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MCRJourno Credit: Womanizer Toys Manchester has been revealed as the UK's kinkiest city, with Bury close behind. Data analysis looking at Google search results across the UK reveals the so-called 'kinkiest' cities and towns with Manchester topping the list and Bury taking sixth place. With an average of 1,401 searches per 100,000 people each month relating to sex toys, Manchester comes first in the list while Greater Manchester town Bury isn't far behind. Alongside Greater Manchester, towns and cities featured in the top ten include Croydon, Norwich, Wrexham, Newcastle, Dartford, Dunfermline, Plymouth, and Wellingborough. Findings come from SEO company Didgeheads  who revealed that one in 71 Mancunians are searching for ways to enhance their bedroom experience, as well as a decent portion of residents in nearby town Bury. Credit: Lovense Toys Bury residents on average carry out 1,081 searches per 100,000 people for terms such as fleshlights, rose toys, and sex swings. Jessica Redman, CEO at Didgeheads said it was interesting that none of the UK's capitals made it into the top ten with Edinburgh coming in at 34, London in 80th place, Belfast placing 129th and Cardiff at 154th. She said: "While most of the cities and towns shared the same favourite accessories it was interesting to observe that some places have other preferences, such as sex swings and chastity belts. "This shows Brits are willing to explore their sexual side, experimenting with different sex toys and ultimately having fun." For those wondering which town or city took the crown for the lowest search volume, this was Nottingham - with only 204 searches per 100,000.

MCRJourno The Bodyguard. Credit: Paul Coltas The award-winning musical The Bodyguard is set to arrive on-stage at Manchester Opera House next January. Running from Monday 19th - Saturday 31st January 2026, producers Michael Harrison and David Ian have extended the already popular touring dates. Based on Lawrence Kasdan’s 1992 Oscar nominated film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, The Bodyguard directed by Thea Sharrock has previously been nominated for four Olivier Awards. A sell-out 18 month tour followed its awards before the show returned to the West End ahead of two further sell out tours. To date the production has played to over 3.9 million people in 15 countries including Netherlands, South Korea, Canada, Australia, and 45 US cities. The premise of the show is - former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker and while each expects to be in charge, what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A romantic thriller, it features a host of musical classics such as Queen of the Night, So Emotional, One Moment in Time, Saving All My Love, Run to You, I Have Nothing, I Wanna Dance with Somebody and one of the biggest hit songs of all time - I Will Always Love You. Casting for the production has yet to be announced.

MCRJourno Hotpod Yoga, the UK’s largest yoga business, is set to open a brand-new studio bringing its immersive, heated yoga experience to the heart of Manchester next week. Located in Bendix Street, Ancoats Gardens, Hotpod Yoga Manchester will open its doors to the public on 27th March offering a series of free classes across its opening weekend. Following the launch, visitors can access an unlimited 14-day pass for £22, giving them the opportunity to experience everything Hotpod Yoga has to offer. Known for its unique approach to yoga, Hotpod Yoga combines the benefits of heat with dynamic, immersive yoga classes designed to suit yogis of all levels. The pods form an immersive yoga environment that is regulated at 37 degrees, deepening the effects of a typical yoga class. Add to this Hotpod’s unique, sensorial experience, combining elements such its distinctive, purple glow, calming beats (curated especially for Hotpod Yoga), and relaxing scents (again, created exclusively for the brand), and you have an incomparable experience that soothes the mind and body. Studio owner Gabrielle Fuller said: "The warmth, ambient lighting, and inviting atmosphere of the pod allows you to disconnect from the outside world. "Manchester is a city that embraces new concepts and gives people a chance to express their personality [so] it’s the perfect place for Hotpod Yoga to expand." Hotpod Yoga which is also B Corp certified has grown to become the UK’s largest yoga business with more than 60 studios nationwide and 130,00 active customers attendign nearly 1 million classes last year. For people wishing to continue their Hotpod Yoga experience, a variety of classes will be available between 7am and 9pm seven-days-a-week - catering for all experience levels. A range of attendance options will be available including a single class for £18, a five-class pass for £80, a mini membership (one class per week) for £48, and an unlimited monthly membership for £120 per month, with a 20% discount if purchased as a Founder’s Membership prior to the studio opening.

Helen Clarke For someone who has only experienced a handful of Iftar meals before, the experience feels as unique as the flavours before me - as well as the challenge of eating a four-person platter. Dishoom has been privileged to receive rave reviews for years and is often credited with trying new concepts, tastes and combinations put together by its skilled chefs, and the Iftar feast is no exception. If you’ve ever imagined stepping into a dimly lit Bombay food hall without leaving Manchester, this restaurant might just have the magic you’re looking for. From the moment you walk in you’re greeted with the intoxicating aromas of incense and Indian spices, and the decor has been deliberately chosen from rich oak furniture to delicate candles where even the lavatory transports you straight to the bustling lanes of Mumbai. To begin, the chutneys arrive to set the mood and are the perfect teaser for everything that follows. The chilli is intense and packed with heat that will leave your mouth tingling, while the mint is a soothing, refreshing contrast - not overpowering, just a subtle taste that balances the spice. The coriander ties everything together, providing a moment of relief after the sharpness of the chilli. Starting with the dishes to break your fast we have Okra Fries, lightly crunchy and lightly salted, they offer a healthy alternative to typical fried snacks. Not greasy at all, they provide a satisfying contrast to the heavier dishes, and they bring an unexpected freshness to the meal. If you’re in the mood for the Dishoom House Chaat this tangy, vinegary version is spot on. It’s a cooling dish that complements the richness of the Keema accompanied with Pau bread which is simply divine. Be warned the Keema is a spicy dish, a hearty mix of peas, lamb, and spice - the flavours meld beautifully with the cooling effects of the chaat, making for a lovely contrast. We also ordered the Pau Bhaji from the main menu to compare and we were not disappointed. The heat of the warm, soft stew-like dish hits you right away, while the fluffy bread comes to the rescue soaking up the intensity of the dish with ease. The bread is soft, airy, and so perfectly paired, its lightness balancing the sharpness of the bhaji. Moving on to the Daal Gosht and Paratha, this was something we had to finish. Needles to say the lamb was cooked to perfection, and paratha has always been a go-to favourite of mine at any Indian but this was on another level. Warm and comforting, flakey without being dry and tasting so homely against the daal - made with three types of lentils. This isn't a spicy dish but a splendid answer to the goulash's of Eastern Europe. Here we come to the signature dish of Dishoom which simply had to be included on the Iftar menu, the House Black Daal made from whole black urad daal. Much has been written about the dish already as it is one that is hard to put your finger on without tasting - the depth of flavour elevates it from the ordinary, with a rich, complex taste that makes it a much-anticipated highlight of the meal. One of my favourites next, the Gunpowder Potatoes - they are an absolute standout. I expected an explosion of heat but instead these perfectly cooked potatoes offer a fragrant, understated kick. The spice isn’t overpowering, but each bite is perfectly balanced and I find myself more excited than I ever thought possible about a bowl of potatoes. If you order one thing here, make it this. The Jackfruit Biryani is well-cooked, seasoned, and is a delightful combination of the key fruit, sultanas and barberries. The rice is impeccable, however as someone who doesn't like the key ingredients it was hard to judge fairly. If you enjoy the jackfruit and its accompanying ingredients I'm certain you will like the dish. When it comes to the Tikka Masala, it's more than just your typical curry. It delivers a spice kick around halfway through your chewing that makes each bite feel like a fresh experience and builds as the bites continue. The fragrance of the dish is remarkable, and you’ll quickly realise that it doesn’t need a sauce to shine - it stands on its own, bold and beautiful. The Raita offers a wonderful break from the heat, an uncomplicated, refreshing dish that provides a moment of respite before diving back into the flavourful intensity of the meal, and alongside the Kachumber, both dishes are perfectly placed on the menu and serve as excellent accompaniments. Malai Kulfi is for dessert although you can opt for pistachio or mango, and if you're assuming an Indian dessert might be the weakest thing on the menu you would be sorely mistaken - the Malai flavour is outstanding. Outstanding... it is exactly what the meal needs to finish and is so cooling, caramel-flavoured, well presented and careful, even down to the serving within a tall glass with a rod so as to minimise any dripping/spilling/wastage - because you would not want to waste a drop. My only regret about this meal is that I wasn't able to finish it. Much applause must also be given to the staff, from the moment we walked in to the moment we left, and not just at our table was outstanding service observed but at each and every table. A meal here isn’t just about eating, it’s about an experience, and the flavours are perfectly tuned to offer a balance of spice, heat, sweetness, and refreshing coolness. As a bonus, the dishes are easy on the stomach, offering a lightness that makes it perfectly suitable for those observing Ramadan. Whether you're a seasoned lover of Indian cuisine or a newcomer looking to explore bold flavours, this place will not disappoint. At £35 a head it isn't cheap no, but nothing about the experience feels cheap, so I'd ask yourself do you really want cheap? Available until Monday 31st March the feast is set for groups of four or more every day from when the sun sets.

MCRJourno Arts venue Z-arts in Hulme Manchester is opening a new immersive play experience in partnership with Macmillan Children's Books to celebrate the 160th anniversary of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The experience opens from Saturday 5th April aimed at those aged one to eight and is the work of the in-house team of 20 creatives based at Z-arts. Saskia Metcalf, Head of Creative Development at Z-arts said: "Adventures in Wonderland will take children from the pages of one of everyone’s favourite stories deep into their imaginations, with colourful encounters and discoveries that will spark their curiosity." Visitors can meet characters from the much-loved children's book such as the White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat and Mad Hatter as they take part in games and puzzles, get lose in mazes and dive into the indoor ball pit. A small exhibition inside features prints of the original book illustrations by John Tenniel, with colour by Harry G. Theaker and Diz Wallis, contributed by Macmillan Children’s Books. Published in 1865 by Macmillan, the novel is said to be one of the most quoted books in history after the Bible and the works of Shakespeare and has been translated into 170 languages. Z-arts is the UK’s only dedicated arts centre for children and their families featuring a theatre, children’s library, escape room, playrooms, and studios. Tickets to Adventures in Wonderland cost £12 with a family of four ticket costing £40 and can be booked at the Z-arts website.

MCRJourno Winner of the Shelagh Delaney New Writing Award comes to Salford Arts Theatre next month with a new theatre-performance. Rayla Clay (and the following day) by Drayla Kasheen tackles complex themes such as female autonomy, paternal abuse and escape, showcasing at the theatre from 3rd - 5th April. A rite of passage drama about broken promises and squandered opportunities, the piece examines the relationship between a father and daughter. The performance takes place where the past, present, and future exist at the same time. Teenage Rayla single-handedly props up her emotionally abusive, addicted, highly intelligent father in a brutally honest battle between hope and despair. On one life-changing day, her world undergoes a seismic shift under the influence of an unexpected apparition - her older self, where the father and daughter fight for control of his inability to change. Writer Drayla Kasheen said: "To see my work produced and performed is vital in terms of confirming a concept and expediting its possibilities - the notion that a script doesn’t exist until it’s seen, shown, done, I agree." This is the venue's third year running the Shelagh Delaney New Writing Award supporting new writers and giving them a platform to see and hear their work performed.

Helen Clarke A unique ‘double exposure’ mural has been unveiled in Manchester’s Corn Exchange to mark the release of “Daredevil: Born Again” on Disney+. The ‘double exposure’ style used by artist Insane51 allows for three different perspectives of the image: through a red lens, a blue lens and through the naked eye. Insane51 spoke on his latest work saying he remembers seeing Daredevil on-screen as a child, "Getting to bring my own artistic vision to this character feels surreal. "I love that people will be able to engage with this piece not just visually, but also on a tactile and auditory level." Created in collaboration with the RNIB, this mural features a tactile version of the work, and NaviLens audio description that can be accessed by scanning a NaviLens code. This means the artwork can be engaged with on multiple levels, making it more accessible to those with sight loss. When speaking about the mural, Sonali Rai, Media, Culture and Immersive Technologies Senior Manager at RNIB, said: "A show about a blind superhero is the perfect catalyst for making public art more inclusive. "We hope it sets a precedent for accessibility to become a standard in public art." NaviLens has been designed specifically to enable blind and partially sighted people to be able to access and locate information and interact with the environment around them. In Marvel Television’s “Daredevil: Born Again,” Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), a blind lawyer with heightened abilities is fighting for justice through his bustling law firm, while former mob boss Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) pursues his own political endeavors in New York. When their past identities begin to emerge, both men find themselves on an inevitable collision course. The artwork will be on display for a limited time at Manchester’s Corn Exchange on Fennel Street from 17th March. “Daredevil: Born Again” is available to stream on Disney+ now.

MCRJourno As the days get lighter and orchards bloom, NOMA's growing neighbourhood is celebrating springtime with its farmer's market. Curated by Where The Light Gets In, Manchester Urban Diggers (MUD), and NOMA’s very own hobby-house Altogether Otherwise, the free-to-attend market will be held on Sunday 30th March from 11am to 5pm in Sadler’s Yard. This event celebrates locally sourced food and hopes to build meaningful community connections in the heart of NOMA. Stalls will feature a handpicked selection of seasonal produce from farmers, growers, and artisans who are committed to ethical and sustainable practices. Attendees can also enjoy cooking demos, live music, and family workshops, fostering a traditional farmers’ market feel.   As Manchester City Centre's only farmers' market NOMA hosts this event as part of its 2025 ‘Happenings’ series - slotting into March and April’s season of Sewing and Growing. To get involved in A Farmers’ Market, book your spot here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-farmers-market-tickets-1245950745219?msockid=36b829711d7560ae17243dda1c956128

MCRJourno Salford City Council’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) has launched this week for young people aged four to 16 ahead of the Easter holidays. The programme is scheduled to run from 7th to 25th April after the success of a similar programme over Christmas. Providing free fun and healthy meals to eligible children, the scheme supports those who receive free school meals as well as children who are at risk of food insecurity. Councillor Jim Cammell, Lead for Children and Young People at Salford Council said: "With research showing that the school holidays can be pressure points for some families, free holiday programmes like HAF can have a positive impact by providing stability, structure and support." The council has partnered with experienced catering company Citywide who will provide meals during activities as well as home-cooked food boxes to support families. Activities are focussed around fun, learning and healthy meals with enrichment including sports, music, arts and crafts, and theatre trips.   Free to eligible families, Salford residents can see what's available and book a place for the upcoming Easter holidays at www.salford.gov.uk/HAF

MCRJourno The best burger in Britain hails from Bolton - according to this year’s Smithfield Awards. Bolton butcher, Fraser’s, has scooped two awards for its Mega Burger and its minted lamb and halloumi kebab at an awards celebration recognising the UK’s finest craft butchery products. Scoring full marks the kebab was described by judges as excellent while the burger was judged to be "a very tasty burger which looks and feels premium and has a lovely blend of flavours." Andy Hull from Fraser’s butchers said: "The ethos of our shop is quality. The Mega Burger is definitely our bestselling burger and we’re very proud of it. People travel from all over the North West to shop with us because they know they’ll get excellent quality meat." Organised by the Q Guild of Butchers, the awards have taken place for more than 30 years. Products are awarded a Bronze, Silver or Gold award by a panel of independent industry judges, with all Gold products in each category then pitched against each for the category champion Diamond Award. The butcher also made the final shortlist in the Hot Eating Pie category with its roast chicken and gravy pie and its meat and potato pie. Fraser’s was also awarded silver status for its Traditional Pork Sausage. Gordon Wallace, Q Guild Manager said: "Being crowned best in class in two categories, along with securing five additional Gold awards, is a fantastic accomplishment."

MCRJourno With shorter nights come longer celebrations as we step into spring-time. Often spirits can be the centre-piece of any gathering so our dedicated team has tried, tested, and sipped tirelessly to give a spring review of a few signature pours. Isle of Raasay Single Malt Whisky  Set your compass 57o 21’N 6o 04’W and head to the Isle of Raasay nestling between the Scottish mainland and its bigger brother Skye in the inner Hebrides. Here you will find the distillery of this rather special single malt whisky - with its own well drawing water through layers of jurassic sandstone and volcanic rock creating the mineral rich water which forms the basis for this single malt. The heavily mottled glass bottle would not look out of place on a storm tossed beach having endured the ravages of the North Atlantic waves, nor in the hands of a distinguished modern socialite placing their thumb neatly on the bottle's indent to create the perfect grasp that almost whispers 'this bottle belongs in my hand.' Its contents however deliver an altogether more enriching experience. It has a rich golden hue developed from its time in Chinkapin oak casks and a pleasant smokey, fruity nose. The first sip gives you a subtle introduction to both its well balanced dark fruitiness and highland peat neither of which is over powering. This smoothness makes it a perfect introduction to peaty whiskeys before venturing to the more heavily peated brands such as Laphroaig or Lagavulin with their distinctive ‘medicinal’ earthy thump. Fruity, smoky, refined and delicious Isle of Raasay could become a firm favourite sitting as it does neatly between traditional malty and peaty varieties. Pancho Datos Reposado Tequila This tequila is a high quality premium pour made from 100% roasted Blue Agave grown in the Jalisco region, known as tequila valley which gives it a distinct earthy taste with subtle hints of fruitiness as opposed to the more floral tastes of those grown higher on the mountain. It is clear double distilled un-aged tequila giving it a very refreshing taste. It’s subtle smooth finish makes it perfect for drinking on its own over ice or as the main constituent in top end cocktails. An extremely drinkable quality tequila using only the finest ingredients makes Pancho Datos a must try for any tequila aficionado. Desi Daru Mango Vodka At first sight one gets the impression that this is a quality product. The design and colour of the bottle gives an invitation that something special awaits inside. Upon opening the bottle you are immediately met with a burst of fresh Alphonso Indian Mangoes. The fruity aroma deceives you into thinking that the contents must themselves bear a mango hue. Pouring the crystal clear liquid into the glass releases more of its fruity zest, while sipping the Vodka neat you appreciate its exceptionally smooth and refreshing taste. A drinker may expect the mangoes to overpower the taste of the vodka but they don't, instead you are treated to a perfect balance of the two. Most vodkas are merely ‘raw materials’ to be mixed with other elements to make a better and more inviting drink or cocktail. Desi Daru doesn’t need anything else however except perhaps the odd drop of ice. This is an ultra premium vodka distilled seven times and using only the finest ingredients to create a unique award winning taste sensation - and it shows.

Helen Clarke Celebrating women beyond International Women's Day we spoke to Nicola Marsh, a local business-woman and Managing Director at EssenceMediacom North, part of global media giants, WPP for the past six years. What biases and challenges have you faced as a woman in business?    One of the huge challenges I faced was finding a job in advertising in the regions. I felt like all the ad agency opportunities existed in London and getting into these agencies was really tough. That’s how I ended up selling local advertising as I wanted a foot in the door and was desperate to gain experience. Fortunately, that led to me taking on a national sales role in regional press, then an internet sales role both of which exposed me to agencies and then finally I got the opportunity to join an agency at the age of 30. I think where I have encountered bias has been around my accent and the fact that I have come from a traditional working-class background. Having a broad Salford accent has often caused people to make judgements around my intellect which is just crazy. Nicola Marsh, Managing Director - EssenceMediacom North I have on more than one occasion seen the shock on people’s faces when I have introduced myself along with my job title. I think the attitude around accents is changing now but there are still people I come across that have some interesting views on the North and don’t appreciate how much talent and brilliant work is done there. What actions have you taken to help you succeed?   I have worked really hard and I truly believe that most of the time you get out what you put in. I have learned to be proud of the fact that I am a working-class female and have often found other people's short-sightedness as their weakness not mine. I have always been true to myself, and I have found over the years that authenticity is one of the most important qualities you can possess. Capability without authenticity just isn’t the same.   What mistakes are we making now and how do we empower women of the future?   We are still failing to fully recognise what support women really need to be their best in the workplace. I think there has been lots of talk about the issues women are facing but often policies and the day-to-day realities of expectations around women’s roles just don’t match up. Understanding around women’s health both emotional and physical is distinctly lacking in most businesses. Even when businesses are talking about, and acknowledging the impact of menopause, pregnancy,  IVF, periods etc businesses are still not set up to fully support women facing the challenges that come along with these issues. Women are often the carers when parents are hitting their later years and with the ageing population this is a challenge for lots of women. Women who have had children are entering back into a space where they are potentially choosing between their career and caring responsibilities. Promotion and senior jobs are often based around full time working hours. For me the key to supporting and empowering women is around flexibility. Businesses have to be smarter to progress and keep their female talent.