News

Local News

Plans submitted to build new home in historic Spotland farmhouse garden

A new home could be built in the garden of one of Rochdale’s oldest surviving farmhouses if planning permission is approved.
Radcliffe woman sentenced over £13,000 cannabis farm and cocaine possession

A woman from Radcliffe has been handed a community sentence after police discovered a hidden cannabis farm worth up to £13,000 in her home and found cocaine in her bedroom.
Inspectors raise concerns over leadership and learner development at Bury Adult Learning Service

Bury Council’s adult learning service has been told it needs to improve in two key areas following a recent inspection by Ofsted under its newly introduced reporting framework.
Millions approved for Rochdale community projects

A £3.5 million investment fund has been approved by Rochdale councillors to support neighbourhood initiatives across the borough.
Heywood man says GMP ‘still covering up’ five years after violent incident

A Heywood man has accused Greater Manchester Police of continuing to cover up misconduct by its officers, five years after he was assaulted and threatened in his home.
Lack of cash prompts Greater Manchester policing fears as Andy Burnham hits out at Government

Residents may see the quality of local policing drop amid financial difficulties, bosses have warned.
Reform reports Labour to police over alleged misleading by election video

Reform UK has reported the Labour Party to Greater Manchester Police, claiming a social media video breached election law by presenting its candidate in a misleading way.
We asked 73 voters if they still back Andy Burnham – this is what they said

Andy Burnham’s name is on Greater Manchester’s lips more so than usual.
Middleton man found guilty of manslaughter after teen killed in driveway crash

A 59-year-old man from Middleton has been convicted of manslaughter after driving into a teenager who was sitting on a stolen e-bike.
Labour deputy leader launches by-election campaign

Lucy Powell, Labour’s deputy leader, formerly launched the party’s campaign outside a community hub in Gorton this afternoon.
Eamonn O'Brien confirmed as one of the final two Labour candidates in the Gorton and Denton by-election

Eamonn O’Brien, the leader of Bury Council, has been confirmed as one of the final two Labour candidates seeking selection for the Gorton and Denton by-election.
Rochdale’s soundtrack reborn as new album and concert celebrate town’s music legacy

A new album and live concert are set to honour Rochdale’s iconic place in British music history, with the borough’s past and present artists uniting to revive classic tracks recorded on Kenion Street.

Greater Manchester

Lack of cash prompts Greater Manchester policing fears as Andy Burnham hits out at Government

Residents may see the quality of local policing drop amid financial difficulties, bosses have warned.
SportsTown project update

Andy Burnham plans to invoke special powers to ‘turbocharge’ schemes for a major revamp in Oldham.
Reform reports Labour to police over alleged misleading by election video

Reform UK has reported the Labour Party to Greater Manchester Police, claiming a social media video breached election law by presenting its candidate in a misleading way.
We asked 73 voters if they still back Andy Burnham – this is what they said

Andy Burnham’s name is on Greater Manchester’s lips more so than usual.
Labour deputy leader launches by-election campaign

Lucy Powell, Labour’s deputy leader, formerly launched the party’s campaign outside a community hub in Gorton this afternoon.
Eamonn O'Brien confirmed as one of the final two Labour candidates in the Gorton and Denton by-election

Eamonn O’Brien, the leader of Bury Council, has been confirmed as one of the final two Labour candidates seeking selection for the Gorton and Denton by-election.
Councillors back free bus passes for homeless children as pressure mounts on Burnham

Andy Burnham is under pressure from Manchester’s Labour-run council to implement a Manchester Evening News campaign.
Green Party leader rallied supporters in Gorton and Denton by election campaign

The co leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, Zack Polanski, visited Gorton and Denton to lead a rally backing the party’s campaign in the upcoming by-election.

Gorton & Denton By Election

Reform reports Labour to police over alleged misleading by election video

Reform UK has reported the Labour Party to Greater Manchester Police, claiming a social media video breached election law by presenting its candidate in a misleading way.
Labour deputy leader launches by-election campaign

Lucy Powell, Labour’s deputy leader, formerly launched the party’s campaign outside a community hub in Gorton this afternoon.
Eamonn O'Brien confirmed as one of the final two Labour candidates in the Gorton and Denton by-election

Eamonn O’Brien, the leader of Bury Council, has been confirmed as one of the final two Labour candidates seeking selection for the Gorton and Denton by-election.
Green Party leader rallied supporters in Gorton and Denton by election campaign

The co leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, Zack Polanski, visited Gorton and Denton to lead a rally backing the party’s campaign in the upcoming by-election.
Reform UK candidate says voters are ‘angry’ over HMOs, crime and decline of high streets

Reform UK’s candidate for the upcoming Gorton & Denton by-election has criticised the growth of houses of multiple occupancy, rising crime and the decline of town centres.

Local Entertainment

Rochdale’s soundtrack reborn as new album and concert celebrate town’s music legacy

A new album and live concert are set to honour Rochdale’s iconic place in British music history, with the borough’s past and present artists uniting to revive classic tracks recorded on Kenion Street.
Photography exhibition opens in Rochdale to mark 25 years since KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo

A powerful new photography exhibition commemorating the 25th anniversary of NATO’s KFOR mission in Kosovo has opened at Number One Riverside in Rochdale town centre.
Review: The Bodyguard brings Whitney’s biggest hits to life in Manchester

Based on the 1992 film, the stage version follows global music star Rachel Marron, who is assigned a personal bodyguard after receiving threats from a mysterious stalker.
Rochdale's Curtain Theatre set for makeover

A 1920s Rochdale theatre could get a makeover as part of a huge regeneration project.
Dolly Parton at 80 and how the queen of country still sets the gold standard

Dolly Parton has turned 80. For fans of country music and lovers of storytelling, it’s not just a milestone, it’s a celebration.
Ferringo Fest’s final show smashes target and honours Steve’s legacy

A festival organised in memory of one of its founding members has raised over £33,000 for charity, marking a powerful end to the Ferringo Fest story – at least for now.
Roch Valley Radio awarded £20,000 National Lottery grant to boost community impact

We’re proud to announce that Roch Valley Radio has been awarded £20,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund.
Poetry that packs a punch as Rochdale Poet Laureate hosts live spoken word events

A series of free poetry performances is set to bring bold voices and fresh perspectives to Rochdale as part of its Greater Manchester Town of Culture year.

Local Sports

Dale Women hit Mossley Hill for six in final league home match

Clinical braces from Coates, Chlodek and Mason seal dominant 6-0 win
SportsTown project update

Andy Burnham plans to invoke special powers to ‘turbocharge’ schemes for a major revamp in Oldham.
Divine Aikbekean’s transformation from troubled teen to Muay Thai champion

A former student of Newhouse Academy in Heywood has become a national martial arts champion just two years after struggling with challenges in and out of school.
Last-gasp Gilmour goal fires Dale to top of the table

Rochdale have returned to the summit of the Enterprise National League following a dramatic 2–1 home victory over Southend United, sealed by a 90th-minute strike from Harvey Gilmour.
Hornets storm into third round with 60-6 win at Waterhead

Rochdale Hornets booked their place in the third round of the Betfred Challenge Cup with a dominant 60-6 away victory against Waterhead Warriors.
Dudley’s acrobatic opener and Rose’s miracle save seal Ramsbottom win

City of Liverpool visited the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium in Ramsbottom in bright sunshine on Saturday. For the home side to remain in the running it was something of a must win encounter.
Bury left frustrated again after 2–2 draw at Stafford Rangers

Bury endured another frustrating afternoon against lower half opponents. Another 2-2 draw with another penalty miss saw the Shakers drop points on the road against Stafford Rangers.
Henderson marks milestone with goal and assist in Dale’s win over Truro City

Rochdale striker Ian Henderson celebrated his 41st birthday and 501st appearance for the club with a standout performance in a 2-0 victory against Truro City at the Crown Oil Arena.

UK

Man given Musk's Neuralink brain chip in UK trial says it 'feels magical' and gives new hope

One of the first people in the UK to use Elon Musk's brain chip says it "feels magical" and believes it could transform the lives of those with severe paralysis.
Santander UK to shut 44 branches - is yours affected?

Santander has announced plans to close 44 bank branches, placing almost 300 jobs at risk.
Driverless cars are coming to London 'this year' - but are they, and the capital, ready?

Driverless cars are coming to London – some time this year.
US plans to check tourists' social media 'putting people off travel'

A third of international travellers say they are less likely to visit the US if proposals to scrutinise social media accounts are brought in, according to a survey.
More suspended pupils to stay in school under new government behaviour rules

More pupils suspended for bad behaviour will have to stay in school under supervision, rather than being sent home, in a bid to curb learning loss and reduce exposure to phones and social media.
The 10-year passport rule that's seen Britons turned away from flights | Money newsletter

For months now, stories have been emerging about holidaymakers being turned away from their flights due to having invalid passports.
Postponed local elections - what is happening?

The government is to postpone a fifth of English council elections that were supposed to take place this May.
Gang jailed over guns and drug operation worth up to £288m

Four members of an organised crime gang have been jailed after an investigation into a multi-million-pound firearms and drugs operation.

More from UK

Entertainment

Chris Brown appears in London court over alleged 'bottle attack'

US singer Chris Brown has appeared in court for a short hearing ahead of a trial over an alleged bottle attack at a London nightclub.
Sky News picks up three trophies at 2026 Political Podcast Awards

Sky News enjoyed a successful evening at the 2026 Political Podcast Awards, taking home three trophies, including Presenter of the Year and Most Original Format.
BBC announces interim director general

The BBC has announced who will carry the corporation forward after the departure of director general Tim Davie.
One Battle After Another leads BAFTA 2026 nominations - as Hamnet breaks a record

One Battle After Another, the politically charged dark comedy thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a washed-up revolutionary, leads this year's BAFTA nominations with 14 nods.
Bereaved mother describes 'harrowing' stillbirth aftercare

Kelsey Parker, widow of late The Wanted singer Tom Parker, has told Sky News she experienced "harrowing" care after her son was stillborn.

More from Entertainment

Sport

Jamie Vardy at Cremonese: Leicester hero is scoring goals in Serie A at 39 - and Foxes fans are still visiting him in Italy

When Inter visit Cremonese on Sunday, expect the attendance at the Stadio Giovani Zini to be swollen by a particular type of supporter – and it will not be the Serie A leaders they are there to see. Jamie Vardy tourism is booming among Leicester fans.
Greg Slade hopes to inspire other gay men after positive response to coming out

Greg Slade hopes he can inspire other gay men within tennis to feel comfortable being themselves after an overwhelmingly positive response to his coming out post.
Raheem Sterling leaves Chelsea after three and a half years ahead of January transfer deadline

Raheem Sterling has left Chelsea after three and a half years at the club.
Six Nations: Can injury-hit England ride momentum to Grand Slam?

England enter 2026 with expectations high and opportunities aplenty to maintain their upward trajectory under Steve Borthwick.
Champions League knockout phase play-off draw: Format, dates, fixture schedule and qualified teams

The Champions League league phase is over - we know eight teams heading for the last 16, but who now has two extra games in their schedules for the right to join them, and who will they play?

More from Sport

Strange

Climber Alex Honnold scales Taipei 101 skyscraper without ropes

American climber Alex Honnold ascended one of the world's tallest buildings on Sunday without a rope or protective equipment.
Stolen Fabergé pendant passed to police - quite literally

A Fabergé pendant has been recovered - after police spent six days closely monitoring the man accused of swallowing it.
Spirit animal: Raccoon gets drunk as a skunk in a booze store - and sleeps off hangover in the toilet

A raccoon has gotten as drunk as a skunk.
Is Die Hard a Christmas film? The public have spoken - and you might not like the result

It's a debate that's torn families apart for years - with selection boxes thrown in rage, and stony silences around the dinner table.
Oxford Dictionary publisher reveals Word of the Year 2025 - do you know it?

Don't get too upset, but 'rage bait' has been named by Oxford University Press as this year's Word of the Year, beating other online terms.

More from Strange

Videos

Doctors share disturbing accounts of Iran crackdown

In Iran, the climate of fear has been restored after the clerics who run this country successfully crushed nationwide revolt.
US plans to check tourists' social media 'putting people off travel'

A third of international travellers say they are less likely to visit the US if proposals to scrutinise social media accounts are brought in, according to a survey.
China considering visa-free travel for UK citizens after Xi-Starmer meeting

China is considering adding the UK to its visa-free waiver policy, putting Britain on the same footing as much of Europe.
Video shows Alex Pretti clash with federal agents the week before he was killed

New footage has emerged of Alex Pretti in an altercation with federal agents in Minneapolis, 11 days before he was shot dead.
Climber Alex Honnold scales Taipei 101 skyscraper without ropes

American climber Alex Honnold ascended one of the world's tallest buildings on Sunday without a rope or protective equipment.
Tories 'on the right but appeal to the majority', says Kemi Badenoch

Kemi Badenoch has said the Conservatives have "values of the right" but that "will appeal to the majority".
More suspended pupils to stay in school under new government behaviour rules

More pupils suspended for bad behaviour will have to stay in school under supervision, rather than being sent home, in a bid to curb learning loss and reduce exposure to phones and social media.
Man given Musk's Neuralink brain chip in UK trial says it 'feels magical' and gives new hope

One of the first people in the UK to use Elon Musk's brain chip says it "feels magical" and believes it could transform the lives of those with severe paralysis.

More from Videos

Politics

China considering visa-free travel for UK citizens after Xi-Starmer meeting

China is considering adding the UK to its visa-free waiver policy, putting Britain on the same footing as much of Europe.
Starmer to strike pact with China aimed at targeting people smuggling gangs

Sir Keir Starmer is expected to strike a new border security pact with China aimed at disrupting the supply of small boats.
Tories 'on the right but appeal to the majority', says Kemi Badenoch

Kemi Badenoch has said the Conservatives have "values of the right" but that "will appeal to the majority".
Postponed local elections - what is happening?

The government is to postpone a fifth of English council elections that were supposed to take place this May.
Gorton and Denton by-election: Farage and Polanski could both inflict huge damage on Labour

Sir Keir Starmer has created, from nowhere, a pivotal by-election by his own hand.

More from Politics

Technology

Driverless cars are coming to London 'this year' - but are they, and the capital, ready?

Driverless cars are coming to London – some time this year.
Man given Musk's Neuralink brain chip in UK trial says it 'feels magical' and gives new hope

One of the first people in the UK to use Elon Musk's brain chip says it "feels magical" and believes it could transform the lives of those with severe paralysis.
Tesla axes EV models in drive for robotics revenue

Tesla is to axe production of two electric vehicle (EV) models as part of a shift towards robotics after the company reported its first ever decline in annual revenue.
UK rolls out free AI training, but will it save your job?

Free artificial intelligence training is being made available to everyone in the UK as the government steps up efforts to prepare the workforce for rapid technological change.
Why are some Britons getting £3.99 messages from Facebook and Instagram?

Notifications from Facebook and Instagram have been pinging to users' phones, asking if they want to pay £3.99 a month for their platforms - or continue to use them for free.

More from Technology

World

Doctors share disturbing accounts of Iran crackdown

In Iran, the climate of fear has been restored after the clerics who run this country successfully crushed nationwide revolt.
Colombia plane crash kills 15 including politician

A small passenger plane has crashed in northern Colombia, killing all 15 people on board, including a congressman.
What is Nipah virus? The highly lethal disease causing concern across Asia

Airports across Asia have put urgent steps in place to stop the spread of a highly lethal virus.
Senior politician dies in India plane crash

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has paid tribute after a minister was killed in a plane crash which left no survivors.
'The entire hill is collapsing': Landslide in Sicily causes homes to fall off cliff edge, 1,500 evacuated

Heavy rain has tiggered a landslide in southern Sicily causing the edge of a town to collapse and forcing the evacuation of more than 1,500 people.
Tyson Fury set for comeback fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov

Tyson Fury has confirmed his return to boxing with a comeback fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov.
South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon Hee jailed for 20 months for corruption

The wife of South Korea's former president Yoon Suk Yeol - who was ousted over a martial law bid - has been jailed for 20 months for corruption.
Amazon to cut 16,000 jobs globally to streamline operations

Amazon has told staff it plans to cut around 16,000 jobs globally as part of efforts to streamline operations and reduce bureaucracy across the business.

More from World

Business

Santander UK to shut 44 branches - is yours affected?

Santander has announced plans to close 44 bank branches, placing almost 300 jobs at risk.
Tesla axes EV models in drive for robotics revenue

Tesla is to axe production of two electric vehicle (EV) models as part of a shift towards robotics after the company reported its first ever decline in annual revenue.
US plans to check tourists' social media 'putting people off travel'

A third of international travellers say they are less likely to visit the US if proposals to scrutinise social media accounts are brought in, according to a survey.
Driverless cars are coming to London 'this year' - but are they, and the capital, ready?

Driverless cars are coming to London – some time this year.
Federal Reserve opts against interest rate cut despite Donald Trump pressure on Jerome Powell

The Federal Reserve has voted to keep interest rates the same - despite pressure from Donald Trump to make a cut.
1,200 jobs at risk as The Original Factory Shop calls in administrators

The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) will this week become the latest retailer to call in administrators, putting about 1,200 jobs at risk.
The 10-year passport rule that's seen Britons turned away from flights | Money newsletter

For months now, stories have been emerging about holidaymakers being turned away from their flights due to having invalid passports.
Could KFC be dethroned? Rivals circle as chicken shops boom in UK

The fried chicken market has exploded in the past two years, with heavily backed newcomers such as Popeyes, Dave's and Wingstop appearing on high streets across the country.