdering Joe Burton during a New Year’s Eve gathering in Bury, rejecting his claim of self‑defence. Prosecutors argued that video evidence showed a deliberate stabbing, while the defence highlighted Murray’s health issues and portrayed Burton as violent. After eight hours of deliberation, the jury returned a majority guilty verdict, and sentencing is scheduled at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on August 7.

Police are seeking public assistance to locate 26-year-old Daniel Tiddy, who is wanted for breaching a restraining order and is believed to have links to the Bury area. Greater Manchester Police issued a public appeal with contact information for anyone who may know his whereabouts.

Plans have been submitted to convert a former takeaway at 422 Bury New Road in Prestwich into a café or restaurant. Developers propose only internal changes, with no external works or alterations to the building. Planning documents state the project aims to reuse the existing commercial structure efficiently and incorporate energy‑efficient features. Bury Council will review the application at a later date.

Bury Council issued three additional fines for illegal waste dumping in Prestwich and Radcliffe, along with a separate littering fine. Eleven fixed penalty notices have been issued since April 2026 as part of strengthened enforcement supported by multiple council departments using intelligence and CCTV to identify offenders. The council emphasises that environmental crime will not be tolerated and encourages residents to use recycling centres, verify waste disposal services, and follow guidance on waste management available on its website.

A Prestwich synagogue has applied for retrospective planning permission to formalise its conversion from ground-floor office units to religious use after operating since February 2022. The application for 69–71 Windsor Road states that the site serves the local Jewish community and generates limited noise or traffic, with most attendees arriving on foot and services held mainly during Shabbat and religious holidays. Bury Council has not pursued enforcement but advised that permission was required. Letters of support from nearby businesses affirm that the synagogue has caused no disturbance. The planning statement argues the use aligns with the mixed‑use character of the area and poses fewer impacts than alternative commercial uses. A council decision is pending.

Police in Bury recovered two stolen Toyota vehicles, including a Yaris with false number plates, during efforts to target serious acquisitive crime. Both cars were returned to insurance companies, and officers emphasised their commitment to tackling criminals using local roads.

Food reviewer JustJackTV visited Bury Market for the first time and praised several stalls, including a Turkish food vendor, a black pudding stand, a tearoom and a falafel business. He highlighted the quality and value of the dishes he tried and expressed surprise at the number of strong food options available, saying he plans to return.

Several pubs across Bury will remain open until 5am to show England’s 1am World Cup last‑16 match against Mexico, following government approval for extended hours. The article lists participating venues and notes England’s progression after a narrow win over DR Congo, with a potential quarter‑final against Brazil or Norway.

Comedian Russell Kane released a satirical video impersonating Andy Burnham and referencing Bury while joking about the idea of a northern Downing Street. The sketch mocks proposed plans reported by the Financial Times that Burnham is considering establishing a northern government base. Kane exaggerates northern stereotypes, joking about tin baths, chippy-hosted Prime Minister’s Questions and his fictional involvement in local projects. The video gained substantial engagement on Instagram, prompting humorous reactions from users.

Bodycare will reopen a store in Bury’s Mill Gate Shopping Centre as part of the health and beauty retailer’s plan to launch 17 new locations following its collapse into administration last year. The chain, which formerly operated 56 UK stores, is relaunching with most new branches set to open within a year, including additional sites in Blackburn and Warrington. The company promises enhanced in‑store features such as content‑creator studios and expanded beauty offerings, while Savers has already returned to the same centre earlier this year.

Jurors were shown pet‑camera and police body‑camera footage in the trial of Anthony Junior Murray, accused of murdering Joe Burton on New Year’s Eve in Bury. Evidence included recordings of Murray’s behaviour before and after the stabbing, his police interview statements, and forensic findings showing drugs and alcohol in the systems of both men. Murray claimed confusion, lack of memory and denied using the knife, despite later footage appearing to show the stabbing. The court also reviewed agreed facts about Murray’s previous offences and the discovery of the blood‑stained knife. Proceedings will continue with expected testimony from the defendant.

Greater Manchester Police are seeking Michael Barnes, who has links to Bury, in connection with multiple shoplifting offences and are appealing for public assistance. Authorities provided contact details for reporting information and directed urgent reports to emergency services.

Testimony at Minshull Street Crown Court detailed events leading to the fatal stabbing of Joe Burton on New Year’s Eve 2025, including emotional statements from family members and accounts from witnesses who described tensions, substance use and the circumstances in the flat before the incident. Evidence covered Burton’s background, his relationship with Kayleigh Murray, and conflicting accounts of the moments before the stabbing, as well as details of prior family disputes and the couple’s struggles. The trial continues with further witnesses expected.