Much-loved independent Chinese restaurant Blue Eyed Panda has sadly seen the third break-in at its premises in less than a year.
Property was damaged and windows were smashed during the abhorrent act.
The Ancoats restaurant first opened its doors to the public on Jersey Street back in April 2019 and has already experienced two other break-ins last November – which too resulted in damaged property – before the unfortunate events which took place this week.
Owners of the popular eatery have taken to social media today to share the devastating news.
In a desperate post urging those who committed the act to refrain from doing so again in the future – accompanied by a picture of the damage – Blue Eyed Panda said: “Please. Why again? You or your people came [to our premises] last November twice and you know we have no money or valuables, or did you [just] really enjoy the Spring Rolls and the Crispy Duck last year?
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“We trying to survive in this difficult time,
“Please let us breathe, let us move on [and] don’t waste your time.”
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The post has since gone on to receive a widespread outpouring of support from members of the public, who also share in the restaurant’s shock that an act such as this has happened once again.
Many have commented their intentions to continue helping the restaurant during tough times.
Unfamiliar with Blue Eyed Panda and are yet to try it out for yourself?
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This modern Chinese restaurant has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and is located in the heart of Manchester’s new and up-and-coming food and drink hub.
Not only does it offer authentic Chinese options like steamed dim sums, stir fry, salt and pepper, and a range of casserole dishes, but it also serves up some special Venezuelan-influenced fusion dishes too, such as grilled marinated lamp chops and more.
There’s also a wide range of mouthwatering vegetarian options available as well on the extensive menu.
Blue Eyed PandaBlue Eyed Panda
In true Manchester spirit despite the break-in and damage of property, Blue Eyed Panda said that it “won’t give up that easy” and has confirmed via Instagram story that it will still be open from 4:30pm today.
How brilliant is that?
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Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and current local lockdown restrictions, Blue Eyed Panda is open Monday & Wednesday – Saturday from 4:30pm to 10:00pm, and on Sunday from 2pm – 9:30pm.
Both dine-in and takeaway services are available.
To do your bit and get behind this local independent business at a time when it really needs it most, you can make a dine-in reservation in advance, or place an order for takeaway via the Blue Eyed Panda website here.
You can also support Blue Eyed Panda by giving it a follow on Facebook and Instagram.
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The COVID-19 pandemic may have taken its toll on industries of all shapes and sizes over these past few months, but supporting local/independent business has never been more important than it is right now.
The Manc is #BuzzingToBeBack – find out more about eats in Manchester here.
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More Metrolink disruption expected as further tram strikes have been scheduled
Danny Jones
Further disruption to the Bee Network is now expected during an already full-on time of year, as more Metrolink tram strikes have been scheduled over the festive period.
Put in the simplest terms, members of Unite the Union have said: “The dispute is over driver fatigue and fears that their shift patterns and lack of rest breaks are putting them and passengers at risk.”
As a result, they have now pencilled in protests on 19, 20 and 31 December, holding walkouts from their usual timetable.
A largely empty St Peter’s Square tram stop is a fairly rare sight to see. (Credit: The Manc)
In addition to the other pair of strikes planned for this coming weekend (5-7 Dec), the latest trio have been specifically timed in and around key dates on the city’s calendar.
As well as the return of Manchester’s firework display on St. Peter’s Square, the walk-outs will also coincide with a Manchester City fixture at the Etihad Stadium, as well as notable live music gigs like Jools Holland and Manc band, Doves.
Naturally, tens upon tens of thousands are set to use the Bee Network and trams, in particular, to travel to these events – reiterating just how important properly investing and staffing the Metrolink and other arms of Manchester’s public transport service is.
The most recent update from the union continues: “Unite has repeatedly raised issues with management, but has been told there is no funding available for improvements to working patterns.”
Their General Secretary, Sharon Graham, said as part of the most recent statement: “Driver fatigue is a serious problem. Our members are raising serious concerns about their and their passengers’ safety, but Metrolink management is burying its head in the sand.
“Management must sort this problem out once and for all. It can’t try to fob drivers off by putting profits before safety.”
Here are some of the scenes from the demonstrations earlier this year:
⏰HAPPENING NOW; when Transport for Greater Manchester wouldn't come to the table SO the strikers brought the table (*and chairs) to them! We're ready when you are TfGM. pic.twitter.com/io1OFHED8I
Union members have also clarified their position surrounding ‘fatigue’; it isn’t just the fear of possible risks in operating a tram whilst being “exhausted”, but both the wider mental and physical toll that working the current shift patterns has on workers.
One driver quoted as saying: “My colleagues are tired, but the fatigue is also giving them cold-like symptoms and many have been going off sick with stress, which adds to problems with staffing levels.”
So, if you’re planning on using the Metrolink this holiday season when travelling around for Christmas shopping or even just going home, make sure to keep the strike dates in mind.
Elsewhere, the Bee Network has also provided more information on the designs to bring tram lines to Stockport town centre. Read more down below.
Featured Images — David Dixon (via Geograph)/The Manc Group
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Lidl reveals one of Manchester’s most-bought items in new ‘Lidl Wrapped’
Daisy Jackson
Lidl has unveiled the most-bought items in each major city around the UK, launching its first-ever ‘Lidl Wrapped’ to share the nation’s shopping habits.
The supermarket chain has gathered data on the most purchased items from 10 cities around the country, to see what the top sellers in each city has been this year.
You might be expecting a clean sweep of boring stuff like milk and bread – but no, apparently Manchester has been obsessed with… avocados.
According to Lidl Wrapped, Manchester has developed an avocado obsession, while Leeds residents have collectively purchased more than 133 million peas, and Bristol has invested in 11 tonnes-worth of coleslaw.
To celebrate the Lidl Wrapped for 2025, the supermarket is now rolling out its own wrapping paper range, and opening free gift-wrapping stations at 10 stores nationwide.
Between the 4 and 17 December, you’ll be able to have your shopping wrapped up in Manchester’s exclusive design (which, yes, will have avocados on it) so your Middle of Lidl find can switch into the perfect present.
The pop-up gift-wrapping stations will also have interactive games with prizes, like in-store discounts and a £50 golden ticket.
Lidl reveals most-bought item in Manchester in new ‘Lidl Wrapped’. Credit: Lidl
You can also buy the wrapping paper in packs of three for just 75p, with all proceeds donated to Neighbourly.
Joanna Gomer, Marketing Director at Lidl GB commented: “This year, our customers have shown us once again that the weekly shop is about more than groceries, it’s about moments, surprises, and the little joys that make life easier and bring people together.
“Looking ahead to 2026, we’re focused on giving our customers even more to value, extra reasons to smile, and plenty of those Lidl surprises that keep them coming back for more.”
The free Lidl wrapping stations will be available from 9am while stocks last between 4 and 17 December.
‘Lidl Wrapped’ top groceries across the UK:
Birmingham – Roses
Bristol – Deluxe Creamy Coleslaw
Cardiff – 15 Welsh Mixed Weight Free Range Eggs
Edinburgh – Lighthouse Bay 2 Scottish Salmon Fillets
Emily Sergeant -
1st October 2020 
