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MCRJourno Fish and chips just got a fiery makeover - and it's happening right here in Greater Manchester. Following the buzz of its ‘CodFather’ campaign fronted by none other than East End icon Danny Dyer, Frank’s RedHot Sauce is back, and this time it’s taking on one of Britain’s most sacred mealtime rituals: the Friday chippy tea. In a new collaboration with legendary chippy Harry Ramsden’s, the hot sauce giant has launched Fish and Frank’s - a fusion that brings heat and zing to your classic battered fish. Marrying Frank’s RedHot’s unmistakable kick with Harry Ramsden’s famous golden batter, this new twist promises to shake up tradition in the tastiest way possible. To celebrate the launch, Harry Ramsden’s Salford Quays will be giving away free portions of Fish and Frank’s on Friday 11th April to the first 200 customers who can prove their name is either Harry, Harriet, Frank, or Francesca. Expect a proper cone of crispy, golden fish, infused with the signature tang of Frank’s, and served up with all the fanfare of a street party (minus Danny Dyer... probably). But the offer doesn’t end there as Frank’s RedHot will be stocked as a condiment for the next six months at select restaurants. The campaign is part of Frank’s wider mission to “kick it up a notch,” tapping into beloved British institutions from sport to food with a saucy twist. Whether you're a die-hard Frank’s fan or just after something new for your next chippy run, this collab has Manchester written all over it - flavour, and a touch of fame, what’s not to love? So, if your name’s on the list, make your way down to Salford Quays this Friday and get stuck in.

MCRJourno Bab - is this just a posh kebab in Manchester or a fresh flavour haven in the heart of the Northern Quarter? Tucked into Manchester’s ever-evolving Northern Quarter, this gem of an eatery brings a modern twist to comfort food staples while showcasing a real respect for ingredients. With its pastel tones and fresh minimal decor the restaurant’s vibe fits right in with the neighbourhood’s artsy contemporary spirit. We tried the Islak Beef Burger - quite possibly one of the juiciest I’ve had in the city. The patty bursts with rich flavour, and there’s a delightful crunch to the coating that elevates every bite. The bun deserves its own shoutout as it’s everything a burger bun should be - pillowy and soft. A light peri seasoning on the accompanying chips adds a gentle heat that complements the beef without overpowering it. It’s carefully considered, not flashy, and that’s what makes it work. Then there’s the salad bowl where each component brings its own identity to the plate - we opted for falafel, a hit for the vegan/veggie diners. The falafel is warm, lightly spiced, and you can actually see the chickpeas inside - no mushy, over-processed nonsense here. The pickled slaw sings with acidity, the coleslaw is fresh and creamy, and a scoop of hearty hummus ties it all together making it a meal in its own right for those seeking something lighter but just as satisfying. Finally, the one that started it all, the kebab - forget greasy late-night kebab shop memories as this is something entirely different. Harissa & Pomegranate Lamb with rocket, giant cous cous and minted mayo. The meat melts, the dressing is clean and elegant, and those scattered pomegranate seeds pop with a tang that cuts through the richness beautifully. The naan is thin, firm, and clearly well-made. Oh, and for those with allergies...(me!) they proudly operate a nut-free kitchen - a thoughtful touch that makes dining here inclusive and stress-free. All in all, this spot is a breath of fresh air - vibrant, delicious, and refreshingly mindful in both menu and execution.

MCRJourno An exciting new exhibition marking 60 years of Match of the Day - the nation’s beloved football show - is set to launch at the National Football Museum in Manchester. Running from 4th April to 27th July 2025, Match of the Day @ 60 will take visitors on a journey through the show’s rich history, celebrating this landmark anniversary with an in-depth look at its legacy. Tim Desmond, CEO of the National Football Museum, said: "Football means so much to so many people, and few shows have brought the sport into our living rooms for as long as Match of the Day. "This exhibition honours that legacy and offers both new and long-time fans the chance to learn more about this iconic part of British culture." Beginning in the 1960s, the exhibition will explore the origins of Match of the Day, featuring rare archival material that uncovers how the programme came to life, including its early days in black and white. The exhibition will also delve into what the show has meant to football fans over the years, shining a spotlight on the iconic presenters who have shaped its history. Visitors will also gain a unique behind-the-scenes insight into how the iconic programme is made, from its analysis to its production. As part of the exhibition, attendees can explore the evolution of football coverage, from the introduction of slow-motion replays to the modern-day use of VAR, demonstrating how MOTD pioneered groundbreaking technologies to ensure its analysis remained top-notch. Looking to the future, the exhibition will provide an exciting preview of the changes ahead for the programme. As Gary Lineker steps down after 26 years as presenter, the show will be entering a new era, with Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan set to share presenting duties. Gabby Logan will join Kelly Cates as the first female to hold a permanent presenting role on MOTD. Steve Lyle, Head of Football at BBC Sport, said: "For over 60 years, MOTD has united football fans across the UK, and continues to be just as cherished today as it was when it first aired." Admission to Match of the Day @ 60 is included with the standard entry ticket to the National Football Museum, so visitors can enjoy this special exhibition at no additional cost.

MCRJourno A groundbreaking new exhibition exploring the Anindilyakwa community has found its permanent home at Manchester Museum. Opening on Tuesday 8th April - 'Anindilyakwa Arts: Stories from our Country' is set to bring the voices of the Warnindilyakwa people to the heart of Manchester. The Warnindilyakwa, hailing from the Groote Archipelago in Australia have long passed down their rich traditions, stories, and artistry through generations and now their cultural heritage is being celebrated. Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum, said: "These events reflect everything we stand for - collaboration, care, and the power of cultural belongings to connect people across generations and continents. "We are deeply honoured to continue our partnership with the Anindilyakwa community and to provide a space where their voices, stories and traditions can be shared." During 2023 a set of Dadikwakwa-kwa (shell dolls) were gifted to the Museum with the condition that the dolls must come off display once a year to be played with. This is the first time families in Manchester will have the opportunity to care for these precious objects through play. Created in collaboration with Warnindilyakwa artists and Elders the landmark exhibition offers a rare chance to experience the depth of Anindilyakwa culture. Through the community’s own words, art, and traditions, visitors will be given a deeply personal insight into their identity, resilience, and connection to their homeland today. In addition to the exhibition Manchester Museum is offering a special interactive experience for families to use original shell dolls traditionally used to teach literacy, kinship, and ancestral wisdom - the dolls are regarded as living entities believed to carry the spirits of ancestors. Play sessions will take place between 2pm and 3pm from 8th - 10th and 15th - 17th April with families are encouraged to sign up in advance for a free ticket.

MCRJourno Independent business Blanchflower Coffee and Bakery has announced the opening of its newest café at the Trafford Centre on Friday 4th April. Founded by duo Phil and Claire Howells, the family-run bakery already has thriving locations in Sale and Altrincham. The Trafford Centre site will be its third, situated in the shopping centre’s newly developed Eastern Garden. Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said: "It’s a pleasure to welcome a business that is so passionate about the produce that they serve, as we celebrate the innovation and quality that can be found right here in our region." Staying true to its ethos, ‘Everything Made In House’, Blanchflower prides itself on small-batch, handmade production and remains fiercely independent. Just a stone’s throw away in Sale, Blanchflower’s team of bakers and pastry chefs will freshly prepare a tempting selection of seasonal treats using locally sourced ingredients. The menu will feature a range of breakfast and lunch options, from pastries, granola, and cakes to hearty sandwiches, soups, and salads. Coffee lovers can enjoy expertly brewed drinks made with beans from Manchester-based roaster Blossom with the café’s unique drinks menu also including house-made syrups and cordials, alongside chai and matcha lattes, and indulgent hot chocolate. Customers will have the option to grab their food and drinks to go or relax and enjoy their treats in the café’s dine-in space. Phil Howells, co-owner of Blanchflower, added: "It’s a real vote of confidence that such a large Manchester institution is backing an independent and local business like ours and we can’t wait to get stuck in."

Helen Clarke The third annual charity dinner brought together over 350 guests from Greater Manchester's business community to unite in addressing the region's homelessness crisis. A night filled with dinner, dancing, and a surprise DJ set from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham raised an impressive £40,000 for the Greater Manchester Mayor's Charity - more than double the amount raised at the previous two events combined. Hosted at New Century Hall, the event featured a delicious dinner, drinks, and a special performance from Manchester's own Mr Scruff. Fran Darlington-Pollock, Chief Executive of the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, said: "From our generous sponsors to those who donated raffle prizes and bought tickets, thank you for your contributions - together, we can make our city-region a better place for everyone and put an end to homelessness.” Guests were treated to a unique poem, A Bed Every Night, written specifically for the evening and performed by local community champion The Blind Poet. Professional doodler Dave Draws created a live mural titled Show Me Home incorporating words contributed by attendees with the original artwork auctioned off for £6,000. Tim Heatley, Chair of Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, said: "Beyond the glamour, the real success is the £40,000 raised for our A Bed Every Night programme, which will fund over 1,300 nights of support. "That’s hundreds of people offered a warm bed, a hot meal, and, most importantly, access to life-changing support to help them take the next step towards a brighter future."

MCRJourno Marks and Spencer invests over £50 million for the year ahead with a pipeline of new stores set to create over 300 new jobs in the North West. This investment is part of the retailer’s plans to build new and improved stores across its estate, with plans for a further six brand new stores in the Northwest in Bolton, Speke, Formby, Thornton-Cleveleys, Warrington, and Blackburn underway. In Greater Manchester existing stores will grow with a major extension planned for the full-line store in Middlebrook Retail Park Bolton, and a fresh redesign for the Food Hall in Sale which was recently completed. A £2.1 million investment in Sale has delivered a brand-defining Food Hall, now open with a larger bakery with a coffee-to-go counter and a brand-new Food to Order service. An estimated 108 new jobs will be created for the extension in Bolton as the store expands into a vacant unit in Middlebrook Retail Park. Will Smith, Property Director at M&S, said: "We have the opportunity in the North West to continue investing in market-leading stores offering great quality products with that touch of M&S magic. "M&S already has many local supplier partnerships such as Park Cakes in Oldham who make the customer-favourite Colin the Caterpillar cakes, and these new stores will help showcase their products and support jobs throughout the supply chain." M&S has 62 stores across the North West as well as an additional 25 in hospitals and travel settings including train and petrol stations with all new stores subject to planning permission.

MCRJourno Credit:  Dawn Kilner Holby City actor David Paisley has been confirmed to return to the cast of Adam Zane's bold comedy-drama Jock Night. The production prepares to take the stage at Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester from 20th - 31st May. Paisley, best known for his portrayal of midwife Ben Saunders on BBC1's Holby City made waves with a groundbreaking on-screen same-sex kiss that ignited national conversations. A passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights Paisley was recognised at the 2021 Attitude Pride Awards for his contributions to diversity and inclusion. He said: "Jock Night is an unapologetically queer exploration of modern gay life, tackling the complexities of friendships, sex, and relationships. Credit:  Dawn Kilner "Adam's script is witty, brutally honest, and thought-provoking, and I’m honoured to bring Ben back to the stage." Following its successful run in 2023 at Seven Dials Playhouse, Jock Night earned critical acclaim for its fearless humour, emotional complexity, and authentic portrayal of queer life. Set against the backdrop of Manchester's lively Gay Village the play captures a year of wild nights while addressing themes such as mental health, chemsex culture, and the quest for love in the dynamic LGBTQ+ community.

Helen Clarke Musical Sunny Afternoon - a tribute to 70s band The Kinks will embark on a new UK tour opening at the Manchester Palace Theatre on 10th October. The show will run until 18th October with casting details to be revealed soon. Ray Davies, the frontman of The Kinks, expressed his excitement about the return of the musical saying: "In these times of political uncertainties, it is a relief to know that Sunny Afternoon is on the horizon to lift our spirits." Producer Sonia Friedman shared her enthusiasm saying: "Ray Davies’ music and lyrics capture the poetry and poignancy of everyday life with honesty and wit, and The Kinks’ music, attitude and vibe shaped a generation. "Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or experiencing it all over again, I can’t wait for audiences across the UK to see it - I’ve truly missed it." Sunny Afternoon tells the incredible story of The Kinks, celebrating the raw energy, passion, and unforgettable sound of one of Britain’s most iconic bands. Through chart-topping hits like “You Really Got Me,” “Lola,” and “All Day and All of the Night,” the musical explores the band’s euphoric highs and agonising lows. The show has been recognised with multiple Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for Ray Davies. Set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious 1960s, Sunny Afternoon is a vibrant and poignant tribute to the music, lives, and legacy of The Kinks - a band that changed the course of music history. Tickets are available at: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunny-afternoon/palace-theatre-manchester/

MCRJourno The famous physicist is coming home in July for a series of motivational talks and Q&As for the borough’s primary, secondary and college students. A bespoke visit, ‘Great Horizons’ in Oldham will be a celebration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) education and will recognise the influence of teachers on future generations. On Tuesday 1st July, Professor Cox, who has presented BBC science television programmes such as Stargazing Live and Wonders of the Universe will be sharing his expertise as part of Oldham's strategy to inspire pupils and retain great teachers in state schools. Professor Cox said: "I am very much looking forward to putting Oldham at the centre of the Universe, where it belongs, I believe strongly that every young person should have the opportunities to be equipped with the knowledge and skills that they need to go out into the world, and beyond it. "By encouraging and inspiring the next generations of scientists, the opportunities are limitless." The following day Professor Cox will be hosting special morning assemblies with a tour of the galaxy for primary pupils and will later meet with business and council leaders from Oldham to launch a 365-day challenge to the sector. As Oldham’s Economy Board plans to regenerate STEM careers in the town, businesses will be asked to commit to supporting education in as many ways as possible. His business address will be followed by a keynote from global business leader Kevin Roberts who will be talking about personal leadership development for young people. Lastly, Professor Cox, alumni of The University of Manchester, will address secondary and college students in a Q&A at Oldham Sixth Form College.

MCRJourno Hundreds of children in Rochdale will gain access to brand-new books thanks to a £58,000 donation from Bookmark Reading Charity. As part of its 'Your Story Corner' programme, the national literacy charity will provide 29 local schools around greater Manchester with engaging, high-quality books and resources to foster a love of reading. Literacy is a growing concern in the area, where children face significant challenges such as 43% of children living in relative poverty - compared to a national average of 20%. Research also suggests that Key Stage 2 pupils in Rochdale are more likely to struggle with reading than the national average, meaning that literacy resources are in high demand. To help close the gap, Bookmark is distributing over 200 new books per school along with teacher resources and interactive learning materials. One of the first schools to benefit is Moorhouse Academy, where children unboxed their books last week joined by local children’s author Andy Seed, who led an engaging literacy workshops. Rochdale is one of nine new areas targeted over the next three years, with the charity aiming to support 500 schools across the country. Emily Jack, CEO of Bookmark Reading Charity said: "Our vision is simple, we want every child to read. "By supporting schools in Rochdale, we are ensuring more children experience the joy of books but we won’t stop here - over the next three years we aim to reach 1,000 schools." The charity is now calling on volunteers to make a difference, saying that just one hour a week reading with a child online or in person could change a child’s future. Find out more at www.bookmarkreading.org/volunteer

MCRJourno Ireland’s beloved comedy duo Dirtbirds are back with their raucous new show Girls World Tour. The comedy outfit are set to take the stage at Waterside, Sale on Friday 4th April. Following the success of their sell-out tour, which earned them standing ovations across Ireland and the UK, Sinead Culbert and Sue Collins are returning with their signature observational humour. This time they delve deep into the often hilarious and perplexing world of the female experience. Combining stand-up comedy and sketches, Girls World Tour takes a witty look at everyday life. They offer answers to some of life's burning questions such as why do we cling to tights with ladders in them, and why do we keep buying creams we know won’t prevent our faces from sliding down our necks? Dirtbirds have become known for turning everyday situations into sharp, intelligent comedy and have been described as "identifying a gap in comedy that women can truly relate to." The show starts at 8pm in the Robert Bolt Theatre with tickets costing £23 or a discounted member-only price of 10% off.