Weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued across much of the UK, including here in Greater Manchester.
As the country wakes up to the first working day of the new year, cold Arctic air now covers most of the UK, according to the Met Office – with temperatures being well below average, widespread frost and ice, and an increasing risk of snow showers.
Snow is expected to settle on the ground in some areas, particularly in northern and some central areas, while the risk of widespread ice could make travel ‘hazardous’.
While much of Greater Manchester falls under the yellow weather warning for snow and ice issued by the Met Office – which is now in force, and expected to end around midday today (2 January) – it will primarily be more southern and western parts of our region that are likely to see snowfall, if any.
Forecasters say an area of sleet and snow is expected to move southeastwards across parts of England and Wales, lasting approximately two or three hours in any one place, and where snow does fall, only one or two cm is likely for some and perhaps as much as five cm in a few spots, especially higher ground of north Wales, north west England, and perhaps the north west Midlands.
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Some ice may form as a result of snow frozen surfaces, and icy patches will also develop quickly as sleet and snow clears.
Greater Manchester braces for snow as the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning / Credit: Geograph | Pexels
Under the yellow weather warning, you should expect some roads and railways to be affected with longer journey times, some injuries may occur from slips and falls on icy surfaces, and there are likely some icy patches on untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths.
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“With Arctic air now covering most of the UK, very cold weather will continue through the weekend, with minus double figures overnight in places and daytime temperatures struggling to rise above 0°C for some,” explained Chief Met Office Forecaster, Neil Armstrong.
“It looks like this cold spell could last well into next week and wintry hazards will continue with more weather warnings likely. It is therefore important people keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings and plan ahead.”
You can keep up to date with weather warnings on the Met Office website here.
Bolton personal trainer charged with sexual offences relating to multiple women
Emily Sergeant
A personal trainer from Bolton has been charged with sexual offences relating to multiple women.
Following an extensive investigation into alleged crimes in the Bolton area, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has confirmed that Payam Postchi, of Greenway Close in Bury, has been charged with one count of sexual assault by penetration, and two counts of sexual assault by touching.
The charges relate to three women, according to GMP.
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Sharples, from GMP’s Bolton district, explained: “Following an initial investigation by officers, we have secured three charges in relation to alleged sex offences committed at a business in the Bolton area.
“We understand that the nature of this kind of investigation may cause anxiety, but I want to stress that all appropriate work is being completed, with the women involved being supported throughout the process.”
Postchi, who is a British national of Iranian origin, appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates court yesterday (30 September 2026).
Detectives are now urging the public to ‘avoid speculation’ during active criminal proceedings, but are still appealing for any relevant information.
DCI Sharples concluded: “If anyone thinks they have any information or otherwise has concerns in relation to the case, I would urge them to come forward.
“Additionally, I would remind people that criminal proceedings are now active and to avoid speculation which could impact the ongoing work.”
Featured Image – Danielle Cerullo (via Unpslash)
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Travel warning issued as tens of thousands to descend for Manchester Half Marathon
Daisy Jackson
A travel warning has been issued ahead of the Manchester Half Marathon this weekend, with tens of thousands of runners and spectators expected to arrive in the city.
People are being urged to plan their journeys ahead of time, with significant road closures in place from the city centre as far out as Sale.
Road closures – and subsequent bus diversions – will also affect parts of Stretford, Chorlton, Trafford, and surrounding areas.
Around 32,000 people are expected to take part in the Manchester Half Marathon this Sunday, with thousands more coming out to cheer the runners on.
Transport for Greater Manchester is advising people that the Bee Network trams will be the best way to get around over the weekend.
Extra trams will be operating to provide as much capacity as possible.
Road closures and bus diversions will start on Saturday 3 October and continue until the actual race day on Sunday 4 October, lifting fully by 8.30pm.
Tens of thousands of runners and spectators will descend on Manchester for the half marathon
Earlier this year, the Manchester Marathon led to a record-breaking day for Metrolink trams, with the highest number of passengers ever recorded on a single day in the network’s history.
Whether running or cheering, people are advised to use the Bee Network app to plan their journeys and are strongly encouraged not to drive within the affected areas.
Steve Gilholme, Head of Events at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “The Manchester Half Marathon is another one of those special occasions where the people of Greater Manchester and beyond come together, with thousands of people taking on the challenge and raising money for good causes, while many more will line the route to cheer them on.
“This does mean the city centre and especially trams will be incredibly busy so please plan ahead and give yourself extra time to make journeys.
“The Bee Network app and website will be the best places to get the latest travel information and tap and go contactless payments are the quickest and easiest way to pay.”
You can see all the road closures for the Manchester Half Marathon HERE.
Emily Sergeant -
2nd January 2026 
