The government has come to learn a lot about the stubborn, steadfast spirit of Manchester this week.
On one side, we’ve got the Mayor, council and hospitality sector angrily rejecting new restrictions and squaring off against health ministers for a “fairer” deal.
On the other, we’ve got Marcus Rashford repeatedly booting a ball against Downing Street’s door demanding more support to tackle child food poverty.
Whilst No. 10 is being coy about Greater Manchester’s tier position so far, it has already flat out rejected Rashford’s attempts to provide free school meals to children during the Christmas holidays.
But Manchester United’s star striker remains undeterred. He knows the battle is only just beginning,
ADVERTISEMENT
“This is not going anytime soon and neither am I…” the footballer wrote.
Nearly 200,000 people are already behind him.
ADVERTISEMENT
Merry Christmas kids…
It’s also not for food banks to feed millions of British children but here we are. 250% increase in food poverty and rising…
Rashford’s petition to parliament – which has now accrued enough signatures to see it brought to the floor at the House of Commons for debate – amassed more than 100,000 supporters in 10 hours.
Within 24 hours, numbers toppled 175,000.
The petition is asking the government to expand free school meals to all under-16s where a parent or guardian is in receipt of Universal Credit or equivalent benefit; provide meals and activities during all holidays; and increase the value of Healthy Start vouchers to at least £4.25 per week.
ADVERTISEMENT
But currently, the government is reluctant to entertain another proposal from Rashford – who has already won an honorary doctorate and MBE for his services to tackle child food poverty throughout the pandemic.
In spring, he actually helped to overturn government policy; convincing ministers to supply free school meals during the summer.
But despite that win, Rashford expected another fight with his new campaign. It appears he’s got it.
In response to the latest petition, a spokesperson for No. 10 stated: “We took that decision to extend free school meals during the pandemic when schools were partially closed during lockdown.
“We’re in a different position now with schools back open to all pupils.
ADVERTISEMENT
“It’s not for schools to regularly provide food to pupils during the school holidays. We believe the best way to support families outside of term time is through Universal Credit rather than government subsidising meals.”
So, Boris Johnson has flatly rejected @MarcusRashford call for free school meal help to be given to poor kids over Christmas and other holidays.
No.10 spokesman: “It’s not for schools to regularly provide food to pupils during the school holidays…"
Greater Manchester is in battle mode this week; fighting the government on several fronts.
And it should perhaps come as no surprise that Mayor Andy Burnham – the resolute voice of the region during the tier saga – has weighed in to provide support for Rashford’s campaign.
“The bigger the number the louder the voice…” said the footballer in response to the 100k signatures so far.
Delays on M60 continue after man dies falling from bridge near Trafford Centre
Daisy Jackson
A man has tragically died after falling from a bridge on the M60, near the Trafford Centre.
Police closed the motorway in both directions at around 10am this morning as they responded to the concern for welfare.
The man was on Barton Bridge on the M60, but tragically fell and passed away at the scene.
The motorway was shut anti-clockwise between junction 12 for the M602 and junction 10, and on the clockwise carriageway between junction 9 and 11, with a huge diversion in place.
Although the motorway has reopened as the afternoon has worn on, disruption is ‘likely’ to continue for several hours yet.
National Highways is reporting up to two miles of congestion on the M60 around Barton Bridge.
In a statement released earlier today, a GMP spokesperson said: “Officers are currently responding to a concern for welfare on Barton Bridge on the M60, reported at around 9:40am today (Tuesday 31 March).
“The M60 remains closed in both directions while emergency services are in attendance. Significant delays are expected and drivers are advised to avoid the area where possible.”
GMP later added: “Earlier today, officers responded to a concern for welfare on Barton Bridge on the M60. The man sadly fell from the bridge and passed away at the scene.
“The road remains closed while enquiries continue. Please avoid the area and plan alternative routes where possible as disruption is likely to continue for the rest of the day.”
Molly-Mae Hague and adidas drop new collection inspired by matcha and iced lattes
Daisy Jackson
Today, adidas has finally released its hotly-anticipated parnership with Manchester-based influencer Molly-Mae Hague.
The social media superstar has collaborated with the sportswear giant for a limited-edition footwear collection inspired by matchas and iced lattes.
Molly-Mae and adidas Originals have just given fans a look at the shoes for the first time.
The star has curated a limited-edition collection of iconic Originals silhouettes – a Samba and a Superstar.
The first is the Samba Matcha shoes, a premium leather and suede shoe in a soft green colour, with double pink and white laces.
The other is a Superstar II Latte, which again features double laces in coffee-coloured hues, but in the iconic leather Superstar silhouette.
In behind-the-scenes footage of the design process on Molly-Mae’s Amazon Prime documentary series, Behind It All, she described them as ‘matcha cool girl in London’ shoes – and the vision has definitely come to life.
Molly-Mae said: “Seeing my creative vision come to life on two iconic adidas Originals silhouettes that have long been staples in my wardrobe is a true dream.
“Being so closely involved in the design process and creating products that feel fun, timeless, and an authentic extension of my own personal style has been the best experience.
“I am so excited to see how others style them in their own way.”
Steve Marks, VP Brand adidas UK commented: “At adidas, we partner with individuals who define style through authenticity and a deep-rooted connection to our brand.
“Molly-Mae’s relationship with adidas Originals has developed organically over time as a key advocate of the brand and this partnership represents a natural evolution – bringing her signature aesthetic to two of our most iconic silhouettes.”
The limited-edition adidas Originals x Molly-Mae collection drops in stores and online on 9 April, priced at £100 per pair.
The Manc -
16th October 2020 
