https://northwestmercury.co.uk News from the North West of England, county by county: economy, society, culture, politics and local life from Manchester and Liverpool to Carlisle. en Tue, 13 Oct 2026 14:30:00 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/rochdales-ignite-fire-festival-returns-with-dazzling-new-attractions Rochdale's Ignite Fire Festival returns from November 20-22, 2026, with immersive trails, fire gardens, and live performances, culminating in the Christmas lights switch-on. — Based on information from the official source: Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 12:56:24 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/rochdales-ignite-fire-festival-returns-with-dazzling-new-attractions Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a festive night-time town square illuminated by colourful lights and fire effects, with a large building in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/oldham/oldham-student-amy-bent-cast-in-professional-macbeth-production Amy Bent, a student at Oldham Sixth Form College, has been cast in the Coliseum's professional production of Macbeth, performing from 23 October to 7 November 2026. — Based on information from the official source: Oldham Sixth Form College (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 12:55:44 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/oldham/oldham-student-amy-bent-cast-in-professional-macbeth-production Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a young woman on a theatre stage holding a script. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/formby/formby-parish-council-to-hold-ordinary-meeting-on-19-october Details of the Formby Parish Council's ordinary meeting on 19 October 2026, including agenda items and downloadable documents. — Based on information from the official source: Formby Parish Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 12:54:40 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/formby/formby-parish-council-to-hold-ordinary-meeting-on-19-october Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a red-brick building with large windows under a cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/chester-market-manager-named-national-award-winner Adele Thomas of Chester Market has been named Market Manager of the Year by NABMA for her outstanding leadership and commercial performance. — Based on information from the official source: Cheshire West and Chester Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:55:59 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/chester-market-manager-named-national-award-winner Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a market stall with an award ribbon. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/nhs-report-highlights-prevention-efforts-in-cheshire-and-merseyside NHS Cheshire and Merseyside's annual report showcases prevention initiatives, focusing on reducing ill health and health inequalities. — Based on information from the official source: NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 10:56:07 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/nhs-report-highlights-prevention-efforts-in-cheshire-and-merseyside Megan Worthington Society Generic image of a medical report and stethoscope. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/accrington/accrington-riders-invited-to-shape-new-st-james-wheeled-sports-area Local riders are invited to help shape the new St James’ Wheeled Sports Area in Accrington through a design consultation event. — Based on information from the official source: Hyndburn Borough Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 10:55:49 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/accrington/accrington-riders-invited-to-shape-new-st-james-wheeled-sports-area Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a community consultation meeting with people discussing plans. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/congleton/congleton-town-council-extends-community-grant-deadline Congleton Town Council has extended the deadline for its community grants to 26 October, encouraging local groups to apply for funding. — Based on information from the official source: Congleton Town Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 10:55:33 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/congleton/congleton-town-council-extends-community-grant-deadline Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a red-brick town hall building with a balcony under a grey sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/sale/sale-school-garden-praised-by-royal-horticultural-society St Anne's CE School in Sale has its wellbeing garden showcased by the Royal Horticultural Society as an inspiring example. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:55:54 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/sale/sale-school-garden-praised-by-royal-horticultural-society Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a school garden with wildflowers and seating areas. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/kendal/council-disappointed-as-kendal-northern-access-route-misses-out-on-government-funding Westmorland and Furness Council reacts to the government's decision regarding the Kendal Northern Access Route funding. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 17:55:51 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/kendal/council-disappointed-as-kendal-northern-access-route-misses-out-on-government-funding Megan Worthington Local Red-brick industrial architecture under a dramatic, cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/businesses-urged-to-combat-hate-crime-in-westmorland-and-furness Westmorland and Furness Council and Cumbria Police encourage businesses to support staff and report hate crime during Hate Crime Awareness Week. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:55:46 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/businesses-urged-to-combat-hate-crime-in-westmorland-and-furness Megan Worthington Local Close-up of a hand holding a mobile phone with a reporting app. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/waterbear-music-college-inspires-aquinas-students-with-industry-insights WaterBear Music College visited Aquinas College to present on music industry careers and degree pathways to BTEC and A Level students. — Based on information from the official source: Aquinas College (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 15:55:54 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/waterbear-music-college-inspires-aquinas-students-with-industry-insights Megan Worthington Local Exterior view of a modern college building with musical elements, representing a presentation on music careers. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/new-community-investment-fund-launched-in-cheshire Cheshire West and Chester Council launches a new fund to support local preventative and community-led activities. — Based on information from the official source: Cheshire West and Chester Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 14:56:23 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/new-community-investment-fund-launched-in-cheshire Megan Worthington Local A hand holding a grant application form, with a blurred background of community buildings and green spaces. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/general/alder-hey-innovation-day-inspires-future-nhs-careers Students discover diverse NHS careers at Alder Hey's Innovation Day, exploring STEM and Arts roles through interactive workshops and idea generation. — Based on information from the official source: Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 14:54:31 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/general/alder-hey-innovation-day-inspires-future-nhs-careers Megan Worthington Local Close-up of medical simulation technology with blurred background of staff and students. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/residents-invited-to-shape-new-play-areas-in-west-cumbria Cumberland Council is launching public consultations for new play equipment in Whitehaven and Egremont, encouraging residents to help shape the future of local play areas. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:56:57 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/residents-invited-to-shape-new-play-areas-in-west-cumbria Megan Worthington Local A vibrant and inclusive children's play area with modern equipment. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-appoints-new-chief-innovation-officer Ben Holliday appointed as Chief Innovation, Technology and Digital Officer at Westmorland and Furness Council to drive transformation and improve services. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:56:39 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-appoints-new-chief-innovation-officer Megan Worthington Local A modern office desk with a laptop showing data visualizations, a notebook, and a coffee cup, representing a new digital transformation role. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/bolton/pension-credit-awareness-week-thousands-of-eligible-pensioners-missing-out Bolton Council launches Pension Credit Week of Action to help eligible pensioners claim vital financial support worth thousands annually. — Based on information from the official source: Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:56:04 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/bolton/pension-credit-awareness-week-thousands-of-eligible-pensioners-missing-out Megan Worthington Local A hand holds a Pension Credit leaflet with a blurred town hall in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/bolton/bolton-residents-urged-to-combat-hate-crime-during-awareness-week Bolton Council calls on residents to stand up against hate crime during National Hate Crime Awareness Week, emphasising community safety and reporting. — Based on information from the official source: Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:55:47 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/bolton/bolton-residents-urged-to-combat-hate-crime-during-awareness-week Megan Worthington Society Close-up of a red brick mill building in North West England under a dramatic, cloudy sky, with a hint of rain on the stone. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/students-short-film-scoops-comedy-award-at-bolton-film-festival Aquinas College student Rebecca Smith wins the Comedy Genre Prize at the STEEL-TO-REEL College Film Competition for her short film. — Based on information from the official source: Aquinas College (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:54:36 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/students-short-film-scoops-comedy-award-at-bolton-film-festival Michael Threlfall Culture Student filmmaker reviewing her storyboard for a short film. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/moss-lane/altrincham-town-centre-site-eyed-for-housing-development Trafford Council may approve plans for new homes on the Oakfield Road and Moss Lane site in Altrincham town centre. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 10:55:52 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/moss-lane/altrincham-town-centre-site-eyed-for-housing-development Megan Worthington Local Aerial view of the Oakfield Road and Moss Lane development site in Altrincham town centre. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/penrith/penrith-town-centre-enhances-navigation-with-new-wayfinding-scheme Penrith Town Council completes government-funded wayfinding and interpretation project, enhancing navigation and promoting local heritage. — Based on information from the official source: Penrith Town Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 09:54:24 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/penrith/penrith-town-centre-enhances-navigation-with-new-wayfinding-scheme Megan Worthington Local New wayfinding signpost in Penrith town centre, indicating directions to local attractions and amenities. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/westhoughton/community-plants-thousands-of-daffodils-across-westhoughton Westhoughton Town Council, local schools, and community groups are planting 3000 daffodil bulbs to brighten the town next spring. — Based on information from the official source: Westhoughton Town Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 08:56:49 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/westhoughton/community-plants-thousands-of-daffodils-across-westhoughton Megan Worthington Local Community members and councillors planting daffodil bulbs in a park in Westhoughton. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-council-launches-fight-fly-tipping-fortnight-campaign Fylde Council partners with Keep Britain Tidy for 'Fight Fly-Tipping Fortnight', warning residents about illegal waste disposal and its impact. — Based on information from the official source: Fylde Borough Council (12/10/2026) Mon, 12 Oct 2026 08:54:48 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-council-launches-fight-fly-tipping-fortnight-campaign Megan Worthington Local Fly-tipped rubbish including a mattress and furniture dumped on a rural lane in Lancashire. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/alston/alston-schools-set-for-major-rebuild-under-national-programme Major investment in Alston's education sector as Samuel Kings School and Alston Primary School are set for a national rebuilding programme. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 19:55:54 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/alston/alston-schools-set-for-major-rebuild-under-national-programme Megan Worthington Local Rebuilding project for Samuel Kings School and Alston Primary School in Cumbria. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/south-lakes-youth-work-summit-fosters-connection-and-inspiration The inaugural South Lakes Youth Work Summit successfully convened youth workers and organisations, fostering collaboration and inspiration for the sector. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 19:55:41 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/south-lakes-youth-work-summit-fosters-connection-and-inspiration Megan Worthington Society Diverse group of youth workers and professionals at the South Lakes Youth Work Summit. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/breast-screening-officer-promotes-health-confidence Sarah Howson-Probert, Breast Screening Uptake Officer, helps people overcome barriers and access appointments for vital health checks. — Based on information from the official source: East Cheshire NHS Trust (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 17:55:42 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/breast-screening-officer-promotes-health-confidence Megan Worthington Society Close-up of a mammography machine's medical equipment. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/carlisle/cumberland-council-consults-on-taxi-fare-changes Cumberland Council is seeking public input on proposed changes to Hackney Carriage taxi fares, including daytime, evening, and holiday tariffs. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 16:56:33 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/carlisle/cumberland-council-consults-on-taxi-fare-changes Megan Worthington Local Close-up of a taxi meter displaying a fare, with a blurred North West England street scene at night. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/oldham/oldham-celebrates-sir-kevin-sinfields-knighthood-for-sporting-and-charity-achievements Oldham's Sir Kevin Sinfield receives knighthood for outstanding contributions to Rugby League, Rugby Union, and Motor Neurone Disease fundraising. — Based on information from the official source: Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 16:55:45 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/oldham/oldham-celebrates-sir-kevin-sinfields-knighthood-for-sporting-and-charity-achievements Megan Worthington Local A rugby ball on grass with Oldham's industrial heritage in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/cheshire-council-praised-in-national-public-health-peer-review Cheshire West and Chester Council receives praise for its public health approach in a new national peer review scheme. — Based on information from the official source: Cheshire West and Chester Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 15:56:29 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/cheshire-council-praised-in-national-public-health-peer-review Megan Worthington Local Cheshire West and Chester Council building facade https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-to-streamline-planning-decisions-from-october-31 New national planning rules coming into force on October 31, 2026, will see Westmorland and Furness Council streamline decision-making processes. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 15:56:04 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-to-streamline-planning-decisions-from-october-31 Megan Worthington Local Close-up of a planning application form with a pen, blurred council chamber in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/council-offers-150-subsidy-for-young-driver-training-scheme Westmorland and Furness Council is offering a £150 subsidy to eligible young drivers aged 17-24 for the Pass Plus training scheme. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 15:55:48 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/council-offers-150-subsidy-for-young-driver-training-scheme Megan Worthington Local A young driver gripping the steering wheel, with a blurred North West England road scene in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/lake-district-national-park-authority-welcomes-new-farming-team-members Lake District National Park Authority expands its Farming Team with three new officers to support the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme. — Based on information from the official source: Lake District National Park Authority (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 14:54:16 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/lake-district-national-park-authority-welcomes-new-farming-team-members Megan Worthington Local Scenic view of the Lake District National Park with fells and drystone walls. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/bransty/new-coastal-themed-play-area-coming-to-bransty-whitehaven Cumberland Council is developing a new coastal-themed play area in Bransty, Whitehaven, featuring inclusive equipment for young children. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 13:56:18 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/bransty/new-coastal-themed-play-area-coming-to-bransty-whitehaven Megan Worthington Local New coastal-themed play area in Bransty, Whitehaven. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/whitehaven/cumberland-councils-operation-impact-boosts-business-standards-in-whitehaven Cumberland Council's Operation Impact in Whitehaven focused on supporting businesses and promoting high standards in waste management, licensing, and planning. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 13:56:02 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/whitehaven/cumberland-councils-operation-impact-boosts-business-standards-in-whitehaven Megan Worthington Local Facade of a North West England town hall during an operation to support local businesses. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/stepping-hill-hospital-smoking-cessation-team-celebrates-stoptober-success Stepping Hill Hospital's CURE team helps long-term smoker Helen Thomas quit during Stoptober, showcasing the effectiveness of nicotine patches and support. — Based on information from the official source: Stockport NHS Foundation Trust (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 12:55:44 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/stepping-hill-hospital-smoking-cessation-team-celebrates-stoptober-success Megan Worthington Society Nicotine patches used for smoking cessation support at Stepping Hill Hospital. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/rochdales-kenion-street-album-celebrates-towns-rich-musical-heritage Rochdale's 'Kenion Street' album, featuring local artists covering iconic tracks, has gained national recognition, celebrating the town's significant musical history. — Based on information from the official source: Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 11:55:26 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/rochdales-kenion-street-album-celebrates-towns-rich-musical-heritage Michael Threlfall Culture A vinyl record with Rochdale landmarks in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-celebrates-community-creativity-in-our-creative-lives-project Trafford Council's 'Our Creative Lives' project fosters community art and cultural engagement across nine areas, empowering residents and local organisations. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (09/10/2026) Fri, 09 Oct 2026 09:55:50 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-celebrates-community-creativity-in-our-creative-lives-project Megan Worthington Local A collage representing diverse artistic expressions and community engagement in Trafford. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/podcast-launched-on-tackling-racism-in-mental-health-services Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Trust launches podcast on its REACH programme, focusing on anti-racism initiatives and inclusivity in mental health care. — Based on information from the official source: Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 16:55:40 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/podcast-launched-on-tackling-racism-in-mental-health-services Megan Worthington Society Two hands shaking in a professional setting, representing collaboration and inclusivity within the REACH programme. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/cheshire-west-crowd-celebrates-five-years-of-community-funding Cheshire West Crowd celebrates its 5th anniversary, inviting local groups and charities to submit community-focused project ideas with an extended funding deadline. — Based on information from the official source: Cheshire West and Chester Council (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 14:56:10 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/cheshire-west-crowd-celebrates-five-years-of-community-funding Megan Worthington Local Community members collaborating on a project. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-seeks-new-councillors Westmorland and Furness Council is recruiting new councillors. Find out about the role, eligibility, and upcoming information sessions. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 14:55:44 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-seeks-new-councillors Rachel Eccles Politics A diverse group of people attending a community meeting about becoming a councillor. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/altrincham/contractor-appointed-for-altrincham-school-expansion Trafford Council appoints Tilbury Douglas for North Cestrian School expansion, set to add 300 secondary school places in Altrincham. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:56:15 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/altrincham/contractor-appointed-for-altrincham-school-expansion Megan Worthington Local North Cestrian School undergoing expansion work. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/cumberland-councils-recycling-campaign-shortlisted-for-national-award Cumberland Council's waste and recycling digital campaign has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award, recognising its success in engaging residents. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:55:48 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/cumberland-councils-recycling-campaign-shortlisted-for-national-award Megan Worthington Local Digital screen showing a recycling campaign graphic for Cumberland Council. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/cheshire-council-launches-897000-community-investment-fund Cheshire West and Chester Council opens applications for its new £897,000 Community Investment Fund to support local initiatives. — Based on information from the official source: Cheshire West and Chester Council (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 12:56:13 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/cheshire-council-launches-897000-community-investment-fund Megan Worthington Local Close-up of a hand about to sign an official document. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/winstanley-college-students-excel-in-national-maths-challenge Students from Winstanley College achieved top awards in the UKMT Mathematical Challenge for Girls, with strong performances from Year 12 and Year 13. — Based on information from the official source: Winstanley College (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 12:55:47 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/winstanley-college-students-excel-in-national-maths-challenge Megan Worthington Local Close-up of mathematical equations on a blackboard with students' hands in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/sellafield/sellafield-teams-successfully-empty-oldest-radioactive-liquor-tanks Sellafield teams have completed the bulk removal of radioactive liquor from some of the oldest tanks in the HALES plant, reducing site risk. — Based on information from the official source: Sellafield Ltd (08/10/2026) Thu, 08 Oct 2026 11:54:34 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/sellafield/sellafield-teams-successfully-empty-oldest-radioactive-liquor-tanks Katie Ashworth Economy Industrial tanks at Sellafield nuclear site, Cumbria. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/wyre-business-awards-2026-finalists-announced Finalists announced for the Wyre Business Awards 2026, celebrating excellence, innovation, and community impact. Tickets now on sale for the Fleetwood ceremony. — Based on information from the official source: Wyre Borough Council (07/10/2026) Wed, 07 Oct 2026 16:55:40 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/wyre-business-awards-2026-finalists-announced Katie Ashworth Business A close-up of a golden trophy, symbolising business achievement. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/hyndburn-council-opens-grant-applications-for-202728-community-events Hyndburn Borough Council is inviting applications for grants to fund community events between April 2027 and March 2028, focusing on local culture and engagement. — Based on information from the official source: Hyndburn Borough Council (07/10/2026) Wed, 07 Oct 2026 15:58:44 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/hyndburn-council-opens-grant-applications-for-202728-community-events Megan Worthington Local A Hyndburn Soapbox Challenge event with a colourful car and cheering crowds. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/penrith/penrith-town-centre-set-for-walking-and-cycling-access-improvements Share your views on proposed upgrades to walking, cycling, and road safety in Penrith town centre's Sandgate area. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (07/10/2026) Wed, 07 Oct 2026 14:55:48 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/penrith/penrith-town-centre-set-for-walking-and-cycling-access-improvements Megan Worthington Local A busy road junction in Penrith town centre with pedestrian crossings, awaiting improvements. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/nhs-cheshire-and-merseyside-joins-national-steps-to-safety-programme NHS Cheshire and Merseyside selected for the first phase of a national programme to support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence. — Based on information from the official source: NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board (07/10/2026) Wed, 07 Oct 2026 12:55:51 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/nhs-cheshire-and-merseyside-joins-national-steps-to-safety-programme Megan Worthington Society Close-up of hands offering support in a healthcare setting. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/warrington/warrington-launches-mental-health-hub-for-world-mental-health-day Warrington Borough Council launches Happy? OK? Sad? website for World Mental Health Day, offering local mental health support and resources. — Based on information from the official source: Warrington Borough Council (07/10/2026) Wed, 07 Oct 2026 10:56:09 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/warrington/warrington-launches-mental-health-hub-for-world-mental-health-day Megan Worthington Society Diverse group of people talking supportively in a community setting, promoting mental wellbeing. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-libraries-offer-free-bikes-to-boost-cycling Discover how Trafford's community bike libraries are making cycling accessible and affordable for residents, promoting active travel and healthy lifestyles. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (07/10/2026) Wed, 07 Oct 2026 09:56:59 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-libraries-offer-free-bikes-to-boost-cycling Megan Worthington Local A bicycle with a basket, ready for use at a community bike library.