Manchester United legend Andy Cole has pledged £250,000 worth of research funding to help combat kidney disease.
It’s all part of his ongoing work with Kidney Research UK.
The former striker – who is known and loved by Manchester United fans for scoring dozens of goals, winning nine trophies, and being a part of the Red Devils’ iconic 1999 Treble-winning season – has worked in collaboration with the charity to launch the a new grant awards scheme as part of the Andy Cole Fund.
The 51-year-old – who made 195 appearances for the Reds between 1995 and 2001 – set up his own fund with Kidney Research UK after sadly developing kidney disease back in 2014, and going on to receive a lifesaving transplant from his nephew in 2017.
His experience of transplantation and subsequent challenges with mental health following his diagnosis inspired the fund’s research goals.
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Manchester United legend Andy Cole has pledged £250k to kidney disease research / Credit: Kidney Research UK
This is the first set of grants to be awarded from the fund – with Andy’s generous £250,000 donation all set to go directly towards research into the condition that he has personal experience of, according to the charity.
“I set up the Andy Cole Fund to make a difference,” the footballing legend explained.
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“I’m determined that we will find the best ways to support kidney patients’ mental health and improve the transplant experience.
“Kidney disease is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to deal with. We’ve got to make it better for others and research is the answer. I’m excited to see what projects we can fund through the Andy Cole Fund Grant Awards to help change the game for kidney patients.”
Funding from the newly-established Andy Cole Fund Grant Awards will be allocated to research that will focus on transforming transplantation to improve patient experiences, particularly in relation to mental health.
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Speaking on the launch of the new grants scheme, Sandra Currie – chief executive at Kidney Research UK – added:”When Andy established the Andy Cole Fund, he wanted to focus on making a difference in areas that have affected him personally, aiming to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives with kidney disease.
“It’s an absolute pleasure working with him, and it’s great to be opening the fund for applications.
“All researchers who are interested in being part of this drive to improve transplant outcomes for patients or to reduce the mental health burden of kidney disease should apply now and be part of the change.”
Applications for the Andy Cole Fund Grants Awards are now open, and you talented researchers, scientists, clinicians, and innovators from all across the UK have until Tuesday 29 August to apply for funding.
You can find more information on the grants and how to apply here.
Featured Image – Kidney Research UK
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No trams to run on major Metrolink line as ‘essential’ work to repair Victorian-era tunnel starts this weekend
Emily Sergeant
Travel disruption is expected across the next couple of weeks as ‘essential engineering’ work begins on a major Metrolink line.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has confirmed that a reduced service will run on the Bury line this weekend, as work to replace ‘defective’ beams supporting the roof at Whitefield Tunnel means that no trams will run between Crumpsall and Bury on Saturday (10 May), or between Whitefield and Bury on Sunday (11 May).
Some weekend and overnight working is said to be ‘necessary’ to secure and protect the overhead line equipment, so that the beam replacement work can be completed as ‘safely and quickly as possible’, according to TfGM.
A crane is planned to be in use for the beam replacement work at times.
Closures on the line from this weekend come after the successful completion of preparatory work at the site, following the discovery of a defective beam.
No trams will run on a major Metrolink line as ‘essential’ work to repair Victorian-era tunnel starts this weekend / Credit: TfGM
As well as the suspension on services this weekend, as mentioned above, several other chances throughout this month and into the next on the Bury line are also to be expected.
No tram services will operate between Crumpsall and Bury on Sunday 25 May, and no again from Friday 30 May to Sunday 1 June, while no trams will run between Whitefield and Bury from Monday 26 to Thursday 29 May.
For the duration of all closures, replacement bus services will run between the affected stops on all the above dates.
Any so-called ‘noisier’ work is set to take place during daytime and evening working hours where possible, and several noise reduction measures – such as acoustic blankets and enclosures – also to be put in place during this.
Essential upgrade work to protect the historic Whitefield Tunnel means no trams will run between Crumpsall–Bury (Sat 10 May) and Whitefield–Bury (Sun 11 May).
We're replacing a defective beam to keep the line safe and reliable.
As always, the Greater Manchester public is being advised to ‘plan ahead’ if they are travelling.
“Whitefield Tunnel dates back to the 19th century,” explained Ian Davies, who is TfGM’s Network Director for Metrolink, “and this essential work will ensure tram services can continue to safely pass through it for decades to come.
“This is a complex job, but we will do everything we can to minimise disruption to passengers, residents and businesses.”
He added: “I would encourage people who use the Bury line to plan ahead and check the Bee Network website, app, and social media channels for the most up-to-date travel information.”
AO Arena to host huge Europa League Final fan zone after Manchester United victory
Daisy Jackson
Manchester’s legendary AO Arena will once again host an almighty football fan zone later this year, welcoming in fans for the Europa League Final.
The huge venue previously hosted a Road to Victory fan zone for the Euros, and is now ready to replicate all the atmosphere and excitement of the beautiful game once again.
This time it’s in honour of Manchester United, who romped their way into the Europa League Final this evening with a spectacular 4-1 victory.
The Red Devils will be heading to San Mamés in Bilbao in Spain on 21 May 2025, and you’ll be able to watch all the action right here at home in Manchester.
The AO Arena Europa League Final Screening & Fan Zone will be presented by Red Square.
There’ll be space for thousands upon thousands of football fans who’ll be able to watch United (hopefully) take home a nice bit of silverwear.
And, of course, a spot in the UEFA Champions League.
The event says: “Get ready to immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of the Europa Cup Final, presented by Red Square.
“Join us for an unforgettable event as we bring together passionate Manchester United fans for the largest indoor fan park extravaganza ever witnessed!
“MANCHESTER UNITED head to the Europa league final on Wednesday 21st May – Secure your tickets now!”
The Europa League Final Screening & Fan Zone will be at the AO Arena on 21 May – grab your spot HERE.
Emily Sergeant -
2nd August 2023 
