Tributes are pouring in online and across the music world following the news that Sean Martin, frontman of North West indie band The Night Cafe, has tragically died aged just 26.
Martin was part of the Liverpool-based four-piece since they were formed back in 2014 when the members were still in secondary school, playing guitar and providing lead vocals from the beginning.
Releasing a statement on social media this Monday (6 November), the band confirmed the news that their “childhood best friend” had sadly passed away suddenly.
“We are devastated to share the sudden passing of our best friend Sean”, they said; “Words can’t describe the pain we are feeling right now, we’re still struggling to process it all. We ask everyone to respect the privacy of Sean’s family and friends during this difficult time.
The social media post goes on to say, “Sean was not just our bandmate, he was our childhood best friend that we shared so many memories with before the band even started. We made so many more memories along the way and achieved things we only dreamt of that we will cherish forever.
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They signed off with a fitting tribute to a talented musician, singer, songwriter and best mate, adding: “His memory will live on forever in our hearts and through the music he put out into the world for you all. RIP Sean Martin”.
Details surrounding the cause of death and when Martin passed away are still yet to be disclosed and people are urging others to give both Sean’s family and his bandmates privacy during this difficult time.
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Nevertheless, the deeply saddening news hasn’t stopped countless fans from paying their respects to the young man online, with the UK music scene at large uniting in offering their condolences.
Other artists who have paid tribute to Sean include fellow Liverpudlian Jamie Webster, The Hunna and Vistas, just to name a few. As for so many fans, they hailed his voice as one that ‘soundtracked their teens‘ and have been left devastated by his loss.
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The Wombats also wrote a lengthy response of their own, replying: “So sorry to hear this guys, he was literally the nicest, most lovely guy to have around on tour. Not to mention how talented and amazing he was. Our thoughts are with you all and Sean’s closest. Lots of love and fond memories, The Bats x”
Being among the countless fans who have seen The Night Café live on multiple occasions here in Manchester, where they have a huge following, we can only echo that final sentiment — our hearts go out to you and Sean’s family. Rest in peace.
Featured Image — The Night Café
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A Christmas train in Wigan has been delivering donated toys galore
Thomas Melia
Yuletide wishes have come true as a donation of toys and goodies have been delivered via a Christmas train in Wigan, right in time for the big day.
The Amazon toy train, which is a new initiative running this festive season, is dropping off presents from now right up until Christmas day itself.
Already visiting Wigan earlier this month, the locomotive has its sites set on three more stops including London, Swansea and Scotland as it makes its journey across three nations.
In partnership with Multibank’s Brick-by-Brick project, the train hopes to provide and offer gifts to families in need across the UK with Wigan marking the closest stop off in Greater Manchester.
All the toys that are being transported across the country in this Amazon-fronted train are featured on the company’s ‘Top Ten Toys 2024’ list.
Hatchimals, Screamerz and Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza were some of the exciting gifts found on the Christmas train in Wigan at the start of this month.
This lighthearted and fun-filled Christmas-themed project is kitted out with toys from top brands like Play-Doh and the brickmasters themselves, LEGO Star Wars.
So far, Multibank has helped over 400,000 families and provided three million essential items across their operations in England, Scotland and Wales since launching in 2022.
This collaborative local project doesn’t just operate at Christmastime either: Brick-to-Brick Multibank run all year round collecting surplus business requirements like furniture, hot water bottles and hygiene products to be used by those less fortunate.
This roster of children’s favourite companions and interactive games is inspired by the consumers themselves. Every toy is related to or the exact match of what Amazon customers have been searching for the most. A real Christmas list come true.
The list of the top toys isn’t extortionate either, offering customers some affordable and still as fascinating options with prices starting from £9.99.
Even old-school classics like Play-Doh have a spot on this wish list. This poses the really big question: where’s the adult version?
You may have finished your Christmas shopping not too long ago or might still be looking for inspiration, browse the top-ranked teddies and more HERE.
Floral tributes laid for Baby A after remains found in Salford, as police hunt ‘answers’
Daisy Jackson
Floral tributes have begun to pile up outside the Salford park where the remains of a baby were found earlier this week.
The child, who is being called Baby A, was discovered near Ashtons Field on Wednesday 20 November.
Their identity is not yet known, and police are trying to determine ‘who this baby could be, how long they have been here, and how they have sadly died’.
In an update shared last night, GMP said their investigation was continuing and the force will do ‘everything we can to get answers’.
They also shared images of cuddly toys, flowers and letters that have been left at the snowy scene by officers and by the local community.
In the latest update, GMP said: “Our investigation continues after the remains of a young baby were tragically found in Little Hulton yesterday.
“The thoughts of everyone at Greater Manchester Police are with Baby A, and we will do everything we can to get answers.
“We would like to thank the community for their tributes to Baby A and their support and compassion at this time. We are truly grateful.”
Floral tributes laid for Baby A after remains found in Salford. Credit: GMP
GMP are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward so they can ‘find answers for this baby’.
Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood said: “Even the most minor detail could be crucial to our investigation. If you have seen anyone in the area over the last few days, or know who the parents could be, please call us as soon as you can.
“As soon as we are in a position to confirm further details about the circumstances, we will do so.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 1319 of 20/11/24. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”