A man from Leigh has been convicted and jailed after stabbing his neighbour to death last December.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) explained that 55-year-old Kevin Draper was found to have stabbed Jack O’Brien, 27, multiple times after being let into his house on Siddow Common on Tuesday 3 December 2024.
Police were called to the address at 6:50pm, along with the other emergency services, after Mr O’Brien was taken to a neighbour’s address further along the road, where the occupants phoned for an ambulance.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of all involved, Mr O’Brien he died from his injuries.
#JAILED | Man jailed for killing his neighbour in Leigh
Kevin Draper (15/09/1969), of Siddow Common Leigh, stabbed Jack O’Brien, 27, multiple times after being let into his house.
— Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice) July 4, 2025
A murder investigation was subsequently launched following his death, and according to GMP, and it was established from CCTV enquiries that Draper had entered Mr O’Brien’s house and was also seen walking away.
Officers who arrived on scene were told that the incident hadn’t occurred at the location they were called to, so they looked for any signs of blood outside and then followed the blood trail back to Draper’s home address – which ultimately led to his arrest the following day when he returned to the street to collect a pair of trainers.
Draper then went on to claim self-defence, meaning the jury at Manchester Crown Court found him not guilty of murder, but did go on to convict him of manslaughter.
Jack O’Brien, who was killed by his neighbour in Leigh last year / Credit: GMP
“This sentencing reflects the severity of Draper’s actions and the tragic loss of Jack O’Brien,” commented Detective Inspector Matthew Hamer, of GMP’s Major Incident Team.
“Our thoughts remain with Jack’s family and friends during this difficult time, and we hope this outcome brings some measure of closure to those affected by Draper’s actions.
“This case reaffirms our commitment to ensuring justice is served and our streets remain safe, and we thank local residents for their cooperation and the officers involved for their diligent work in bringing this case to a resolution.”
Tracy O’Brien, Jack’s mother, also released a powerful statement on behalf of the family.
“You [Draper] viciously attacked him, causing deep stab wounds that took his life, but you also took mine,” her statement reads.
“I will never be able to touch, hear or hug my boy again – I just have memories, pictures and his ashes.”
Featured Image – GMP
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Huge new premium indoor golf venue with ‘cutting-edge’ tech to open at Quayside MediaCity
Emily Sergeant
Time to get practicing your swing, as a huge new premium indoor golf venue is opening up over in Salford this autumn.
Founded by a local PGA Professional and spanning a whopping 4,500 sq ft of state-of-the-art space, TeeClub is set to be a revolutionary new venture where cutting-edge technology meets luxurious comfort at the unique waterside destination.
TeeClub will provide a first-of-its-kind premium environment with seven high-tech Trackman simulators, taking players to more than 450 world-famous courses including St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, and more.
The new venue is also launching a partnership with sports equipment brand TaylorMade, so golf fans can either bring their own clubs to use on the day, or make use of TaylorMade equipment available if needed.
Resident PGA professionals will offer personalised lessons with AI-driven video analysis when the venue opens later this year, while a dedicated club fitter will make sure every swing is matched with the right equipment.
There’ll also be a club shop stocking TaylorMade gear alongside apparel from Manchester-based brand, Concrete Links Co.
The new venue is designed for both individuals and businesses alike, and will offer exclusive memberships and corporate packages, as well as semi-private bays and interactive gaming modes, making it an ideal place for team-building events or relaxed evenings with friends.
A huge new premium indoor golf venue with ‘cutting-edge’ tech is opening at Quayside MediaCity / Credit: Supplied
There’ll also be bar on site serving coffee, pizzas, snacks, wine, and craft beers.
“Our vision for TeeClub is to create an indoor golf experience that combines the authenticity of the sport with modern luxury,” commented Nick Holmes, who is a PGA Professional and the Director of Golf at TeeClub, ahead of the venue opening this autumn.
“Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn, a corporate group hosting an event, or an experienced golfer, TeeClub will provide the tools, technology, and atmosphere.”
TeeClub is set to open at Quayside this autumn, but an official launch date is yet to be confirmed, so keep your eyes peeled.
Featured Image – Supplied
News
Florence + The Machine announce massive Manchester gig on new tour
Daisy Jackson
Florence + The Machine are heading back out on a huge arena tour, with a massive gig here in Manchester.
Florence Welch has announced the UK and European tour dates in support of her sixth studio album, Everybody Scream.
As well as a show at the Co-op Live in Manchester, Florence + The Machine will perform in Sheffield, London and Liverpool, along with several other UK cities.
She’ll be joined by Paris Paloma as support across all 18 dates.
Last week, Florence released the album’s title track, ahead of the album’s release on 31 October. She’s worked for two years on this new music, calling on collaborators including Mark Bowen of IDLES, Aaron Dessner and Mitski.
She has said that this new album explores womanhood, partnership, aging and dying, inspired by her recovery from lifesaving surgery on the Dance Fever Tour.
Big hits of Florence + The Machine’s discography include You’ve Got The Love, Shake It Out, and Spectrum (Say My Name), and she’s collaborated with the likes of Taylor Swift, The Rolling Stones, and Lady Gaga.
She’s famed for her high-energy, ethereal stage presence which has seen her sell out arenas for years.
Florence + The Machine will be back in Manchester in February 2026, performing at the Co-op Live on 20 February.
Tickets go on sale on Friday 5 September 2025 at 10am HERE.
There are also packages available with Seat Unique HERE.
Emily Sergeant -
7th July 2025 
