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MCRJourno Manchester, get ready for a night of star-studded fun, music, and memories on Sunday 1st June. From 6pm - 10pm the iconic Fab Café will host a one-of-a-kind Karaoke Meet & Greet with none other than Charlie Schlatter - a name familiar to fans of Diagnosis Murder, The Delinquents, and Heartbreak Hotel. Charlie Schlatter’s career has spanned decades, starting with his breakout roles in 80s classics like 18 Again alongside George Burns and The Delinquents with Kylie Minogue. TV fans will remember him as the charming Ferris Bueller in the TV adaptation of the John Hughes hit, but he’s best known as Dr. Jesse Travis in the long-running series Diagnosis Murder. Beyond the screen, Charlie’s voice has brought to life countless animated favourites, from The Flash in DC cartoons to Kick Buttowski and even E.T. in the acclaimed ‘Holiday Reunion’ short. Most recently, you can catch him as Sidecar in Netflix’s Hot Wheels, Let’s Race. This special Manchester event promises more than just nostalgia. With karaoke, a Q&A, disco, and the chance to snap a selfie or get an autograph, it’s a must for fans of TV, film, and fun nights out. VIP tickets (£50) guarantee a selfie with Charlie and a spot on the karaoke stage - either singing with him or solo while standard tickets (£25) include entry, Q&A, disco, karaoke, and the option to purchase autographs (which come with a free selfie). Tickets are limited, so don’t miss your chance to sing, laugh, and meet a true pop culture legend - plus, use promo code MCR20 for 20% off. Grab your tickets now at Eventbrite and make it a night to remember at Fab Café!

MCRJourno Breakout artist Alessi Rose has revealed details of her highly anticipated headline tour, The Voyeur Tour, which will visit 22 cities across the UK and Europe this autumn. Following her arena tour supporting Tate McRae in the United States, Alessi Rose will return to the UK for 10 dates, including a performance at Manchester Academy on 19th November. The announcement comes as Alessi prepares to release her new EP Voyeur on 25th July alongside her latest single ‘Same Mouth’. Currently, she is supporting global superstar Dua Lipa on the UK and European leg of the Radical Optimism Tour, which includes two dates at Wembley Stadium. The Voyeur Tour marks a significant milestone in Alessi’s rapidly rising career having already sold out two UK and European headline tours, with her debut shows in Los Angeles and New York also reaching capacity. Her critically acclaimed songwriting and confessional pop style have earned praise from NME, The Face, and Dork Magazine, who called her "the voice of a new confessional pop generation." Born in Derby, Alessi Rose began writing poetry at 13 before teaching herself music production and releasing her debut single in 2023, and since then she has amassed millions of streams and built a loyal international following. Tickets for The Voyeur Tour go on general sale at 9am on Friday 23rd May.

Dan Outram This piece by Dan Outram tackles how smarter food marketing can support our mental health. As the UK continues to grapple with widening gaps in both physical and mental health, particularly in regions like the North West, it’s high time we reframe the role of food marketing, not just in combatting obesity, but in supporting emotional wellbeing. The new Less Healthy Food (LHF) regulation coming into effect this October marks a welcome policy shift. But lasting behavioural change depends on something deeper: our emotions. For many people, food is more than fuel; it’s a source of comfort, joy, even identity - and at a time when anxiety, low mood and decision fatigue are at an all-time high, supermarket shelves often become silent battlegrounds for emotional coping. That’s where marketers and food retailers have a golden, but often overlooked, opportunity - at Linney, we’re seeing progressive brands adopt more emotionally intelligent strategies - ones that don’t shame or pressure, but guide and support. People respond better to positive reinforcement. Messages framed around gains (“high in fibre”) consistently outperform deficit-based language (“low in sugar”) because it taps into intrinsic motivation and avoids activating guilt. Dan Outram, Business Director at Linney This subtle ‘permissible indulgence’ strategy, offering better-for-you versions of comfort foods, enables emotional continuity while shifting consumption patterns. It’s less about overhauling legacy products and more about reimagining them in ways that feel familiar but slightly more mindful. Think McDonald’s fruit-for-fries swaps or Walkers’ “Yummy With” range, which reimagines classic flavours with reduced salt content. These small nudges preserve emotional satisfaction while supporting healthier habits, and the goal isn’t to pathologise emotional eating, but to understand it and design food environments around it. When brands remove the mental cost of decision-making, they don’t just encourage healthier eating. They help restore autonomy, reduce guilt, and spark a culture shift to - in doing so, we don’t just improve public health, we nurture public happiness.

MCRJourno As Mental Health Awareness Week shines a spotlight on wellbeing, Manchester’s creative community is coming together for Mend, Tend + Change the Future - a unique event blending art, social change, and healing. Taking place on 21st June at GRIT Studios in the Great Northern, Manchester, this gathering offers a timely reminder that creativity can be a powerful force for mental health and collective transformation. Organised by A Brilliant Thing CIC and GRIT Studios, the event invites creatives, social entrepreneurs, charity workers, and business leaders to explore how storytelling, visibility, radical rest, and adventure can fuel both personal and community wellbeing. Through micro-workshops, TED-style talks themed ‘Pain to Power,’ and a vibrant Makers Market, attendees will discover practical tools for resilience and inspiration in their work and daily lives. Founder Kerry Tottingham said: "Challenges can only be addressed when we recognise and harness our own strengths. "This event is a call to action, a healing space where art meets transformation." Each ticket includes a copy of Tottingham’s debut book, “Mend, Tend and Change the Future,” offering further insights into healing-centred approaches for change. In line with this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme of ‘movement’ the event encourages participants to engage in hands-on activities, from content creation to community campaigns. These moments of movement-whether through art, conversation, or shared learning-reflect the evidence that even small acts can boost mood, reduce stress, and foster connection.

Ben Mercer This Mental Health Awareness Week, Ben Mercer at Leisure Lakes Bikes has put together a guide highlighting the benefits of slow cycling for your mental wellbeing. Life is noisy. Deadlines stack up. Alarms buzz before you’re ready to wake and somewhere in between, we’re told to move faster, do more, achieve everything all at once. However, cycling habits are slowing down, with 40% of all trips by bike in England made for leisure purposes - people aren’t just riding to get fitter or go places - they’re rediscovering the joy of a slower pace. Riding slower isn’t about giving up, it’s about gaining something else entirely. Balance. Connection. The simple happiness of pedalling without pressure. You’re still moving but it’s not about numbers or performance. You notice things around you. Honestly, it’s a breath of fresh air. Slow cycling doesn’t chase trends. It doesn’t need apps or fancy gear. It’s about stripping cycling back to its roots - a bike, the road, and the freedom to take your time. Here’s a closer look at what makes slow cycling so rewarding - not just for your body, but your mind, too. Scenery. When was the last time you really noticed what’s around you? Not the quick blur of trees or the vague shape of a building, but actual details. When you ride slower the world stops feeling like a backdrop and starts looking like a painting. It flips your perspective and even cycling through your neighbourhood, the same streets you think you know can feel brand-new when you take your time. Mindfulness. Pedal. Breathe. Look around. Repeat. Slow cycling helps you slip into a state some riders call 'active calm.' You’re neither standing still nor rushing. It feels pleasantly meditative. There’s no number to hit, no pressure to reach the next landmark. Just you and the rhythm of pedalling. British Cycling found that even low-intensity cycling helps reduce stress and lower anxiety. In a world where constant notifications keep us wired, that’s priceless. Movement without strain. Let’s not sugarcoat it, fast cycling can be rough. And if you’ve ever dealt with joint pain, the idea of hopping back on a bike can feel daunting. But slow cycling? It’s different because its gentle and steady. Recent studies highlight how low-pressure cycling can actually improve joint mobility without causing strain. Think of it as a movement that works with your body instead of fighting against it. Connection. Slowing down on a bike isn’t just about the scenery or the physical benefits. It’s about connection which can be both inward and outward. When you’re not rushing, you notice people, whether that’s a friendly nod to another cyclist or a quick hello to a dog walker. Little interactions like this can remind you the world is a friendly place and community exists. When it comes to solo rides, they can feel different too. Slowing your pace gives your thoughts space to stretch. So, why not give it a go? Swap one high-intensity session for a slower ride, without any rushing or pressure, just the simple joy of riding a bike, one gentle pedal at a time.

MCRJourno Manchester is set for its biggest summer of music yet and Oasis are leading the charge. With their long-awaited homecoming gigs at Heaton Park just weeks away, the Gallagher brothers have announced a special gesture to mark their return - the donation of a signed Epiphone Riviera guitar. The guitar autographed by both Liam and Noel will be auctioned to support grassroots music projects across the city as the centrepiece of a citywide celebration. It will go on display at Selfridges in Exchange Square from July, remaining there throughout the summer before being auctioned in September. The auction will feature a collection of new and pre-loved guitars donated by other Manchester music icons, all showcased in shop windows and venues across the city during July and August. Credit: Simon Emmett This announcement comes as Manchester prepares to welcome a staggering 1.3 million music fans for what is being billed as the “summer of all summers.” Heaton Park gigs for Oasis are set for July 11th, 12th, 16th, 19th and 20th and are the main event in a packed calendar that includes headline shows from the likes of Charli XCX, 50 Cent, Elbow, and Billie Eilish - as well as festivals like Parklife and the Caribbean Carnival. Councillor Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, called the Oasis donation "an incredible gesture to kickstart the celebrations" and predicted a major boost for local businesses as music lovers flock to the city.

Ryan Harland This article by author and mental health campaigner Ryan Harland talks about the concept of taking up 'S.P.A.C.E' - a pathway to building resilience for Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond. Growing up in an environment that discouraged emotional expression made it challenging for me to “take up space.” I wish I knew then what I know now, that claiming your physical and emotional space is crucial for resilience. I have a 5 step approach that I use and share, engaging in this process not only nurtures mental well-being but can help to face life's challenges. The S.P.A.C.E framework outlines five steps to build resilience: Support: Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and validate your feelings. Identify those who genuinely support you and engage in conversations that reaffirm your value. Pause: Take moments to step back and process your thoughts, using techniques such as mindfulness or journaling. These pauses create mental space for reassessment and boundary-setting. Accept: Embrace your strengths and weaknesses, knowing that everyone’s journey is unique. Validate your emotions and accept them as part of your healing process. Connect: Build authentic relationships with others who inspire you. Engage in supportive communities, both in-person and online, to share experiences. Empower: Recognize the impact you have in shaping your life. Establish boundaries that respect your needs, reinforcing your right to occupy space. Taking up SPACE is a strategic approach to resilience, promoting self-love and affirmation in the face of challenges. Ryan Harland is a mental health advocate and author of "Riding the Storm," which chronicles his journey from trauma to triumph. His work aims to break the silence around mental health and empower others to reclaim their lives - his book "Riding the Storm" is available on Amazon and other major retailers.

MCRJourno If your ideal getaway involves catching a gig instead of queuing at tourist hotspots, you’re not alone. A new study by luggage storage network Bounce.com has revealed that nearly half of Gen Z and Millennial travellers now prioritise experiences like live music over traditional sightseeing, with 6% choosing destinations based on music events. The research ranks the top cities globally for music gig lovers factoring in venues, festivals, public transport, and budget-friendly accommodation - and Manchester proudly lands third in the world behind Paris and Austin. With over 1,730 gigs scheduled in 2025, from legends like Lionel Richie and Billy Ocean to icons like Olivia Rodrigo, the city continues to prove it’s one of the UK’s cultural powerhouses. Manchester’s musical reputation is backed up by more than 50 live venues, including beloved spaces like Band on the Wall, Albert Hall, and Bridgewater Hall - other halls are available. It’s also a festival hotspot, hosting fan-favourites like Parklife (next month), Outbreak Fest, and Damnation. The report also highlights that five other UK cities made the global top 50 - London (11th), Liverpool (13th), Glasgow (14th), Birmingham (25th), and Sheffield (32nd), showing that the UK remains a world-class destination for live music lovers. Whether you're catching a stadium show at the AO Arena or discovering new talent in a Northern Quarter basement, Manchester continues to strike the right chord with music fans at home and abroad.

MCRJourno Mayfield Park, Manchester. Credit: Richard Bloom Manchester’s award-winning Mayfield Park is set to welcome a truly groundbreaking addition - the UK’s first AI-powered garden - straight from its debut at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025. Designed by acclaimed landscape duo Tom Massey and Je Ahn, the Avanade Intelligent Garden uses cutting-edge artificial intelligence to help monitor and care for trees in ways never seen before in an urban park. It will soon take root in Mayfield Park right next to the iconic Star & Garter pub and Mayfield Depot, as part of a wider development linking the park to Manchester Piccadilly. At the heart of this innovative project is TreeTalk - an AI-powered tool that enables park staff to “communicate” with trees. By asking questions like "How are you feeling?" the system offers real-time insight into tree health, alerting teams when trees are under stress and guiding more responsive care. Mayfield Park, Manchester. Credit: Richard Bloom This forward-thinking approach is already being hailed as a blueprint for the "park of the future", as Danny Williams, Estates Manager at Mayfield, said: "We’re proud to lead the way as the UK’s first AI-enabled urban park - blending technology with nature to ensure our green spaces thrive for generations." The Avanade Intelligent Garden will play a vital role in improving biodiversity, supporting climate resilience and gathering vital data on tree growth, soil conditions and air quality. Mayfield Park, Manchester’s first city-centre park in over a century, has already transformed 6.5 acres of former industrial land into a lush, biodiverse haven. With this latest addition, it continues to break new ground in sustainable, tech-enhanced urban design. Visitors can look forward to a space where nature and innovation come together and where trees may one day talk back.

Helen Clarke Greater Manchester is on the move this May as the GM Walking Festival returns offering over 300 free guided walks to inspire residents to step outside, explore local areas, and connect with others. Running in celebration of National Walking Month the festival is coordinated by Greater Manchester Moving and supported by dozens of passionate community groups, charities and volunteers across all ten boroughs. Whether you’re walking for wellbeing, with a mobility aid, or simply enjoying time with friends, there’s something for everyone. From mindful nature trails and social strolls to themed rambles and heritage routes, every walk is free, inclusive, and welcoming. Highlights from this year’s festival include: Fit After 40 - Sat 10th May, 10am (Tameside) A supportive, menopause-friendly walk run by MenopauseYourWay—empowering, encouraging, and energising. Exploring Low Hall - Sun 11th May, 10am (Wigan) Discover Wigan’s hidden nature reserve with local wildlife enthusiasts from Friends of Low Hall. Steps Against Stigma - Weds 14th May, 6pm (Salford) Join Jaksworld Charity on a powerful walk through Salford Quays raising awareness for mental health. Sale Moor Wellbeing Walk - Thurs 15th May, 12:30pm (Trafford) Hosted by the Sale Sharks Foundation, this relaxed walk finishes with a cuppa and community chat. Mindfulness Walk - Mon 19th May, 10:30am (Oldham) A calming nature-led walk hosted by Oldham Libraries, focused on slowing down and reconnecting outdoors. Be Active, Be Vibrant or Just Be - Weds 21st May, 11am (Manchester) A warm, over-50s walking group led by Abbey Hey Walkers—perfect for fresh air and good company. "This festival is about joy, community and connection through walking," said Louise Robbins, Strategic Lead at GM Moving. "With hundreds of walks happening, there’s something for every ability and every interest." Find a walk near you and get involved: gmwalking.co.uk/festival

MCRJourno Haim - ‘Relationships' Greater Manchester, get ready for new music and gig announcements this summer you don't want to miss. It’s an electrifying time for music lovers in Greater Manchester as a wave of fresh releases and gig announcements roll in, lighting up the 2025 calendar with must-hear sounds and must-see shows. First up on your playlist Swedish sensation Benjamin Ingrosso returns with “Angela”, the soulful follow-up to his acclaimed album Pink Velvet Theatre - with over a billion streams strong Ingrosso's latest is already a fan favourite. Olly Murrs joins York Racecourse’s line-up Lyrical powerhouse Kae Tempest also drops “Know Yourself” - an introspective journey into identity, wrapped in poignant beats. Looking for raw emotion? Sebastian Schub delivers with “Scared of Screaming”, a folk-rock ballad soaked in vulnerability. Kaeto - ‘mixtape' Self-Esteem - 'A Complicated Woman' Rising UK duo The Itch bring double trouble with their debut on Fiction Records “The Influencer” and “Co-Conspirator” and if that’s not enough, Kaeto returns with “Words” - a hypnotic track that marks an exciting new chapter following last year’s INTRO mixtape. Live music fans, strap in as HAIM are back with their I Quit UK arena tour - hitting Manchester’s Co-Op Live on 30th October. Plus Lorde is making waves with her upcoming album Virgin out 27th June - expect powerful, genre-blurring sounds from the Kiwi star. Self Esteem adds a third date to her sold-out shows - catch her on 27th, 28th, or 29th September at Manchester Academy. Also lighting up the summer Music Nights at York Racecourse, featuring Olly Murs (28th June), Sophie Ellis-Bextor & Natasha Bedingfield (25th July), and Ronan Keating (26th July). It’s a blockbuster season for music in Greater Manchester so don’t miss your chance to be part of it. Which gig are you heading to first?

MCRJourno The Battle - a new stage comedy by acclaimed screenwriter and novelist John Niven will arrive in Manchester in March 2026 as part of a major UK tour. This lively production brings to life the iconic 1995 chart showdown between Britpop titans Blur and Oasis, a moment that captured national attention and helped define a generation. Set against the backdrop of mid-90s Britain the play explores not only the music but the cultural divisions between the North and South, class identities, and the frenzy of fandom. Directed by Matthew Dunster - known for hits like 2:22 A Ghost Story - The Battle mixes sharp wit with chaotic energy recreating the tension and hilarity of that unforgettable summer and comes to Manchester’s Opera House from 17th - 21st March 2026. Niven, writing for the stage for the first time, reflects on a time when music held central cultural importance, before the digital age splintered audiences. For many it was more than a musical rivalry it was a matter of pride, style, and regional loyalty. The production features a strong creative team including Fly Davis (set and costume), Jessica Hung Han Yun (lighting), and Ian Dickinson (sound) with the play touring cities including Leicester, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and London, before heading to Manchester. Drawing on personal memories and national headlines The Battle promises a funny, gritty, and nostalgic look at a time when music could divide friends and dominate front pages. With unforgettable characters and explosive energy this is more than a trip down memory lane - it’s a full-throttle return to the heart of Britpop.