A man has been killed by a falling tree in Sale during this week’s high winds.
The 26-year-old male was pronounced dead shortly after emergency services attended the scene on Darley Street.
Another man was injured when the tree came down on the residential street at around 3.30pm on Thursday 6 October.
The deceased’s family are being supported by specially-trained officers from Greater Manchester Police.
Detectives are appealing for anyone with information, including doorbell footage, to help with the investigation.
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Detective Inspector Jennifer Reeve of the Trafford division said: “This is a devastating incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends affected at this difficult time, especially of the man who sadly lost his life.
“I would also like to thank the public who tried to help at the time immediately after the incident happened, their actions were brave and appreciated by all the emergency services.
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“We are continuing with our enquiries at this time to understand how the tree fell and are appealing for anyone in the local area to get in touch if they feel they have any information that may help.”
Anyone that has any details they can be passed on direct by calling 101 quoting 2127 of the 06/10/22.
Alternatively, information can be sent via the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A local baby bank is holding a vital fundraiser to stop it from closing for good
Danny Jones
A Greater Manchester baby bank is holding a vital fundraiser in hopes of preventing from it closing for goodimminently.
For anyone unaware, baby banks are crucial organisations run largely by volunteers who help provide vital supplies to families in local communities, with more than 300 in use across the UK at present.
Through delivering much-needed aid such as clothing, prams, nappies and baby food, right through to direct financial support, they help keep parents and their children in good supply of essentials and much more – hugely important work at any rate, let alone during the winter and a cost of living crisis.
However, the Little Green Sock Project over in Trafford is at risk of permanent closure if they don’t raise £200,000 come the New Year.
As seen in this moving video, the baby bank based over in Stretford Mall is in dire need of support and right now after being given until January to find new premises.
Fundamentally operated as a non-profit and volunteer-led charity, they naturally don’t have the means to just take over a new space on their own and with the current site set to be demolished very soon, a minimum of £200k is needed to find and fund a new location.
Urging people to donate what they can and share their fundraiser where possible, as well as welcoming corporate sponsorships should other local businesses wish to back them or get stuck through volunteering days, time is of the essence.
The Little Green Sock Project was only started back in 2022 and has already supported over 1,300 children, redistributing more than £240,000 worth of essential items like clothing, cots, prams, and stair gates to local families, as well as saving 20 tonnes of items from landfill.
It’s no exaggeration to say that they’ve changed and saved lives, both parents and children, and with the often difficult festive period approaching their work is needed now more than ever.
There are just under a dozen baby banks in all of Greater Manchester, many of which are facing similar pressures. (Credit: Supplied)
Speaking on their efforts and the fundraiser, founder Catherine D’Albertanson said: “We believe that essentials needed for the health and wellbeing of children should not only be for those that can afford them. Our work ensures that no child in our community goes without essentials, but without new premises, we will have no choice but to close.”
Moreover, Little Green Sock Project is the only baby bank in the Trafford area and of the families it serves, 58% are single-parent households already struggling with the cost of raising children, while 29% are fleeing domestic abuse, often leaving their belongings behind to protect their family.
With their circular economy model, they also help reduce waste whilst providing “a trusted link between the families that have items to give, to those that need them the most”, with D’Albertanson adding, “If we lose this charity, we lose a vital safety net for many in our community.”
A service user commented: “It was a truly terrifying time when I was pregnant with my first child, I found myself completely alone, with a baby on the way, wondering how I could possibly provide for my son. Then I found Little Green Sock Project, and everything changed. Everything was carefully chosen, colour-coordinated, and presented in such a thoughtful way. It felt so special—like someone truly cared about me and my baby. That feeling is indescribable, especially for someone in my position.
“There are so many people like me with stories like this. It breaks my heart to think that Little Green Sock Project might have to close its doors. I can’t imagine what my life would have been like without your help, and I hope with all my heart that the community comes together to keep this lifeline alive.”
Manchester parents need this much-loved baby bank – let’s not it fall away on our watch. (Credit: Andy Bate at Royal Foundation)
Every pound donated goes towards helping find the Little Green Sock Project a new home but people can help contribute in other ways, once again, by spreading the word or getting their hands dirty in person.
Greater Manchester never fails to amaze when it rallies behind causes like this and we’re sure you won’t let us down this time either. Let’s keep the lights on the lifelines for local families intact.
You can donate now or to find out other ways to do your bit, click HERE.
Featured Images — Little Green Sock Project/Andy Bate – Royal Foundation (supplied)
Trafford
The big Manchester guide to Christmas 2024 – events, theatre, grottos and more
Thomas Melia
Ho, ho, ho, it’s me, no not Santa, Thomas from The Manc a.k.a your Christmas connoisseur, with all your go-to Christmas hotspots for 2024.
IT’S TIIIIME! Christmas is here and Manchester knows how to ring in the festive season in proper style with shows, trains and markets galore.
Manchester city centre and every suburb in the region is beaming with Christmas spirit and we’ve rounded up everything you need to know below.
From theatre shows to seasonal specials to meeting Santa Claus himself, here are some of the best events happening around Greater Manchester this Christmas.
Christmas in Manchester 2024 – The Guide
Manchester Christmas Markets
Credit: The Manc Group
Everybody’s favourite! If this isn’t part of your annual yuletide celebrations then where have you been for the past 26 years?
These street-side cabin-esque vendors have been bringing joy and festive cheer to the streets of Manchester since its launch in 1999.
The Manchester Christmas Markets are set to have their biggest year to date with over 200 stalls hitting the high street from 8 November until 22 December 2024, giving you plenty of time to soak up all the festivities before the big day.
Bottomless brunch in a giant rooftop snow globe bar
The big man himself at The Grotto in Trafford Centre.Credit: Supplied
Santa, as you all know, is a very busy guy but he’ll always have a soft spot for Manchester, and the big-bellied gift-giver is stopping off at the Trafford Centre.
Running from 18 November to 24 December, Santa and his little helpers are bringing their North Pole magic to the shopping centre once again and each paying child will receive a gift as well as time with Mr. Claus himself.
To save your spot with Christmas’ main man you can start by booking tickets here.
No you did hear it right the first time. Not Santa Claus but Santa Cruise. Enjoy a trip on Salford Quays with a very special guest onboard. He’s decided against using his sleigh to get to the Manchester borough and has instead opted for a new mode of transport, a boat.
You didn’t think Santa would show up empty handed did you? Mr. Claus and his Chief Elf Tilly are providing adults with mulled wine and mince pies while offering children a juice drink and cookie while they enjoy their time on the cruise.
If you fancy a trip on Salford Quays with Santa you can find tickets here.
Cocktails and Canapés
When you think of Christmas you think of the notorious sit-down meal where all your family and friends gather round to feast on a dinner with an all-important meaty main event. What if the meat centrepiece was in fact veggie or even vegan?
COOK! are offering a culinary festive masterclass with a twist, everything you prepare during the session is veggie or vegan! You’ll be shown how to make seasonal cocktails and bite-sized delights that are not only utterly delicious but also completely meat-free.
The three hour event is taking place in Ancoats on 8 December at 11am and you can satisfy your appetite already with tickets here.
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The Polar Express – Churnet Valley Railway
Credit: Supplied
The heritage steam railway is providing a chance for you to be a part of Christmas movie history travelling on The Polar Express.
Churnet Valley Railway is clearly as big of a fan of the film as the rest of the world, and is bringing the steam train ride to children and adults alike, offering both a standard and premium class tickets.
Guests who purchase standard tickets can expect a free hot chocolate, a freshly-baked cookie, and a silver sleigh bell.
And if you’re anything like me you can definitely still hear the bell! Tickets here.
LEGO Holiday Bricktacular – Trafford Centre, Trafford Palazzo
As well as letting your creative side loose at their Trafford Centre site, the brick-making company is hosting a festive bingo game, pop-up dance parties and a spin the advent wheel competition.
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And if this placed wasn’t already photographed enough, the store is also putting up some incredible photo opportunities spread across the shop floor.
For £6 extra, guests can upgrade their standard entry ticket to include a meet and greet with LEGO Santa in his grotto!
Full event activities will be running on weekends and holidays throughout 23 November to 30 December, tickets here.
How come humans get to have all the fun? Well over at Cockfields Farm, dogs are spoilt for choice with four fun-filled days of Christmas joy ready to book in December.
Take your dog for a wonderful day out where your pup can get up close and personal with Santa including a mini photoshoot.
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There’s a cosy cafe on site too where with each hot drink purchase your pooch can recieve a complimentary pupachino.
Each ticket also includes a little present for your dog so let’s show our furry friends some love. Tickets here.
Skate Manchester
Coinciding with the launch of the inaugural Christmas Markets, the infamous ice rink has returned too!
Situated in the heart of the city at Cathedral Gardens this covered ice rink offers an arctic experience no matter the weather conditions. The skating area will be open daily from 10:30am to 9pm everyday between 8 November to 1 January, only closing on the big day.
Each ticket purchased helps towards a sustainable future with 25p being donated to Everclime and are onsale here.
Esteemed for their grand Christmas displays that adorn their exterior, Hotel Gotham are hosting Christmas parties to remember.
You’re definitely on the nice list so go on, treat yourself to a meal in one of Manchester’s finest restaurants offering Christmas meals from £60 per person.
If you’re looking to take it one step further, why not dine in and hire out ‘GILT’, an exclusive and underground venue inspired by 1930’s speakeasies.
End your year right by treating yourself to some glitz and glam with bookings already being taken here.
The Holiday – Film With Live Orchestra
Credit: Universal Pictures
Ever wanted to snuggle up and get real cozy while watching your favourite Christmas film… with a live orchestra?
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Well Bridgewater Hall are giving visitors the opportunity to experience a movie night like never before, releasing viewings of the classic 2006 big-screen production ‘The Holiday’ with the accompaniment of Hans Zimmer’s score live to film.
An extra date has already been added so demand is high, tickets are available here.
Baked A La Ska – Ska of Wonder
Band On The Wall is taking two passions and merging them together – Ska and Christmas.
So whether you’re ready to jam to ‘When You Wish Upon A Ska’ or just excited for anything related to the holidays, this gig seems ideal for you.
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This event is happening on Christmas Eve Eve and if that’s not enough for you, the band’s outfits are sure to put you in a festive mood.
Anyone looking to boogie away to an incredible live Ska performance, tickets are already onsale here.
A Christmas Carol: The Musical – The Lowry
If you’re looking for another way to enjoy the Dickens’ novel you can now watch the story brought to life on stage in Manchester.
This musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol is set to be a trailblazer with the phenomenal Claire Moore playing the iconic character of Scrooge.
The stage show is also offering accessible performances including audio described and dementia-friendly, enhance touch tour and a BSL viewing throughout the show’s run at The Lowry.
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You certainly won’t hear any Bah Humbug’s in our office! Tickets here.
Daisy Jackson -
7th October 2022 
