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 Mon, 19 Oct 2026 16:40:44 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-delays-decision-on-care-homes Westmorland and Furness Council has postponed a decision on the future of two care homes, Applethwaite Green and Grisedale Croft, to allow for more detailed review. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:56:30 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-delays-decision-on-care-homes Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a council building exterior in North West England. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/accrington/milkshake-vending-machine-arrives-at-accrington-market Accrington Market partners with Threlfall’s Farm Dairies to launch a new milkshake and smoothie vending machine, enhancing the visitor experience. — Based on information from the official source: Hyndburn Borough Council (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:55:53 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/accrington/milkshake-vending-machine-arrives-at-accrington-market Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a milkshake vending machine in a market setting. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/workington/workington-town-centre-to-benefit-from-new-wayfinding-scheme Cumberland Council is implementing a new wayfinding scheme in Workington town centre to enhance navigation and visitor experience. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 13:55:54 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/workington/workington-town-centre-to-benefit-from-new-wayfinding-scheme Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a town centre signpost with directional arrows. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/leyland/leyland-town-centre-regeneration-reaches-construction-milestone South Ribble Borough Council celebrates a major milestone in the Leyland Town Deal regeneration programme with a topping out ceremony for new market and commercial buildings. — Based on information from the official source: South Ribble Borough Council (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 13:54:26 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/leyland/leyland-town-centre-regeneration-reaches-construction-milestone Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a construction site for new buildings in a town centre, with scaffolding and cranes against a cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/stroke-survivor-andy-shaw-announces-3km-fundraising-walk-for-nhs-charity Stroke survivor Andy Shaw announces his 3km 'Shawsy’s Stroke Strides' fundraising walk on 17th April 2027 at Manchester Regional Arena for Stockport NHS Charity. — Based on information from the official source: Stockport NHS Foundation Trust (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 11:55:39 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/stroke-survivor-andy-shaw-announces-3km-fundraising-walk-for-nhs-charity Megan Worthington Local Stroke Survivor Andy Shaw Announces 3km Fundraising Walk for NHS Charity https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/manchester/nazir-afzal-obe-appointed-new-chair-of-manchester-university-nhs-foundation-trust Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust announces Nazir Afzal OBE as its new Chair, starting January 2027. Extensive public service background. — Based on information from the official source: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 10:56:13 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/manchester/nazir-afzal-obe-appointed-new-chair-of-manchester-university-nhs-foundation-trust Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a modern hospital building facade with clear signage, bright daylight, and blurred figures in the foreground. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-residents-embrace-new-food-waste-collection-service Fylde residents have collected over 11 tonnes of food waste in the first week of the new weekly collection service, part of the Government’s Simpler Recycling reforms. — Based on information from the official source: Fylde Borough Council (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 09:56:07 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-residents-embrace-new-food-waste-collection-service Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a food waste caddy on a driveway. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/parents-urged-to-book-free-flu-vaccine-for-young-children Parents are urged to book the free NHS flu vaccine for young children aged two and three ahead of October half term to protect against winter viruses. — Based on information from the official source: NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 08:55:46 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/general/parents-urged-to-book-free-flu-vaccine-for-young-children Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a child's hand and a nasal spray applicator in a blurred medical setting. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/liverpool/liverpool-nhs-trusts-forge-uk-india-healthcare-partnership Alder Hey and other Liverpool NHS organisations join forces with KIMS Hospitals and BIMS to enhance clinical expertise, research, and medical education between the UK and India. — Based on information from the official source: Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust (19/10/2026) Mon, 19 Oct 2026 08:55:29 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/liverpool/liverpool-nhs-trusts-forge-uk-india-healthcare-partnership Megan Worthington Local Generic image: representing international healthcare collaboration. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/new-community-rehabilitation-service-opens-in-greater-manchester A new community rehabilitation service has opened in Greater Manchester, offering 11 apartments for adults with ongoing mental health needs, a joint initiative by Making Space and GMMH. — Based on information from the official source: Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 19:55:42 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/new-community-rehabilitation-service-opens-in-greater-manchester Megan Worthington Society Generic image of modern rehabilitation accommodation in a residential setting. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/manchester/manchester-arena-survivors-show-remarkable-recovery-rates-with-specialist-support Study reveals high recovery rates for major trauma survivors through specialist rehabilitation, following the Manchester Arena attack. — Based on information from the official source: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 15:55:42 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/manchester/manchester-arena-survivors-show-remarkable-recovery-rates-with-specialist-support Megan Worthington Society Generic image of close-up of a medical rehabilitation device with blurred physiotherapy equipment in the background, soft, hopeful lighting, representing recovery and progress. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/wyre-council-installs-five-new-water-refill-fountains Wyre Council has installed five new water bottle refill fountains across the borough to reduce plastic waste and provide free drinking water. — Based on information from the official source: Wyre Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 15:55:25 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/wyre-council-installs-five-new-water-refill-fountains Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a water fountain spout being used to refill a reusable bottle, with a blurred park or promenade in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/dock-museum-secures-239000-heritage-lottery-fund-grant Barrow's Dock Museum awarded £239,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for a new project digitising and showcasing the Ken Royall photographic collection. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 14:55:40 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/dock-museum-secures-239000-heritage-lottery-fund-grant Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a close-up of a vintage black and white photograph showing a group of people in industrial clothing, with a blurred background of a 19th-century dockyard. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/clitheroe/ribblesdale-pool-launches-online-booking-system-ahead-of-reopening Ribblesdale Pool in Clitheroe reopens after refurbishment with a new online booking system for swimming lessons, making it easier for customers. — Based on information from the official source: Ribble Valley Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:56:34 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/clitheroe/ribblesdale-pool-launches-online-booking-system-ahead-of-reopening Megan Worthington Local Generic image of the exterior of a public swimming pool building with a modern extension and red brickwork, set against green fields under a bright, overcast sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/holy-cross-college-marks-world-mental-health-day-with-hello-yellow-campaign Holy Cross College students and staff participated in the 'Hello Yellow' campaign for World Mental Health Day, fostering connection and support. — Based on information from the official source: Holy Cross College (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:54:22 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/holy-cross-college-marks-world-mental-health-day-with-hello-yellow-campaign Megan Worthington Society Generic image of students wearing yellow for a mental health awareness campaign, with blurred college buildings in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/oldhams-jr-clynes-building-wins-double-at-british-construction-awards The J.R. Clynes Building in Oldham has won two prestigious awards at the 2026 British Construction and Infrastructure Awards for its heritage regeneration and retrofit. — Based on information from the official source: Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 12:56:08 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/oldhams-jr-clynes-building-wins-double-at-british-construction-awards Megan Worthington Local Generic image of the facade of a historic red-brick building with ornate architectural details and large windows, bathed in warm afternoon sunlight under a blue sky with dramatic clouds. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/rochdale-housing-development-delivers-5-million-in-local-economic-boost New housing development in Rochdale creates £5 million in local spend, apprenticeships, and jobs before completion. — Based on information from the official source: Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 12:55:36 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/rochdale-housing-development-delivers-5-million-in-local-economic-boost Megan Worthington Local Generic image: greater Manchester, under a dramatic, cloudy sky with Northern light. A section of a new housing development is visible in the foreground. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/royton/royton-library-relocates-temporarily-due-to-essential-repairs Royton Library has found a temporary home at Downey House on Church Street while essential repair works are carried out on its main building. — Based on information from the official source: Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 11:56:20 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/royton/royton-library-relocates-temporarily-due-to-essential-repairs Megan Worthington Local Generic image of the exterior of a historic red-brick building with large windows under a cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/council-joins-crackdown-on-criminal-waste-traders Trafford Council launches 'Fight Fly-Tipping Fortnight' campaign with Keep Britain Tidy to stop illegal waste dumping by rogue traders. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 11:55:46 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/council-joins-crackdown-on-criminal-waste-traders Megan Worthington Local Generic image of illegally dumped rubbish on the side of a road. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/congleton/congleton-to-hold-annual-remembrance-service-on-november-8 Congleton prepares for its annual Remembrance Sunday Service on November 8, honouring sacrifices and featuring a special tribute to the Prinses Irene Brigade and war dog Treo. — Based on information from the official source: Congleton Town Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 10:55:28 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/congleton/congleton-to-hold-annual-remembrance-service-on-november-8 Megan Worthington Local Generic image: set in a town square under an overcast sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/clitheroe/young-people-help-shape-new-clitheroe-castle-muga Young people's feedback shaped a new multi-use games area at Clitheroe Castle, enhancing facilities for all ages and abilities. — Based on information from the official source: Ribble Valley Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 09:54:45 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/clitheroe/young-people-help-shape-new-clitheroe-castle-muga Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a modern multi-use games area with colourful markings, set against the backdrop of an old stone castle. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-borough-to-hold-remembrance-sunday-services-across-communities Fylde Borough Council announces Remembrance Sunday services and Armistice Day commemorations across St Annes, Lytham, Kirkham, and Wesham. — Based on information from the official source: Fylde Borough Council (16/10/2026) Fri, 16 Oct 2026 08:56:05 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-borough-to-hold-remembrance-sunday-services-across-communities Megan Worthington Local Generic image. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/sellafield/calder-hall-decommissioning-the-uks-first-nuclear-power-station Seventy years after opening, the world's first commercial nuclear power station, Calder Hall, is being safely decommissioned at Sellafield, Cumbria. — Based on information from the official source: Sellafield Ltd (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 16:56:15 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/sellafield/calder-hall-decommissioning-the-uks-first-nuclear-power-station Megan Worthington Local Generic image: featuring its iconic cooling towers and stone buildings under a cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-council-celebrates-foster-carers Trafford Council hosted a special event to recognise and thank foster carers for their dedication to children and young people in the borough. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 16:55:43 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-council-celebrates-foster-carers Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a gathering with blurred figures and a relaxed atmosphere. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/early-doors-club-launches-live-music-series-at-rochdales-st-chads-church The Early Doors Club brings early evening live music to Rochdale's historic St Chad's Church, funded by GMCA, featuring artists like Nigel Clark. — Based on information from the official source: Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:55:53 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/early-doors-club-launches-live-music-series-at-rochdales-st-chads-church Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a historic church interior with a stage and lighting, set up for a music performance. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/1-million-grant-awarded-for-historic-prudential-building-repairs Oldham Council has secured a £1 million grant from the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund for essential repair and conservation works at the Grade II listed Prudential building. — Based on information from the official source: Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:55:25 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/1-million-grant-awarded-for-historic-prudential-building-repairs Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a historic red-brick building facade under a cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/penrith/penrith-town-council-backs-the-gathering-event-with-4000-funding Penrith Town Council has committed £4,000 to support 'The Gathering', a free event featuring music, performance, and family activities in the town centre on 24 October 2026. — Based on information from the official source: Penrith Town Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 14:55:29 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/penrith/penrith-town-council-backs-the-gathering-event-with-4000-funding Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a town square filled with people enjoying music and activities. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/workington-sports-village-enabling-works-begin-for-next-phase Enabling works commence at the Cumberland Sports Village in Workington, preparing the site for the main construction phase of the new stadium. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 13:55:52 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/workington-sports-village-enabling-works-begin-for-next-phase Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a construction site with heavy machinery and temporary fencing. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/carlisle/carlisle-fireshow-to-celebrate-tour-de-france-grand-depart Carlisle Fireshow on October 31st will celebrate the upcoming 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ, featuring fireworks, a bonfire, and charity collections. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 13:55:39 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/carlisle/carlisle-fireshow-to-celebrate-tour-de-france-grand-depart Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a fireworks display over a park with a bonfire. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/community-voices-shape-mental-health-services-in-greater-manchester Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust hosts PCREF event to foster anti-racism and improve mental health services for racialised communities. — Based on information from the official source: Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 12:56:03 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/community-voices-shape-mental-health-services-in-greater-manchester Megan Worthington Society Generic image of a diverse group of people in a community meeting room. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/warrington/warrington-council-proposes-changes-to-2027-28-tax-support-scheme Warrington Borough Council is consulting on proposed changes to its Council Tax Support scheme for 2027-28, aiming to increase support and simplify access. — Based on information from the official source: Warrington Borough Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 12:55:40 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/warrington/warrington-council-proposes-changes-to-2027-28-tax-support-scheme Megan Worthington Local Generic image of official documents and seals related to a government consultation. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/general/wirral-health-trust-secures-five-year-contract-for-0-19-service Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust has successfully retained its contract for the 0-19+ Service Wirral for another five years. — Based on information from the official source: Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 12:54:21 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/merseyside/general/wirral-health-trust-secures-five-year-contract-for-0-19-service Megan Worthington Society Generic image of a diverse group of healthcare professionals collaborating in a bright office. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-council-explores-options-for-st-annes-boating-lake Fylde Council is assessing options for the St Annes Boating Lake, including restoration and alternative uses for The Island site. — Based on information from the official source: Fylde Borough Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 11:56:23 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/fylde-council-explores-options-for-st-annes-boating-lake Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a boating lake with a promenade in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/stockport/stockport-nhs-lab-achieves-global-sustainability-award Stockport NHS Foundation Trust's Blood Science Laboratory has been awarded My Green Lab (Gold) certification for its commitment to sustainability. — Based on information from the official source: Stockport NHS Foundation Trust (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 11:56:04 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/stockport/stockport-nhs-lab-achieves-global-sustainability-award Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a modern laboratory interior with scientific equipment and natural light. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/alsager/alsager-town-council-funds-new-litter-bins Alsager Town Council has installed two new litter bins at Station Road Car Park to address local concerns about littering. — Based on information from the official source: Alsager Town Council (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 11:54:52 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/alsager/alsager-town-council-funds-new-litter-bins Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a new litter bin on a car park edge. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/chester/chester-christmas-market-security-measures-announced Chester city centre to implement enhanced security and road closures for the Christmas Market and festive period. — Based on information from the official source: Cheshire West and Chester Council (14/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 10:56:12 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/chester/chester-christmas-market-security-measures-announced Megan Worthington Local Generic image of historic red-brick industrial buildings alongside a waterway in Northern England under a moody sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/sellafield/sellafield-partners-pledge-162500-for-young-peoples-fund Sellafield Ltd and supply chain partners have raised £162,500 for Cumberland Council's Enrichment Fund, supporting care-experienced young people aged 16 and over. — Based on information from the official source: Sellafield Ltd (15/10/2026) Thu, 15 Oct 2026 10:55:34 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/sellafield/sellafield-partners-pledge-162500-for-young-peoples-fund Megan Worthington Local Generic image of red-brick industrial buildings under a dramatic, cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/rossendale-businesses-unite-to-shape-future-growth Rossendale Borough Council's 'Invest in Rossendale' event brought businesses, leaders, and partners together to discuss future growth and investment opportunities. — Based on information from the official source: Rossendale Borough Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 15:55:21 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/lancashire/general/rossendale-businesses-unite-to-shape-future-growth Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a red-brick town hall building in North West England, with ornate architectural details and large windows, under a blue sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/digital-connectivity-crucial-for-cumbrias-autumn-resilience Connecting Cumbria emphasises the vital role of reliable digital connectivity in building resilience across the county for residents and businesses. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:56:53 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/digital-connectivity-crucial-for-cumbrias-autumn-resilience Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a rural North West England landscape with hills and farm buildings under a cloudy sky, with subtle digital connectivity elements. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/rochdale-council-celebrates-achievements-of-young-people-in-care Rochdale Borough Council honours over 200 children and young people in care for their achievements at the 'Our Big Day' event. — Based on information from the official source: Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:56:34 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/rochdale/rochdale-council-celebrates-achievements-of-young-people-in-care Megan Worthington Local Generic image of children receiving awards at a community event. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-council-unveils-budget-plans-amid-financial-challenges Trafford Council's draft budget report outlines significant investments in services and infrastructure despite ongoing financial pressures. — Based on information from the official source: Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:56:11 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/general/trafford-council-unveils-budget-plans-amid-financial-challenges Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a red-brick council building facade under a cloudy sky. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/winstanley/winstanley-college-hosts-biology-week-event-with-biotech-ceo Dr Natalie Kenny, CEO of BioGrad Group, shared her career journey and insights into biotechnology with over 140 science students at Winstanley College during Biology Week. — Based on information from the official source: Winstanley College (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:55:45 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/greater-manchester/winstanley/winstanley-college-hosts-biology-week-event-with-biotech-ceo Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a diverse group of students listening to a speaker in a lecture hall. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/longtown/cumberland-council-launches-consultation-on-brampton-and-longtown-library-services Cumberland Council has launched a public consultation on the future of library services in Brampton and Longtown, seeking community feedback on various delivery options. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:56:31 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/longtown/cumberland-council-launches-consultation-on-brampton-and-longtown-library-services Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a stone library building in a North West England town. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/carlisle/carlisle-library-reopens-after-major-transformation Cumberland Council officially opens the refurbished Carlisle Library, a modern community hub featuring new services and the Jackson Collection. — Based on information from the official source: Cumberland Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:56:16 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/carlisle/carlisle-library-reopens-after-major-transformation Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a modern library interior with seating and bookshelves. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/knutsford/knutsford-launches-new-visitor-information-guide Knutsford Town Council has released a new Visitor Information Guide to enhance the experience for overnight stays in the town. — Based on information from the official source: Knutsford Town Council (14/10/2026) Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:54:26 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/knutsford/knutsford-launches-new-visitor-information-guide Megan Worthington Local Generic image of an open visitor guide booklet on a table, with a blurred background of a British town street. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/kendal/kendal-museum-secures-100000-grant-for-kenya-heritage-project Kendal Museum receives £100,000 grant for a two-year project with the Nandi community in Kenya, exploring shared heritage. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 16:56:13 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/kendal/kendal-museum-secures-100000-grant-for-kenya-heritage-project Megan Worthington Local Generic image of a museum facade and a community scene. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/congleton/scouts-tackle-misogyny-in-congleton-workshop Dane Valley Scouts learn active bystander techniques to challenge sexism and gender-based violence with White Ribbon Ambassadors in Congleton. — Based on information from the official source: Congleton Town Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 14:56:21 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cheshire/congleton/scouts-tackle-misogyny-in-congleton-workshop Megan Worthington Society Generic image of young people engaged in a workshop discussion, with abstract digital elements in the background. https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-approves-new-adult-social-care-strategy Westmorland and Furness Council has approved a new Adult Social Care Strategy for 2026-2030, focusing on prevention and community well-being. — Based on information from the official source: Westmorland and Furness Council (13/10/2026) Tue, 13 Oct 2026 14:55:53 GMT https://northwestmercury.co.uk/cumbria/general/westmorland-and-furness-council-approves-new-adult-social-care-strategy Megan Worthington Society Generic image of a hand holding a pen over a document. 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.