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You can take the kids on a ride through Bury in a Thomas the Tank Engine replica train this summer

The Day Out With Thomas experience returns to East Lancashire Railway this August.

Emily Sergeant Emily Sergeant - 15th June 2021
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If you’re looking to make some unique and lasting memories with the kids this summer, you probably can’t get much better than this.

Back by popular demand, iconic heritage railway service the East Lancashire Railway (ELR) has announced that everyone’s favourite blue engine, Thomas the Tank Engine, will return to its tracks in just a couple of months time.

The Day Out With Thomas experience is back for four dates in August and October.

Billed as “a train ride like no other”, families will be able to hop on board the replica of the cult-classic blue train character for a 45-minute round trip through Burrs Country Park and Summerseat in Bury.

The journey begins at Bury Train Staion, where guests will be greeted by The Fat Controller, before Thomas makes a final stop at the beautiful Ramsbottom station. 

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That’s not all though, as the Day Out With Thomas experience also continues offboard too, with performances from Sodor’s cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty at Bury Transport Museum, as well as Thomas-themed activities in the ‘Imagination Station’, and other socially-distanced entertainment events, such as magic shows and more.

Speaking ahead of Thomas’ return this summer, Mike Kelly – Chairman of East Lancashire Railway – said: “It’s an understatement to say we are more than delighted that Thomas & Friends will be returning to the ELR in August and October.

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“I remember sitting down with my children and now grandchildren to read Thomas & Friends stories and watch them on TV, as Thomas the Tank Engine is such an iconic and much-loved childhood character – for both children and their parents alike, so Thomas’ return always brings so much joy to visitors of all ages and our volunteers who can get involved.

“After more than a year of lockdowns, we’re really pleased to be able to offer young people and their families a unique experience they can enjoy together.”

Day Out With Thomas returns to East Lancashire Railway this August / Credit: East Lancs Railway & Paul Michael Hughes Photography

Mr Kelly also assured that “safety measures are firmly in place” to allow visitors a “grand day out with peace of mind”.

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East Lancashire Railway has proudly been awarded a ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry standard and consumer mark by VisitBritain, with qualifying businesses must having demonstrated that they are adhering to the respective government and public health guidance, have carried out a COVID-19 risk assessment, and have all required processes in place.

Day Out With Thomas will take place on Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 August, before returning to ELR in October.

Tickets start at £38.50, and you can grab them on the East Lancashire Railway website.

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Where to watch Tyson Fury vs Oleskandr Usyk 2 in Manchester city centre

Danny Jones Danny Jones Where to watch Tyson Fury vs Usyk 2 fight in Manchester
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Tyson Fury vs Usyk 2: ‘Undisputed’ is nearly upon us with the two contenders fighting to become unified heavyweight champion, and as the biggest fight of the year (at least since the last one), you might rightly be wondering where in Manchester is best to watch it.

With a homegrown albeit controversial talent on one side in Fury and a no-nonsense, not to mention undefeated Ukrainian on the other, there’ll be Mancs cheering for both sides but regardless of who you want to win, we can assure you town is going to be absolutely rammed with fight fans.

That being said, much like getting in the ring itself, you’re best having a game plan if you haven’t already sorted out where you’re going to watch the Fury vs Usyk rematch.

Now, you’re going to want to bank on big rooms with plenty of space for those coming last minute; don’t worry, we’ve got a few ideas and they’re decently spaced out in terms of area too.

Where to watch the Fury vs Usyk 2 fight in Manchester city centre

1. Tank and Paddle – Printworks

tank and paddle printworks manchester
places to watch fury vs usyk in manchester
tank and paddle printworks
Spread across too large floors, it still has all the appeal of the old place and more. (Credit: The Manc Eats)

First up on the list is the newest addition to the Printworks entertainment complex: Tank and Paddle, which has taken over the old Yates site. Specialising in craft beers, cocktails, big pizzas and big screens for live sport, if you used to head here for the boxing before you have even more reason to now.

2. BOX – Deansgate

Next up is arguably the current king of Manchester’s live sports bar scene. Famous for great food, live music, shuffleboard, big steins of beer and even pornstar martinis (yes, whole pitchers of the stuff), as well as its giant jumbotron screen, it’s literally impossible for you to miss a single punch thrown here.

3. Brotherhood – Central

ln at number three is what we refer to as old faithful but, to repeat its true title, is The Brotherhood of Pastimes and Pursuits. We never ever say that name in full but we what do on a regular basis is head here after work, as well as pre and post-matchday to watch the rest of the action and play some games whilst we’re at it. It will be heaving for the fight but if you can book or get there early, you’ll have a ball.

fury vs usyk rematch
is brotherhood showing fury vs usyk 2?
Credit: The Brotherhood (via Facebook)

4. Roxy Ball Room – Manchester Arndale/Deansgate

Speaking of reliable after work and weekend haunts, they don’t get more tried and tested than Roxy Ball Room as we simply like to call her, our lovely lady Roxy. Shuffleboard, bowling, darts, pool, table tennis, basketball machines, beer pong, curling – oh yeah, and you can look up to watch the boxing if you want…

5. Mother Mary’s – Oxford Road Corridor

Fifth and finally, Mother Mary’s is the unsung hero of our list. It’s fast becoming one of our favourite places to watch sport anywhere in town. It’s popped over on New Wakefield St where Manc institution The Font used to be and it won’t stay the city centre’s best kept secret for long, so make sure you grab a table, one the cheapest pints of Guinness around and a seat in front of the big screens whilst you can.

Honourable mention…

Shooters/Bierkeller

Last but not least, we had to throw another suggestion (or two in there) because besides Tank and Paddle in Printworks, there also happens to be the legendary Bierkeller beer hall and the American sports and gaming bar attached it, Shooters, both of which will promise a great crowd for this title fight.

If all else has truly failed, O’Neill’s and Walkabout are just around the corner too – you’ve got to get in somewhere and you really don’t want to miss this clash.

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If you were still wondering where to watch to watch the Fury vs Usyk rematch in central Manchester this Saturday, that handful of suggestions should just about do you in a pinch, just keep in mind that the earlier the better when it comes to events like this.

The two boxers are expect to begin their ring walks at around 10:25pm UK time, so you should have plenty of time to find a good spot to watch the carnage.

Fury has already weighed in more than four stone heavier than Usyk in a bid to get his revenge for the first fight, so god only knows how much of a slug-fest this is going to be.

Judging by that seemingly endless face-off, it looks as though there’s plenty of bad blood going into this. Question is, who are you backing?

For all the latest news, events and goings on in Greater Manchester, subscribe to The Manc newsletter HERE.

Featured Images — The Manc Group/TNT Sports (screenshot via YouTube) BOX (via Instagram)

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Spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display confirmed for Manchester

Daisy Jackson Daisy Jackson Spectacular New Year's Eve firework display confirmed for Manchester
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Manchester will celebrate New Year’s Eve with a spectacular FREE fireworks display, the council has confirmed.

This year, the dazzling display to ring in the new year will be set off from the roof of the city’s landmark Central Library building.

Mancs will be able to gather in St Peter’s Square as the city waves goodbye to 2024 and welcomes a new year.

The family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration has never taken place at St Peter’s Square before, nor has the iconic Manchester Central library hosted any sort of fireworks display.

The fireworks spectacular and New Year countdown will take place on Tuesday 31 December between 10pm and 12.30am, hosted by local radio presenter and DJ Joe McGrath.

With a rough capacity of 20,000 people, there’ll be a festive atmosphere in the city centre – but Manchester City Council has stressed that alcohol is not permitted at the New Year’s Eve fireworks event.

Councillor Pat Karney, Christmas and New Year spokesperson for Manchester City Council, said: “If there’s something we do well in Manchester, it’s getting together for a big celebration – and there’s no better time for a big do than New Year’s Eve.

“This is the time to remember the year we’ve just had and to look ahead to the new one and all it may bring, surrounded by the people we love.

“Mancunians of all ages love a party, and this New Year’s Eve is going to be fantastic – a chance to dance the night away, with one of the biggest fireworks displays in the region for everyone to enjoy.

“All you need is your dancing shoes, party spirit and your nearest and dearest. Grab hold of those and we can’t wait to see you in St Peter’s Square for the last party of 2024.”

Manchester New Year's Eve fireworks
Spectacular New Year’s Eve firework display confirmed for Manchester. Credit: Unsplash, designecologist

There are a few things you need to know ahead of the event – attendees are asked to limit bag sizes to no larger than A4 in size, with bag searches in operation at the entrances.

It will be a standing room only event though there’ll be a managed designated accessible viewing area located on the Metrolink tram platform closest to Central Library, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Portaloos, public toilets until 1am, and hot drinks and food will all be available on site.

Event staff will make sure St Peter’s Square is cleared promptly after the event and once the fireworks are over to minimise disruption to local residents.

Councillor Pat Karney added: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy New Year’s Eve, including the growing number of local residents who live in town.

“I will therefore be working closely with local councillors and others to ensure that we minimise any nuisance for city centre residents.”

Important road closures and event information for the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Manchester

A number of temporary but necessary traffic management measures will be put in place in the run-up to and on the day itself so the event can go ahead.

Road closures – 31 December 2024 

7.30pm–2am

  • Peter Street westbound (Mount Street to Lower Mosley Street)
  • Peter Street eastbound (Deansgate to Lower Mosley Street)
  • Oxford Street (Peter Street to Portland Street)
  • George Street (Oxford Street to Dickinson Street)
  • St James Street (Oxford Street to Dickinson Street)
  • Bale Street (Lower Mosley Street to Hall Street)
  • Hall Street (Bale Street to Oxford Street)

9pm–2am

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  • Lower Mosley Street (Windmill Street to St Peter’s Square)
  • Princess Street (Cooper Street to George Street)
  • Back George Street (Princess Street to Dickenson Street)

Parking suspensions from 8am on 29 December until 6am on 2 January

  • Peter Street (Mount Street to Lower Mosley Street)

Parking suspensions from 6pm on 30 December until 6am on 1 January

  • Oxford Street (Lower Mosley Street to Portland Street)
  • Lower Mosley Street (Windmill Street to St Peter’s Square)
  • Princess Street (Cooper Street to George Street)
  • George Street (Oxford Street to Princess Street)
  • Back George Street (Princess Street to Dickenson Street)
  • Museum Street (Windmill Street to Peter Street)
  • Southmill (Windmill Street to Bootle Street)

Accessible parking

  • Unreserved accessible event parking is available on Mount Street.

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Featured image: Unsplash, Chris Curry

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