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MCRJourno Manchester’s People’s History Museum (PHM) will host its first-ever May Day Makers Markets on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th May - transforming its stunning Grade II listed Engine Hall into a vibrant hub of creativity. Open from 10am to 5pm with free entry, the event celebrates northern makers, with stalls featuring handmade gifts, jewellery, homeware, and colourful crafts. A series of bookable workshops also invites visitors to get involved in the making process. From ceramics to cacti, the markets showcase the work of regional artisans with Nwrclayations presenting raku-fired pottery with organic textures and Blahadava Ceramics introducing abstract sculptures. Tender Hook Studios modernises handweaving with stylish bags and accessories and The Magpie’s Daughter offers vintage-inspired jewellery influenced by PHM’s own collection. Textile artist Sophie Pattinson will display playful mini banners and homeware while Cactus Parlour brings succulents in decorative pots. Bright and whimsical creations abound from Gingham Flamingo’s textiles to the illustrations of Charming Badgers. Art by Sam Bonser and photography by Sophie Green bring powerful storytelling and queer joy into the spotlight - while DeFelice & Co. rounds out the mix with handmade bags crafted from sustainable materials. Saturday features a Comic Art Workshop and author talk with the Rickard Sisters, plus lino printing sessions led by Halina Isherwood. On Sunday, Helen Mather hosts a family-friendly ribbon keyring workshop inspired by May Day traditions, and the Hallé Ancoats Community Choir will offer a performance and free singing session. Visitors can also explore PHM’s galleries, join drop-in tours, and enjoy hands-on family activities in the Playful Protest Space.

Helen Clarke Hospital admissions for babies and toddlers with breathing problems increased by a third in one year - reveals campaigning network Mums for Lungs. Parent campaigners say the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham and city councillors have failed to get pollution under legal levels - and this is contributing to an epidemic of serious lung and respiratory problems. Dr Sinead Millwood - an NHS GP in Levenshulme said: "All the evidence shows that there is a clear connection between high levels of air pollution and respiratory conditions. "Air pollution affects us from before birth through to old age, with children particularly at risk as they are growing and developing. "I often see kids with these preventable illnesses and wish our leaders would take the action needed to address this." Credit: Rebecca Lupton Photography Mums for Lungs submitted Freedom of Information requests to Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust - which show that in the last two years nearly 8,500 children were admitted to the specialist paediatric respiratory services at the Trust or seen as outpatients. The group believe that the unusually high levels of pollution in Manchester are to blame for the increase in poor respiratory health. In December 2023 the Greater Manchester Combined Authority scrapped its planned Clean Air Zone after agreeing to reach air pollution targets set by the UK Government - it is currently not meeting these targets. A Clean Air Greater Manchester spokesperson said: "Poor air quality is a national health emergency and these figures demonstrate the serious impact it is having for people and families in our city-region. "We are resolutely committed to cleaning up the air that we breathe and making the city-region a cleaner and healthier place to live in. The latest data shows that air pollution is overall falling here. Liz Godfrey, Mums for Lungs. Credit: Rebecca Lupton Photography "This is being driven by our investment in the Bee Network and the transition to cleaner buses across the region, which will be further supported by the measures set out in our government-backed GM Clean Air Plan which will improve air quality faster than a charging clean air zone." 520 more children under 18 with serious breathing difficulties were admitted between 2023 and 2024 than the previous period to the Manchester University Foundation NHS Trust. The Trust covers 10 hospitals including Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. Admissions and Outpatient attendances under specialty Paediatric Respiratory Medicine Service rose by 13% from 3,989 to 4,509. Greater Manchester's Combined Authority says nitrogen dioxide in the region has fallen since 2020 and has agreed to allocate £160 million of its £243 million Transforming Cities Fund to develop a cycling and walking fund to encourage more people to travel sustainably and reduce vehicle pollution.

Helen Clarke James Graham’s adaptation of Boys From the Blackstuff is not just a play - it’s a visceral, emotional experience. A bold reimagining of Alan Bleasdale’s iconic 1980s BAFTA-winning TV series, the production lands at The Lowry, Salford with all the grit, humanity, and heart that made the original so enduring. Directed by Kate Wasserberg and brought to the stage by Liverpool’s Royal Court and the National Theatre, this is theatre at its most raw and urgent - a searing tribute to a generation left behind by Thatcher’s Britain. Set in 1980s Liverpool, the story follows a group of unemployed men - Chrissie, Loggo, George, Dixie, and Yosser - all desperate to work, provide for their families, and keep their dignity in a system that’s actively working against them. What could have been a bleak tale of hopelessness is instead a deeply moving and surprisingly humorous portrait of friendship, resilience, and the quiet power of hope. Condensing an entire TV series into a two-hour play is no easy feat, yet this ensemble makes it feel seamless. The adaptation captures the complexity of each character while still giving room for genuine emotional development. It’s a testament to both the writing and the performances that audiences can connect so deeply, even without prior knowledge of the original series. Jay Johnson’s Yosser Hughes is the emotional epicentre of the production. Stepping into a role immortalised by Bernard Hill was no small task, but Johnson’s portrayal is nothing short of breathtaking. He doesn’t imitate Hill - he honours him, channeling the same desperate vulnerability that made Yosser iconic, while bringing something deeply personal and fresh to the performance. Every line, every stagger, every breakdown is delivered with such aching commitment, it’s almost impossible to look away. Johnson’s Yosser isn’t just a man asking for a job - he’s begging for a place in the world, and it’s heart-wrenching to witness. George Caple as Chrissie gives a raw, morally complex performance that pulls at the audience’s sense of justice. His internal conflict - wanting to do the right thing while navigating impossible circumstances - is played with such honesty, you find yourself wanting to shout advice at him from your seat. His chemistry with Amber Blease, who plays Chrissie's wife Angie, is a highlight. Blease steps into Julie Walters’ formidable shoes with impressive ease. She’s fiery, grounded, and impossible to ignore - saying what we’re all thinking, and doing so with such authenticity and passion that she feels lifted straight from reality. Jurell Carter brings a quiet strength and subtle humour to the role of Loggo. His performance is understated but memorable, offering the kind of loyal, grounded presence that gives the group its spine. Ged McKenna, as George, delivers a humble, dignified portrayal that brings stillness and gravitas to every scene he’s in - his silences speak louder than words, offering moments of reflection that are genuinely moving. Mark Womack’s Dixie is another standout - a performance so believable it blurs the line between actor and character. As a father, husband, and friend, he captures the raw exhaustion and pride of a man trying to keep it all together. Kyle Harrison-Pope as Kevin complements him beautifully, embodying the younger generation trying to find their place in a collapsing economy with subtle emotional clarity. And finally, Weiss Barber’s Snowy leaves a lasting impression, particularly in the play’s climactic moments. Whether or not you know what’s coming, Barber’s performance lingers long after the curtain falls. Boys From the Blackstuff isn’t just a retelling it’s a necessary reminder. It’s a rallying cry for empathy, for recognition, for dignity. Whether you’re familiar with the original series or not, this production grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go. In a time when political and economic divides feel more pressing than ever, this show resonates deeply. Powerful, emotionally devastating, and fucking phenomenal - it demands to be seen. There are four performances left which you can book here: https://thelowry.com/whats-on/193//boys-from-the-blackstuff

Helen Clarke Manchester Pug Thing - a volunteer-run charity dedicated to rescuing and rehoming pugs and pug crosses, hosted a lively Easter coffee morning in Oldham on Saturday. The event brought together pug lovers and supporters from across Greater Manchester to raise vital funds for the organisation’s ongoing rescue efforts. Held in true community spirit, the coffee morning featured a raffle, a fancy dress competition for the four-legged attendees, and a variety of refreshments, homemade cakes, and plenty of brews. Children were kept entertained with a selection of books, while adults mingled over mugs of tea and the shared love of pugs. Events like these are crucial for Manchester Pug Thing, which operates through the dedication of volunteers and public donations, and is in desperate need of funds to stay open and provide support to these animals. The charity works tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome pugs, many of whom are surrendered due to complex health needs. Pugs are particularly vulnerable to conditions like breathing difficulties, obesity, and eye problems, which can result in high veterinary costs that some owners are unprepared for. With social media contributing to the breed's popularity, many are drawn in by pug's cute looks without understanding the long-term care required. The winner of the fancy dress competition Manchester Pug Thing is committed to educating the public through partnerships like their ongoing collaboration with CuppaPug in Salford, and detailed adoption processes that ensure the best outcomes for both dogs and owners. But the pug-tastic fun doesn’t stop there - join Manchester Pug Thing on 29th June at the Empire Rochdale for a day packed with tribute bands, a live DJ, and plenty of pug-themed joy at Glastonpug. All proceeds go directly to support the rescue’s mission, grab your tickets here: https://ticketlab.co.uk/events/manchesterpugthing

MCRJourno Two new queer shows are making their dazzling debut at Waterside theatre this May as part of the ever-glorious Pride in Trafford festival - an opportunity to join friends and celebrate our community. First up it’s a yeehaw meets “be who you are” extravaganza with A Northern Tr*nny Hootenanny - a joyful, tongue-in-cheek musical by Manchester’s own Hunter King (aka Wolfy). Think country-western camp meets Disney, a wishful milkmaid, and more glitter than Dolly Parton’s wardrobe - putting trans joy front and centre. A hilarious hoedown is inspired by Hunter's own journey of transition, drag, and all things musical theatre. Early audiences called it "a story that needs to be told - now more than ever." Joining the party is I Was Dancing in the Lesbian Bar - a riotous romp through sapphic nightlife past and present by the brilliant Holly Redford-Jones. With rave reviews from previews this love letter to queer women, music, and mischief promises to get toes tapping and sides splitting. Pride in Trafford runs from Tuesday 13th - Sunday 18th May and spreads the celebration from Sale to Altrincham. Expect joy, reflection, a bit of dancing, and a whole lot of queer brilliance.

MCRJourno Oldham’s green future is growing as work begins on the Northern Roots Visitor and Forestry Skills Centre. A major new chapter in Oldham’s regeneration story has begun as construction kicks off on a Visitor Centre and Forestry Skills Centre at Northern Roots - the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park. Located on a stunning 160-acre green space just minutes from Oldham town centre - Northern Roots is a project designed to connect people with nature, skills, and opportunity. Backed by £12.9 million in funding from the Town Deal and Levelling Up Fund this next phase brings the council’s ‘Green and Growing’ vision to life. The Visitor Centre will sit in the woodland at the northern end of the site and include a café, shop, exhibition and performance space, kitchen, and learning facilities. Alongside it, the Forestry Skills Centre will offer vocational training in green and land-based industries - opening doors to new careers for local residents. To date Northern Roots has already made a big impact: over 80 volunteering opportunities, 600+ youth activities, 2,000 trees planted, and a thriving community garden. Future site plans include play areas, a solar array, wild play zones, a mountain biking trail, and more community growing spaces. Leader of Oldham Council Cllr Arooj Shah said: "Northern Roots is a game-changing project for Oldham. We’re creating a space for learning, wellbeing, and green innovation – something that will benefit generations." The build is being delivered by Oldham-based firm Willmott Dixon who are also supporting local jobs, training and community engagement through the project. The site remains open to the public throughout the works with the Visitor Centre set to open in summer 2026.

MCRJourno Two new immersive art installations open at Dunham Massey this spring just a stone's throw away from Manchester. If you're looking to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience something truly unique this spring, Dunham Massey has just the thing. Launching Saturday 3rd May two powerful new installations will transform the historic estate into a space of reflection, creativity and calm. First up is ORIGIN - a stunning deep-listening experience set inside a specially designed wellness space in the house. Created by internationally renowned artists Colin Nightingale and Stephen Dobbie, and featuring contributions from Manchester’s own Young Identity poetry collective, it blends sound, light and storytelling into a soothing, meditative journey. Visitors can sit or lie down as they’re immersed in a peaceful soundscape inspired by nature’s rhythms - from giant Himalayan lilies to the stories hidden in Dunham Massey’s 400-year history. Meanwhile in the Orangery, A Field Hospital for Eco-Anxiety offers a beautifully tranquil space to reflect on our relationship with the environment. Designed by creative studios including The Edible Bus Stop and Not Here to Be Liked, the installation is filled with tropical plants, hand-drawn botanical illustrations, and a soundscape created from the real-time biorhythms of living plants. It’s part art, part sanctuary, and fully dedicated to restoring a sense of calm in an increasingly uncertain world. Both installations are included with general admission costing £10 for adults, £5 for children and free for National Trust members. Whether you’re into art, wellness, nature or just need a breather - this one’s worth a wander with ORIGIN running until 1st November and A Field Hospital for Eco-Anxiety open until 28th September.

MCRJourno Manchester United legend and longstanding supporter of the club's Foundation joined students on the pitch to celebrate a partnership in Northern Ireland. John O’Shea joined young players before attending a partnership conference where he spoke about his career, education and support of Manchester United Foundation. The event took place at Ulster University to showcase its ongoing outreach work across Derry-Londonderry and mark a new partnership with the International Fund for Ireland (IFI). After taking part in a football session with pupils from the Foundation’s two partner schools John O’Shea spoke about the impact of such programmes. He said: "Any chance you get to improve kids’ lives, to help out kids in the community and to give them encouragement to grow their confidence - whether it’s socially, mentally or physically, if you’re helping a kid then it’s brilliant to be a part of it." Manchester United Foundation launched its first overseas partnership with Ulster University in 2018 - offering students the opportunity to develop business and entrepreneurial skills - and has since developed a network of schools and impacting the lives of over 1,500 young people across Derry-Londonderry. Manchester United Foundation CEO John Shiels addressed stakeholders and representatives from across Northern Ireland and a panel of students spoke at the event. John Shiels said: "Thanks to a new collaboration with IFI, we are now able to expand our work here, as well as taking our provision across the border into the Republic of Ireland. "We strive to continue our mission of providing young people with unique opportunities and experiences through the power of Manchester United, and to encourage them to make better life choices."

MCRJourno Get your comfy shoes on and your step counters charged - Big Wigan Walk Week is striding back into town. From Saturday 24th May to Sunday 1st June the borough will be buzzing with over 55 free walking events - all ready to get you out and about in rain or shine (hopefully shine). Whether you're a seasoned stroller or just fancy a bit of fresh air and a chat there's something for every pair of feet. Fan favourites are back by popular demand – including the fascinating Top Lock Canal History Walk, a wildlife-packed wander around Wigan Flashes with Lancashire Wildlife Trust. There's also the ever-sweet Uncle Joe’s Mint Ball Trail and yes, sweeties are involved. If you're after something new to put a spring in your step this year's lineup also includes the tranquil Sunrise Walk from Robin Park, a magical Evening Wander in Borsdane Wood, and an adventure along the Community Rail Trail from Wigan to Hindley. Councillor Chris Ready who’s bagging 400,000 steps this month for charity said: "Last year was brilliant with over 400 walkers joining in and this year’s shaping up to be even better. "Whether you're into history, nature, or just love a good walk and chat, there’s loads on offer." Big Wigan Walk Week is run by the council’s Be Well team and ties in with the National Walking Month and GM Walking Festival, making it the perfect excuse to get involved during the late May Bank Holiday and school half term. Things kick off with the Bee Network Canal Walk showing off the new towpaths between Wigan and Appley Bridge. Walks are happening all across the borough from Pennington Flash to Three Sisters - all part of Greater Manchester’s only National Nature Reserve the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh. On Thursday 29th May, sweet-tooths and history buffs can join the Mint Ball Trail, which sets off from Wigan Museum and ends with a peek at the iconic Toffee Works on Dorning Street. The grand finale on Sunday 1th June is the epic New Wigan Way - a nine-mile circular route that takes in the borough’s past, present and future. Starting at Trencherfield Mill by Wigan Pier you’ll follow the historic Leeds-Liverpool Canal to Haigh Hall before looping back through the gorgeous Plantations to the town centre. Booking is open now for the major walks on the Be Well Wigan app or at: bewellwigan.org/bigwiganwalkweek

Helen Clarke Following the success of its debut - the Creatures Comedy Festival is making a return this summer by Manchester’s only comedy club running every night of the week. Running from 15th to 26th July this year’s festival promises a fresh wave of laughs as it brings together over 30 comedy shows from familiar faces to emerging talent. Once again Manchester will be the go-to city for top acts warming up their sets ahead of the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe - giving locals the chance to see big-name comics before they hit the global stage. A special highlight this year is Sunday 20th July when the spotlight will shine on some of the best comedy talent from across the North putting regional stars front and centre in a celebration of homegrown humour. Last year brought in major hitters like Maisie Adam, Larry Dean, Chloe Petts, Huge Davies, and Pierre Novellie alongside rising stars like Kemah Bob, Sashi Perera, and Fatiha El-Ghorri. New for 2025 is the launch of the Creatures Comedy Competition - a quest to find the North West’s top comic. Weekly heats will lead up to the grand final during the festival with the winner earning a paid primetime slot and ongoing performance opportunities at Creatures Comedy Club. The first batch of tickets goes on sale next week, featuring an incredible early lineup including: - Helen Bauer (Live at The Apollo, BBC, ITV2) - Alison Spittle (RTÉ, iRadio, Newstalk) - Rob Copland (Winner, Edinburgh Comedy Award) - Vidura BR (Named in The Times’ Best Jokes of the Fringe) - Jack Carroll (Coronation Street, Britain’s Got Talent, Live at the Apollo) Now in its second year and with support from NOMAD Comedy the festival marks another big step for Manchester’s rapidly growing comedy scene. It’s part of a wider mission to build the city’s reputation as a key destination for comedy lovers across the UK with tickets on sale now.

MCRJourno ‘Making it REAL’ (Raising Early Achievement in Literacy), a pioneering early years programme, is giving families across Oldham the tools and confidence to support their children’s reading and writing. Funded by Oldham Council’s Family Hubs and delivered in partnership with the National Children’s Bureau, the programme currently supports more than 170 children from 22 schools. At Beever Primary School in St Mary’s, the scheme is making a real impact with headteacher Nicola Edwards saying one child who previously rarely spoke has grown significantly in confidence since joining the programme. "The greatest thing about this project is that it’s building confidence and communication skills in children and in parents too," she said. "Children get so excited when they know the teachers are coming to their homes - they wait at the windows." Families take part in regular home visits and fun, literacy-based events throughout the year such as the Ugly Bug Ball where nursery and reception children took part in minibeast-themed literacy activities with their families. Parent Jasmina Gawkowska has seen huge progress in her four-year-old daughter, Eliana. "It’s brilliant. She’s better behaved, more confident, and is making real progress with her reading and writing. I’d definitely recommend it." Another parent, Adam Aylward, said his daughter Evie’s speech has improved dramatically. "She was struggling with conversations, but this is bringing it on and massively boosting her confidence. It’s also improving her bond with her teacher." Children also visit local libraries and bookshops as part of the programme, helping to instil a lifelong love of reading. Learn more about Family Hubs in Oldham here.

Helen Clarke Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party, a cult classic that’s equal parts comedy, tragedy, and social commentary, gets a pitch-perfect revival at the Royal Exchange Theatre under the sharp direction of Natalie Abrahami. A master of subtle tension and awkward hilarity, Leigh’s 1977 play is reimagined in-the-round, creating a party atmosphere so immersive that you’ll feel like a guest - although one who may want to quietly slip out once the chaos begins to bubble over. Kym Marsh is exceptional as Beverly Moss, the overbearing hostess who embodies 70s suburban aspiration and passive-aggressive charm. Marsh’s comedic timing is razor-sharp - every line delivered with a wink, a pout, or a pointed barb that had the audience in stitches. The onstage chemistry between Marsh and Graeme Hawley, who plays her long-suffering husband Laurence, is electric. Their portrayal of a couple locked in a dance of resentment and routine is heartbreakingly funny and painfully real. The supporting cast adds delicious layers to the evening's slow-burning disaster. Tupele Dorgu brings quiet dignity and discomfort to Susan, the divorced neighbour trying not to unravel, while Yasmin Taheri’s Angela and Kyle Rowe’s Tony round out the guest list with both charm and tension. Each character is perfectly placed to poke at the class anxieties and gender politics of the time. Despite being set in a single living room - complete with cheese and pineapple hedgehogs, olives no one wants, and an ever-present drinks trolley, the staging never feels static. Peter Butler’s design captures 70s domestic kitsch without slipping into caricature, and the clever in-the-round setup only heightens the claustrophobia as the night unfolds. You may arrive laughing at the wallpaper, but you’ll leave reflecting on the undercurrents running beneath each cocktail. There’s a nostalgic sheen to the production that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether you grew up with Abigail’s Party or are discovering it for the first time, there’s a familiarity to the music, the fashion, and even the social awkwardness that transcends generations. And yes - even millennials and Gen Z know a cheese and pineapple hedgehog when they see one. What sets this production apart is its emotional arc. The first half leans into satire and farce, but by the end, there’s a gut-punch of emotional truth. Attitudes toward women, class, and relationships are sharply dissected. You could feel the audience shift in their seats as the laughter gave way to discomfort, the play holding a mirror up to then - and now. Abrahami’s direction brings fresh energy to a well-loved play, balancing humour and heartbreak with impressive control. The Royal Exchange’s production proves that Abigail’s Party isn’t just a relic of 70s television - it’s a timeless, biting exploration of human behaviour that still hits home. And one final note: Abigail, as it turns out, isn’t who you think she is - but by the time the evening ends, it’s clear that her absence is as powerful as her presence might have been. The verdict? ★★★★★ - Unmissable. A hilarious, claustrophobic, and hauntingly relevant night at the theatre.