Outdoor smoking ban scrapped – with venues urged to create separate seating areas instead
Smoking outside of restaurants, pubs and bars will not be banned, the UK Government has confirmed - but venues will be expected to create separate "smoke-free seating" spaces for customers.
Smokingoutside of restaurants, pubs and barswill not be banned, the Government has confirmed – but venues will be expected to create separate “smoke-free seating” spaces for customers.
Pressure from the House of Lords has sparked discussion on the legal status of smoking in the vicinity of bars, restaurants, pubs and cafes across the UK.
But, fearing that the overall ban of outdoor smoking could lead to venue closures and job losses, ministers are now encouraging license-holders to “make reasonable provision for smoke-free seating” instead.
The new guidance for venues includes the addition of ‘no smoking’ signage displayed in designated areas and no ash trays left on furniture in smoke-free seating.
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Smoking and non-smoking areas must also be kept at least 2 metres apart, wherever possible.
Planning Minister Rt Hon Christopher Pincher MP said: “We are supporting our pubs, cafes and restaurants to safely reopen and securing jobs by making it quicker, easier and cheaper to set up outdoor seating and stalls to serve food and drink, whilst protecting public health against the transmission of covid.
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“These changes will allow everyone to enjoy outdoor eating and drinking whether they smoke or not, with appropriate provisions made for non-smokers and smokers.”
Many businesses have invested heavily in expanding outdoor spaces to serve customers safely in the current climate and reduce the transmission of COVID-19.
Roads and pavements across Manchester have been widened to allow more space for alfresco-style dining and drinking, whilst allowing venues to adhere to social distancing restrictions.
Back in July 2019, Health Minister Matt Hancock laid out a plan for the UK to become smoke-free by 2030 – although some fear the ambitious bid will fail without tougher action on cigarette use in cafes, pubs and bars.
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Manchester United confirm Antony will return to training following assault allegations
Danny Jones
Manchester United winger Antony is heading back to training amid his multiple assault allegations.
Antony‘s case is still ongoing, with a total of three women coming out to accuse him of domestic abuse — chiefly, his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, who was first to raise concerns surrounding his alleged behaviour — but his cooperation through the investigation has led them to revise their position.
Issuing an update on Friday morning confirming that the forward with be brought back into the fold until the situation is resolved.
A club statement reads as follows: “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has co-operated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK, and he continues to do so.
“As Antony’s employer, Manchester United has decided that he will resume training at Carrington, and be available for selection, while police inquiries proceed. This will be kept under review pending further developments in the case.
“As a club, we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”
Erik ten Hag‘s side plays their second game against Crystal Palace in less than a week after beating them 3-0 in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday and while it is not thought Antony will be brought straight back into the team, he will be available for selection moving forward.
United currently sit ninth in the Premier League with three wins and three losses to their name.
Man jailed after ‘disturbing and terrifying’ burglary at young woman’s Altrincham home
Emily Sergeant
A man has been handed jail time after a “disturbing and terrifying” burglary took place at a young woman’s home in Altrincham.
The court heard this week how Jason Edwards, from Sale in Trafford, turned up to an address in the Lloyd Gardens area of Altrincham where two women in their 20s were staying for the weekend visiting their friend at around 2am on Sunday 12 August 2022.
After knocking on the front door while brandishing a large meat cleaver, the two women opened the door and Edwards proceeded to push past them to force his way into the property.
The 36-year-old then began to search every room, while still carrying the horrific weapon and shouting at the women.
He then left the property shortly after, and the two victims immediately called the police.
Lloyd Gardens in Altrincham, where the burglary happened / Credit: Google Maps
The victims’ friend – who lived at the address, and was also a woman in her 20s – was still on a night out when she was alerted to Edwards being at her front door by a doorbell camera notification on her phone.
After pleading guilty to aggravated burglary and possession of a bladed article earlier this week (Tuesday 26 September), Edwards was handed a seven and a half year custodial sentence, as well as a further five years on licence.
#JAILED | Man jailed for 7 and a half years after ‘terrifying burglary’ of a young woman’s home in #Altrincham.
Detective Sergeant Jacob Corrigan, of GMPs Trafford CID, described the burglary as a “disturbing and terrifying incident” for the victims.
“The victims had returned home from enjoying a day out with friends, before being put through this ordeal, which understandably made them genuinely fear for their lives,” DS Corrigan said Edwards was sentenced this week.
“I am pleased that Edwards has faced justice for his actions today and will be spending some time in prison, where he will be able to reflect upon his poor choices.”
DS Corrigan also reiterated that GMP “will not tolerate this type of violent crime”.
The Manc -
20th July 2020 
