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# North West Bylines

Powerful Citizen Journalism

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Earth’s Follies – Week 80: Lake America, goose guards and Trump Strait](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-80-lake-america-goose-guards-and-trump-strait/) - Lake America, Trump Strait and geese in wigs – Week 80 finds Earth once again testing the limits of geography, diplomacy and sanity
- [Gary Davies has a new show: Disco For Grown-Ups](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/gary-davies-has-a-new-show-disco-for-grown-ups/) - Manchester born Gary Davies talks about his long career as radio and television presenter, and his new show as DJ
- [Car insurance scams UK drivers need to be aware of](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/car-insurance-scams-uk-drivers-need-to-be-aware-of/) - Experts are warning of a sharp increase in car insurance fraud as scams put people in danger, from ghost brokers to crash-for-cash scams
- [Muslim youth group AMYA raises money for a playground in Keswick](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/muslim-youth-group-amya-raises-money-for-a-playground-in-keswick/) - A charity challenge organised by a Muslim Youth Organisation has raised £12,000 towards the development of Fitz Park’s playground in Keswick
- [97 unlawful killings lead to Hillsborough Law 37 years later](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/97-unlawful-killings-lead-to-hillsborough-law-37-years-later/) - Liverpool born Lib Dem member of the House of Lords Lord Chris Rennard speaks in the HOL about the Hillsborough Law
- [Debt Centre encourages community not to suffer in silence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/debt-centre-encourages-community-not-to-suffer-in-silence/) - Having debt can make people feel overwhelmed and even suicidal, but places like The Debt Centre in Knutsford can help get debt under control
- [Lancashire’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy launched](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/lancashires-local-nature-recovery-strategy-launched/) - We asked the RSPB, Buglife, and CPRE for their thoughts on Lancashire’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy, and what the press release tells us
- [The tedium of jury duty](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-tedium-of-jury-duty/) - Councillor Richard Kemp gives his views after a recent spell of jury duty and concludes that British justice needs some process improvements
- [The Wombles of Penny Lane!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/the-wombles-of-penny-lane/) - Richard Kemp explains the benefits of Wombling around Liverpool’s most famous street
- [Mental health in music](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health-music/) - A new initiative in Liverpool is exploring how music can help people with mental health disorders and depression
- [What is going on in Liverpool City Council?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/what-is-going-on-in-liverpool-city-council/) - Richard Kemp, Liberal Democrat group leader on Liverpool City Council, challenges residents to become ambassadors for the city they love
- [Once alcohol was enough for socialising, but are drugs now the new norm?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/once-alcohol-was-enough-for-socialising-but-are-drugs-now-the-new-norm/) - How drugs have become a standard accessory to alcohol in modern social life
- [He mocked my degree – I became Google indexed](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/he-mocked-my-degree-i-became-google-indexed/) - “Why do you need a degree?” words from man who then needed me to help him with the knowledge from that same degree
- [Is the political centre dead? Pt 2](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-the-political-centre-dead-pt-2/) - Why politics that replaced post WWII socialism seems to be running out of road – Pt 2: Mamdani, Burnham – when the political centre stops looking moderate
- [Drone causes distress to zoo animals waiting to be rehomed](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/drone-causes-distress-to-zoo-animals-waiting-to-be-rehomed/) - South Lakes Safari Zoo: a drone being flown illegally over the zoo distressed the animals that are still waiting to be rehoused
- [More haste, less speed?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/more-haste-less-speed/) - Why Rupert Lowe’s proposal to raise the speed limit would be a failure in England’s North West
- [Make Britain clean again](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/make-britain-clean-again/) - What can be done about local litter on motorways? We asked Clean Up Britain for an insight into how behavioural change can help.
- [Radcliffe volunteers: Tackling fly-tipping and litter dropping in the North West](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/pollution/radcliffe-volunteers-tackling-fly-tipping-and-litter-dropping/) - Radcliffe litter pickers fight litter dropping and fly-tipping, help residents and clean streets while council enforcement alone struggles to cope
- [Sensationalism of crime in the press](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sensationalism-of-crime-in-the-press/) - The press needs readers for their content, but are some going too far by creating nicknames, sensationalising crimes, and interfering in criminal investigations?
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 79: Lake America and the great name game](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-79-lake-america-and-the-great-name-game/) - Trump renames lakes, threatens allies and wants his name on warships – Week 79 proves geography and diplomacy are both optional
- [Trentham Live at Trentham Gardens, Stoke On Trent](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/trentham-live-at-trentham-gardens-stoke-on-trent/) - Five, The Wanted 2.0, Absnt Mind and Darla Jade at Trentham Live, and that was just on the Saturday! Trentham Live is now in its 5th year and gets better each year
- [Is the political centre dead? Pt 1](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-the-political-centre-dead-pt-1/) - Why the politics that replaced post WWII socialism appears to be running out of road – Pt 1: How neoliberalism moved the political centre
- [Independent travel training for young people in Rochdale](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/independent-travel-training-for-young-people-in-rochdale/) - Rochdale Council offers travel training to young people with additional needs, boosting independence and saving in SEND transport
- [Serious offences charge does not warrant suspending councillors](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/serious-offences-charge-does-not-warrant-suspending-councillors/) - Councillor found Not Guilty by jury of historical sexual offences charge.
- [Adoption Matters and can help families, as Sarah tells us](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/adoption-matters-and-can-help-families-as-sarah-tells-us/) - Having lost her son Ethan shortly after his birth, Sarah decided to adopt with the help of the charity Adoption Matters
- [An EU Frontier Zone in Lancashire?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/an-eu-frontier-zone-in-lancashire/) - A personal report: how Brexit messed up transport between the UK and Northern Ireland, and waiting for a barcode in the middle of Lancashire!
- [Catholic baptisms in Ireland are in decline](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/catholic-baptisms-in-ireland-are-in-decline/) - Recent research has shown a significant decline in Catholic baptisms in Ireland, reflecting both falling birth rates and the impact of secularisation
- [North West England businesses urged to consider how they use AI](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/north-west-england-businesses-urged-to-consider-how-they-use-ai/) - More and more businesses are using AI, but if humans then need to check its output, is it really such a good idea?
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 79: Maps and presidential make-believe](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-79-maps-and-presidential-make-believe/) - The lunar haggis have discovered maps and crayons, a dead president brought back to virtual life, Administrative Ostrich Syndrome and mystery vandals
- [Growing Families Together : because Adoption Matters](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/growing-families-together-because-adoption-matters/) - ‘Early Permanence’ is an initiative to limit moves for children who are placed outside their birth family. Adoption Matters explains
- [New education white paper: children achieving and thriving?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/new-education-white-paper-children-achieving-and-thriving/) - The new government white paper on education prompts a reverie on what our education system should do for our children
- [Are Domestic Abuse Protection Orders the success we need them to be?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/are-domestic-abuse-protection-orders-the-success-we-need-them-to-be/) - Domestic Abuse Protection Orders have been hailed as a success, but evidence of their effect is not watertight
- [The benefits of having international university students](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/the-benefits-of-having-international-university-students/) - New study finds international students bring £100 million economic benefit to Chester area
- [Celebrities join The Proud trust for the #DeserveBetter Campaign](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/celebrities-join-the-proud-trust-for-the-deservebetter-campaign/) - Dannii Minogue, Sir Stephen Fry and Dame Kelly Holmes lead 30 stars partnering with Manchester LGBTQ+ charity The Proud Trust
- [Green technologies used in China: the West falls behind](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/green-technologies-used-in-china-the-west-falls-behind/) - Trying to compete with China could actually slow global climate action, report warns
- [Heat Wave](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/heat-wave/) - When even the camels can’t cope with the heat wave, extinction is around the corner, if not already in sight
- [Holding Light: A dance production by Fallen Angels recovering from addiction](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/holding-light-a-dance-production-by-fallen-angels-recovering-from-addiction/) - Holding Light: Fallen Angels shine a light on stories of addiction, recovery, resilience and hope in Liverpool and Chester
- [Deadline looms for popular care homes](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/deadline-looms-for-popular-care-homes/) - Two much-loved care homes under threat are symptomatic of a much wider issue
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 78: Greenland, Tay Tay and weaves](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-78-greenland-tay-tay-and-weaves/) - Greenland faces unwanted drilling, ICE gets electric gloves and a catering truck becomes presidential transport
- [Self monitoring: Britons embrace DIY health checks](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/self-monitoring-britons-embrace-diy-health-checks/) - Self monitoring increases awareness of, and a greater sense of control over your own health
- [To the world…that’s my pyara Pakistan](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/to-the-worldthats-my-pyara-pakistan/) - My Pakistan, my country, so full of culture, community, natural beauty and love; I am proud to be Pakistani
- [Deva Fest 2026, so much going on …](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/deva-fest-2026-so-much-going-on/) - Deva Fest: so much entertainment, so much fun – where do I start?
- [River Irwell: green and milky contamination](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/river-irwell-green-and-milky-contamination/) - An ‘unidentified substance’ has been seen to have turned the River Irwell a ‘milky green’ colour
- [‘Calendar Girls The Musical’ at Theatre by the Lake](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/calendar-girls-the-musical-at-theatre-by-the-lake/) - Raising money for their local hospice after the death of a loved one: it’s ‘Calendar Girls’, touching and funny, now at Theatre by the Lake!
- [Earth's Follies – Week 77: missiles that go bing bing bing](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-77-missiles-that-go-bing-bing-bing/) - Missiles go “bing bing bing”, Elvis cosplay and Greenland is back on the shopping list – Week 77 proves reality has finally overtaken parody
- [Rossendale Rugby Club featured in Year of Sport campaign](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/rossendale-rugby-club-featured-in-year-of-sport-campaign/) - Rossendale Rugby Club takes centre place at council’s Year of Sport Campaign showcasing community participation in physical activity
- [Stop the sheep, ban them from Pendle Hill?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/stop-the-sheep-ban-them-from-pendle-hill/) - From feed lot to wild plot: Why Pendle Hill needs a sheep free future
- [Big claims by Rupert Lowe: where the facts become more complicated](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/big-claims-by-rupert-lowe-where-the-facts-become-more-complicated/) - After listening to Rupert Lowe on Joe Rogan’s podcast, Izzy highlights some of the points he made that she is struggling to accept
- [Lifelong nursing dream comes true for mum Emma](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/lifelong-nursing-dream-comes-true-for-mum-emma/) - A mum of four’s dream of becoming a nurse has come true after she obtained a first-class degree Adult Nursing at the University of Chester
- [DOGE style cuts to adult care facilities considered in Lancashire](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/doge-style-cuts-to-adult-care-facilities-considered-in-lancashire/) - Lancashire County Council has insisted that the futures of 10 elderly care facilities have not yet been decided
- [Libby studied Forensic Psychology at the University of Chester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/libby-studied-forensic-psychology-at-the-university-of-chester/) - ‘Outstanding’ Forensic Psychology student Libby praised for research and giving back to community
- [Wigan change of rules: planning permission now needed for small HMOs](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/wigan-change-of-rules-planning-permission-now-needed-for-small-hmos/) - Wigan: an entire row of terraced houses now needs planning permission to be classed as HMOs for up to 5 people per house
- [Andy Burnham is right about buses](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/andy-burnham-is-right-about-buses/) - The new PM seems genuinely proud of his bus policies like the Bee buses and national fare caps, and so he should be
- [Shutting down the Winter Hill TV transmitter would leave UK ‘vulnerable’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/shutting-down-the-winter-hill-tv-transmitter-would-leave-uk-vulnerable/) - The long-term future of masts like the Winter Hill transmitting station is in question
- [Oldham Council declares it is breaking the law](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/oldham-council-declares-it-is-breaking-the-law/) - Oldham Council has officially declared it is breaking the law amid warnings of 'significant' costs that could be passed onto taxpayers
- [Sefton Council Crosby Library: brighter and greener since the improvements?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/sefton-council-crosby-library-brighter-and-greener-since-the-improvements/) - Sefton Library claims to be brighter and greener after spending money on improvements, but ‘brighter’ may be a subjective statement
- [Salford Social Care – what can we tell from their press release?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/salford-social-care-what-can-we-tell-from-their-press-release/) - We can’t verify the achievements Salford Social Care claims, as different bodies scrutinise different parts of the claims
- [Feeding penguins as a reward in a zoo marketing competition](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/feeding-penguins-as-a-reward-in-a-zoo-marketing-competition/) - Two University of Chester students were awarded the chance to feed the penguins at Chester Zoo after winning prizes in a marketing contest
- [Why is NHS hospital food so bad?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/why-is-nhs-hospital-food-so-bad/) - The problems with procurement and how they affect our public services, such as hospital food and PPE for the NHS
- [Earth's Follies – Week 76: Fourth terms, and gold statues](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-76-fourth-terms-and-gold-statues/) - Fourth terms, giant gold statues and communications under threat – Week 76 proves that while Mars remains stable, Earth continues to surprise
- [Andy Burnham’s No 10 North has a precedent – in medieval York](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/andy-burnhams-no-10-north-has-a-precedent-in-medieval-york/) - A No 10 North in the North of England is going to shift power away from London, and Andy Burnham is not the first to make that decision
- [Ten years after the referendum, how Brexit could have been done differently](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/ten-years-after-the-referendum-how-brexit-could-have-been-done-differently/) - Brexit could have worked out much different if we had gone for a Norway or Singapore style deal.
- [Greater Manchester Mayoral Election – the candidates](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/greater-manchester-mayoral-election-the-candidates/) - The election is Thursday 30 July. Make sure you know how to vote and what manifesto each candidate has, so you can vote for the one you believe in.
- [Jodrell Bank funding to be stopped: now a real risk of closure](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/jodrell-bank-funding-to-be-stopped-now-a-real-risk-of-closure/) - Jodrell Bank is set to close in 2028 unless new funding is secured.Now including statement from MP Sarah Russell
- [Zero alcohol consumption policy in Liverpool University Hospitals](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/zero-alcohol-consumption-policy-in-liverpool-university-hospitals/) - Liverpool hospitals introduce Zero Alcohol Policy as Hospital Watch shows early success
- [Number 10 North claims – fact check](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/number-10-north-claims-fact-check/) - Social Media claims that Andy Burnham arranged a lease for Number 10 North before he was elected as MP are fake news
- [Howard Donald at the Phoenix Sports Club in Wilmslow](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/howard-donald-at-the-phoenix-sports-club-in-wilmslow/) - Howard Donald (Take That) brings his DJ set and headlines the House & Vocal Disco Festival at Wilmslow Phoenix Sports Club
- [Reform Blackburn accused of breaking Geneva Convention](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-blackburn-accused-of-breaking-geneva-convention/) - A fiery full council meeting at Blackburn town hall saw Reform councillors accused of breaking international law
- [Pollution probe won’t stop if Thornton facility closes](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/pollution-probe-wont-stop-if-thornton-facility-closes/) - AGC Chemicals may close their plant near Blackpool but can’t escape responsibility for the pollution of surrounding land
- [Social media like TikTok increasingly prominent in crime investigations](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/social-media-like-tiktok-increasingly-prominent-in-crime-investigations/) - Liverpool is at the centre of rise in criminal investigations citing Tik Tok, as hundreds of children targeted across Merseyside
- [Men’s mental health: it’s good to talk](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/mens-mental-health-its-good-to-talk/) - From ‘stiff upper lip’ to open dialogue: why men’s mental health has never mattered more: it's good to talk
- [“Problems will remain” – public pessimism after the COVID-19 inquiry](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/covid/problems-will-remain-public-pessimism-after-the-covid-19-inquiry/) - Care manager and national safety group doubt COVID-19 Inquiry conclusions will solve future problems
- [Geraldine Coggins – Greater Manchester mayoral candidate for the Green Party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/geraldine-coggins-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate-for-the-green-party/) - We find out what plans the mayoral candidate for the Green Party has for Greater Manchester
- [How tea kept the workers going and boosted the British economy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/how-tea-booster-british-economy/) - Despite constant and ill-informed attacks, one could say that the tea break has always fuelled Britain's economic growth
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 75: we see tariffs and more football controversy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-75-we-see-tariffs-and-more-football-controversy/) - Hardly back from his holiday, and Xylb’tok with his faithful felinoid Grzz’lax have chaos to deal with, both on Earth and on Mars
- [Is Jodrell Bank under threat?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/is-jodrell-bank-under-threat/) - The iconic Jodrell Bank installation and telescope may be at risk due to possible funding changes
- [Richard Kilpatrick – Greater Manchester mayoral candidate for the Liberal Democrat Party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/richard-kilpatrick-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate-for-the-liberal-democrat-party/) - We find out what plans the mayoral candidate for the Liberal Democrat Party has for Greater Manchester
- [Sian Astley – Greater Manchester mayoral candidate for Reform UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/sian-astley-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate-for-reform-uk/) - We find out what plans the mayoral candidate for Reform UK has for Greater Manchester
- [Phil Eckersley – Greater Manchester mayoral candidate for the Conservative Party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/phil-eckersley-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate-for-the-conservative-party/) - We find out what plans the mayoral candidate for the Conservative Party has for Greater Manchester
- [Marlon Scott West – Greater Manchester mayoral candidate for Restore Britain](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/marlon-scott-west-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate-for-restore-britain/) - We find out what plans the mayoral candidate for Restore Britain has for Greater Manchester
- [Marcus Jonathan Farmer – Independent Greater Manchester mayoral candidate](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/marcus-jonathan-farmer-independent-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate/) - We find out what plans the independent mayoral candidate has for Greater Manchester - the manifesto is a series of podcasts
- [Farm Safety Week highlights the occupational dangers farmers face](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/farm-safety-week-highlights-the-occupational-dangers-farmers-face/) - Farming can be a dangerous job, with hazards that are hardly a problem outside the profession
- [No 10 North in Ancoats – is it a good place?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/no-10-north-in-ancoats-is-it-a-good-place/) - Is the area around the planned No 10 North site really ‘riddled with crime’? You could be pleasantly surprised
- [Bev Craig – Greater Manchester mayoral candidate for the Labour Party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/bev-craig-greater-manchester-mayoral-candidate-for-the-labour-party/) - With updates on policing and housing. We find out what plans the mayoral candidate for the Labour Party has for Greater Manchester
- [Lancashire: built on cotton, coal and – the new oil – soil](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/lancashire-built-on-cotton-coal-and-the-new-oil-soil/) - A look at how the land can provide for us in the 21st century, and how land use in Lancashire changed in the last few centuries
- [Squirrel pox warning for Formby population](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/squirrel-pox-warning-for-formby-population/) - An urgent warning over Formby squirrel pox outbreak that may well decimate the red squirrel population
- [National Emergency Briefing was a wake-up call](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/national-emergency-briefing-was-a-wake-up-call/) - A National Emergency Briefing on the climate crisis, how it is affecting nature and why it is almost too late by now
- [The Harris Museum has a 90% accreditation score, but for what exactly?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/the-harris-museum-accreditation/) - The ‘90% accreditation score’ The Harris Museum claim can’t be scrutinised as the full assessment is withheld
- [The burning candle: passion, survival and the reality of the working artist](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-burning-candle-passion-survival-and-the-reality-of-the-working-artist/) - “Get a real job” they said. Being an artist requires talent, dedication, hard work, and determination. Not always easy, but very real
- [Postcard from somewhere: peace, quiet and no estate agents](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/postcard-from-somewhere-peace-quiet-and-no-estate-agents/) - Our favourite Martian has escaped the endless Earthly circus for a well-earned holiday somewhere that is rather inappropriately named
- [Uncovering child sexual abuse in Ireland](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/uncovering-child-sexual-abuse-in-ireland/) - Child sexual abuse has been covered up for a long time, but finally some individuals are being taken to court for it in Ireland
- [The life of Nell Gwynn at the Theatre by the Lake](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/the-life-of-nell-gwynn-at-the-theatre-by-the-lake/) - The life of Nell Gwynn: born in a brothel, she made her way up in life to bevaome a renowned actress and courtesan to King Charles II
- [Four Rossendale parks win Green Flag Award](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/four-rossendale-parks-win-green-flag-award/) - International recognition for four much-loved parks and gardens an Rossendal,after achieving the prestigious Green Flag Award for 2026/27
- [Tatton Park 2026: the Foodies Festival](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/tatton-park-2026-the-foodies-festival/) - Foodies festival in a heatwave, with food, drinks and music galore
- [The Proud Trust in Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/the-proud-trust-in-manchester/) - A 171% surge in referrals prompts Manchester LGBTQ+ youth charity to launch #DeserveBetter campaign
- [Age brings wisdom – where is it?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/age-brings-wisdom-where-is-it/) - Children are paying the price for international unrest and war – where is the wisdom in not allowing our youngsters to age?
- [The present housing crisis can be traced back centuries](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-present-housing-crisis-can-be-traced-back-centuries/) - England's ‘temporary accommodation’ housing crisis was almost two centuries in the making, landmark report finds
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 73: red cards and gold mounts](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-73-red-cards-and-gold-mounts/) - Red cards vanish, Japan invades the Middle East and Mount Rushmore gets the Midas treatment – Week 73 proves reality trails satire
- [The Brit Fest in Ashley, Cheshire, 2026](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/the-brit-fest-in-ashley-cheshire-2026/) - After we lost Rewind North, two brothers stepped up to give us Brit Fest, and what a festival it has become in only a few years!
- [Chasing danger: the thrill behind youth crime in the UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/chasing-danger-the-thrill-behind-youth-crime-in-the-uk/) - Youth crime in the UK is being reported more and more, what could be the cause of this behaviour?
- [New Ferry regeneration meeting](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/new-ferry-regeneration-meeting/) - A fierce council meeting led to shouts of “shame on you” as councillors made a controversial regeneration decision about New Ferry
- [George Galloway won’t be the new Greater Manchester Mayor](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/george-galloway-wont-be-the-new-greater-manchester-mayor/) - Why George Galloway isn't standing in the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election, despite earlier announcing that he would
- [Dear Andy Burnham](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/dear-andy-burnham/) - Andy Burnham, please read this: it explains what disabled people need from their next Prime Minister
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 72: passports and Presidential paintings](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-72-passports-and-presidential-paintings/) - Passports, helipads and an AI painting with robots – Week 72 suggests reality is once again struggling to keep pace with the imagination
- [AI needs datacentres consuming water and energy – can we resist?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/ai-needs-datacentres-consuming-water-and-energy-can-we-resist/) - Trade unionists and campaigners pull back the lid on AI at Manchester conference
- [The Filo Project needs hosts to support dementia patients](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-filo-project-needs-hosts-to-support-dementia-patients/) - The Filo Project seeks new hosts to support people with dementia in Rossendale, Burnley, Colne and Accrington
- [Candice Brown and Simon Rimmer at the Food Festival](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/candice-brown-and-simon-rimmer-at-the-food-festival/) - The food festival at Bridgemere Garden Centre, near Nantwich, Cheshire was a chance to see Candice Brown and Simon Rimmer in action
- [Fly Over Norway at The Mall of America!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/fly-over-norway-at-the-mall-of-america/) - Reporting from Minnesota: what a great way to promote a country, and such a great country to promote!
- [Manchester accent study reveals the vowel that gives away your social class](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/manchester-accent-study-reveals-the-vowel-that-gives-away-your-social-class/) - Research shows the way Mancunians pronounce the final sound in words such as happy and city has remained remarkably stable despite decades of social change
- [Ryebank Fields: the battle against development continues](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/ryebank-fields-the-battle-against-development-continues/) - Green space, contamination fears, and local residents’ resistance: no end in sight in the battle to save Ryebank Fields
- [Empty homes in Lancaster: the reality behind the figures](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/empty-homes-in-lancaster-the-reality-behind-the-figures/) - Lancaster Council says 63 empty homes were returned to use, but residents say derelict buildings and neglect still blight the district
- [Publisher helped D. H. Lawrence relaunch his career and ultimately write Lady Chatterley’s Lover](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/d-h-lawrences-career-lady-chatterleys-lover/) - Major discovery reveals untold story behind career revival of D. H. Lawrence
- [Solar farm plans in Cheshire West](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/solar-farm-plans-in-cheshire-west/) - Giant solar farm could get the go-ahead in Cheshire West, as long as the planning committee approves the revised plans
- [Earth's Follies Week 71: frogs, ducks and an empire declines](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-71-frogs-ducks-and-an-empire-declines/) - A President at war with algae and a guy in an inflatable frog suit, Week 71 suggests reality has finally stopped trying to keep up
- [Three residents supported into employment through localised wellbeing programme](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/three-residents-supported-into-employment-through-localised-wellbeing-programme/) - Building skills and confidence with the goal of helping people into employment is working in Staghills and Edgeside in Rossendale
- [McFly, Remember Monday and Twin Atlantic at Forest Live in Delamere](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/mcfly-and-remember-monday-both-at-forest-live-in-delamere/) - McFly with support from Remember Monday and Twin Atlantic at Forest Live 2026 in Delamere
- [This is not inevitable – Standing up to AI and Big Tech](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/this-is-not-inevitable-standing-up-to-ai-and-big-tech/) - This Saturday 27 June you can attend a conference on the effects of AI in Manchester
- [The Eden Project Morecambe marks a pivotal moment](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/the-eden-project-morecambe-marks-a-pivotal-moment/) - Morecambe comes together in landmark moment as Eden Project Morecambe celebration captures a community on the cusp of transformation
- [Going deeper – what really happened at WellBN?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/going-deeper-what-really-happened-at-wellbn/) - WellBN has been investigated for prescribing medication to trans teenagers, but is it about harming children or is something else at play?
- [Blue Labour isn’t Andy Burnham's issue, stagnant living standards are](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/blue-labour-isnt-andy-burnhams-issue-stagnant-living-standards-are/) - Should Andy Burnham’s efforts as MP and maybe even PM be centred around placating Blue Labour or solving the cost-of-living crisis?
- [Lithium batteries pose a significant threat in your hold luggage](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/lithium-batteries-pose-a-significant-threat-in-your-hold-luggage/) - Regulator warns of potentially deadly threat to planes posed by over 100 million incorrectly packed lithium batteries
- [Litter bugs warned to clean up, even in hot weather](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/litter-bugs-warned-to-clean-up-even-in-hot-weather/) - With temperatures soaring, many have taken to the array of parks and gardens on offer to bask in the sun, and some leave behind their litter
- [Councillor says comments about people in Saddleworth were ‘banter’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/councillor-says-comments-about-people-in-saddleworth-were-banter/) - A councillor is in hot water after he suggested in a ‘spoof video’ people from Saddleworth are ‘Emmerdale bumboys’ who have sex with animals
- [Reform call for ban on tradition of prayers to start Bolton council meetings](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-call-for-ban-on-tradition-of-prayers-to-start-bolton-council-meetings/) - Reform-led Kent County Council has introduced prayers at the start of a meeting, yet Reform councillors in Bolton want to stop prayers
- [New campaign launches on 10th Anniversary of EU referendum](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/new-campaign-launches-on-10th-anniversary-of-eu-referendum/) - On the 10th anniversary of the Brexit vote, a grassroot campaign calls on those who changed their minds about leaving to join the call to rejoin
- [Andy Burnham is MP for Makerfield – how did that happen?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/andy-burnham-is-mp-for-makerfield-how-did-that-happen/) - After a month of turmoil on Makerfield streets, we now have a new MP. And we held off Reform, for now
- [Earth’s Follies Week 70: the murky pool of consequences](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-70-the-murky-pool-of-consequences/) - Venezuela bombed, football embraced and algae triumphant – Week 70 proves that reality remains undefeated, despite attempts to rebrand it
- [How Cath became a widow, and where she found support](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/how-cath-became-a-widow-and-where-she-found-support/) - “We went to hospital expecting a surgery date – instead they told us my husband was dying” – the day Cath learned she would soon be a widow
- [People at Large](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/cartoon/people-at-large/) - Dormouse's observations of life, events and people in their natural habitat
- [The Supreme Court rewrites Mental Capacity Law: What happens after Cheshire West?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/the-supreme-court-rewrites-mental-capacity-law-what-happens-after-cheshire-west/) - No more ‘acid test’ now the Supreme Court overruled itself on the subject of safeguarding vulnerable people with diminished capacity
- [The opportunity is available, the price decides who can accept it](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/the-opportunity-is-available-the-price-decides-who-can-accept-it/) - Research on children and inequality shows how an opportunity can remain formally open while cost decides who takes part
- [Sneaking in the back door: Will a social media ban for under-16s actually work?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/will-a-social-media-ban-for-under-16s-actually-work/) - Can we stop under-16s accessing social media, or will teenagers do what comes natural to them and find a way around the ban?
- [It was ‘a sad shameless thing’: The destruction of the first national transgender memorial](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/it-was-a-sad-shameless-thing-the-destruction-of-the-first-national-transgender-memorial/) - The destruction of the first national transgender memorial in Manchester in 2022 still hurts the community, but now a new memorial is planned
- [Investor profits or affordability – what is more important in student housing?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/investor-profits-or-affordability-what-is-more-important-in-student-housing/) - The University of Manchester’s new student accommodation plans provide profit for private investors over affordability for students
- [WIGAN: What stats tell us about housing and immigration](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/wigan-what-stats-tell-us-about-housing-and-immigration/) - As people prepare to head to the polls tomorrow, LDRS decided to look at whether it’s true immigration caused the housing problems in Wigan
- [Dear Xylb'tok – letters to Mars](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/letters/dear-xylbtok-letters-to-mars/) - One carbon lifeform from Earth responds to missives from Xylb'tok, and apologises for the spectacles we present and the lack of reply so far.
- [TikTok-related crimes rise in Greater Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/tiktok-related-crimes-rise-in-greater-manchester/) - Thousands of people across Greater Manchester have become the victim of TikTok-related crimes, deeply worrying new police figures have shown
- [Mobile phones in schools?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/mobile-phones-in-schools/) - Esther Ghey joins Cheshire education leader and Police and Crime Commissioner for festival event discussing mobile phones in schools
- [State surveillance by the back door: nudity ban and app restrictions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/state-surveillance-by-the-back-door-nudity-ban-and-app-restrictions/) - The ECHR collision course: Why smartphone device scanning for nudity is structurally unlawful
- [Hannah Spencer’s clothes have entered the political argument](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/hannah-spencers-clothes-have-entered-the-political-argument/) - A maiden speech about who belongs in Parliament, and some on the right responded by examining whether Hannah Spencer’s clothes were right for the privilege
- [United Utilities – there’s good and bad news from 2025](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/united-utilities-theres-good-and-bad-news-from-2025/) - United Utilities are starting to make progress on reducing storm overflows – but we are all paying a high price in increased charges
- [Warren did not let autism stop him becoming an electrician](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/warren-did-not-let-autism-stop-him-becoming-an-electrician/) - Wannabe sparky Warren inspires struggling youngsters with his heartwarming success of becoming an electrician
- [We asked the Makerfield candidates…](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/we-asked-the-makerfield-candidates/) - Another by-election in the North West of England, this time in Makerfield, and arguably the most important by-election for decades
- [A powerful new radio series: ‘Coded Warning’ marks 30 years since the Manchester IRA bomb](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-powerful-new-radio-series-coded-warning-marks-30-years-since-the-manchester-ira-bomb/) - Thirty years since the Manchester IRA bomb, and the legacy of that violence can still be felt
- [Earth’s Follies Week 69: lions, land grabs and logical failures](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-69-lions-land-grabs-and-logical-failures/) - D-Day memes, disappearing identities and pools bigger than skyscrapers – Week 69 proves reality remains optional
- [The toxic bully in the manager’s chair](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-toxic-bully-in-the-managers-chair/) - Some managers mistake a job title for a licence to bully, the result is fear, silence, and a workplace nobody thrives in
- [Thornton Cleveleys PFOA contamination update at Hillhouse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/thornton-cleveleys-pfoa-contamination-update-at-hillhouse/) - Thornton Cleveleys residents receive latest PFOA soil test results; legal experts outline potential remediation and rights
- [Fact-checking Makerfield by-election campaign statements](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/fact-checking-makerfield-by-election-campaign-statements/) - More claims added regularly: statements made to persuade voters in Makerfield to vote for a politician or party don't always prove to be accurate at close scrutiny
- [Some of the Makerfield candidates tested on television](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/some-of-the-makerfield-candidates-tested-on-television/) - An episode of Question Time provides a good insight into some of the candidates for the Makerfield by-election
- [Britain's Last Clarion House](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/britains-last-clarion-house/) - Not just preserving a progressive tradition, but pointing the way forward: Clarion House
- [Andy Burnham on policing and crime crackdown in Makerfield](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/andy-burnham-on-policing-and-crime-crackdown-in-makerfield/) - Andy Burnham pledges new crackdown on organised crime to restore pride in high streets, vowing “the days of areas like ours being ignored are over”
- [Knowsley Council urges dog owners to clean up](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/liverpool-and-merseyside/knowsley-council-urges-dog-owners-to-clean-up/) - Knowsley Council reminds dog walkers to pick up after pets and highlights new enforcement and education initiatives
- [Only in Manchester….Go clubbing like a 19th century Transylvanian villager](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/dance/only-in-manchester-go-clubbing-like-a-19th-century-transylvanian-villager/) - Táncház with Tcha Limberger Kalotaszeg Trio is at Band On The Wall, Manchester
- [Manchester professor named one of UK’s most influential environmental academics](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/manchester-professor-named-one-of-uks-most-influential-environmental-academics/) - The University of Manchester’s Professor Jamie Woodward has been recognised as one of the UK’s ten most influential environmental academics for a second time
- [Earth’s Follies Week 68: gold, gaffes and garden cages](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-68-gold-gaffes-and-garden-cages/) - Gold statues, fascist summits and UFC cages – Week 68 proves Earth’s political circus has forgotten where the exits are
- [The death penalty has entered its content era](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-death-penalty-has-entered-its-content-era/) - Restore Britain is not just proposing a punishment, it is offering voters the fantasy that horror can be turned into certainty: the death penalty
- [Irlam Live Music Festival 2026, unforgettable](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/irlam-live-music-festival-2026-unforgettable/) - Irlam Live, a yearly festival unlike any others, great line-ups and independently owned
- [Burnham: "the water industry is broken"](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/burnham-the-water-industry-is-broken/) - Andy Burnham meets residents of Platt Bridge to address the ongoing flooding issues affecting the area
- [Blackpool crime “falling”, but key figures are unverified](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/blackpool-crime-falling-but-key-figures-are-unverified/) - Blackpool Council reports a reduction in crime and announced a new safety plan, but verifying their claims is another matter
- [What is at stake at the Makerfield by-election?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/what-is-at-stake-at-the-makerfield-by-election/) - The Makerfield by-election sees 14 candidates battle to become MP, but who truly reflects the values of local voters?
- [“A Song That Drowns You Slowly”: SCATTERCHILD’s New Ocean is a vast, devastating leap forward](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/scatterchilds-new-ocean-is-a-vast-devastating-leap-forward/) - Scatterchild’s latest single New Ocean is art-rock taken to another level completely
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 67: empty peace funds and freedom cage fights](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/earths-follies-week-67-empty-peace-funds-and-freedom-cage-fights/) - Weddings skipped, peace prizes renamed and UFC arrives at the White House – Week 67 proves Earth has mistaken satire for governance
- [Councillor complains Metrolink didn’t provide water during heatwave](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/councillor-complains-metrolink-didnt-provide-water-during-heatwave/) - 'Next you’ll be asking for cups of tea and blankets for the winter': Councillor sparks backlash over Metrolink water comments during a heatwave
- [Another chance for Carlisle’s Victorian and Turkish Baths](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/another-chance-for-carlisles-victorian-and-turkish-baths/) - Charity receives grant to progress plans for a sustainable future for Carlisle’s Victorian and Turkish Baths
- [Uncertainty about the effects of the business rates revaluation](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/uncertainty-about-the-effects-of-the-business-rates-revaluation/) - Cheshire West and Chester Council explains what it can and can’t say about the business rate revaluation of 2026
- [The need for a Green challenge in Makerfield](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-need-for-a-green-challenge-in-makerfield/) - Andy Burnham’s candidacy shows why the Green Party must stand in Makerfield
- [Unscheduled visit by Reform to The Hamlet ‘intimidating and overwhelming’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/unscheduled-visit-by-reform-to-the-hamlet-intimidating-and-overwhelming/) - Boss of The Hamlet, centre for adults with special needs, blasts Nigel Farage over unscheduled visit to Makerfield community cafe
- [‘Unity’ message as Green Party wins Lancaster by-election](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/unity-message-as-green-party-wins-lancaster-by-election/) - The new councillor in Lancaster is Green party member Will Farley, who promises to serve the community, and urges people to talk to each other
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 66: Musk v God and the Cuban countdown](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-66-musk-v-god-and-the-cuban-countdown/) - Rioters compensated, taxes evaded and Mars insulted by Reform – week 66 proves satire is now fully unemployed
- [Protect Lake Windermere from climate change and waste waters](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/protect-lake-windermere-from-climate-change-and-waste-waters/) - Environment Agency research shows there are practical ways to protect Lake Windermere as the climate changes, now we must apply them
- [Study reveals fragility in a high value shark population](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/study-reveals-fragility-in-a-high-value-shark-population/) - The pelagic thresher shark population in the Central Visayan Sea is at risk from fishing, and the situation is becoming critical
- [RSPCA plans huge ‘animal welfare campus’ on farmland next to Pennington Flash](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/rspca-plans-huge-animal-welfare-campus-on-farmland-next-to-pennington-flash/) - A one-stop shop for animals most in need planned near Pennington Flash proposed by the RSPCA
- [It seems some NHS GPs no longer ‘see’ patients, they process them](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/it-seems-some-nhs-gps-no-longer-see-patients-they-process-them/) - Unable to get seen or fighting for months just to get basic health care, this is the reality for some with NHS GPs nowadays
- [Stop insuring climate crisis!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/stop-insuring-climate-crisis/) - Activists protested outside BIBA insurance conference to demand the burning question of the climate crisis to be addressed
- [Arley Hall Concerts 2026, incredible!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/arley-hall-concerts-2026-incredible/) - Adam Rickitt, Bay City Rollers, Mud and many more – the Arley Hall Concerts 2026
- [Speaking about democracy in the House of Lords](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/speaking-about-democracy-in-the-house-of-lords/) - Finally, we see the end of hereditary peers in the House of Lords, but there are more areas that need urgent change in modern politics
- [Giving a voice to the voiceless – A trans woman investigates](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/giving-a-voice-to-the-voiceless-a-trans-woman-investigates/) - How and why I investigated what is going on with the treatment of trans children in Sussex, and how if affects the children, their families and me
- [The Hormuz ‘dry run’: life without oil and petrochemicals](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/the-hormuz-dry-run-life-without-oil-and-petrochemicals/) - With transport through the Strait of Hormuz at a virtual standstill, we get a picture of how oil and petrochemicals are part of our life
- [Red Wall Tory voters defect to Reform, and Muslim vote leaves Labour](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/red-wall-tory-voters-defect-to-reform-and-muslim-vote-leaves-labour/) - An analysis of the Local Election results in the former East Lancashire Cotton Belt, the Red Wall
- [Lune Millennium Bridge: 25 years of heritage](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/lune-millennium-bridge-25-years-of-heritage/) - As Lancaster’s Lune Millennium Bridge marks 25 years, some residents say council revitalisation works are barely noticeable
- [Food and drink from around the world at a Manchester festival](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/food-and-drink-from-around-the-world-at-a-manchester-festival/) - Feast on food and drink from across the globe at this year’s Góbéfest, taking place in Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, from 19–21 June 2026
- [Earth’s Follies Week 65: tippy tops and the holy land grab](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-65-tippy-tops-and-the-holy-land-grab/) - A Martian mission almost spotted, blinking briefings, AI war memes and church land seizures – Week 65 proves Earth has fully entered the absurdity era
- [​From red phone boxes to digital silos](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/from-red-phone-boxes-to-digital-silos/) - On the digital transformation of British society, and a call to find the ‘middle ground’ and reclaim human connections in the digital era
- [Morecambe in the flowers!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/morecambe-in-the-flowers/) - Young co-creators mark Eric Morecambe’s 100th before joining ‘The Eden Project Bring Me Sunshine’ garden at RHS Chelsea
- [New findings expose scale of women’s health inequalities across Liverpool](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/new-findings-expose-scale-of-womens-health-inequalities-across-liverpool/) - New evidence presented at Liverpool City Council’s Women’s Health Conference has revealed deepening inequalities affecting women
- [Cartoons by Dormouse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/cartoon/cartoons-by-dormouse/) - Dormouse – a protected woodland species originating in Europe, Asia and Africa and an adopted native of East Anglia and North West England. A character in Alice in Wonderland, very fond of tea. Also artist, writer and diarist of the post-Brexit years, living with Long Covid. [jnews_block_22 number_post="3" include_post="60781,53402,51797"]
- [North West England Labour MPs on Starmer’s future](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/north-west-england-labour-mps-on-starmers-future/) - Should he stay or should he go now? North West England Labour MPs on Prime Minister’s future
- [Chester’s Foundling Hospital: children were left but not forgotten](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/chesters-foundling-hospital-children-were-left-but-not-forgotten/) - New book tells the moving story of ‘abandoned’ children who were cared for at the Foundling Hospital branch in Chester
- [Hantavirus risk ‘remains low’ confirm health chiefs](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/hantavirus-risk-remains-low-confirm-health-chiefs/) - Arrowe Park Hospital in Birkenhead is caring for 22 passengers from the Hondius, the cruise ship that was at the centre of a hantavirus outbreak
- [The magic of May Day in Powderhorn Park](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/the-magic-of-may-day-in-powderhorn-park/) - Celebrating May Day in Minneapolis, a true community spirit whit one shared heart, remembering Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and ICE not welcome
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 64: gold statues, sulks and a squirrel](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/earths-follies-week-64-gold-statues-sulks-and-a-squirrel/) - Troops withdrawn, tariffs raised and squirrels identified – Week 64 confirms that Earth’s politics is now powered almost entirely by grievance
- [Political Genius](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/political-genius/) - Political genius – we will muddle through just fine, without you
- [Acid attacks in North West England: rising numbers and low convictions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/acid-attacks-in-north-west-england-rising-numbers-and-low-convictions/) - Brutal acid attacks are high, arrest and charge rates are shockingly low, leaving victims without justice across the North West of England
- [Met Gala 2026: Costume art with a spectacular twist](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/met-gala-2026-costume-art-with-a-spectacular-twist/) - The evolution of the Met Gala: from society dinner to global spectacle, a fundraiser that is by now a world wide institution
- [Do all cis women support single-sex spaces being based on ‘biological sex’?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/do-all-cis-women-support-single-sex-spaces-being-based-on-biological-sex/) - Many cis women don’t want a possible ban of trans women from single-sex spaces, and fear wider consequences of judging on appearance
- [Councillor proposes withdrawing from refugee resettlement scheme](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/councillor-proposes-withdrawing-from-refugee-resettlement-scheme/) - Reform-led Lancashire County Council: proposal to withdraw from refugee resettlement scheme
- [Digital inclusion in Oldham: ambition, delivery and unanswered questions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/digital-inclusion-in-oldham-ambition-delivery-and-unanswered-questions/) - Oldham Council’s GOW Digital scheme is underway, but community partners and councillors say long-term impact and scrutiny remain unresolved
- [Big win for a small snail: Cumia intertexta named Mollusc of the Year](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/big-win-for-a-small-snail-cumia-intertexta-named-mollusc-of-the-year/) - Mediterranean vampire snail Cumia intertexta beats out the competition and will now have its genome sequenced by global mollusc research society
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 63: passports, petty grievances and the Booze Brothers](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-63-passports-petty-grievances-and-the-booze-brothers/) - Charges filed, monarch roasting and passports rebranded – Week 63: while history continues to unfold, some seem determined to rewrite it
- [We found a lost copy of the earliest surviving English poem in a medieval manuscript in Rome](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/ost-copy-earliest-surviving-english-poem-in-a-medieval-manuscript/) - An early medieval manuscript found in Rome contains the earliest known copy of the Historia Ecclesiatica by Bede, the earliest known English poem
- [Teenage girls and experts call for changes to tackle worsening mental health](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/teenage-girls-and-experts-call-for-changes-to-tackle-worsening-mental-health/) - As teenage girls’ mental health problems are growing, researchers from the University of Manchester asked girls what might be done about it
- [What to think of the Reform revelations?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/what-to-think-of-the-reform-revelations/) - Having read Labour’s dossier on Reform, ‘Reform Revealed’, here are some thoughts on the issue
- [HUGO BOSS faces mounting pressure over Pakistan Accord exit](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/hugo-boss-faces-mounting-pressure-over-pakistan-accord-exit/) - Campaigners warn factory safety risks persist as brand urged to reverse decision to step back from the Pakistan Accord
- [The quiet erosion of trust in modern media](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/the-quiet-erosion-of-trust-in-modern-media/) - News reporting is everywhere and all around us, but do we still trust the information we hear or read to be accurate? By Maryam Syeda
- [Reform Revealed - a look at some of the local election candidates](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-revealed-a-look-at-some-of-the-local-election-candidates/) - Explosive dossier reveals shocking opinions of some of Reform’s candidates
- [Reform’s Great Repeal, or how to call insecurity ‘freedom’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reforms-great-repeal/) - Farage sells the vibe, Tice sells the risk, millions get the privilege of reading the fine print or risk replacing rights with insecurity
- [When England came to Dukes Brow](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/when-england-came-to-dukes-brow/) - The national side’s first football match in the provinces was one of a kind, and they lost the match to Wales.
- [Neurodiversity: not broken, just wired differently](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/neurodiversity-not-broken-just-wired-differently/) - We realised we weren’t broken – just wired differently: Cheshire women launch neurodiversity radio show
- [Millions are barred from the ballot – Votes for All](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/millions-are-barred-from-the-ballot-votes-for-all/) - A day at Westminster calling for votes for all, meeting MPs and advocating for democracy
- [A veterans’ centre in Wigan is ‘rebuilding’ shattered lives](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/a-veterans-centre-in-wigan-is-rebuilding-shattered-lives/) - ”As soon as I walked through that door it was like someone picked up the weight off my shoulders” – what the veterans' centre in Wigan can do for people
- [£95mn funding promises growth for Liverpool, but evidence is lacking](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/95mn-funding-promises-growth-for-liverpool-but-evidence-is-lacking/) - £95mn boost for Liverpool City Region, but structural challenges flagged by Centre for Cities may slow its real impact
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 62: microbes, mountains and bonespurs](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-62-microbes-mountains-and-bonespurs/) - Life discovered, codes withheld and mountains renamed – Week 62 proves that while science inches forward, ego continues to sprint
- [Increase in policing precept opposed by Northern Police Monitoring Project](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/increase-in-policing-precept-opposed-by-northern-police-monitoring-project/) - As Greater Manchester residents see an increase in mayoral tax for the Police Service, would it not be better to spend more money on community groups?
- [Reform: free speech is a good enough excuse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/reform-free-speech-is-a-good-enough-excuse/) - A Labour boss has called for Reform UK’s candidate in Blackburn South-East Andy Mahon to be suspended over a series of social media posts
- [Top UK country acts set to perform at Knutsford Music Festival event](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/top-uk-country-acts-set-to-perform-at-knutsford-music-festival-event/) - Knutsford is set for a huge night of live music this summer as the Knutsford Music Festival arranges a Country Collection Evening
- [Fisherman’s Friend factory construction held up by reptile](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/fishermans-friend-factory-construction-held-up-by-reptile/) - Construction of the new multi-million pound Fisherman’s Friend factory in Fleetwood held up by unknown reptile
- [Friends of the Lake District’s rainforest plea](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/friends-of-the-lake-districts-rainforest-plea/) - Help save a temperate rainforest habitat in Cumbria, and for one week your donation will be matched, so what you give will be worth twice the amount
- [Modeshift STARS indicate safer, healthier journeys to a Cheshire school](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/modeshift-stars-indicate-safer-healthier-journeys-to-a-cheshire-school/) - Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School becomes the latest in Cheshire to achieve Modeshift STARS accreditation
- [Can't sing for toffee? Join Different Voices, One Song](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/cant-sing-for-toffee-joint-different-voices-one-song/) - Tone deaf or pitch perfect, the new neurodivergent choir Different Voices, One Song in Sandbach wants you
- [Nice try, critics!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/nice-try-critics/) - Pakistan has a lot of critics around the world, but where were those critics when international negotiations were needed?
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 61: Arches, apparitions and pope wars](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-61-arches-apparitions-and-pope-wars/) - Monuments to self, messiahs in pixels and popes in the firing line – Week 61 confirms that on Earth, reality is not so much bent as enthusiastically reinterpreted
- [Andy Burnham: Nobody who served our country should be sleeping rough](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/andy-burnham-nobody-who-served-our-country-should-be-sleeping-rough/) - 16 April 2026: Andy Burnham says homeless armed forces veterans are to get ‘fast tracked’ to the Bed Every Night progamme in Wigan
- [Award-winning North England writer publishes Wild West Samurai novel: Devils Never Die](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/wild-west-samurai-novel-devils-never-die/) - 'He came for revenge. He found a war..' A Wild West Samurai Epic by a man from North West England an award winning author.
- [Winsford’s historic Verdin Exchange faces new chapter](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/winsfords-historic-verdin-exchange-faces-new-chapter/) - Once a hub of civic activity, the Verdin Exchange has stood vacant for years but all that may be about to change
- [Therapy access could help tackle joblessness](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/therapy-access-could-help-tackle-joblessness/) - Joblessness is high among people with mental health problems, but talking therapy can help and increase their chances in the work force
- [Wigan Council Tax budget – lowest in Greater Manchester?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/wigan-council-tax-budget-lowest-in-greater-manchester/) - Wigan Council Tax: lowest rates in Greater Manchester, but scrutiny raises concerns over sustainability and long-term financial risk
- [A missing piece in Starmer’s EU reset: bring back 'Roam Like at Home'](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/a-missing-piece-in-starmers-eu-reset-bring-back-roam-like-at-home/) - Bring back 'Roam Like at Home': why we should not forget to talk about mobile roaming in Europe in the case of an EU reset
- [Over 1000 children could lose free school transport in cuts](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/over-1000-children-could-lose-free-school-transport-in-cuts/) - Over 1,000 children in Westmorland and Furness could lose their school transport in council cuts
- [AI-generated, anti-migrant content spreads across Facebook](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/migration/ai-generated-anti-migrant-content-spreads-across-facebook/) - Seeing is believing … or is it when AI is in the mix?
- [Bolton Reform election candidate says vile racist comment posted under his name is ‘fake’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/bolton-reform-election-candidate-says-vile-racist-comment-posted-under-his-name-is-fake/) - A Reform UK council candidate in Bolton claims that allegations that he posted a racist comment on Facebook are ‘fake’
- [Bolton Green Party candidate hits back after accusations he filmed while driving](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/bolton-green-party-candidate-hits-back-after-accusations-he-filmed-while-driving/) - Bolton Green Party election candidate defends himself after being criticised for a video which appears to show him filming himself while driving
- [The Drama: Do we really need to know everything about our partner?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/the-drama-do-we-really-need-to-know-everything-about-our-partner/) - Having watched the film The Drama, here are my thoughts and feelings about this film that is thought provoking, unexpected and with great casting
- [Of Free Trade, Fair Trade, Trump and Tariffs](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/trade/of-free-trade-fair-trade-trump-and-tariffs/) - About the Labour government and international trade post Brexit, and the need for democratic control of trade policy
- [The soaring cost of NHS negligence claims in women’s care](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/the-soaring-cost-of-nhs-negligence-claims-in-womens-care/) - Claims for gynaecological negligence are rising across England, with the total payment to settle them for the last 5 year almost £100mn
- [What’s behind the term ‘gender-questioning’?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/whats-behind-the-term-gender-questioning/) - The term ‘gender-questioning’ is the latest way to describe trans children, but it is not correct and should be discontinued
- [Burnham warns that democracy is under threat in UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/burnham-warns-that-democracy-is-under-threat-in-uk/) - Burnham was prevented from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election; he has now broken his silence about Labour’s rejection of him as candidate
- [The day Pakistan surprised everyone](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/the-day-pakistan-surprised-everyone/) - With the world on the brink of a potential nuclear disaster, Pakistan interfered and saved the day
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 60: correction, ejection and denial](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-60-correction-ejection-and-denial/) - Mouthpieces removed, alliances misnamed and rockets heading out – Week 60 shows us that while some look up, others try to burn what’s below
- [Out for the count: changes in UK’s breeding birds](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/out-for-the-count-changes-in-uks-breeding-birds/) - Record numbers of volunteer birdwatchers reveal changes in the UK’s numbers of breeding birds, in spite of changing habitats
- [Health Mela at Burnley campus, University of Lancashire](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/health-mela-at-burnley-campus-university-of-lancashire/) - Free for all: a Health Mela event organised by the University of Lancashire at Burnley Campus, where everyone is welcome for a check-up
- [‘The Gorton and Denton by-election was stolen!’ Oh no it wasn’t](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-gorton-and-denton-by-election-was-stolen-oh-no-it-wasnt/) - They called it fraud. The investigation found nothing. Now it is a “whitewash”. This is how suspicion gets sold when the facts don’t help
- [Sexual safety incidents should be ‘never events’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/sexual-safety-incidents-should-be-never-events/) - ‘Sexual Safety’ incidents at NHS trusts are increasingly being reported, and trusts are working hard to safeguard staff and patients alike
- [The boom in affordable housing schemes in Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/the-boom-in-affordable-housing-schemes-in-manchester/) - We need affordable housing, but shared ownership may not always help people get up the ladder
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 59: sharpies, signatures and No Kings](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-59-sharpies-signatures-and-no-kings/) - Currency rebranded, airports renamed and Sharpies deployed – Week 59’s follies confirm that Earth governance is increasingly unstable
- [Decades of putting others first – the toll it takes on women’s bodies](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/decades-of-putting-others-first-the-toll-it-takes-on-womens-bodies/) - Always looking after others and putting yourself last can take a toll on women's bodies, as many find out in midlife
- [No Kings part 3, Minnesota style](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/no-kings-part-3-minnesota-style/) - A first hand account of the recent No Kings Rally in Minnesota, where people from all walks of life demonstrated agains the threat to their democracy
- [The invisible candidate: one job seeker’s battle against AI](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/the-invisible-candidate-one-job-seekers-battle-against-ai/) - In 40 years, Daisy never failed an interview, but now when job hunting, she is getting rejected by an algorithm instead of a human
- [Is now the time for all good parties to come to the aid of the people?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-now-the-time-for-all-good-parties-to-come-to-the-aid-of-the-people/) - Digital technology has empowered citizens in unprecedented ways – yet our democratic institutions and political parties have not kept pace
- [Should we restrict permits for takeaways in the obesity battle?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/should-we-restrict-permits-for-takeaways-in-the-obesity-battle/) - Hot food takeaways, planning policy and public health, how close should they be to schools, what the evidence says, and what it doesn’t say
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 58: mystery gifts, judicial roadblocks and the airport tantrum express](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-58-mystery-gifts-judicial-roadblocks-and-the-airport-tantrum-express/) - Judges intervene, and Agent Orange unveils an invisible gift – Week 58 confirms that cause and effect remain on only speaking terms
- [Give her the wings to fly....](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/give-her-the-wings-to-fly/) - Wings to fly is the story of Keswick’s Theatre by the lake, written up by Vicky Robinson and reviewed here
- [Cumbria TV star and brother save pensioners stranded in flood](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/cumbria-tv-star-and-brother-save-pensioners-stranded-in-flood/) - Survivor UK winner Matthew Haywood and his brother saved pensioners whose car was stranded in a flood
- [A council puts social housing rents up, but what about the promised improvements?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/a-council-puts-social-housing-rents-up-but-what-about-the-promised-improvements/) - Rent rise déjà vu: tenants asked to pay more again, but proof of progress in housing maintenance remains thin
- [“Support in private, silence in public” – how a trans woman feels about Lib Dem support](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/support-in-private-silence-in-public-how-a-trans-woman-feels-about-lib-dem-support/) - A trans woman speaks out about her experience in the Lib Dems, what she had to say was shocking
- [The new Cumbria Combined Authority gets £333mn in funding (over 30 years)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cumbria-combined-authority-funding/) - The newly established Cumbria Combined Authority gains important funding but budget issues remain
- [From Manchester to Westminster: a journey of voices and hope](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/from-manchester-to-westminster-a-journey-of-voices-and-hope/) - Proposals to conditions under which immigrants can settle here mean uncertainty and hardship for many, we asked MPs to reconsider
- [Raising our voices with the Singing Resistance](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/raising-our-voices-with-the-singing-resistance/) - Minneapolis is not giving up, and they now have singing resistance events as well, where people express resistance to ICE through song and togetherness
- [Not banned – just gone: what Manchester’s missing books reveal about England’s schools](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/not-banned-just-gone-what-manchesters-missing-books-reveal-about-englands-schools/) - Books removed from a Manchester school raise a bigger question: who decides what children are allowed to read?
- [Earth’s Follies Week 57: Allies, outbursts and a phantom President](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-57-allies-outbursts-and-a-phantom-president/) - Allies threatened, facts optional and phantom presidents consulted – Week 57 proves chaos isn’t a bug in Earth’s system, it’s the feature
- [A right royal row in Wigan](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-right-royal-row-in-wigan/) - *Update: It has just been announced the Government will take care of cleaning up the dump.* A toxic illegal dump in Wigan is on land partly owned by King Charles III, but he is in no hurry to help get it cleaned up
- [World Frog Day, and Knutsford Council launches a year of action](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/world-frog-day-and-knutsford-council-launches-a-year-of-action/) - World Frog Day, and Knutsford residents are invited to find out more about what they can do to support wildlife that depend on ponds
- [Burnham has a bold vision for a different UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/burnham-has-a-bold-vision-for-a-different-uk/) - Is it time for a new politics and a new economics? Burnham sure thinks so
- [Over 400 houses on green belt land to save a Hall nobody cares about?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/over-400-houses-on-green-belt-land-to-save-a-hall-nobody-cares-about/) - Locals in Wigan object to plans to build 400 houses on green belt land in order to restore a Hall nobody ever had access to anyway.
- [When the 'Blackpool' flew out of Blackpool](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/when-the-blackpool-flew-out-of-blackpool/) - Stanley Park in Blackpool once witnessed the start of an historic journey by Neville Stack
- [Porridge – a family favourite now in theatre](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/porridge-a-family-favourite-now-in-theatre/) - Did you used to enjoy Porridge on TV? Watch it now in theatre
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 56 – Crab feasts, cabinet clown shoes and the Great Badger banknote panic](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/earths-follies-week-56-crab-feasts-clown-shoes-badger-banknote/) - Steak splurges, clown shoes, banknote meltdowns and the SAVE Act tantrum, Week 56 proves Earth politics still runs on pure absurdity
- [Illicit tobacco and vapes enforcement – how councils are enforcing the rules](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/illicit-tobacco-and-vapes-enforcement-how-councils-are-enforcing-the-rules/) - Illicit tobacco and vape enforcement across Cheshire and Merseyside reveals how Local Authorities are acting on vapes and cigarettes
- [Trans or not, women are women](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/trans-or-not-women-are-women/) - Swim England refuse to update a female swimmer's sex marker, even though evidence shows trans women do not have an advantage over cis women
- [‘The Turning Tide’: Northern Ireland more religious than Republic](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/the-turning-tide-northern-ireland-republic/) - Recent research shows more people in Northern Ireland identify as religious than in the Irish Republic
- [Blackburn cathedral – 100 years of serving a community](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/blackburn-cathedral-community/) - More than a birthday: Blackburn Cathedral celebrates its centenary and is being positioned as a civic and cultural moment
- [Punished for yesterday – is the law on drug driving fair?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/punished-for-yesterday-is-the-law-on-drug-driving-fair/) - Punished for yesterday: the scientific and civil liberties problem that lay at the heart of the drug driving law
- [Dress and makeup just for the benefit of men? Are you serious?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/dress-and-makeup-just-for-the-benefit-of-men-are-you-serious/) - Do you really think women dress and apply make-up just to please men? You must be joking
- [Just Algebra](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/just-algebra/) - And we end International Women's Day with a bit of algebra
- [A butterfly protest in Minneapolis against ICE and war](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/a-butterfly-protest-in-minneapolis-against-ice-and-war/) - A kaleidoscope of love in Powderhorn Park: Minneapolis makes a human Monarch Butterfly to keep its spirit up in spite of ICE and war
- [How can Carolyn Bessette influence fashion this spring?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/how-can-carolyn-bessette-influence-fashion-this-spring/) - Carolyn Bessette is a role model for many, how can she as a style icon with her unassuming way of dressing influence us today?
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 55 – Armageddon, Incels and the Department of Education banners](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-55-armageddon-incels-banners/) - War drums, incel jargon and Melania at the UN, Week 55 suggests Earth’s leadership may be one group chat away from total absurdity
- [International Women's Day 2026: we introduce the women behind Bylines Network](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/international-womens-day-2026-powerful-women-bylines-network/) - On International Women’s Day, Bylines Network invites you to celebrate the women who make the Network successful, here is the story of the North West editor-in-chief.
- [Life after university, what comes next?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/life-after-university-what-comes-next/) - Does the job market value a university education, or will you struggle to find a career even with a Bachelor’s degree?
- [A school reunion or a trip down memory lane?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/a-school-reunion-or-a-trip-down-memory-lane/) - Meg Gain shares her experience of re-visiting her old school for a reunion party and how the school has changed since she was a pupil almost 60 years ago.
- [Celebrating Christmas (or any day) on your own](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/celebrating-christmas-on-your-own/) - A Christmas spent on your own doesn’t have to feel lonely, there are plenty of things you can do to make it special
- [Sonnet to a Ladybird](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/sonnet-to-a-ladybird/) - A ladybird on a daisy, such a beautiful sight
- [Rebecca Scott : Machinations](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/rebecca-scott-machinations/) - Rebecca Scott is heading to home territory for a new exhibition of her work in Grasmere, at the Heaton Cooper Studio archive gallery.
- [Men’s Sheds now welcoming all: a space to find purpose, pursue hobbies and feel the warmth of friendship](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/mens-sheds/) - Men's Sheds began as a means of combating loneliness and depression in older men, and now the Men’s Shed movement has taken off across the world
- [Digital addiction: the impact of digital technology on modern society](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/digital-addiction-the-impact-of-digital-technology-on-modern-society/) - Managing time online using digital technology in a healthy, balanced way requires cognitive skills that don't fully develop until we are 25
- [Digital Detox and the fear of missing out](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/digital-detox-and-the-fear-of-missing-out/) - In an era where digital devices dominate our daily lives, digital detox has emerged as a remedy for stress, anxiety, and procrastination
- [Why parents should read to children of all ages](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/why-parents-should-read-to-children-of-all-ages/) - A study has found that reading to children of all ages has benefits, including an increased literacy rate.
- [DanceSyndrome celebrates ten years at the forefront of the disability arts movement](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/dance/dancesyndrome-celebrates-ten-years-at-the-forefront-of-the-disability-arts-movement/) - Lancashire-based charity DanceSyndrome has recently had Strictly star Giovanni Pernice become an ambassador and a sell-out event in Salford
- [Clean air for children in schools – is the Government hiding the evidence?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/clean-air-for-children-in-schools-is-the-government-hiding-the-evidence/) - Two years after a government-funded randomised trial on protecting children from airborne viruses in schools started, revealing results remain unpublished – why?
- [Climate change is affecting our wildlife. Can we help nature?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change-is-affecting-our-wildlife-can-we-help-nature/) - Wildlife loss is prominent in Greater Manchester. Why is this happening, and is there anything we can do to prevent further loss?
- [Why did the witch trials happen? A brief history of the Christian takeover of Paganism](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/brief-history-of-the-christian-takeover-of-paganism/) - Lauren Bayliss goes through a brief history of Christianity's takeover of Paganism and the role this played in the devastating witch trials.
- [Finding my new shoes: moving to Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/finding-my-new-shoes-moving-to-manchester/) - The continuing journey of a student becoming a graduate, moving to Manchester, discovering herself through study, work, culture and a Peace Piper
- [Liverpool fans boo the national anthem for a reason](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/liverpool-fans-boo-the-national-anthem-for-a-reason/) - Booing the national anthem was not only about protesting the spectacle of royalty and patriotism – it was also about justice for the Hillsborough 97
- [Kerala: returning to my roots after two years](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/kerala-returning-to-my-roots-after-two-years/) - Going back to Kerala to visit family and friends after two years brought back a lot of memories and emotions
- [Legal processes vs soup and superglue](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/soup-and-superglue-the-tools-of-an-activist/) - A landmark legal case could threaten the controversial Cumbrian coal mine, but what are the activism tools that really make a difference?
- [Will someone give me a break with this crazy cat lady stuff!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/will-someone-give-me-a-break-with-this-crazy-cat-lady-stuff/) - A gentle reflection on recently aired remarks by JD Vance on how we must save the world from the sociopathic tendencies of crazy cat ladies
- [Climate Change 2.0](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/climate-change-2-0/) - Be it tempers or be it climate, things are heating up and fires are being stoked
- [Women “are allowed?” Excuse me!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/women-are-allowed-excuse-me/) - When girls grow up and become women, they can be ANYTHING they want, they don’t need permission from anyone
- [Putin’s Russia: jailed feminist Zhenya Berkovich gives evidence in verse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/putins-russia-jailed-feminist-zhenya-berkovich-gives-evidence-in-verse/) - Feminist theatre director and playwright Zhenya Berkovich detained after accusations of terrorism from the Russian far-right establishment
- [Women in the North of England have shorter than average life expectancy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/women-in-the-north-of-england-have-shorter-than-average-life-expectancy/) - Life expectancy and disease free years are less than average for women living in the north of England. But what is the reason for this?
- [A formerly homeless teen shares her story](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/a-day-in-their-shoes-a-formerly-homeless-teen-shares-her-story/) - Samira, (not her real name), spent many of her teen years homeless. She shares her experience of living in supported accommodation.
- [The longest night – A trans woman helps save a life](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/the-longest-night-a-trans-woman-helps-save-a-life/) - The night a trans woman recognised the symptoms of sepsis and acted quickly enough to prevent her loved one dying from it
- [Being sole carer for a dementia patient](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/being-sole-carer-for-a-dementia-patient/) - A sombre insight into the exhausting and lonely daily reality of looking after a parent suffering from dementia
- [Defining sex – why it’s not as simple as you might think](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/defining-sex-not-simple/) - The Conservatives want to rewrite the Equality Act to focus on biological sex. There’s one big problem: nobody knows how to define it
- [Locked out of justice : the hidden cost of legal aid cuts in England](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/locked-out-of-justice-the-hidden-cost-of-legal-aid-cuts-in-england/) - Legal aid cuts in England have severely impacted access to justice, particularly for marginalised communities like Black and Minority Ethnic groups
- [Depression during pregnancy: what every mom should know](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/depression-during-pregnancy-what-every-mom-should-know/) - For some mothers pregnancy can be a time of depression rather than joy, and many of those women struggle on their own without the help they need
- [Love letters to Minneapolis](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/love-letters-to-minneapolis/) - The people of Minneapolis express their love for their city, to help each other and especially the children cope with recent events.
- [Alive: men’s mental health and the film that opened the room](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/alive-mens-mental-health-and-the-film-that-opened-the-room/) - A grassroots short film, Alive, about men’s mental health sparks honest conversations, emotional disclosure and fundraising
- [How Gorton and Denton became a stronghold for the Greens](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/how-gorton-and-denton-became-a-stronghold-for-the-greens/) - How the Greens built a win from the ground up in Gorton and Denton
- [Free mobile roaming spreads out in Europe, while the UK stays behind](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/free-mobile-roaming-spreads-out-in-europe-while-the-uk-stays-behind/) - Left behind: the UK’s roaming rip-off as the EU embraces the Western Balkans
- [KISS ME QUICK CAP](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/kiss-me-quick-cap/) - England’s footballers once came to the Golden Mile – when Blackpool hosted a men’s England-Ireland match
- [Ring ring! Open the door, let me through! The Fish Doorbell](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/ring-ring-open-the-door-let-me-through-the-fish-doorbell/) - Every year in spring, a lovely side of humanity shows in the form of a fish doorbell in Utrecht, Netherlands, but what is it and what does it do?
- [The UK’s reluctance for rent control](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/the-uks-reluctance-for-rent-control/) - Does the Renters Rights’ Act, passed in 2025, really introduce rent control?
- [The loudest silence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-loudest-silence/) - As Gorton and Denton went to the polls in a close-run contest, one thing seemed to be forgotten: the reason for the by-election is met with silence
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 54 – self-driving rovers, self-awarded medals and the state of delusion](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-54-rovers-medals-state-delusion/) - Week 54: rogue rovers, record rants, alien distractions and medals for men who didn’t win them Earth spins on in chaos
- [A shaggy sheep story](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-shaggy-sheep-story/) - It affects animal welfare and farmers' livelyhood, but the home office won't budge and give 75 sheep shearers the visa they need.
- [Post Modern Times – a Minneapolis diner meets the moment](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/post-modern-times-a-minneapolis-diner-meets-the-moment/) - In the wake of the ongoing ICE occupation one Minneapolis restaurateur is turning protest into policy and meals into a movement
- [Ex-Reformer Lowe dumps Farage and bids to ‘Restore Britain’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/ex-reformer-lowe-dumps-farage-and-bids-to-restore-britain/) - The Reform UK rupture between Farage and Lowe exposed the new right’s choice, permanent protest, or punishment politics in government
- [Revealed: Reform is importing Trump’s Project 2025 blueprint for autocracy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/revealed-reform-is-importing-trumps-project-2025-blueprint-for-autocracy/) - Behind Reform’s populist pitch lies Trump’s Project 2025: a US blueprint for state capture, now being quietly imported to Britain
- [Revealed: Reform candidate Matt Goodwin's academic network tied to rebranded Nazi eugenics front](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/revealed-reform-candidate-matt-goodwins-academic-network-tied-to-rebranded-nazi-eugenics-front/) - Reform UK's Gorton and Denton candidate Matt Goodwin holds a visiting professorship at a university centre allied with at least five ‘race science’-linked organisations including the front publication of a rebranded Nazi eugenics foundation - a network whose central figures he has defended and promoted
- [Disturbing parallels between the Tavistock and the WellBN case](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/disturbing-parallels-between-the-tavistock-and-the-wellbn-case/) - The case against Tavistock GIDS has been reported to have been exaggerated, is the same thing now happening at WellBN clinic?
- [Reform’s Matt Goodwin advises conservative peer linked to relaunched Nazi race science platform](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reforms-matt-goodwin-advises-conservative-peer-linked-to-relaunched-nazi-race-science-platform/) - Reform’s Gorton and Denton by-election candidate advises Toby Young, who has advocated for “progressive eugenics” and has ties to the front publication for a reconstituted Nazi eugenics foundation
- [Matt Goodwin accused of making ‘inappropriate remarks’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/matt-goodwin-accused-of-making-inappropriate-remarks/) - Have children young, penalise those who don’t, ignore the housing crisis, no further education but babies for women – a dystopian future?
- [Top Wirral Reform figure defends leaked Whatsapp messages](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/top-wirral-reform-figure-defends-leaked-whatsapp-messages/) - A top Reform figure in Merseyside has defended calling deputy Prime Minister David Lammy “re*****d and a “pygmy”.
- [Extreme views of a Gorton and Denton candidate](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/extreme-views-of-a-gorton-and-denton-candidate/) - Is Reform candidate Matt Goodwin a good fit for Gorton and Denton, an area with a diverse population?
- [Don’t confuse a wife with a chef](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/dont-confuse-a-wife-with-a-chef/) - How many times are women expected to cook for husband and family? A woman should be an equal partner, not a live-in chef
- [Exploring the Lake District](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/exploring-the-lake-district/) - Exploring the enchanting and magnificent Lake District in the heart of Cumbria
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 53 – sewage, FBI obstruction and prayer fires](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-53-sewage-fbi-obstruction-and-prayer-fires/) - A week rich with ego-polishing. a UK commoner arrested on his birthday, the Pope says 'No thank you' and Earth creaks but continues to turn; follies galore this time again!
- [A completely normal neighbourly letter](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-completely-normal-neighbourly-letter/) - Dear neighbour... a letter NOT coming from any political party trying to win your vote, but just a friendly chatty letter from a concerned individual
- [Racism in football, it’s time to kick Jim Ratcliffe out](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/racism-in-football-its-time-to-kick-jim-ratcliffe-out/) - A Manchester United fan's perspective on the abhorrent comments by Jim Ratcliffe that the UK has been 'colonised by immigrants'
- [Fruits of a poisoned pen](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/fruits-of-a-poisoned-pen/) - Cumberland was once scandalised by hundreds of anonymous poisoned pen letters
- [The Native Bdote Prayer Camp at Mni Owe Sni](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/the-native-bdote-prayer-camp-at-mni-owe-sni/) - A Minneapolitan tells: at a sacred Native American spring in Minnesota a prayer camp rises against federal raids; reclaiming land, memory and shared humanity
- [Everton campaigners fight to reopen Breck Road library](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/everton-campaigners-fight-to-reopen-breck-road-library/) - When Breck Road Library in Everton suddenly closed its doors, the decision shocked local residents and campaigners alike
- [We asked the candidates – the Gorton and Denton by-election](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/we-asked-the-candidates-the-gorton-and-denton-by-election/) - UPDATED (now includes Green Party answers) North West Bylines asked the Gorton and Denton by-election candidates to answer ten questions. Sadly not all answered
- [University celebrates 10 years of creating medical doctors](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/university-celebrates-10-years-of-creating-medical-doctors/) - 516 doctors have graduated with most going to work in the NHS
- [Making Tax Digital plans set to hit sole traders and landlords hardest](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/making-tax-digital-plans-set-to-hit-sole-traders-and-landlords-hardest/) - Lowering the threshold for Making Tax Digital – sole traders set to foot the bill
- [The Eden Project Morecambe – a step closer](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/the-eden-project-morecambe-a-step-closer/) - The Eden Project in Morecambe has been in the planning a long time, but now it looks like it may actually happen
- [Wuthering Heights – an honest review](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/wuthering-heights-an-honest-review/) - A new adaptation of Wuthering Heights is in the cinema, and it comes highly recommended
- [Reality hits home – ICE in Minneapolis](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/reality-hits-home-ice-in-minneapolis/) - ICE shows up in Minneapolis, and next thing you know a mother of three is dead. How can people deal with that? One resident reaches out
- [Matters of State](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/matters-of-state/) - Today, Larry The Cat has been resident at 10 Downing Street for 15 years. He is a stable genius who does NOT appear in the Epstein files. When asked for a comment, Larry yawned and decided to sleep on it.
- [Spare change](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/spare-change/) - Will this government spare us some Change? Or do we have to collect change for them?
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 52 – boos, sulks and coal-fuelled delusions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-52-boos-sulks-and-coal-fuelled-delusions/) - Boos at the Olympics, a bridge held hostage, coal crowned king – and love outshining hate at halftime, Earth remains… consistent
- [Independent EHRC established – existing EHRC ‘not fit for purpose’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/independent-ehrc-established-existing-ehrc-not-fit-for-purpose/) - A new independent Equality and Human Rights Commission (iEHRC) has been launched in the UK, here is an interview with the founder
- [Trump filed a defamation case against the BBC: an analysis part one](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/trump-filed-a-defamation-case-against-the-bbc-an-analysis-part-1/) - Donald Trump has filed a $10bn defamation lawsuit against the BBC, which stands very little chance of legal success
- [Bariatric incidents cost a lot for Fire and Rescue Services](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/bariatric-incidents-cost-a-lot-for-fire-and-rescue-services/) - An FOI request reveals the high number of bariatric incidents all UK Fire and Rescue Services are called out to – more than 6 a day
- [Hate crime incidents in Cheshire West and Chester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/hate-crime-incidents-in-cheshire-west-and-chester/) - Council motion highlights community cohesion, but the level of local hate crime and any changes in that level are not recorded objectively
- [We can join the Single Market and forge closer ties with the EU](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/we-can-join-the-single-market-and-forge-closer-ties-with-the-eu/) - How Parliament can govern the Government by changing legislation for a progressive future in the Single market and the EU
- [The psychology of collapse and the solution, why the UK climate crisis feels ‘normal’ now](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/psychology-climate-crisis/) - Last in our series: politicians normalise disaster, people develop crisis fatigue – the solution: climate resilience that actually works
- [Silence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/silence/) - The power of zero
- [Trump filed a defamation case against the BBC: an analysis Part 2](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/trump-filed-a-defamation-case-against-the-bbc-an-analysis-part-2/) - Trump has sued large media organisations before – it seems to be more about muzzling the press than defamation or money
- [Northern Powerhouse Rail – a connection to Birmingham?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/northern-powerhouse-rail-a-connection-to-birmingham/) - With a high speed rail connection between Manchester and Birmingham, did we get the full Northern Powerhouse Rail agreed?
- [Merseyside born and raised actor looks forward to the future](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/merseyside-born-and-raised-actor-looks-forward-to-the-future/) - Exciting times are ahead for BAFTA collaborator actor Christopher Lee-Power as he is starting a very busy year
- [Putting the record straight on the trans prisoner debate](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/putting-the-record-straight-on-the-trans-prisoner-debate/) - Bad faith actors try to justify their desire for a blanket ban on trans women in female prisons with misinformation, let's look at the facts
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 51 – FAFO, King Bruce and the Bigot Awards](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-51-fafo-king-bruce-and-the-bigot-awards/) - Week 51 sees ICE back down, artists silenced, journalists arrested and Canada under siege allegedly – the absurdity continues
- [The endgame and the legal defence, billionaire bunkers, fortress politics and the ECHR](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/the-endgame-and-the-legal-defence-billionaire-bunkers-fortress-politics-and-the-echr/) - Where climate breakdown is pushing us, billionaire bunker fantasies and fortress politics, why the ECHR and Human Rights Act matter (pt 3)
- [The migration myth and the political con, how the UK climate crisis gets blamed on immigrants](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/migration-myth-political-con-uk-climate-crisis-blamed-on-immigrants/) - In part two of our series on the climate crisis, we look at the climate migration myth and the political narrative that comes with it
- [Are we in a climate dystopia, or just reading the small print of UK home insurance?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/climate-dystopia-uk-home-insurance/) - In the first of this series, we show UK climate crisis is not a dystopian future; it affects food security, supply chains, flooding, insurance (Pt 1)
- [Cheshire East Council bids for a 9.99% rise in council tax](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cheshire-east-council-bids-for-a-9-99-rise-in-council-tax/) - Cheshire East council tax could rise by 9.99% in 2026, under plans needing special government approval
- [The Price of Love](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-price-of-love/) - What price love?
- [Reform 2025 Ltd and the ‘Potters Bar Paradox’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-2025-ltd-and-the-potters-bar-paradox-2/) - Reform receives donations worth £200,000 from a luxury design firm, and Britain’s ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ democracy doesn’t question it
- [Franco's Spain and the persecution of trans people](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/francos-spain-and-the-persecution-of-trans-people/) - Trans people were persecuted in Spain during the Franco regime, but Spain is now accepting and supportive of LQBTQIA+ individuals
- [People made homeless are ‘fuming’ with United Utilities after checking their credit scores](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/people-made-homeless-are-fuming-with-united-utilities-after-checking-their-credit-scores/) - United Utilities have apologised for ‘any inconvenience caused’ when they set up accounts for previous tenants of now uninhabitable premises
- [“I want to be like the other children” – Adam dreams of  having surgery](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/i-want-to-be-like-the-other-children-adam-dreams-of-having-surgery/) - Adam, a boy born with fused fingers, dreams of getting the surgery that could change everything, but that’s hard when growing up in Gaza
- [The VPN identity crisis: Why UK policy is at a crossroads](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/the-vpn-identity-crisis-why-uk-policy-is-at-a-crossroads/) - The government’s proposed plans aim to increase internet safety, yet directly contradict expert cybersecurity guidance
- [National security assessment: the planet fails, Whitehall opens a workstream](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/national-security-assessment-the-planet-fails-whitehall-opens-a-workstream/) - With the planet in crisis and fast approaching a point of no return for climate and environment, Whitehall wants to assess things before acting
- [Potholes at home, or immigration enforcement abroad?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/potholes-at-home-or-immigration-enforcement-abroad/) - How two UK councillors found time for US immigration enforcement, right after a fatal DHS operation in Minneapolis
- [The art of Julian Cooper – an artist, his paintings and a book](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/the-art-of-julian-cooper-an-artist-his-paintings-and-a-book/) - Julian Cooper comes from a family of artists, and his latest book is a testimony to his life and his work as a painter of mountain landscapes
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 50 – isolationism, space Haggis and Olympic goons](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-50-isolationism-space-haggis-and-olympic-goons/) - While immigration services on Mars work overtime, one country on Earth again doesn’t fail to baffle and frighten us
- [The Burnham saga: an overview of the avoidable drama Labour could’ve done without](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/the-burnham-saga-an-overview-of-the-avoidable-drama-labour-couldve-done-without/) - Opinion: It might not be fair to assume the worst of Burnham or Starmer, but neither has covered themselves in glory
- [Ribble Valley invests in children’s play areas](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/ribble-valley-invests-in-childrens-play-areas/) - Ribble Valley invests £750,000 in children’s play areas as part of £6.7mn Capital Programme
- [Fylde crime prevention: claims vs evidence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/fylde-crime-prevention-claims-vs-evidence/) - Fylde Council claims “significant achievements” in community safety. However, national guidance and expert insight reveal gaps in evidence
- [Labour North West – Regional Conference](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/labour-north-west-regional-conference/) - The Labour North West Conference in Liverpool was well attended by MPs and other party members
- [The digital crossroads of the NHS](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-digital-crossroads-of-the-nhs/) - What is more important, consent to share our medical data or outsourcing our data abroad in exchange for possibly more efficiency in the NHS?
- [Before October 7](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/before-october-7/) - The Israel-Gaza war escalated on October 7, 2023, but it is preceded by a long history of suppression and displacement of Palestinians
- [Book throws spotlight on neurodivergent women](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/book-throws-spotlight-on-neurodivergent-women/) - Stockport author shines spotlight on neurodivergent women in debut novel inspired by late diagnosis
- [Lancashire University offers low-cost dental treatment](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/lancashire-university-offers-low-cost-dental-treatment/) - To help people who can’t find or can't afford a dentist, complex dental treatment is now offered at Lancashire University at £35 a tooth
- [Justin Hawkins Rides Again, Again](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/justin-hawkins-rides-again-again/) - What is it with Justin Hawkins and Gary Barlow? Come to one of Justin's shows and find out.
- [Arts and entertainment are important for everyone, but rising prices are a problem](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/arts-and-entertainment-rising-prices-are-a-problem/) - A reflection on our arts, culture and entertainment, and the challenges to society caused by rising ticket prices
- [Green Libraries Week in Knowsley: Popular local initiative held outside national scheme](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/green-libraries-week-in-knowsley-popular-local-initiative-held-outside-national-scheme/) - Knowsley Council’s half-term Green Libraries Week programme attracted hundreds of families across the borough
- [Starmer faces potential rebellion from North West MPs](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/starmer-faces-potential-rebellion-from-north-west-mps/) - MPs in the North West of England are asking for more money for their region, causing Keir Starmer a headache scenario
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 49 – Peace Prizes, Protection Rackets and the Gulf of Me](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-49-peace-prizes-protection-rackets-and-the-gulf-of-me/) - Trump borrows a peace prize, threatens tariffs, forgets NATO, gold-plates the Rose Garden and eyes Greenland
- [Government pledges £45 billion fund for Northern Powerhouse Rail](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/government-pledges-45-billion-fund-for-northern-powerhouse-rail/) - The Labour government have now made a firm pledge of £45 billion towards high-speed Northern Powerhouse Rail
- [Trans teen bullied by form teacher](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/trans-teen-bullied-by-form-teacher/) - A 15 year old trans male tells how he felt when experiencing being bullied at school by one of his teachers
- [Manchester non-profit supports sobriety beyond Dry January](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/manchester-non-profit-supports-sobriety-beyond-dry-january/) - As we are past the festive season and into Dry January, a new non-profit in Manchester aims to support sobriety or reducing alcohol intake
- [Should trans people still trust NHSE?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/should-trans-people-still-trust-nhse/) - A recent survey launched by NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire directed at young trans people sparked an outcry from the trans community
- [Poverty and neoliberalism, the killers in our midst? A personal account](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/poverty-and-neoliberalism-the-killers-in-our-midst-a-personal-account/) - A personal account of how childhood poverty and neglect led to mental illness
- [The digital iron curtain](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/the-digital-iron-curtain/) - We live in the digital age, but is the UK’s Online Safety Act isolating Britain?
- [The Pot Gang initiative teaches primary school children about gardening](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/the-pot-gang-initiative-teaches-primary-school-children-about-gardening/) - School gardening schemes in West Lancashire help pupils learn about nature, growing knowledge, nutrition, and community
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 48 – Hecklers, fake Wikipedias and domes of delusion](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-48-hecklers-fake-wikipedias-and-domes-of-delusion/) - A week so absurd, with fake webpages, stray fingers and growing human resistance, that Martians decided to rehearse building barricades
- [More is needed to help modern slavery victims](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/more-is-needed-to-help-modern-slavery-victims/) - Lack of coordination is leaving modern slavery victims and survivors vulnerable, say experts
- [Reform UK “gambling with residents’ safety”](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-uk-gambling-with-residents-safety/) - Grit bins left empty in Burnley, Padiham and Brierfield, due to a Reform council policy change, is ‘gambling with the safety of residents’
- [I conquer, therefore I am – the United States intervention in Venezuela](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/i-conquer-therefore-i-am-the-united-states-intervention-in-venezuela/) - What is behind Trump’s intervention in Venezuela, and the kidnapping of its president? Is it oil, is it power?
- [Demolition Man – what might finally stop Trump and his wrecking ball? Pt 5](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/demolition-man-what-might-finally-stop-trump-and-his-wrecking-ball-pt-5/) - As it seems Trump and his backers will always be for the few, not for the many; the people on the street are the only ones who can stop him
- [Demolition Man – What can stop Trump and his wrecking ball? Pt 4](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/demolition-man-what-can-stop-trump-and-his-wrecking-ball-pt-4/) - With the 2026 US mid-terms approaching, the clock is ticking for Trump
- [Demolition Man – What is to stop Trump and his wrecking ball? Pt 2](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/demolition-man-what-is-to-stop-trump-and-his-wrecking-ball-pt-2/) - What brakes are still in place to stop or slow down Trump?
- [Demolition Man – Can anything stop Trump and his wrecking ball? Pt 1](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/demolition-man-can-anything-stop-trump-and-his-wrecking-ball-pt-1/) - As Trump tears down his residence and the conventions of Presidential power, what could happen and what could be done?
- [Demolition Man – What could stop Trump and his wrecking ball? Pt 3](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/demolition-man-what-could-stop-trump-and-his-wrecking-ball-pt-3/) - What mechanisms and powers exist in the legal system or among states and voters to change the tide in the US and stop Trump??
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 47 – babygoatnapping, bluster and aspirin obsession](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-47-babygoatnapping-bluster-and-aspirin-obsession/) - Trump babygoatnaps Venezuela’s president, threatens Cuba, Mexico and Greenland, exits UN climate pact, artists flee Kennedy Centre and more
- [Hyndburn’s Cabinet Action Fund](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/hyndburns-cabinet-action-fund/) - Fair, accessible, and still growing – Hyndburn’s Cabinet Action Fund as leader promises clarity on key numbers
- [Fylde Council’s claim on asylum housing unravels under scrutiny](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/fylde-councils-claim-on-asylum-housing-unravels-under-scrutiny/) - Fylde Council’s claims asylum accomodation is impacting the private housing market in the area but is that claim accurate?
- [The care cliff: care leavers need more than just a celebration](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-care-cliff-care-leavers-need-more-than-just-a-celebration/) - Tameside care leavers are celebrated, but experts warn real challenges remain beyond the festivities
- [Authors celebrate ten years of publishing co-op Gritstone](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/authors-celebrate-ten-years-of-publishing-co-op-gritstone/) - Author-run publishing co-op Gritstone is ten years old, and going from strength to strength
- [Why the Lammy law change is a serious mistake part one](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/why-the-lammy-law-change-is-a-serious-mistake/) - Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy proposed increase of sentencing powers for magistrates may well damage our justice system
- [Beauty And The Beast, a great pantomime with some great performers](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/beauty-and-the-beast-a-great-pantomime-with-some-great-performers/) - This pantomime season, Beauty And The Beast with Jake Quickenden, Charlotte Buxton and Anne Hegerty is a THE show to watch, oh yes it is!!
- [Why the Lammy law change is a serious mistake part two](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/why-the-lammy-law-change-is-a-serious-mistake-part-two/) - The Lammy law change will reduce public participation in the justice system, but the real crisis is years of under-funding
- [Initial Outline Proposals for Northern Powerhouse Rail Due in Early 2026](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/initial-outline-proposals-for-northern-powerhouse-rail-due-in-early-2026/) - Better rail links to and from the North of England – are we getting any closer with the new proposals for Northern Powerhouse Rail?
- [A New Year postcard from a startled planet](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/a-new-year-postcard-from-a-startled-planet/) - Martians observe Earth’s New Year, nearly trigger planetary defences, mistakes fireworks for invasion, and briefly prepare to call the UN
- [Tyldesley residents fight mega warehouse development](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/tyldesley-residents-fight-mega-warehouse-development/) - Tyldesley residents are demanding greater transparency in the planning permission that greenlighted a huge warehouse development
- [Wigan has a rich history going back to medieval, Roman and Anglo-Saxon times](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/wigan-has-a-rich-history-going-back-to-medieval-roman-and-anglo-saxon-times/) - A delve into the history of Wigan, a town that was once richer than Liverpool and Manchester
- [Liverpool council boss takes aim at Reform UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/liverpool-council-boss-takes-aim-at-reform-uk/) - City chief warns battle for future in Liverpool will be Labour versus Reform UK
- [The high cost of the UK's Australia-style social media ban](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-high-cost-of-the-uks-australia-style-social-media-ban/) - Should the UK follow the example set by Australia and declare a total ban on under-16s using any form of social media?
- [With Tatchell's resignation, the Accrington Neighbourhood Board moves forward](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/leadership-transition-accrington-neighbourhood-board/) - Leadership transition is never easy, and a sudden resignation means careful planning of continuity was needed in Accrington
- [The trans journalist who stole Christmas! Or did she?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-trans-journalist-who-stole-christmas-or-did-she/) - How one person’s reaction to a hurtful Christmas card caused the card to be withdrawn, although not everyone feels it should have been
- [Regeneration of local streets – but who exactly pays for it?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/regeneration-of-local-streets-but-who-exactly-pays-for-it/) - A wave of regeneration activity has seen streets in Great Harwood centre transformed, but where is the funding coming from?
- [The Mass](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-mass-a-star-in-the-sky-at-christmas/) - The light of a single star guided us
- [A Christmas postcard from Mars to any Earthling still capable of festive cheer](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/a-christmas-postcard-from-mars-to-any-earthling-still-capable-of-festive-cheer/) - A Martian survives Christmas: festive explosions, gravity-defying gravy, frozen wine, and the unsettling discovery that it works
- [Councillor faces investigation and gives up whip](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/councillor-faces-investigation-and-gives-up-whip/) - An East Lancashire county councillor has given up the Green Party whip because of ‘an investigation’
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 45 – plaques, paranoia and peak petulance](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-45-plaques-paranoia-and-peak-petulance/) - Plaques sneer, lawsuits spiral, Martian irony detectors shortcircuited, and even allies recoil as Trump turns a tragedy into grievance yet again
- [Burglaries and porch piracy can ruin your Christmas season](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/burglaries-and-porch-piracy-can-ruin-your-christmas-season/) - Burglaries and porch piracy soar over the festive season, so protect your Christmas gifts!
- [A divided UK can be unified through strong local communities](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/a-divided-uk-can-be-unified-through-strong-local-communities/) - UK society is divided by misinformation in the press and wealth inequality; unity is possible through organised local communities
- [Daughter is flourishing at WellBN](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/daughter-is-flourishing-at-wellbn/) - The treatment Heather gets at WellBN Clinic means a young person is now flourishing and looking forward to adulthood
- [PR voting promoted in Chester with a timely Christmas theme](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/pr-voting-promoted-in-chester-with-a-timely-christmas-theme/) - A campaign for proportional representation (PR) event in Chester urges people to send Christmas cards to their MP
- [Seven months in and very little achieved; Reform running Lancashire Council](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/seven-months-in-and-very-little-achieved-reform-running-lancashire-council/) - It is now seven months since Reform 2025 Ltd took Lancashire County Council; what has been happening in those ensuing seven months?
- [The Liverpool Victory Parade – Paul Doyle sentenced](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/the-liverpool-victory-parade-paul-doyle-sentenced/) - The day 'family man' and 'ex Royal Marine' Paul Doyle lost it during the Liverpool Victory Parade will stay with us forever
- [The money tells the truth – fossil fuel subsidies](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/the-money-tells-the-truth-fossil-fuel-subsidies/) - Climate finance falters and fossil fuel subsidies boom in 2025 – why is energy use not changing faster?
- [Seasons Greetings to one and all](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/seasons-greetings-to-one-and-all/) - The team at North West Bylines wishes everyone a happy day, whatever you celebrate (a holy day or just a day off) and however you spend the day.
- [Flags: Patriotism or far-right provocation?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/flags-patriotism-or-far-right-provocation/) - Seeing a flag on a post can mean different things for different people, and recently flags on lampposts have seemed to be political statements
- [Trump’s popularity is declining](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/trumps-popularity-is-declining/) - Donald Trump’s economic policies are a major reason for his declining popularity, but they are not the only cause
- [Donald Trump is losing control](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/donald-trump-is-losing-control/) - Why Donald Trump is starting to lose his grip on the US Republican Party and what the immediate future might hold
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 44 – prizes, parks and policy mayhem](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-44-prizes-parks-and-policy-mayhem/) - A bargain-bin peace prize, a birthday masquerading as a holiday and a travel ban gone feral – Earth continues its proud tradition of absurdity
- [From adversity to academic success for RAF veteran](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/from-adversity-to-academic-success-for-raf-veteran/) - RAF veteran overcomes homelessness and neurodiversity diagnosis to graduate in Adult Nursing
- [Having lost a partner, Christmas can be lonely](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/having-lost-a-partner-christmas-can-be-lonely/) - Manchester widows who know what it’s like to celebrate Christmas on their own launch campaign for those grieving a partner at Christmas
- [Boarded up shops, vape and betting shops – not Southport high streets!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/boarded-up-shops-vape-betting-southport-high-streets/) - Labour is giving local authorities powers to seize boarded up shops and say no to vape and betting shops to help communities and high streets
- [Nutcracker soldiers made from kitchen finds? What a festive idea!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/nutcracker-soldiers-a-festive-idea/) - Recycling at its Christmas best: how Stanley Park’s nutcracker soldiers in Blackpool were made from odds and ends
- [The Aden Emergency – Britain's forgotten conflict](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/the-aden-emergency-britains-forgotten-conflict/) - Blackpool brings Britain’s forgotten conflict The Aden Emergency into focus as new project aims to film military veterans
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 43 – midnight rants, war threats and pardons by payroll](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-43-pardons-by-payroll/) - El Taco’s midnight Truth Social spree sparks chaos, pardons cancelled and fraudsters freed – welcome to Week 43
- [“A Borough Pulls Together”: the Rochdale Christmas Toy Appeal, a volunteer-led mission](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/christmas-toy-appeal-rochdale/) - With Christmas approaching the Rochdale Christmas Toy Appeal stands as a testament to community spirit
- [Blackburn: 50 years of public library service](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/blackburn-50-years-of-public-library-service/) - Blackburn with Darwen’s library service turns 50, and celebrates volunteer-led models amid decades of austerity
- [Five flats and a café, but is Denehurst House enough help for our veterans?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/five-flats-and-a-cafe-but-is-denehurst-house-enough-help-for-our-veterans/) - Turning an old manor house into apartments to house veterans is a good idea, but veterans need more support than just a roof over their head
- [Mani, symbol of the ‘90s Manchester music scene, will be sorely missed](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/mani-symbol-of-the-90s-manchester-music-scene-will-be-sorely-missed/) - Stone Roses bassist Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield died aged 63 years old, a sad loss to the Manchester music scene, but he leaves behind some great memories
- [Authoritarian peacemaking is replacing the traditional style](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/authoritarian-peacemaking-is-replacing-the-traditional-style/) - Study highlights rise of authoritarian peacemaking and its implications for Ukraine
- [Is NHSE forcing young people to detransition?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/is-nhse-forcing-young-people-to-detransition/) - The minutes of a meeting, leaked to NWBylines, strongly indicate NHSE does not want the prescribing of puberty blockers at WellBN to continue
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 42 – pardons, purges and posturing](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-42-pardons-purges-and-posturing/) - El Taco pardons turkeys, attacks reporters, defends cronies and DOGE collapse, meanwhile Whiskeyleaks targets a war-hero
- [Research calls for ‘sportswashing’ rethink amid FIFA Peace Prize rumours](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/research-calls-for-sportswashing-rethink-amid-fifa-peace-prize-rumours/) - Trying to increase a politicians popularity by 'sportswashing' is a popular method that needs rethinking
- ['Conversion therapy': UK government kicks ban down the road – and there’s a major problem with what’s been proposed so far](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/conversion-therapy-uk-government/) - 'Conversion therapy' still hasn't been banned in the UK, despite subsequent governments promising to do so
- [How new asylum policies will affect child refugees](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/how-new-asylum-policies-will-affect-child-refugees/) - The government is planning stricter than ever asylum policies, but what will this mean for child refugees?
- [The Man From Delmonte together again](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/the-man-from-delmonte-together-again/) - How cult indie band The Man From Delmonte from the 80s rocked a music shop in Manchester at their reunion performance
- [Senior Lancashire Reform UK councillor suspended by party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/senior-lancashire-reform-uk-councillor-suspended-by-party/) - Reform 2025 Ltd having to suspend yet another councillor, this time in Lancashire, is a symptom of a wider problem
- [Homelessness in Blackburn: What the numbers really show](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/homelessness-in-blackburn-what-the-numbers-really-show/) - Blackburn with Darwen Council reports a 47% drop in rough sleeping since 2021, but official figures of homelessness paint a more complex picture
- [SOUTHWARDS](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/southwards/) - Flying to warmer climes
- [Earth's Follies: Week 41 – piggy insults, AI implosions and rewriting human rights](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-41-piggy-insults-grok/) - Mango Mussolini calls a reporter piggy, shrugs at murder, signs Epstein files bill, Grok revolts and Miller plays General Insurrection
- [Mumsnet users dehumanise teacher](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/opinion-corner/mumsnet-users-dehumanise-teacher/) - Mocking people and calling them names because of the way they look or talk, it seems to be all go on Mumsnet
- [A demonstration of compassion and unity by the trans and cis community](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/a-demonstration-of-compassion-and-unity-by-the-trans-and-cis-community/) - The impressions and opinion of one participant: trans and cis people united in a heartwarming display of kindness at a demonstration.
- [Breck Road Library closure: a loss for nearby residents](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/breck-road-library-closure-a-loss-for-nearby-residents/) - A library is not just a place to borrow and read books, it means much more for a community, so why was Breck Road Library closed down?
- [Interview with Dr Sam Hall](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/interview-with-dr-sam-hall/) - Dr Sam Hall tells us how WellBn helped trans people over the past five years, and that it is okay to be trans
- [Reform to bin DOGE at Lancashire County Council and raise council tax instead](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-to-bin-doge-at-lancashire-county-council-and-raise-council-tax-instead/) - In spite of promising to bring down council tax, Reform 2025 Ltd-run councils in Lancashire are now talking about increases
- [The Traitors: a charade, a game, or something else?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/the-traitors-a-charade-a-game-or-something-else/) - What is it about The Traitors, is it worth watching?
- [From Corporation to Cooperative: A future for the BBC](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/from-corporation-to-cooperative-a-future-for-the-bbc/) - The BBC needs change, and we can all have a say through their 2027 Charter Consultation
- [Will devolution really mean a windfall for Cheshire and Warrington?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/will-devolution-really-mean-a-windfall-for-cheshire-and-warrington/) - £650mn over 30 years: the fine print behind Cheshire and Warrington’s devolution deal
- [A car crash can happen to anyone, have emergency information ready!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/a-car-crash-can-happen-to-anyone-have-emergency-information-ready/) - Nearly one week on from a terrifying car crash, actor Christopher Lee-Power encourages drivers to keep emergency information in their cars
- [However we vote, there is no option to not dig up our fields](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/however-we-vote-there-is-no-option-to-not-dig-up-our-fields/) - Cheshire East Council is being forced to do MPs ‘dirty work’ and produce a future ‘environmentally damaging’ local plan to dig up fields
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 40 – programmes, pardons and pantomime](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-40-programmes-pardons-and-pantomime/) - The Mango Mussolini pardons his inner circle, gets booed at the stadium, still rambles about magnets, sues the Beeb and denies Epstein emails – again
- [Oldham councillors speak out about online abuse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/oldham-councillors-speak-out-about-online-abuse/) - Online abuse aimed at councilors: ‘My 15 year old grandson has seen pictures of me with a noose around my neck’
- [Poor cancer survival rates for those with learning disabilities](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/poor-cancer-survival-rates-for-those-with-learning-disabilities/) - Study exposes cancer care deficit for patients with a learning disabilities both due to late diagnosis and referral, and less treatments offered
- [McDonald's in Dalton Rd, Barrow: 1* food hygiene rating](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/mcdonalds-in-dalton-rd-barrow-1-food-hygiene-rating/) - Dalton Rd, Barrow McDonalds rated as ‘major improvement necessary’ in 1* from a health inspector
- [FIVE in Liverpool – it is the KEEP ON MOVIN’ 2025 TOUR](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/five-in-liverpool-it-is-the-keep-on-movin-2025-tour/) - FIVE : Scott Robinson, Ritchie Neville, Sean Condon , Abz Love, Jason Brown are all back together after 25 years and doing a huge arena tour
- [FIVE at the GIFF GAFF launch in a Chester pub](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/five-at-the-giff-gaff-launch-in-a-chester-pub/) - I was asked to attend the Giff Gaff launch at the Carlton Tavern, and couldn’t believe that FIVE actually performed in the pub!
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 39 – gold signs, goose-stepping and meltdowns](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-39-gold-signs-goose-stepping-and-meltdowns/) - Mango Mussolini adorns walls, threatens Nigeria, pardons strangers, hopes for the Temu peace prize, and melts down over New York – Earth still spins in absurdity
- [Bonfires: Are ‘unauthorised’ fires actually illegal?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/bonfires-are-unauthorised-fires-actually-illegal/) - Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service clarifies that unauthorised bonfires are not automatically illegal, but the Council warns against them
- [University of Chester graduate leads the way as a Global Tech Hero](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/university-of-chester-graduate-leads-the-way-as-a-global-tech-hero/) - Victor is data analyst and a Master of Computer Science, and has now been crowned Global Tech Hero
- [NHS threatens GP practice over trans care](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/nhs-threatens-gp-practice-over-trans-care/) - With NHS reply – a GP practice in Brighton and Hove is under investigation for legally providing gender affirming care to trans teens
- [Beyond the graffiti: Sefton’s response to racist incidents](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/liverpool-and-merseyside/beyond-the-graffiti-seftons-response-to-racist-incidents/) - Sefton Council ‘will not tolerate racist and hateful graffiti in our community’ and initiatives are under way to fight the ‘filth’
- [We Are The Lions, Mr Manager!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/we-are-the-lions-mr-manager/) - Agitprop celebrates the Grunwick Strike (1976 to 1978), and why it is important to remember the line We are the lions, Mr Manager!
- [House the homeless – but not in my back yard](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/house-the-homeless-but-not-in-my-back-yard/) - If we want to house our veterans and other homeless people, we need to stop the ‘not near me’ attitude
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 38 – tariffs, tantrums and the theory of magnets](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-38-tariffs-tantrums-and-the-theory-of-magnets/) - Tariffs over adverts, magnets on carriers, Grokipedia rewriting reality and a Nuclear Peace Prize application, Earth’s comedy of errors continues
- [Roger the Royal Runaway – a review of a new children’s book](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/roger-the-royal-runaway-a-review-of-a-new-childrens-book/) - Actor Christopher Lee-Power champions local author Gill McCabe’s whimsical new children’s book – The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway
- [Child sexual exploitation survivors: ‘We’re now back to square one’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/child-sexual-exploitation-survivors-were-now-back-to-square-one/) - The Home Office is accused of a toxic, fearful environment as child sexual exploitation survivors feel let down and ‘back to square one’
- [They were not just ordinary men](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/they-were-not-just-ordinary-men/) - Anna Schurer recalls two memories that make Remembrance Day in the North West extra poignant for her
- [‘Business as usual is finished’ – Burnham calls on Westminster to give devolution a chance](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/burnham-westminster-give-devolution-a-chance/) - Andy Burnham has proposed solutions to the ‘crisis of trust’ we are living in, as well as how devolution can help counter the far right
- [Talking to Ukrainian students about the EU and Brexit](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/talking-to-ukrainian-students-about-the-eu-and-brexit/) - Even an air-raid siren didn’t stop Ukrainian law students engaging in an online meeting and discussion with a former MEP
- [Farage ‘unhappy’ but ‘understood’ Pochin comments](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/farage-unhappy-but-understood-pochin-comments/) - The Reform UK Ltd leader said he did not think the comments by Runcorn MP Sarah Pochin were racist
- [‘We were a normal family and thought it could never happen to us, but then it did’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/we-were-a-normal-family/) - According to a recent report, there were 4,315 deaths by suicide for children and young people aged between 15 and 25
- [Do we need luxury flats or more social housing?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/do-we-need-luxury-flats-or-more-social-housing/) - Building social housing must be a priority for this government, rather than expensive luxury housing for the rental market
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 37 – ballrooms, bounties and banana Republicans](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-37-ballrooms-bounties-and-banana-republicans/) - Another week of human follies, and who decides to demolish their temporary accommodation without formal permission?
- [The Blue Mage by Jo de-Lancey – a review](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/the-blue-mage-by-jo-de-lancey-a-review/) - The Blue Mage, book two in the Tempered Soul Series, offers fantasy, romance and is big on atmosphere
- [Ramsbottom – The crows reminisce](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/ramsbottom-the-crows-reminisce/) - Crows lived in Ramsbottom before there were humans there, and they reminisce about how human civilisation settled there
- [Stopping Reform UK Ltd : A call to arms](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/stopping-reform-uk-ltd-a-call-to-arms/) - What would happen if Reform UK Ltd won the next general election?
- [The real issue in UK society is not immigration](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-real-issue-in-uk-society-is-not-immigration/) - Don’t be misled: anti-immigration sentiment distracts from the real issues facing our society
- [I was right to be worried about Reform UK: why we need to respond to Lancashire’s local election results](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/i-was-right-to-be-worried-about-reform-uk-local-election-results/) - Well, the local election results are in – and it looks like I was right to be worried
- [Labour to revoke Children Act Statute, to the relief of many](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/labour-to-revoke-children-act-statute/) - Campaigning researchers celebrate law change on parental access to their children after domestic or sexual abuse abuse convictions
- [Protein fingerprinting helps protect animals](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/protein-fingerprinting-helps-protect-animals/) - Zoologist Dr Virginia Harvey explains how protein fingerprinting is helping track history of species and tackle wildlife crime
- [A special No Kings transmission from Xylb’tok the Martian](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/a-special-no-kings-transmission-from-xylbtok-the-martian/) - Xylb’tok comments on the Frog Rebellion and the fall of the Mango Monarch: Earth’s so-called No Kings uprising as seen from Mars
- [‘Our daily life is like hell’: A look into the struggles faced by the Al-Madhoun family in Gaza](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/like-hell-the-struggles-al-madhoun-gaza/) - The Al-Madhoun family in Gaza are struggling to stay alive, and really need our help
- [Ukrainian refugee issues message to the UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/ukrainian-refugee-issues-message-to-the-uk/) - A Ukrainian refugee hopes people will offer the same kindness to others seeking refuge in the UK as she got when she was forced to flee war
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 36 – tariffs, tantrums and tyrants-in-toupees](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-36-tariffs-tantrums-and-tyrants-in-toupees/) - From tariffed peace to tantrums over Time covers, Earth’s leaders outdo themselves again in vanity, chaos and cosmic absurdity
- [Homeowners could be forced to sell long empty properties in Bury](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/homeowners-could-be-forced-to-sell-long-empty-properties-in-bury/) - Bury council approved a policy whereby they can enforce the sale of an empty property when homeowners owe a debt to the authority
- [Digital ID – but where is the mandate?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/digital-id-but-where-is-the-mandate/) - The missing manifesto mandate: why the UK Government should reconsider mandatory digital ID
- [Sleep pods for the homeless in Bolton this winter?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/sleep-pods-for-the-homeless-in-bolton-this-winter/) - Bolton council plans to help the homeless by placing 10 sleep pods and a kitchen and office module on a vacant church car park this winter
- [What the Sea Leaves Behind](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/what-the-sea-leaves-behind/) - A different shoreline, a different sea
- [Cumbria: Mayoral Combined Authority approval looks certain](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cumbria-mayoral-combined-authority-approval-looks-certain/) - Members of Cumberland Council’s executive committee have agreed that Cumbria should have a Mayoral Combined Authority
- ['Australia’s worst serial killer': a miscarriage of justice](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/australias-worst-serial-killer-a-miscarriage-of-justice/) - Once a nation’s monster, now a miscarriage of justice: Kathleen Folbigg spent 20 years caged by grief, guilt, and a system that failed her
- [The arrival of a Jehovah’s Witness community started a change at Tullamore](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/ehovahs-witness-community-tullamore/) - How diversity of faith happened slowly in Tullamore, Ireland, with the Jehovah’s Witness community being the pioneers
- [Foster care: I was just known as number 46](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/foster-care-i-was-just-known-as-number-46/) - She was just number 46 in foster care, and now Nichola Anne fights to change people's perceptions of children in care
- [MP fails to support suicidal constituent](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mp-fails-to-support-suicidal-constituent/) - A mother pleaded with her MP to help her suicidal15-year-old daughter who said she ‘wanted to take her own life’
- [Busted vs McFly in the Liverpool Arena](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/busted-vs-mcfly-in-the-liverpool-arena/) - Busted and McFly in concert together – it is a BOGOF (buy one, get one free) and who doesn’t enjoy a bargain
- [Earth’s Follies Week 35: troops, Antifa and insurrections](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-35-troops-antifa-and-insurrections/) - Chaos in Chicago, Antifa roundtables, and plenary power claims – Earth survives another week of Mango-in-Chief antics
- [Hate against trans people surges!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/hate-against-trans-people-surges/) - In the last few years, trans people are experiencing more and more hate from prejudiced strangers
- [Free and open to all – Public museums and galleries](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/free-and-open-to-all-public-museums-and-galleries/) - Should museums and galleries remain free for all, or should they charge people to see the displays on offer?
- [Left in the dark: how the recent court ruling has affected trans people](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/left-in-the-dark-court-ruling-trans-people/) - Since the UK Supreme Court ruling in April 2025, being themselves has become more difficult especially for trans women
- [Horrible NHS experience when wanting to donate blood](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/horrible-nhs-experience-when-wanting-to-donate-blood/) - Trying to donate blood was a very humiliating experience for Jessica, as the NHS decided to use male reference ranges for her as trans woman
- [Human Rights Commissioner speaks out against dilution of human rights in the UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/human-rights-commissioner-speaks-out-against-dilution-of-human-rights-in-the-uk/) - The Human Rights Comissioner of the Council of Europe speaks out about the trend in the UK to reduce people’s human rights
- [Disabled communities further disadvantaged by new ‘Welfare Bill’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/disabled-communities-further-disadvantaged-by-new-welfare-bill/) - Disabled people spoke to a North West Bylines reporter about their fears and concerns now the amended Bill has been passed
- [Labour plans to legally censor trans education in England](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/labour-plans-to-legally-censor-trans-education-in-england/) - A recently published update to the government's guidance for educational settings in England has sent shock waves through the trans community
- [UK trans exodus – hoping for a more accepting climate](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/uk-trans-exodus-hoping-for-a-more-accepting-climate/) - Trans people in the UK are seeing their hard fought human rights taken away from them, and some are considering leaving the country
- [Nurse ordered to use gender free toilets](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/nurse-ordered-to-use-gender-free-toilets/) - After three years using the toilets and facilities for her gender, suddenly a nurse is told she can’t do so anymore
- [House prices in Chester soar due to Chester Zoo](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/house-prices-in-chester-soar-due-to-chester-zoo/) - Having a major attraction in close proximity can affect house prices, in most cases increasing them, like is the case with Chester Zoo
- [Who wants to be Normal?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/who-wants-to-be-normal/) - Should we all aspire to be normal, and what even is normal?
- [Hard work and heartbreak led to a career in acting](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/hard-work-and-heartbreak-led-to-a-career-in-acting/) - From heartbreak to acting success: people from Liverpool and Birkenhead have grit, as Christopher’s life story shows
- [Peter Andre in concert at Manchester Cathedral](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/peter-andre-in-concert-at-manchester-cathedral/) - Peter Andre performed in Manchester Cathedral, a beautiful venue for a great performer
- [Northern high-speed rail delay: Labour’s missed opportunity](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/northern-high-speed-rail-delay-labours-missed-opportunity/) - Labour’s delays to northern high-speed rail are a missed opportunity to boost the region and see off the Reform challenge
- [Earth’s Follies Week 34: generals, gaffes, and grand delusions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-34/) - Earth’s follies: another week of incomprehensible ranting and actions no Martian could have predicted, where do you get the ideas Earth?
- [A sacred day turned tragic: Two dead and four seriously injured in Heaton Park Synagogue attack](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/a-sacred-day-turned-tragic-heaton-park-synagogue-attack/) - The suspected Synagogue attacker, whose identity has not been revealed, was shot dead at the scene by Greater Manchester police
- [The craft and politics of academic writing in the AI universe](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/the-craft-and-politics-of-academic-writing-in-the-ai-universe/) - Writing lecturers will not reach students by simply talking down AI, but we might reach them by embracing our expertise and engaging in the politics of resistance
- [Emergency changes needed for the education of SEND children](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/emergency-changes-needed-for-the-education-of-send-children/) - Education and schooling for SEND individuals has changed over the years, but it still isn’t working well enough
- [How I tracked the biggest hidden sources of forever chemical pollution in UK rivers](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/forever-chemical-pollution-in-uk-rivers/) - Patrick Byrne from Liverpool John Moores university is tracking high levels of forever chemicals in the Mersey
- [Earth’s follies week 33: escalators, elbows, and El Taco’s endless ego](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-33/) - From UN rants to elbowed Canadians, from and Disney’s climbdown to phantom wars, Planet Earth proves chaos is apparently a leadership strategy
- [Brexit and populism – it is time to speak out against them](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/brexit-and-populism-it-is-time-to-speak-out-against-them/) - Why businesses and senior leadership must speak out against rising populism and Brexit policies
- [Squirrels: not just pretty faces, they have brains too!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/squirrels/) - New research increases understanding of how urban squirrels think and react to humans
- [Bread and Roses](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/bread-and-roses/) - Bread and Roses – the song of the brave, fortright mill girls of Lancashire and beyond
- [Jobs and growth needed across the UK](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/jobs-and-growth-needed-across-the-uk/) - Bold reforms to the state are needed to spread jobs and growth across the UK
- [Bolton Council under fire for charges levied on benefit claimants](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/bolton-council-under-fire-for-charges-levied-on-benefit-claimants/) - Bolton Council is facing criticism for charging welfare benefit claimants for the social care they need
- [Alternative Futures Group wins Excellence Award](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/alternative-futures-group-wins-excellence-award/) - Alternative Futures Group becomes the first charity to achieve success at the Operational Excellence Awards UK
- [Organ donation saves lives](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/organ-donation-saves-lives/) - Academic encourages others to join organ donation register after his twin’s transplant saves his life
- [Cold homes – The Reality of Fuel Poverty](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cold-homes-the-reality-of-fuel-poverty/) - Fuel poverty is a reality for many households, but a cold house can cause ill health and social marginalisation
- [Trust in me! – Can we trust AI?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/trust-in-me-can-we-trust-ai/) - As Kaa sings in the film Jungle Book: Trust in me!', but is AI as trustworthy as Kaa was?
- [Celebrating little people in Blackpool](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/celebrating-little-people-in-blackpool/) - Showtown in Blackpool has started a new project to celebrate the role little people used to play in the entertainment industry
- [Earth’s Follies week 32: lawsuits, population drop offs and cancel culture](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-32-lawsuits-cancel/) - Trump sues the Times for $15bn, rants at Windsor, kills off 300m Americans, and cancels comedy
- [Corruption in the UK needs a new independent anti-corruption body](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/corruption-in-the-uk-needs-a-new-independent-anti-corruption-body/) - The fight against corruption in the UK is hampered by the lack of an independent agency focused on political and public sector wrongdoing
- [Thousands to walk in support of social care during Labour Party Conference](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/thousands-to-walk-in-support-of-social-care-during-labour-party-conference/) - Carers, care organisations and the families of those being cared for are uniting at a peaceful walk to demand action on adult social care
- [A neurodivergence diagnosis helped Aadhi look forward to a great future](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/neurodivergence-diagnosis-helped-aadhi/) - Award-winning student Aadhi aims to continue helping others after his own neurodivergence diagnosis at University
- [Death threats and abuse – councillors get it all](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/death-threats-and-abuse-councillors-get-it-all/) - Councillor Gorman tells us how serving councillors dedicate themselves to their communities, and face abuse, threats and intimidation in return
- [Northwich – The hidden explosive history of a market town](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/pollution/northwich-the-hidden-explosive-history-of-a-market-town/) - Northwich produced salt in Roman times and became a centre for chemical industry, and is now left with ground contamination
- [SFO secures £1.1mn with first Unexplained Wealth Order](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/sfo-secures-1-1mn-with-first-unexplained-wealth-order/) - The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) secures first Unexplained Wealth Order following sale of Lake District property
- [Waste and recycling event to be held in Liverpool](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/waste-and-recycling-event-to-be-held-in-liverpool/) - Merseyside hosts a key regional event for waste and recycling professionals – the North West Resources Forum comes to Liverpool
- [A fortune was spent clearing up weeds, but they’ve grown back already](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/fortune-clearing-up-weeds/) - Sefton Council said a £178,000 project with National Highways removed 600 tonnes of weeds and litter from the A5036
- [Wantonly singing: £5 fine could be scrapped](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/wantonly-singing-5-fine-could-be-scrapped/) - People in the Wirral can be fined up to £5 for wantonly singing, sounding a gong, causing a dog to bark or blowing a horn
- [A friendly rivalry with 400-year-old roots](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/a-friendly-rivalry-with-400-year-old-roots/) - A town rivalry rooted in the English Civil War 400 years ago - and it's still going on between Wigan and Leigh
- [Don’t walk out in anger – you can’t vote if you do](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/dont-walk-out-in-anger-you-cant-vote-if-you-do/) - Councillors at Cheshire West council take aim at each other following chaotic walkout which meant some councilors could not vote on devolution
- [Earth’s Follies Week 31: Leopard spots, AI bombs, and the carnival of Human chaos](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-31/) - Spotted rocks, AI airstrikes, conspiracy pratfalls, and presidents ignoring domestic abuse – Earth still excels in absurdity and follies
- [Bad odour from landfill downplayed](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/bad-odour-from-landfill-downplayed/) - Environment Agency investigating discharge from landfill register the odour residents complain about, but landfill operators say ‘no problem’
- [Once upon a time there was a Labour Party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/once-upon-a-time-there-was-a-labour-party/) - Labour loses ground as it shuns its political and intellectual roots
- [Do we need stability or conflict for climate change?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/do-we-need-stability-or-conflict-for-climate-change/) - Major new book edited by Manchester University experts asks whether addressing climate change requires stability or conflict
- [Retrospective Festival in St Helens’ Sherdley Park](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/retrospective-festival-in-st-helens-sherdley-park/) - Deborah Law could not resist checking out the Retrospective Festival in St Helens and loved it, once she managed to get on the park
- [Askam-in-Furness: Chris Killip – his complete series of photographs exhibited](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/askam-in-furness-chris-killip/) - Killip documented working life in the early 80s, and his full collection of photographs of the Askam-in-Furness area is due to be displayed
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 30: Farage, fake funerals, phantom wars](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-30/) - Farage visits and Trump promptly ponders reinstating asylums for the mentally ill; and he stops a few wars: this week's follies
- [Helping the homeless and the environment in Trafford](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/helping-the-homeless-and-the-environment-in-trafford/) - The scheme making millions for the homeless and keeping waste out of landfill in Trafford
- [Olly Murs switches on the famous Illuminations – and Blackpool’s heart skips a beat](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/olly-murs-famous-illuminations/) - Blackpool’s heart skips a beat as Olly Murs switches on the Illuminations, in front of a crowd of 24,000 people
- [Labour, BlackRock, and the betrayal of socialist principles](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/labour-blackrock-and-the-betrayal-of-socialist-principles/) - A year into government, Labour partnering with private capital indicates abandoned principles and prioritisation of corporate interests
- [How did public bathrooms get to be separated by sex in the first place?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/how-did-public-bathrooms-get-to-be-separated-by-sex-in-the-first-place/) - Separated toilets in public started in the Victorian era, when women started to work more outdoors but the 'weaker sex' idea needed reinforcing for the men
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 29 – dictators, dustbins, and discount Liberace décor](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-29/) - Dictator cosplay, litter-picking soldiers & a gold-plated Oval Office – just another week of Planet Earth’s slow-burn farce of Follies
- [Yoda says: Star Wars fun day in Cleveleys – miss it you want not!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/yoda-says-star-wars-fun-day-in-cleveleys/) - Cleveleys is gearing up for Star Wars fun day this Sunday, with quizzes, games and tradeshows on the seafront
- [Rule changes for bus pass holders in Greater Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/rule-changes-for-bus-pass-holders-in-greater-manchester/) - Bus pass holders in Greater Manchester can travel early in August, to improve access to appointments – good news for ‘twirlies’
- [Common disputes small businesses face and how to avoid them](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/common-disputes-small-businesses-face-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - Small businesses can face many problems, but there are ways some of those can be prevented from turning into serious disputes
- [The reading crisis: How to help children rediscover books](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/the-reading-crisis-how-to-help-children-rediscover-books/) - Reading offers valuable insights and life lessons, and if it doesn’t come naturally to your children, you can help them discover a love for it
- [Law graduate's legacy of helping domestic abuse survivors](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/law-graduate-leaves-a-legacy-of-helping-domestic-abuse-survivors/) - A legacy of supporting domestic abuse survivors in Cheshire will be the lasting impact of a soon-to-be graduate from the University of Chester
- [Reform UK councillor in Burnley accused of ‘whipping up misinformation’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-uk-councillor-in-burnley-accused-of-whipping-up-misinformation/) - Rumours of migrant housing resulted in an arson attack in Burnley, the council fights back online
- [Milk rounds are making a come back](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/milk-rounds-are-making-a-come-back/) - Remember the old-fashioned milk rounds? They see surge in popularity as doorstep deliveries increase in Greater Manchester
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 28: burnt tangerine diplomacy, gerrymandered democracy, and the fashiest brief on Earth](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/earths-follies-week-28/) - This week: gerrymanders, banned books, fash burgers & Trump praying for heaven, Earth’s reality show keeps jumping the shark
- [What’s in a name? And where do surnames come from?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/whats-in-a-name-and-where-do-surnames-come-from/) - Chester University expert speaks about the history of surnames on a popular national radio programme
- [Running Critical National Infrastructure as a business has proven a recipe for failure](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/running-critical-national-infrastructure-as-a-business-has-proven-a-recipe-for-failure/) - Using a business model of cost-cutting and even increasing profit margins does not work for public services, and should not happen
- [How a document secured the power of the first King of England](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/how-a-document-secured-the-power-of-the-first-king-of-england/) - A carefully documented farmland lease from the time of the first King of England, Æthelstan, tells us much about the power play in those days
- [UK Government to be sued in ‘secret corporate court’ by coal firm represented by Tory MP](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/uk-government-to-be-sued-in-secret-corporate-court-by-coal-firm-represented-by-tory-mp/) - Former attorney general Geoffrey Cox is leading the case brought by a coal firm that could cost the taxpayer billions
- [Freddie Flintoff has shown that dreams can come true](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/freddie-flintoff-has-shown-that-dreams-can-come-true/) - Contemplating Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams, Ben Evans assesses the purpose of sport in the modern world.
- [Pride and Prejudice still captures audiences after two hundred years](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/pride-and-prejudice-still-captures-audiences-after-two-hundred-years/) - A modern adaptation Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen’s timeless classic, is on show at the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 27: Cream teas, crime scenes, and Nazi ships](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-27/) - Cream teas, crime-free crackdowns & Nazi ship décor – just another week on Earth, where follies and absurdity never take a day off
- [A family festival that’s truly different: Deva Fest](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/a-family-festival-thats-truly-different-deva-fest/) - If you’ve always thought music festivals aren’t for you, then Deva Fest, one of the North West’s best weekends outdoors may change your mind
- ['Disaster waiting to happen' on the London Underground](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/disaster-waiting-to-happen-on-the-london-underground/) - Actor Christopher Lee-Power warns of ‘disaster waiting to happen’ on London Underground after overcrowding incident
- [Visiting Samboo's Grave at Sunderland Point](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/visiting-samboos-grave-at-sunderland-point/) - A visit to Samboo's Grave, a reminder of the North West's shameful past.
- [Manchester experts join national project to combat NHS fraud](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/manchester-experts-join-national-project-to-combat-nhs-fraud/) - Fraud in the NHS is costing the country over a billion a year, and two criminologists from Manchester University are going to help tackle it
- [Reactions to Earth’s follies: week 4. A Martian’s exasperation at terrestrial tomfoolery](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-4/) - Earth’s latest follies: Trump imports traffickers, botches history, and plans to plant a flag on Mars. What could go wrong?
- [A letter from a worried Martian](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-letter-from-a-worried-martian/) - Five letters now from our Martian, he (or she?) is getting increasingly less patient with the shenanigans they see happening on planet Earth.
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies: Week 7. Dispatches from Mars: Observing Earth’s Latest Lunacy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-7/) - More Earth's follies: WhiskeyLeaks, Greenland says no, portrait backlash and Tesla tanks – Earth's leaders outdo themselves in another week of chaos. Martians remain baffled
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies: Week 6. A Martian’s increasing exasperation regarding ongoing Terrestrial Tomfoolery](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-6/) - Dictator vibes, border walls, deportation chaos & Mars delusions – Earth’s leaders outdo themselves in this week’s edition of Earth’s Follies!
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies: Week 8. Seriously Earth what are you thinking?!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-8/) - Mars gives you tariffs! Earth’s follies are keeping Martians entertained, and slightly worried as well
- [Reactions to Earth's Follies: Week 5. A Martian exasperates at terrestrial tomfoolery](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-5/) - Department cuts, economic chaos, and Trump’s latest grift. Another week, another round of terrestrial absurdity
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies: Week 9.  Big crowds, bigger egos, and the biggest nonsense](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-9/) - Earth’s crowds are fed up and having ‘Hands Off’ demonstrations, while a golfing president plans a grandiose birthday party – for himself
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies – Week 14: Habeas Schmabeas and Other Tales of Executive Lunacy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-14/) - Trump trashes habeas corpus, hires a fake doctor, and mistakes Mattel for a country. Earthlings: please explain this week’s Earth’s Follies
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies – Week 13: Lightsabers, flags and constitutional amnesia](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-13/) - Papal cosplay, Jedi cosplay with lightsabers and eagles, amnesia about his initiation ceremony and tariffs on films – who are we writing about?
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies – Week 12: Blessings, bromances & blue suits](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-12/) - This weeks Earth’s Follies: Pope dreams, political schemes, temper tantrums all with a lashing of maple glazed Canadian glory
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 15: Trump 2.0 and the Orange-tinged Apocalypse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-15-trump-2-0-and-the-orange-tinged-apocalypse/) - A Martian greeting from the holiday resort on Deimos, where the baths are more refreshing than your Earth’s Follies have been!
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 16: golden domes, delusional diplomacy and dodgy dinner parties](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/earths-follies-week-16/) - Back from holiday, Xylb’tok discovers there have been so many Earth’s Follies while he was away, it is difficult to choose!
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 17: President TACO, Creepy Portraits & Martian Scepticism](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-17/) - This weeks earth's Follies: President TACO, Creepy Portraits & Martian Misgivings – it has been quite a week again
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 18: The big beautiful…breakup](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-18-the-big-beautifulbreakup/) - Love Me Tinder: The Big Beautiful Breakup, Military Cosplay, and Dictator Chic
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 19: No Kings, no clarity, and definitely no class](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-19-no-kings-no-clarity-and-definitely-no-class/) - No Kings, no flags to be placed on Mars as we have our own, with flagpoles, and definitely no gold phones, thank you very much
- [Built from All They Broke (Poems from the heart of a SEND Mum) by Michaela Silsby](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/poems-from-a-send-mum-by-michaela-silsby/) - A collection of poems from a mother whose heart was broken by society’s reactions to her SEND child
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 21: Ants, airspace, alligators & Artificial Intelligence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-21-flying-ants/) - Flying ants close Martian airspace, Trump bottles himself, and Musk gets dumped again – Earth, your follies are showing again
- [Postcard from the Rings, glad you’re not here Mr Mars](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/postcard-from-the-rings-glad-youre-not-here-mr-mars/) - Our favourite Martian is on holiday, enjoying some quiet time and cosmic drinks and chats on the Rings of Saturn
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 26 – rooftop rambles, tariff tantrums and billionaire backlash](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-26/) - Chaos reigns: Texas arrests, rooftop excursions, soaring visa fees, tariffs, and Elon’s fall from grace – all in one wild week
- [Earth’s Follies: Week 24 – A stadium, a lawsuit, and a non-existent file walk into a bar](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-24/) - The Follies of week 24: football club names, AI messes, infidelity caught on webcam and missing files – us Martians are getting confused!
- [Five things I wish everyone knew about weight loss – by an expert in nutrition](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/five-things-about-weight-loss/) - Why weight loss is not always the best thing to aim for, fitness and health are just as important
- [Charlie grateful for University support as he looks ahead to bright future in nursing](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/charlie-grateful-for-university-support-bright-future-in-nursing/) - Learning disabilities do not define who you are – Charlie got the help he needed from Chester University to finish his nursing studies
- [Cumberland Council will divest finances from companies that deal with Israel](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/cumberland-council-will-divest-finances-from-companies-that-deal-with-israel/) - Cumberland Council has set the wheels in motion for divestment from companies that either supply arms to Israel or support settlements in the Palestinian Territories
- [Merseyside charity Arts Emergency needs local artists](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/merseyside-charity-arts-emergency-needs-local-artists/) - Arts Emergency calls for Merseyside creatives to empower the next generation of artists through mentoring young people in the arts
- [Biodiversity – is Bury council doing enough to look after theirs?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/biodiversity-is-bury-council-doing-enough-to-look-after-theirs/) - Bury has areas of special interest from a biodiversity point of view, and the council needs to put steps in place to preserve those areas
- [Southport Air Show 2025 – the sky is the limit!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/southport-air-show-2025-the-sky-is-the-limit/) - Visitors can also experience interactive exhibits, family activities and a range of food and drink offeringsat Southport Air Show this year
- [Poetry project to help children deal with death and bereavement](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/poetry-project-to-help-children-deal-with-death-and-bereavement/) - Collaboration between universities and charities has led to a project to help primary school children cope better with death, dying and bereavement
- [I don’t do breakfast, in spite of Kellogg's brilliant advertising](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/i-dont-do-breakfast-in-spite-of-kelloggs-brilliant-advertising/) - Big Breakfast’s slogan that breakfast is the most important meal is now universally accepted by nutritionists and doctors – but not by me
- [Lancashire: St Annes Station hopeful for a National Rail Award](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/lancashire-st-annes-station-hopeful-for-a-national-rail-award/) - St Annes Station is shortlisted for National Rail Awards finals in the category ‘small stations’, in a well deserved accolade to its volunteers
- [Joe Biden: a presidency of quiet successes and a tumultuous farewell](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/joe-biden-a-presidency-of-quiet-successes-and-a-tumultuous-farewell/) - The presidency of Joe Biden leaves behind a notable legacy for a divided USA
- [Chief executive salary in Westmorland and Furness Council](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/chief-executive-salary-in-westmoreland-and-furness-council/) - A council in Cumbria is advertising a job vacancy with a salary higher than the Prime Minister’s
- [The new Online Safety Act – safety or authoritarianism?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-new-online-safety-act-safety-or-authoritarianism/) - Is the UK's Online Safety Act 2023, with people having to age-verify for social media, a step toward safety or digital authoritarianism?
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 25: caddies, camps and cancelled comedy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-25-caddies-camps-and-cancelled-comedy/) - Trump golfs through scandal, FEMA funds cages, satire dies, and the US joins rights watchlist – Earth, you’ve outdone yourself again
- [The voting age for all UK elections has been lowered to 16 – and about time, too](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-voting-agel-uk-elections-lowered-to-16/) - Young people deserve the right to vote, and on 17 of July 2025, it was officially confirmed that they will be granted that right
- [Corbyn and Sultana’s new party: Hope on the horizon?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/corbyn-and-sultanas-new-party-hope-on-the-horizon/) - Could the launch of Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana’s new political party be the glimmer of hope leftists desperately need?
- [Renewables, carbon and the energy crisis](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/renewables-carbon-and-the-energy-crisis/) - The road towards a viable net-zero world is long and full of obstacles, but all economies need to reduce their carbon footprint
- [Charity workers fined while delivering emergency supplies of blood to hospitals](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/charity-workers-fined-while-delivering-emergency-supplies-of-blood-to-hospitals/) - Jeff Smith MP intervenes when charity blood bike riders are fined for driving in bus lanes going to hospital with emergency blood supplies
- [Burnham calls on Starmer to act on 'explosion of homelessness'](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/burnham-calls-on-starmer-to-act-on-explosion-of-homelessness/) - Burnham has plans to help people into housing and work in Greater Manchester, and calls on Starmer to do the same for the rest of the country
- [Trafford Council gets award for work towards digital inclusion](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/trafford-council-award-digital-inclusion/) - Trafford Council has set up Tech4All, a popular scheme that helps local people get the technology and knowledge to deal with the digital age
- [Rebuilding our communities; The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/english-devolution-and-community-empowerment-bill/) - England needs to re-build a sense of community, and empower communities to shape their local areas
- [A false choice? Why Labour’s electoral reform must go further](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-false-choice-why-labours-electoral-reform-must-go-further/) - A year on from the last general election, and the case for electoral reform is more urgent than ever
- [The state of the UK Labour Party](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-state-of-the-uk-labour-party/) - An in-depth analysis of the first year of the UK Labour Party being in Government
- [First year in power for Starmer: A rocky start](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/first-year-in-power-for-starmer-a-rocky-start/) - It looks like we have four more years of Starmer to look forward to; can we handle it – and what will it bring?
- [Farage in Lancashire: a sign of things to come?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/farage-in-lancashire-a-sign-of-things-to-come/) - I was right to be concerned, but with Farage in Lancashire, I am worried more now than ever
- [Would Reform UK hand Mars to Musk?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/would-reform-uk-hand-mars-to-musk/) - Musk plans to take a million people to Mars, but Keir Starmer’s government rejects Musk claiming Mars for an independent Martian colony
- [Thousands of doctors lost to the NHS](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/thousands-of-doctors-lost-to-the-nhs/) - ‘Thousands of doctors who have completed their foundational training are facing potential unemployment’ Lord Rennard told the House of Lords
- [If councillors in Oldham were overpaid, even a little, what else needs checking?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/councillors-oldham-overpaid/) - Oldham councillors have been slightly overpaid for three years in a row due to an ‘administrative error’, the local authority has confirmed
- [Renationalising the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure is a national security imperative](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/renationalising-the-uks-critical-national-infrastructure-is-a-national-security-imperative/) - From railways to water, privatised utilities have not given good service or financial viability, and may present national security risks
- [Food, The Wanted 2.0 and Blue, all in one Foodies Festival](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/food-the-wanted-2-0-and-blue-all-in-one-foodies-festival/) - The Foodies Festival in Knutsford offered some real treats this year, both food and music wise
- [Burnham’s alternative welfare reform for Greater Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/burnhams-alternative-welfare-reform-for-greater-manchester/) - Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, proposes a new model of support for people in his area, based on their needs
- [The false economies of austerity](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/the-false-economies-of-austerity/) - Austerity is not new, it doesn’t work and it cannot put the country on a road to economic recovery
- [The real reason the Big Beautiful friendship ended](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-real-reason-the-big-beautiful-friendship-ended/) - Elon Musk and President Trump have dramatically fallen out, but much of the media has missed the real cause of the Big Beautiful bust-up
- [Earth’s Follies Week 23: Tariffs, threats, turmoil and theft?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-23-tariffs-threats-turmoil-and-theft/) - Tariffs are back on the menu, and sports trophies seem to be flavour of the day in this week’s Earth’s Follies, presented by our Martian
- [It should never be a choice between assisted dying or good end-of-life care](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/it-should-never-be-a-choice-between-assisted-dying-or-good-end-of-life-care/) - Health minister Stephen Kinnock visited the hospice in Hindley, Wigan, and said 'It should never be a choice, it is both’
- [Northern proportional representation advocates hold ‘Rally for real democracy’ in Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/proportional-representation-advocates-hold-rally-in-manchester/) - Manchester rally: advocates fight for a change to proportional representation in order to make elections fairer and make every vote matter
- [Lela Harris creates part of the Austen & Turner exhibition](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/lela-harris-creates-part-of-the-austen-turner-exhibition/) - Kendal artist Lela Harris was asked to create a drawing for the Austen and Turner ‘A Country House Encounter’ exhibition
- [Tory MP was asked to challenge the Government about Gaza](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/tory-mp-asked-to-challenge-government-about-gaza/) - A Poulton couple were so upset about what they saw happening in Gaza they decided to write to their MP about it
- [Why renationalising the UK’s critical national infrastructure is vital](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/why-renationalising-the-uks-critical-national-infrastructure-is-vital/) - Nothing good has come of privatising the Uk’s critical national infrastructure, so there is now a strong case for renationalising
- [Humans on Mars, and forget about net zero?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/humans-on-mars-and-forget-about-net-zero/) - Musk’s electric cars seemed to be all about net zero, but his obsession with Mars has seen his politics take a radically different direction
- [Brit Fest 2025, at least as good as last year!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/brit-fest-2025-at-least-as-good-as-last-year/) - The Brit Fest festival in Ashley is in its second year now, and judging by the success there will be more to follow!
- [Cheshire West Reform councillor suspended after arrest at Pride event](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/cheshire-west-reform-councillor-suspended-after-arrest-at-pride-event/) - Having been arrested at the Winsford pride event, Cheshire West and Cheshire Council Reform councillor Mandy Clare has now been suspended
- [Parables and predictions: The dystopian world of Octavia E. Butler](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/parables-and-predictions-the-dystopian-world-of-octavia-e-butler/) - The ‘parable’ novels of Octavia E. Butler are a really good read – and, like all the best dystopian fiction, eerily prescient
- [Creativity over crime: why the arts must return to our communities](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/creativity-over-crime-arts-must-return/) - Youth crime is rising, and teaching creativity and expression through the arts might just be what many young people need instead
- [Rising costs and fewer international students mean job cuts at university](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/job-cuts-at-university/) - Lancaster University looks to cut jobs and save £30mn amid rising costs and fewer international students, which means less income
- [Not my king: why I take umbrage with King Charles having visited Lancaster](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/not-my-king-charles-visited-lancaster/) - The king’s recent visit to Lancaster prompts renewed questioning about the relevance of the monarchy in the modern age
- [The return of the politics of class](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-return-of-the-politics-of-class/) - Class politics, albeit seen as old-fashioned, is still rife in the UK today, and reflects continuing social and economic inequalities
- [Disability benefit deal shows Labour’s true colours](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/disability-benefit-deal-shows-labours-true-colours/) - Last minute compromise over disability benefits cuts may have saved Starmer, but rebels' climbdown suggests they only care about their seats
- [From red Tories to Brexit defiance](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/from-red-tories-to-brexit-defiance/) - The frustrations of UK politics: from red Tories to Brexit defiance and a broken political system; practical and ethical solutions are needed
- [Preston and Hebron: a friendship agreement](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/preston-and-hebron-a-friendship-agreement/) - Preston is to enter into a friendship agreement with the Palestinian city of Hebron
- [Trevino Lounge – Lytham St Annes’ new café-bar](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/trevino-lounge-lytham-st-annes-new-cafe-bar/) - Bar, cafe, restaurant…the Trevino Lounge mixes the best of all, and with great food for reasonable prices, it is a must-go-to if you are near
- [Sardines, a love triangle, a burglary ... ‘Noises Off’ is a classic comedy show](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/noises-off-is-a-classic-comedy-show/) - Sardines, tax evasion worries, a love triangle and a burglary: ‘Noises Off’ has it all!
- [Earth’s Follies – Week 20: Swamps, Statues, and Swear Words](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/earths-follies-week-20-swamps-statues-and-swear-words/) - Trump drops the F-bomb, opens forests to chainsaws, and plans statues on sacred land – Earth’s circus rolls on
- [Streaming LGBTQ+ content – which channel offers the most choice?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/streaming-lgbtq-content-which-channel/) - Streaming is getting more popular, and in Pride Month JustWatch shows the percentage of LGBTQ+ films and shows in different channels
- [The legacy lurking beneath our feet](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/pollution/the-legacy-lurking-beneath-our-feet/) - Many north-west residents live in housing that has been built on contaminated land or a former landfill site; what are the risks?
- [Doppelgänger, harbinger of evil – a book review](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/doppelganger-harbinger-of-evil-a-book-review/) - We all have a doppelgänger, and this book describes how Kyle and Kirk found theirs, and while they both lead interesting lives, one has evil tendencies..
- [Keyboard warriors’ Pride hatred – media plays a big role](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/keyboard-warriors-pride-hatred-media-plays-a-big-role/) - Keyboard warriors’ hate-filled comments re Warrington Pride meant press covering the event had to turn off commenting on their social media
- [Forest Live Concerts 2025, and please can we have more next year?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/forest-live-concerts-2025-and-please-can-we-have-more-next-year/) - Forest Live Concerts in Delamere Forest, acts such as Busted, Gary Barlow, Rag’n’Bone Man, Snow Patrol; great shows in a beautiful place
- [The giraffe](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/the-giraffe/) - For World Giraffe day, we have a ballad to the humble giraffe
- [Halton and Runcorn leaders criticise Reform MP](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/halton-and-runcorn-leaders-criticise-reform-mp/) - Local leaders accuse Reform MP of stoking fear with 'incorrect' claims
- [Gaza – where food aid is a weapon](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/gaza-where-food-aid-is-a-weapon/) - Military aid: how private guns turned Gaza’s breadline into a killing strip
- [Summer Solstice](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/summer-solstice/) - Solstice is here
- [Idiots and clowns – says Tory councillor about Reform colleagues](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/idiots-and-clowns-says-tory-councillor-about-reform-colleagues/) - Tory blasts Reform UK ‘idiots and clowns at county who want a costly referendum alongside efficiencies’
- [Take a walking tour to discover a new city](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/take-a-walking-tour-to-discover-a-new-city/) - Three reasons why a walking tour is the best way to discover a new city
- [How to carry you, your loved ones and your pets safely through the heatwave](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/how-to-carry-you-your-loved-ones-and-your-pets-safely-through-the-heatwave/) - Tips on how to stay as cool as possible and keep your family and pets safe through the heatwave this week.
- [Tameside councillor found to breach code of conduct](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/tameside-councillor-found-to-breach-code-of-conduct/) - A Tameside councillor broke council rules with a controversial social media post following the Harehills riots in Leeds last year
- [Finding Me Beyond Illness: how one woman found a new sense of identity through art](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/finding-me-beyond-illness-how-one-woman-found-a-new-sense-of-identity-through-art/) - Struck down by a devastating illness in her own speciality, Dr Shanali Perera discovered another identity in herself through her art
- [NHS nurse ‘can’t work more hours due to DWP rule’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/nhs-nurse-cant-work-more-hours-due-to-dwp-rule/) - When DWP rules mean more work equals less money to pay for rent, the rules need adjusting
- [Is Reform UK using Occam’s Razor?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-reform-uk-using-occams-razor/) - Reform UK could be said to be using Occam’s Razor, appearing to simplify the country's problems and present their answers to today’s problems
- ['Airborne’ seems to be the hardest word](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/airborne-seems-to-be-the-hardest-word/) - Why do UK Infection Prevention and Control guidelines still not acknowledge airborne transmission of Covid-19?
- [Childrens’ backgrounds not taken into account when placed in care](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/childrens-backgrounds-not-taken-into-account-when-placed-in-care/) - Placing children in care without considering or recording data on their religious or cultural backgrounds can harm them, councils told
- [EU roaming charges – soon UK customers could be worse off than those from Ukraine or Moldova](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/eu-roaming-charges-ukraine-or-moldova/) - Ukraine and Moldova are set to benefit from EU ‘Roam Like at Home’ while UK mobile users roaming in the EU coukd face charges
- [The bell](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-bell/) - Who will be sacrificed to balance the books
- [Age](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/age/) - Years have shrunk our world from a stage to a room…
- [Mouse droppings cause zero food hygiene ratings in Wirral](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mouse-droppings-cause-zero-food-hygiene-ratings-in-wirral/) - Photos published by the LDRS show some of the grim findings from inside Wirral’s food firms that got zero ratings after their inspection
- [Lancashire County Council: Reform DOGE process will survive party departures](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/lancashire-county-council-reform-doge-process-will-survive-party-departures/) - Plans to send a Reform DOGE style cost-cutting team to assess the finances of Lancashire County Council still due to go ahead
- [An AI poem channelling John Daniels](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/an-ai-poem-channelling-john-daniels/) - Was it AI or was it John?
- [There was no Reform UK Landslide!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/there-was-no-reform-uk-landslide/) - Contrary to media reports after the 2025 local elections, there was no Reform UK landslide, just an outdated voting system that needs reforming
- [Why are sustainable events so popular?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/why-are-sustainable-events-so-popular/) - Consumers are more climate aware than ever, and this means organisers have to concentrate on sustainable options for their events
- [Is privatised water undermining the UK’s green goals](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/is-privatised-water-undermining-the-uks-green-goals/) - The water industry is unpopular but more seriously, is it fit for purpose as the nation tries to meet the challenges of climate change
- [Trump’s travel ban 2.0: national security or political posturing?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/trumps-travel-ban-2-0-national-security-or-political-posturing/) - Trump decided to try again with another travel ban; will the result this time be different?
- [Is working remotely the new way forward?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/is-working-remotely-the-new-way-forward/) - The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift to working remotely, leading to long-term changes for society
- [Letters to the editor](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/letters-to-the-editor/) - If you would like to write to the editor, please email us at editor@northwestbylines.co.uk
- [No other voice: speaking truth to power](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/no-other-voice-speaking-truth-to-power/) - Speaking truth to power: Israel cannot be allowed to continue trampling on filmmakers’ freedom of expression
- [The future of higher education in a digital age: challenges and opportunities](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/the-future-of-higher-education-digital-age/) - The rapid move to online learning presents new opportunities, but it also creates new challenges that we need to address
- [Breaking Free – telling the true story of Birkenhead actor Lee-Power](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/breaking-free-true-story-of-birkenhead-actor-lee-power/) - How one man overcame a major trauma, health problems and a disadvantaged background to achieve his dream of acting
- [Irlam Live – it was really good!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/irlam-live-it-was-really-good/) - Irlam Live took place 31 May in Prince’s Park, and was a great show with many stars performing their hits
- [Hopium from Hay – relax, everyone, we just have to change the narrative: unfounded optimism at the 2025 Hay Festival](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/hopium-from-hay-unfounded-optimism-at-the-2025-hay-festival/) - The Hay Festival offers optimism and business as usual but isn't it time for realism and action?
- [Vermilion. A taste of the East in Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/vermilion-a-taste-of-the-east-in-manchester/) - Service was attentive but not intrusive, and the food menu is extensive; the Vermilion restaurant in Manchester is worth a visit
- [Liverpool parade incident: from dreamland to disaster](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/liverpool-parade-incident-from-dreamland-to-disaster/) - How the day I dreamt of my whole life became a day I wish I could forget
- [Queen Elizabeth II tree rediscovered and rededicated](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/queen-elizabeth-ii-tree-rediscovered-and-rededicated/) - A tree planted in 1953 to mark the coronation of the late Queen Elizabeth II has been rededicated to her memory on the 72nd anniversary of her coronation
- [Dance Floor Heroes – story of a survivor!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/dance/dance-floor-heroes-story-of-a-survivor/) - Being a finalist in Dance Floor Heroes: a dream come true for Catherine, and a chance to rise above some of the challenges life threw at her
- [The power of pet therapy: how animals help us heal](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/the-power-of-pet-therapy-how-animals-help-us-heal/) - With stress and anxiety at high levels, people are turning to their four-legged friends for pet therapy
- [Golfing with dinosaurs in Burnley](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/golfing-with-dinosaurs-in-burnley/) - An East Lancashire sports complex is set to get a new ‘adventure’ golf course complete with dinosaurs and a volcano
- [Homelessness in Halton has increased sharply](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/homelessness-in-halton-has-increased-sharply/) - Real people, not just numbers:: homelessness is on the rise in Halton, in spite of Government cash being set aside to fight the issue yearly
- [Celebrity Portraits launch Alzheimer’s Society’s Forget Me Not Appeal](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/celebrity-portraits-launch-alzheimers-societys-forget-me-not-appeal/) - Celebrities’ striking new portrait series to launch Alzheimer’s Society’s Forget Me Not Appeal across the North West
- [The Tice is wrong: open letter about Britain’s latest economic mess](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/the-tice-is-wrong-open-letter-about-britains-latest-economic-mess/) - Reform UK’s Richard Tice has a plan to turn Britain's economic mess around, Willy and Bill take a sideways look at it
- [Fast track back to the EU?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/fast-track-back-to-the-eu/) - Why temporary EFTA membership is the UK’s quickest and best route back to the single market and rejoining the EU
- [Be Here Now - it shouldn’t happen to Oasis!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/be-here-now-it-shouldnt-happen-to-oasis/) - Be Here Now is a fictional story about a comeback by Oasis, when what was meant to be a green show turns into something else
- [Music in the Park, 2025](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/music-in-the-park-2025/) - Leyland, May 25, 2025 – Music in the Park: a line-up of great acts, what is not to love?
- [Confronting knife crime through honest dialogue and real solutions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/confronting-knife-crime-through-honest-dialogue-and-real-solutions/) - Knife crime harms victims and their families every year. There should be a multi-pronged approach
- [Olly Murs and Blue at the Liverpool Arena](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/music/olly-murs-and-blue-at-the-liverpool-arena/) - Olly Murs dazzles Liverpool with high-energy moves, cheeky charm, and heartfelt moments in a show fans won’t soon forget
- [Kurt Schwitters: a multi-media innovator.](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/kurt-schwitters-a-multi-media-innovator/) - How a derelict mill in Bury, Lancashire became a temporary and uncomfortable refuge for Schwitters, a world famous German artist fleeing the Nazis
- [Reporters Reunited – stepping back in time with ‘old’ colleagues from the Salford City Reporter](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/reporters-reunited-stepping-back-in-time-with-old-colleagues-from-the-salford-city-reporter/) - When old friends and colleagues from the Salford City Reporter reunite after 40 years, who knows what will be revealed?
- [A German and an American soldier on opposite sites on D-Day](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/a-german-and-an-american-soldier-on-opposite-sites-on-d-day/) - 6 June 1944 D-Day was the beginning of the end of WW2 as the allied forces returned to French soil
- [Universities should include bereaved families in suicide prevention reviews](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/universities-should-include-bereaved-families-in-suicide-prevention-reviews/) - Families who lost a member due to suicide should be included in suicide prevention reviews at universities
- [Traditional TV is dying, and we should all be concerned](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/traditional-tv-is-dying-and-we-should-all-be-concerned/) - In the past, TV programmes were often the talking point of general public interest, but with streaming we watch only our individual choices
- [Why even the most die-hard Brexiteers should find plenty to be cheerful about in the EU-UK ‘reset’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/why-even-the-most-die-hard-brexiteers-should-find-plenty-to-be-cheerful-about-in-the-eu-uk-reset/) - Brexit was about taking back control for many people, now James Newell argues that the new UK/EU agreement enhances our sovereignty
- [United Utilities – was 2024 too good to be true?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/united-utilities-was-2024-too-good-to-be-true/) - Figures show sewage overflows in the north-west were substantially lower in 2024, but can we trust that United Utilities are really making progress?
- [Data breaches at Cheshire East - should we be concerned?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/cheshire-east-council-multiple-data-breaches-but-no-liability-insurance/) - Data breaches can be serious, but are Cheshire East Council prepared to deal with any fallout? Do they carry insurance?
- [The net zero political mirage](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-net-zero-political-mirage/) - Beneath the well-intentioned surface of net zero lies a contradiction
- [SEND is not overdiagnosed: My take as a SEND student and tutor](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/send-is-not-overdiagnosed/) - Getting my dyspraxia diagnosis at the age of ten saved me: SEND is not overdiagnosed
- ['Loo roll and sanitary products hanging from people’s rose bushes'](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/loo-roll-and-sanitary-products-hanging-from-peoples-rose-bushes/) - In some areas of Salford and Wigan ‘when there is heavy rain, there is loo roll and sanitary products hanging from people’s rose bushes’
- [Cumberland: another councillor leaves Labour, this time to go Green](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cumberland-another-councillor-leaves-labour-this-time-to-go-green/) - The third councillor Labour lost in Cumberland recently, Labour needs to start listening to the reasons and become true to their roots again
- [Time for new approach from government to address the ongoing social and economic impact of Brexit](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/time-for-new-approach-from-government-to-addressec-impact-of-brexit/) - As the May EU-UK summit approaches, the government must act far more boldly in order to address the damage Brexit has caused
- [Big Top Boogie](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/big-top-boogie/) - Let the unfunny clown tell you how to boogie in the circus he created
- [Berlin: a palace, a conference, a bomb, a bridge, spies and films](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/berlin-a-palace-a-conference-a-bomb-a-bridge-spies-and-films/) - A river journey ends at an epoch-making scene across a bridge in Berlin
- [Homelessness could happen to anyone at any time](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/homelessness-could-happen-to-anyone-at-any-time/) - The latest figures on homelessness show there was a 70% increase in people sleeping rough across Merseyside last year
- [I’ve just finished watching The Good Place: Here’s what it taught me](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/the-good-place-heres-what-it-taught-me/) - ‘What matters isn’t if people are good or bad; what matters is if they’re trying to be better today than they were yesterday.’
- [What interviews with ordinary Germans living under the Nazis can teach us about our current politics](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/interviews-with-ordinary-germans-living-under-nazis/) - Is history repeating itself? A comparison between then and now, People living under the Nazis and the current situation
- [Children link accents with intelligence from the age of five, says study](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/children-link-accents-with-intelligence-from-the-age-of-five-says-study/) - Even at an early age children tend to judge others by their accents, research shows
- [Popcorn lung: how vaping can scar your lungs for life](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/popcorn-lung-how-vaping-can-scar-your-lungs-for-life/) - Vaping is very popular among young people, but also very dangerous with all the different flavours it comes in
- [UK Labour Party won’t break manifesto pledges on the EU](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/uk-labour-party-wont-break-manifesto-pledges-on-the-eu/) - The UK Labour Party refuses to break their manifesto pledge on the EU despite the downside for businesses
- [Dark days have arrived: Trans women are no longer classified as women](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/equality/dark-days-have-arrived-trans-women-are-no-longer-classified-as-women/) - Did the UK Supreme Court forget ‘Audi Alteram Partem’ when they ruled that trans women are no longer legally classed as women?
- [Social prescribing – helpful for patients or the NHS?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/social-prescribing-helpful-for-patients-or-the-nhs/) - UK Government is focusing on trying to save money for the NHS, but what is social prescribing and is it a good idea?
- [The Raw Shark Texts character inspires new interpretations of AI](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-raw-shark-texts-character-inspires-new-interpretations-of-ai/) - Artificial Intelligence has been portrayed in stories as a negative futuristic development – but it has become our reality
- [Greater Manchester MP among British politicians banned from Russia](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/greater-manchester-mp-among-british-politicians-banned-from-russia/) - A Greater Manchester MP is among those banned from entering Russia after being placed on the country’s latest ‘stop list’
- [North West Resources Forum launches](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/north-west-resources-forum-launches/) - The North West Resources Forum was launched in Manchester, to discuss ideas and best practices for reusing and recycling
- [An audience with President Zelenskyy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/an-audience-with-president-zelenskyy/) - After months of campaigning for Ukraine, students at the University of Manchester speak to President Zelenskyy
- [Students enjoy tough test of legal knowledge in moot court](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/students-enjoy-tough-test-of-legal-knowledge-in-moot-court/) - Students revelled in testing the extent of their legal expertise with a mock court session before Chester Crown Court’s most senior judge
- [Blackburn with Darwen Council blocks proposed care home for children](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/blackburn-with-darwen-council-blocks-proposed-care-home-for-children/) - What’s the difference between a family home and a care home where two children are being looked after?
- [Clausewitz: role model for modern right-wing movements](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/clausewitz-role-model-for-modern-right-wing-movements/) - Clausewitz in the culture wars: how wealth and media consolidation empower the right
- [US aggression versus EU membership: The UK must choose stability over Trump’s chaos](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/us-aggression-versus-eu-membership/) - EU membership offers the stability the UK needs, whereas Trump’s tariffs bring chaos
- [Hamlet Hail to the Thief](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/hamlet-hail-to-the-thief/) - Shakespeare meets Radiohead in a bold, chaotic Hamlet that’s thrilling, messy, and bound to divide audiences
- [Runcorn and Helsby: by-election candidates speak out](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/runcorn-and-helsby-by-election-candidates-speak-out/) - NWB approached candidates for the Runcorn and Helsby by-election to get their stance on key issues. Not all of them answered
- [Cheshire West and Chester Council approves a 10-year Housing Strategy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cheshire-west-and-chester-council-approves-a-10-year-housing-strategy/) - A 10-year Housing Strategy is an ambitious plan, and the Council of Cheshire West and Chester hopes to make it reality
- [About-turns and deleted posts show Runcorn by-election candidates running scared on refugees](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/runcorn-by-election-candidates-on-refugees/) - In Runcorn's hotly contested 'red wall' by-election, both Labour and Reform candidates seem to be changing their minds on refugees
- [Thoughts on the Heartstopper film announcement, from a Heartstopper fan](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/the-heartstopper-film-announcement/) - How will the hit show Heartstopper hold up on the silver screen? Will it be a heartbreaking failure, or a showstopper?
- [Fighting climate change – make an impact!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/climate-change/fighting-climate-change-make-an-impact/) - How you can make an impact in the fight against climate change – every effort helps!
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies – Week 11: the academic purge, exploding tariffs & mascara for the military](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-11/) - Earth's Follies week 11: your planet outdid itself again, intergalactic comedy. delivering refined chaos.
- [The ongoing crisis in Gaza: Najwa’s story](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/war/the-ongoing-crisis-in-gaza-najwas-story/) - After losing her husband and daughter, Najwa Ishaq is struggling to keep her sons alive in Gaza as bombs fall on Khan Younis
- [The Victorian Turkish bath](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/the-victorian-turkish-bath/) - Once a sought-after way of keeping healthy and clean, Victorian Turkish baths are now sadly few and far between in the UK
- [Mental health encompasses a person's cognitive, psychological and social well-being](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/mental-health-encompasses-a-persons-cognitive-psychological-and-social-well-being/) - Is covid to blame for the rise in the numbers of students affected by poor mental health – or are other factors at play?
- [Justice or martyrdom? When holding leaders accountable fuels populism](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/justice-or-martyrdom-when-holding-leaders-accountable-fuels-populism/) - Holding leaders to justice can be viewed by their followers as persecution, causing further distrust in the system
- [Sarah Pochin – Reform UK candidate for Runcorn and Helsby](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/sarah-pochin-reform-uk-candidate-for-runcorn-and-helsby/) - Sarah Pochin stands as Reform UK candidate, six year after Brexit caused her husband’s family firm to collapse
- [I can’t write poetry; I’ll leave that to Wordsworth!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/i-cant-write-poetry-ill-leave-that-to-wordsworth/) - Think you can’t write poetry? Think again, of course you can!
- [Labour is stepping away from socialist values](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/labour-is-stepping-away-from-socialist-values/) - Why UK trade unions and international socialist organisations must sever ties with the UK Labour Party
- [Breaking the mold: A working-class actor’s journey through voice, identity, and opportunity](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/breaking-the-mould-a-working-class-actors-journey/) - Having grown up in working-class Liverpool the journey to become an actor was a struggle, but Christopher didn’t give up
- [A Vision for the North](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/a-vision-for-the-north/) - Andy Burnham has a’five cities’ vision for the North of the UK, to work together on reducing the North-South divide.
- [Scrap, steel, and people: the industrial art of Shaun Smyth](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/scrap-steel-and-people-the-industrial-art-of-shaun-smyth/) - Shaun Smyth creates industrial art that not only records the beauty of the Mersey,’but will also inspire future generations of artists
- [Tesla takedown (Greater Manchester edition)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/tesla-takedown-manchester-edition/) - A global movement to undermine Elon Musk’s Tesla business makes its presence known outside a showroom in Stockport, Greater Manchester
- [My journey to Volt!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/my-journey-to-volt/) - Jason explains the journey that took him to Volt UK
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies – Week 10.  The Martian Chronicles](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-10/) - Our intergalactic bystander of Earth’s weekly nonsense remarks on Earth’s Follies of the past week
- [Raw Shark Texts predict broligarchy and digital coup](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/raw-shark-texts-predict-broligarchy-and-digital-coup/) - What has recently reviewed The Raw Shark Texts novel got to do with Carole Cadwalladr's Ted talk about a digital coup?
- [Vegetarianism: a healthy and sustainable lifestyle choice](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/vegetarianism-a-healthy-and-sustainable-lifestyle-choice/) - Vegetarianism is a tasty, healthy and nutritious lifestyle, contrary to what many people think. And it is the kinder choice for nature as well
- [Misinformation vacuum in the wake of the Southport killings](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancashire/misinformation-vacuum-in-the-wake-of-the-southport-killings/) - MPs give verdict on pressure placed on Merseyside Police and how the lack of information caused a vacuum for speculation and misinformation on social media
- [The rise of Reform UK in Lancashire: why I’m concerned](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/the-rise-of-reform-uk-in-lancashire-why-im-concerned/) - With the increase in more polarising political views, including the concerning rise in the far-right, Reform appears to be gaining traction in Lancashire
- [Abigail’s Party – a revival of a ‘70s show](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/abigails-party-a-revival-of-a-70s-show/) - Abigail’s Party may be set in the seventies, but it is still a good show to watch.
- [A trip down memory lane to Salford City Journalism](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/a-trip-down-memory-lane-to-salford-city-journalism/) - Planning a reunion of old colleagues who all used to work for a Salford newspaper brought back memories of old-fashioned typewriters and carbon paper.
- [The Knock Knock Manifesto: A call for humane existence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/the-knock-knock-manifesto-a-call-for-humane-existence/) - Knock knock when you see something wrong, something that needs to change. Just gently knock knock. No need to shout
- [Things to do around Manchester over the Easter Holidays](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/things-to-do-around-manchester-over-the-easter-holidays/) - Need some ideas what to do with the children, your friends or by yourself over the Easter weeks? Hopefully these 10 suggestions can help you out
- [Disguised remuneration – could it have happened to you?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/disguised-remuneration-could-it-have-happened-to-you/) - Could you spot a disguised remuneration scheme? Or could you be at risk of receiving a big tax demand?
- [How I was introduced to Dambe boxing, a traditional West African sport](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/how-i-was-introduced-to-dambe-boxing-a-traditional-west-african-sport/) - I was the first white fighter to be allowed to compete in Dambe boxing in Nigeria, and though I lost the fight, I won the hearts of the people
- [Trump’s tariffs and the acceleration of structural change](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/trumps-tariffs-and-the-acceleration-of-structural-change/) - An analysis of what Trump’s trade tariffs could mean for markets and the world economy
- [Reactions to Earth’s follies: week one (a Martian perspective on the absurdity of US politics)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-1/) - Earth’s follies: new place names thrown around by President Trump, Trump at the Super Bowl, Elon and X Mars at the oval office and other absurdities
- [Is social control widening the net or blurring the fear of control?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/is-social-control-widening-the-net-or-blurring-the-fear-of-control/) - Social media can influence us in many ways; creating and shaping our opinions and also exerting social control over the population
- [After midnight](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/after-midnight/) - Tariffs for everyone from midnight, even the penguins are not spared.
- [Serious childcare incidents in England’s nurseries are up](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/serious-childcare-incidents-in-englands-nurseries-are-up/) - BBC Investigation finds that reports of ‘serious childcare incidents’ in England’s nurseries are up by 40% compared with five years ago
- [The Raw Shark Texts by Steven Hall – a review](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/the-raw-shark-texts-by-steven-hall-a-review/) - The book ‘The Raw Shark Texts’ is an unsettling but enjoyable read. It describes the crazy quest by a man trying to rediscover who he actually is after suffering from amnesia
- [Autism is gaining understanding and awareness](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/autism-is-gaining-understanding-and-awareness/) - World Autism Awareness Day is 2 April – we explore what autism is and how understanding of the condition improved over the years
- [Crisis-ready: but are we as prepared as the rest of Europe?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/crisis-ready-but-are-we-as-prepared-as-the-rest-of-europe/) - The EU is advising citizens to be crisis-ready and have food and water in storage. What is the UK doing for preparedness?
- [Vote for Rejoin EU at Runcorn and Helsby](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/vote-for-rejoin-eu-at-runcorn-and-helsby/) - Ex-MEP John Stevens will stand against the big three Brexit parties to offer Runcorn and Helsby a vote for Rejoin EU
- [Small French airport to honour Queen Elizabeth II](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/small-french-airport-to-honour-queen-elizabeth-ii/) - Honouring the late Queen Elizabeth II and her love for France, an airport near Paris is being renamed to pay tribute to her
- [Manchester Professor wins award for her commitment to disability inclusion](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/manchester-professor-wins-award-for-her-commitment-to-disability-inclusion/) - Disability inclusion is a passion for Manchester Professor Jackie Carter , who campaigns tirelessly for disabled rights and equality
- [Our libraries are under threat](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/our-libraries-are-under-threat/) - Libraries are essential for many communities. But funding for them is constantly being reduced, and we are losing these places of knowledge
- [Liverpool’s Irish roots, a journey through history and community](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/liverpools-irish-roots/) - Exploring Liverpool and its Irish roots: a journey through the years
- [Hunger strike over child poverty](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/hunger-strike-over-child-poverty/) - A group of women in Lancashire are joining in a nationwide hunger strike for the weekend to protest food poverty
- [Same old, same old: the long history behind Labour’s benefit cuts](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/same-old-same-old-the-long-history-behind-labours-benefit-cuts/) - Are Labour’s benefit cuts doubling down on Conservative positions?
- [Face-to-face GP appointments linked to higher patient satisfaction](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/face-to-face-gp-appointments-linked-to-higher-patient-satisfaction/) - GPs who conduct their surgeries face-to-face are more likely to have satisfied patients according to a new study by University of Manchester researchers
- [So many films – what do I watch?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/so-many-films-what-do-i-watch/) - With the influx of films being released at the moment, what’s most worth watching?
- [No Indefinite Leave to Remain for Ukraine refugees](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/no-indefinite-leave-to-remain-for-ukraine-refugees/) - Refugees from Ukraine still face uncertainty as the UK Government won’t allow them to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain
- [Facing down the challenge of the Reform Party and Trumpian politics](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/facing-down-the-challenge-of-the-reform-party-and-trumpian-politics/) - The struggle against right wing parties such as Reform is real. What do these parties stand for and how can we defeat them?
- [The voters’ first review of the new government](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-voters-first-review-of-the-new-government/) - Due to the resignation of Labour MP Mike Amesbury, the inevitable Runcorn and Helsby by-election will provide the government with its first electoral review
- [Endangered Exmoor ponies to help developers meet biodiversity targets](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/endangered-exmoor-ponies-to-help-developers-meet-biodiversity-targets/) - Hardy Exmoor ponies to help revive local wildlife and restore biodiversity in Horwich
- [River Rescue Kit helps campaigners to fight sewage pollution](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/river-rescue-kit-helps-campaigners-to-fight-sewage-pollution/) - A River Rescue Kit, designed by Prof Jamie Woodward, can help volunteers take action against sewage pollution in their local waterways
- [UK Government: no plans to cap political donations](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/uk-government-no-plans-cap-political-donations/) - An online petition asking the government to tighten the rules on political donations is struggling to attract public support
- [Planning a funeral: a step-by-step guide](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/planning-a-funeral-a-step-by-step-guide/) - Planning a funeral or cremation after the loss of a loved one is not an easy task. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you
- [Is the UK heading towards a Military Keynesianism?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/is-the-uk-heading-towards-a-military-keynsianism/) - With the US planning to reduce military assistance in Europe, and the UK needing to improve its economy, is Military Keynesianism the answer?
- [An Everton comedy-drama and other shows](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/an-everton-comedy-drama-and-other-shows/) - A remarkable year for Wirral Actor Christopher Lee-Power with an appearance in a comedy-drama about Everton Football club among his work
- ['Lost at School' by Ross Greene PhD – a review](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/lost-at-school-by-ross-greene-phd-a-review/) - Many children struggle with the traditional school classroom setting – the book 'Lost at School' explores why
- [Horror story novel, set in the Lake District, inspired by the author's childhood](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/books/horror-story-novel-set-in-the-lake-district-inspired-by-the-authors-childhood/) - Leyland man Tom Watts has released a horror story inspired by his own childhood in the Lake District, after being mentored by a Hollywood screenwriter
- [Dentists warn Government on dangers of over-prescribing antibiotics](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/dentists-warn-government-on-dangers-of-over-prescribing-antibiotics/) - Antibiotics, or a face-to-face dental appointment for a toothache? Now the Covid risk is less, we need to consider antibiotic prescribing and the resulting resistance
- [What is identity theft and how can you protect yourself against it?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/identity-theft-how-can-you-protect-yourself/) - Identity theft is common and many people fall victim to it. How can you reduce the risk?
- [Bury Council is fining car drivers for violating the new red route](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/bury-council-is-fining-car-drivers-for-violating-the-new-red-route/) - Bury Council installed a red route in December 2024, and promptly started fining car drivers in January 2025
- [Is Labour really ‘coming for the pensioners’?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-labour-really-coming-for-the-pensioners/) - Is the Conservative Party fair in accusing Labour of ‘contempt for pensioners’?
- [Plans to clean up the River Mersey](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/plans-to-clean-up-the-river-mersey/) - Liverpool City Region, United Utilities and River Trust have signed the agreement to tackle pollution in the River Mersey
- [The Rule of Law – why should we care?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-rule-of-law-why-should-we-care/) - Rule of Law is no longer an accepted norm it seems, with politicians trying to diverge from it. What exactly is “Rule of Law”?
- [Is a Combined Authority right for Lancashire?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-a-combined-authority-right-for-lancashire/) - Lancashire has a new Combined Authority, but why did it happen and how will it work?
- [Trumperies](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/trumperies/) - ‘I hold all the cards’, Trump told Zelenskyy in their Oval Office brawl. Ah yes, but who holds the trump cards in their game?
- [Recall petition: a guide to what happens to Mike Amesbury MP](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/recall-petition-a-guide-to-what-happens-to-mike-amesbury-mp/) - When an MP is convicted of an offence, what happens to their position in Parliament? How does a recall work?
- [Reactions to earth's follies: week 3. A Martian's thoughts about ongoing terrestrial tomfoolery](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-3/) - Week 3 of Martian reaction to our earthly follies, and our correspondent doesn’t hold back! With a new Martian drinking song at the end.
- [New disabled parking bays won’t be enforced](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/new-disabled-parking-bays-wont-be-enforced/) - Pay for a disabled parking bay outside your house, but don't expect Bolton Council to enforce it. "We expect motorists to be courteous"
- [Detention for getting less than 90% on a test](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/detention-for-getting-less-than-90-on-a-test/) - Child given detention for getting less than 90% on a test – psychology shows there are far better ways to motivate students
- [Bridget Jones is Mad About the Boy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/bridget-jones-mad-about-the-boy/) - The film ‘Mad About the Boy’, based on a book about Bridget Jones, is now in cinemas in the UK. Is it worth going to see it?
- [A new direction: should the UK rethink its relationship with China?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/trade/a-new-direction-should-the-uk-rethink-its-relationship-with-china/) - The UK and China may not have been the closest trading partners lately, but is it time to strengthen the relationship?
- [Eight years on: the explosion that shattered New Ferry](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/eight-years-on-the-explosion-that-shattered-new-ferry/) - Christopher Power reflects on the night that changed everything – the explosion at New Ferry. Did the community manage to rebuild?
- [Journaling – a powerful mental health aid for adults](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/journaling-a-powerful-mental-health-aid-for-adults/) - Journaling can help organise your thoughts, work through events and feelings, and generally improve mental health
- [Young emerging acting talent sought in Merseyside](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/young-emerging-acting-talent-sought-in-merseyside/) - Christopher Lee-Power seeks emerging acting talent for Breaking Free at local theatre festival in Merseyside
- [Reactions to Earth’s Follies: Week 2 (A Martian perspective on terrestrial tomfoolery)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/reactions-to-earths-follies-week-2/) - Our Martian correspondent gives us his unique views and thoughts on the news and follies of the past week on Earth
- [Superleague Formula: ‘The Beautiful Race’ that never crossed the finish line](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/superleague-formula-the-beautiful-race-that-never-crossed-the-finish-line/) - The Superleague Formula only lasted a few years, and never became the success its founders had hoped for
- [Parking fees: should I park, or should I go?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/parking-fees-should-i-park-or-should-i-go/) - Parking fees in Lymm and Stockton Heath are being reviewed, with Warrington Council looking to increase fees and lessen free parking
- [Parading around as an MP after he lost his seat](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/parading-around-as-an-mp-after-he-lost-his-seat/) - An MP loses his seat, keeps the Parliament sign on his office, and blames Labour tax policy for the sign not having been removed.
- [The second presidency of Donald Trump: dark days ahead](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/the-second-presidency-of-donald-trump-dark-days-ahead/) - What can we expect from Trump’s presidency, anything good? Or are we in for a world of trouble?
- [Keep your independence longer with these simple changes in the kitchen](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/keep-your-independence-longer-with-these-simple-changes-in-the-kitchen/) - To keep your independence as long as possible, there are simple adjustments you can make in the kitchen. They will enable you to look after yourself longer
- [What is happening to our local bank branches?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/what-is-happening-to-our-local-bank-branches/) - Bank branches are disappearing all over the country. Why is this happening, and do people even miss them?
- [Harold Pinter returns to Bolton stage, 65 years on](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/harold-pinter-returns-to-bolton-stage-65-years-on/) - A new production of The Birthday Party in Bolton has revived memories of Pinter’s 1959 visit – when the leading lady took him into her bed
- [From a Belfast Sink to the screen](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/christopher-lee-power-from-belfast-sink-to-the-screen/) - How Liverpool born actor Christopher Lee-Power overcame a difficult childhood to become an acting success
- [Valentine’s Day – romantic or commercialised?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/valentines-day-romantic-or-commercialised/) - What is the origin of Valentine’s Day, and should we continue celebrating it or should we abandon the tradition?
- [Promising young chefs can compete for an award](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/promising-young-chefs-can-compete-for-an-award/) - An initiative to support the next generation of young chefs has been launched by two highly respected hospitality businesses – with a £10K prize pot
- [Women’s team to pull car up Lakeland mountain pass](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/womens-team-to-pull-car-up-lakeland-mountain-pass/) - A women’s team intends to pull a car all the way to the top of the Lake District’s highest road pass on Mothers Day
- [Should High Peak be part of Derbyshire or Greater Manchester?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/should-high-peak-be-part-of-derbyshire-or-greater-manchester/) - High Peak is traditionally Derbyshire territory, but calls are increasing to change that to Greater Manchester
- [A Reply: A letter from a worried Martian.](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/a-reply-a-letter-from-a-worried-martian/) - Reply and counter reply: Understanding humans have replied to the worried Martian, but it may not be enough to allay the Martian's worries
- [Adventure onto the water in the Lake District](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/adventure-onto-the-water-in-the-lake-district/) - A weekend of adventure on the water to learn paddleboarding is being offered at a Bowness hotel in the Lake District
- [National award shortlisting recognises Law students’ volunteer work](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/national-award-shortlisting-recognises-law-students-volunteer-work/) - Law students have been shortlisted for a prestigious national award recognising their volunteer work with survivors of domestic abuse
- [UK peatlands under threat due to climate change](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/uk-peatlands-under-threat-due-to-climate-change/) - Peatlands in the UK are suffering from the effects of climate change. We need local and international measures to protect them
- [Guardian journalist to talk about Hillsborough legal failure](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/guardian-journalist-to-talk-about-hillsborough-legal-failure/) - A planned lecture by a journalist about the legal failings after the Hillsborough disaster, which led to the families having to fight for justice
- [Almost 2 million people in the UK didn’t have the right ID to vote in 2024](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/have-the-right-id-to-vote-in-2024/) - Voter ID, as made compulsory by the Tory Government in 2023, prevented a lot of people from being able to vote
- [Absurdistan](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/absurdistan/) - From an unwilling immigrant in a new country, or a long term citizen who doesn't know their own country anymore?
- [Fracking nightmares to return](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/fracking-nightmares-to-return/) - Today’s angry exchanges in the House of Commons show disharmony and unease across the House when it comes to fracking of shale gas
- [Is Blackpool scrapping its beloved Heritage Trams?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/is-blackpool-scrapping-its-beloved-heritage-trams/) - Locals are fighting to protect the town’s heritage tram service which has been temporarily suspended
- [Can Democracy Survive Elon Musk?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/can-democracy-survive-elon-musk/) - Democracy in the world appears at risk, with low voters’ turnouts and media giants influencing those who do vote
- [Three things to look out for to avoid falling victim to loan fraud](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/three-things-to-look-out-for-to-avoid-falling-victim-to-loan-fraud/) - Scammers are active all the time, and they are after your money. Loan fraud is one of the ways they do this
- [Record levels of drones drop drugs and weapons over HMP Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/greater-manchester/record-levels-of-drones-drop-drugs-and-weapons-over-hmp-manchester/) - Drugs and weapons delivered to inmates at Manchester prison by drones, through a hole melted in a window. You couldn’t make it up
- [Mother in Gaza is “swinging between hope and fear” following ceasefire announcement](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/mother-in-gaza-is-swinging-between-hope-and-fear-following-ceasefire-announcement/) - Amira and her family were displaced from their home in Gaza due to the war. Amira shared with me how she feels now the ceasefire has been announced
- [New study reveals how bullying impacts teenage mental health](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/new-study-reveals-how-bullying-impacts-teenage-mental-health/) - Bullying is an age old problem, and can seriously affect the mental health of the victims. This study concentrates on the impact on teenagers
- [Winter pressures in the NHS](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/winter-pressures-in-the-nhs/) - As winter pressures affect the working of an already stretched to the limit NHS, Dr Tait shares some of her family's experiences with emergency departments
- [Better Man review: Don’t knock it ‘til you watch it](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/better-man-review-dont-knock-it-til-you-watch-it/) - Is it Robbie or is it a monkey? Mary Ormerod watched Better Man for us
- [Cumberland Council rejects farm inheritance tax motion](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/cumberland-council-rejects-farm-inheritance-tax-motion/) - Abolishing inheritance tax reliefs for farms, which was put in place by Margaret Thatcher, turns out to be one of Labour’s (many) controversial decisions
- [Forest bathing: a natural remedy for mental health](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/forest-bathing-a-natural-remedy-for-mental-health/) - The practice of forest bathing can have remarkable effects on both physical and mental health
- [Is the UK Government committed to cash?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-the-uk-government-committed-to-cash/) - Is using cash to pay a bill still acceptable or should we all change over to electronic payments?
- [Scrapping the personal statement – sink or swim?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/scrapping-the-personal-statement-sink-or-swim/) - The personal statement has been part of the university application system for years but will soon be disappearing
- [Is Rachel Reeves’ budget the real cause of the latest economic slowdown?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/is-rachel-reeves-budget-the-real-cause-of-the-latest-economic-slowdown/) - Was Rachel Reeves’ budget solely to blame for the economic woes of the present? Chris May explains the real causes behind our economic slowdown
- [Musk claim a stinker with fans](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/musk-claim-a-stinker-with-fans/) - The claim that Musk would like to buy LFC did not go down well with fans. Elon does not have a good enough track record as a businessman for this particular fan
- [From nonconformist preacher and cotton mill owner to Egyptologist](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/history/from-nonconformist-preacher-and-cotton-mill-owner-to-egyptologist/) - A multi-talented character, Aquila Dodgson, goes from being a preacher to cotton spinner and mill owner, becoming a noted Egyptologist
- [No Elon, just no – not our Liverpool FC](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/no-elon-just-no-not-our-liverpool-fc/) - No Mr Elon Musk, we do not want you to buy Liverpool Football Club. Not now, not ever. From a lifelong LFC fan
- [Procrastin, imp of procrastination?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/procrastin-imp-of-procrastination/) - Is procrastination caused by an inner voice? How can we beat it?
- [Will Labour finally deliver on social care?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/will-labour-finally-deliver-on-social-care/) - Labour needs to come up with a plan to improve social care, increase funding and help people leave hospital to go home
- [No plans to restrict fossil fuel advertising](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/no-plans-to-restrict-fossil-fuel-advertising/) - Banning fossil fuel companies from advertising or sponsoring might change public opinion about the fuel. But will the government go that far?
- [Charity donations for university’s annual ‘Give Back’ campaign](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/charity-donations-for-universitys-annual-give-back-campaign/) - Students and staff collect charity donations and volunteer for Chester University’s annual ‘Give Back’ campaign
- [What do Ryebank Fields mean for Manchester?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/what-do-ryebank-fields-mean-for-manchester/) - The rewilded area of Ryebank Fields in Manchester is under danger of development. Local residents are working to stop this and preserve the wildlife haven in their region
- [I worked a shift with the unsung heroes of Merseyside you’ll likely never see](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/i-worked-a-shift-with-the-unsung-heroes-of-merseyside-youll-likely-never-see/) - Merseyside gritting heroes were out in force to help the region cope with the snow
- [Floods took authorities ‘by surprise’ Andy Burnham says](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/floods-took-authorities-by-surprise-andy-burnham-says/) - No particular warning given, Andy Burnham says as Greater Manchester floods on New years Day appear to have surprised the authorities
- [A traditional New Year’s Eve Dutch style](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/a-traditional-new-years-eve-dutch-style/) - New Year’s Eve is celebrated a bit differently in most countries, and the Dutch traditionally serve oliebollen for their celebration
- [Can diet boost mental health and help doing exams?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/can-diet-boost-mental-health-and-help-doing-exams/) - Exams at school may leave someone feeling anxious or depressed. Is there a way to feel and cope better by adjusting your diet?
- [Wishing everyone a happy and festive day](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/wishing-everyone-a-happy-and-festive-day/) - Wishing everyone a happy and festive day, whether you celebrate a specific festival or not.
- [The ways the smartphone industry is becoming more sustainable](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/the-ways-the-smartphone-industry-is-becoming-more-sustainable/) - The smartphone industry needs to become more sustainable, and is actually making moves that way, helping you chose a greener mobile.
- [Rail disruption in the UK is so common that the economic damage it causes is barely noticed – but change is possible](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/rail-disruption-in-the-uk/) - Rail disruption is costing the country- investment is urgently needed
- [Discovering the Christmas menu at Thatch and Thistle, Nelson](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/discovering-the-christmas-menu-at-thatch-and-thistle-nelson/) - The Christmas menu at the Thatch and Thistle did not disappoint, with a traditional roast dinner and mouth watering starters and deserts
- [UK government gives disappointing response to fireworks petition](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/uk-government-gives-disappointing-response-to-fireworks-petition/) - The Government responded to a petition to tighten fireworks regulations after a recent fireworks incident. It wasn’t the response many hoped for
- [Brownfield development at Helsby – what lessons have we learned?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/brownfield-development-at-helsby-what-lessons-have-we-learned/) - After 20 years there are still “forever chemicals” in the ditches at a brownfield development in Helsby. What lessons should we learn?
- [Students reduce waste and help raise more than £23,000 for #PackForGood](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/students-reduce-waste-for-packforgood/) - Students at Chester University donated products they didn’t need anymore, rather than just putting them in the bin
- [UK Government has no plans for action on disinformation](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/uk-government-has-no-plans-for-action-on-disinformation/) - An online petition asking the government to review laws on disinformation is struggling to get the number of signatures needed for a response
- [Why men die young in Blackpool](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/why-men-die-young-in-blackpool/) - ONS figures reveal low life expectancy for men in Blackpool compared to the rest of the UK
- [30,000 Christmas lights are raising money for Derian House Children’s Hospice](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/christmas-lights-are-raising-money-for-derian-house-childrens-hospice/) - The annual ‘Highgate Christmas Lights’ has returned, with over 30,000 Christmas lights raising money for Derian House Children’s Hospice
- [The twelve days of a 'bah humbug' Christmas](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/the-twelve-days-of-a-bah-humbug-christmas/) - It’s the Christmas countdown
- [Left conservatism: reactionary populism in disguise?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/left-conservatism-reactionary-populism-in-disguise/) - Is the new movement to left conservatism just rightwing populism in new clothes?
- [Lioness legend to speak at enterprise awards celebration](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/sport/lioness-legend-to-speak-at-enterprise-awards-celebration/) - Lioness Izzy will speak at the High Sheriff of Chester Enterprise Awards ceremony in 2025
- [Nuclear, wind and solar power – is Lancashire going green(er)?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nuclear-wind-and-solar-power-is-lancashire-going-greener/) - Lancashire’s new energy and utility projects promise to concentrate on nuclear, wind and solar power
- [On the highway to Barrow: the Hairy Bikers](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/on-the-highway-to-barrow-the-hairy-bikers/) - The BBC celebrates twenty five years of Dave Myers and Si King, the Hairy Bikers, and gives out three great recipes of theirs
- [Quick climate dictionary: what actually is a carbon footprint?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/quick-climate-dictionary-what-actually-is-a-carbon-footprint/) - We all have a carbon footprint. Everything does. But what causes it, and how can we reduce the impact?
- [Fireworks – should we  tighten regulations?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/fireworks-should-we-tighten-regulations/) - After a recent death caused by fireworks, a petition asks for the government to tighten regulations
- [Brownfield development at Helsby and the saga of Hornsmill Brook](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/brownfield-development-at-helsby-and-the-saga-of-hornsmill-brook/) - Why is Hornsmill Brook in Helsby still polluted with “forever” chemicals, after 20 years of redevelopment following government guidelines?
- [Middleton – a town with an impressive architectural legacy](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/middleton-a-town-with-an-impressive-architectural-legacy/) - Architect Edgar Wood left an impressive architectural legacy in Middleton with the structures he designed there
- [Rethinking how we measure economic activity](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/rethinking-how-we-measure-economic-activity/) - The Office of National Statistics has announced an alternative to GDP; Christopher May assesses the value of the new economic metric
- [Skyrocketing energy bills: families battle rising costs this festive season](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/skyrocketing-energy-bills-families-battle-rising-costs-this-festive-season/) - The upcoming holidays are a source of worry for many families as they struggle with the rising energy bills and food costs
- [Techno loving ‘goth gran’ celebrates 50 years as dementia nurse](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/techno-loving-goth-gran-celebrates-50-years-as-dementia-nurse/) - Erika Slater, a community nurse in Stockport, celebrates 50 years caring for patients with young onset dementia
- [The social media shift: why Twitter unravelling was inevitable](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/why-twitter-unravelling-was-inevitable/) - Elon Musk was the catalyst, but the ideological struggle of Twitter made its collapse inevitable
- [The Jungle Book – now an exciting theatre show](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/the-jungle-book-now-an-exciting-theatre-show/) - This theatre adaptation of The Jungle Book is full of magic, which will enthral viewers
- [Ribble Valley water pollution scandal – United Utilities needs to act](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/pollution/ribble-valley-water-pollution-scandal-united-utilities-needs-to-act/) - Poor water quality of the River Ribble at the Ribble Valley beauty-spot shows need for action on pollution, says charity
- [Celebrate the Season: Manchester Christmas Markets are Back for 2024](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/manchester-christmas-markets-2024/) - Wrap up warm and experience the magic of Manchester’s Christmas Markets offering delicious food, handcrafted gifts, Christmas Light Trail and an Ice rink
- [Horrocks, Crabtree and Gascoigne – seventeenth century astronomy pioneers of the North](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/horrocks-crabtree-and-gascoigne-astronomy-pioneers/) - Pioneers from the North of England played a big role in our knowledge of astronomy, through their prediction of the path of Venus around the sun
- [’Twas the night before Crimbo (Gen-Z remix)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/twas-the-night-before-crimbo-gen-z-remix/) - ‘Twas the night before a Gen-Z Crimbo
- [UK Government again says ‘no’ to rejoining the EU](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/uk-government-again-says-no-to-rejoining-the-eu/) - The government insists there will be no return to the EU – does that mean it is all over for those seeking to rejoin?
- [‘Twas the night before Christmas (Millennial Remix)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/twas-the-night-before-christmas-millennial-remix/) - ‘Twas the night before a millennial Christmas…
- [Who wins from tariffs?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/who-wins-from-tariffs/) - The re-election of Donald Trump as US president promises to deliver tariffs, which threaten to have a negative impact on the American people
- [Sustainability and home renovation: why and how](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/sustainability-and-home-renovation-why-and-how/) - Transform your home into an eco-friendly haven with these tips on sustainability that make going green easier than ever
- [Ark: United States v Laurie Anderson](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/ark-united-states-v-laurie-anderson/) - Ark: United States v Laurie Anderson – this incredible show is on now at Factory International, Manchester – if you can see it, do!
- [The importance of proper wastewater disposal](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/the-importance-of-proper-wastewater-disposal/) - Wastewater, produced at many places, is a serious problem for the environment and public health. But it can be treated to reduce the damage
- [Why you should be old enough to vote at 16](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/why-you-should-be-old-enough-to-vote-at-16/) - Teenagers aged 16 and 17 are considered capable of making life-changing decisions and working, so why can’t they vote too?
- [Powering Stanlow using hydrogen - the inside story](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/inside-the-project-to-power-the-stanlow-refinery-using-hydrogen/) - The Stanlow refinery is being converted to hydrogen power with government help. Will it work? What does it mean for the local population?
- [Should we be culling grey squirrels?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/should-we-be-culling-grey-squirrels/) - Grey squirrels are not native in the UK, and are said to be a threat to red squirrels. But does that mean we should cull them?
- [Marco’s New York Italian restaurant brings a slice of La Dolce Vita to Blackpool](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/marcos-new-york-italian-restaurant-la-dolce-vita-blackpool/) - A review of the prix fixe menu in new Blackpool restaurant Marco’s New York Italian, created by celebrity chef Marco Pierre White
- [Fear](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/fear/) - Fear, hate and doubt – a poem
- [Unholy Disarray](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/unholy-disarray/) - With the re-election of number 45 in America, the world is in disarray
- [When going home for Christmas could be a death sentence](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/when-going-home-for-christmas-could-be-a-death-sentence/) - A family-of-six are pleading for help as they face up to the prospect of being homeless this Christmas
- [Grieving mourners ordered to ‘kindly’ take non-natural items off graves](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/mourners-take-items-off-graves/) - Toys, pictures and flowers are often placed on graves by those left behind. But Cumbria Council has asked mourners not to do this
- [Rising vet fees leave pet owners facing tough choices – and vets often bear the brunt](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/rising-vet-fees/) - Vet fees are under scrutiny. What is happening and how does it affect pet owners and veterinary staff?
- [VisitEngland Accolades for North West favourites](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/visitengland-accolades-for-north-west-favourites/) - VisitEngland promotes tourism, by handing out accolades to venues that have excelled. The Avro Heritage Museum is among this years winners
- [Trump’s comeback: what can Labour learn from America’s new reality?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/trumps-comeback-what-can-labour-learn-from-americas-new-reality/) - Understanding the how and why of Trump's re-election will be key to Labour staying in power
- [Cinderella: After The Prince's Ball(s)](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/cinderella-after-the-princes-balls/) - After The Prince’s Ball(s) is an adult comedy about Cinderella, in which Prince Charming and his friends journey through a broken Pantoverse
- [Out of this darkness](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/out-of-this-darkness/) - With the world in darkness, what may come out of it all?
- [Children](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/children/) - Who looks after the children of the world? A poem
- [What are you going to do for Christmas?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/what-are-you-going-to-do-for-christmas/) - A Christmas fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society – buy a song and help fight dementia
- [Why, in opposition to Farage, progressives must argue for free movement and open borders](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/migration/progressives-must-argue-for-free-movement-and-open-borders/) - Free movement and open borders are essential for the economy, no matter what the likes of Farage and Trump say
- [Deconstructing race: postmodernism, privilege, and the power of identity](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/deconstructing-race-postmodernism-privilege-and-the-power-of-identity/) - From a postmodern philosophical perspective, race is a social construct. How, then, do we best deal with ongoing white privilege and racism?
- [Could social housing bonds be part of the answer to the housing crisis?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/could-social-housing-bonds-be-part-of-the-answer-to-the-housing-crisis/) - Funding needed for social housing is massive, and this article offers a novel approach, to be known as national social housing bonds
- [Elon Musk – $56 billion richer?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/elon-musk-56-billion-richer/) - Will Tesla proprietor Musk walk away with $50bn (or more), or will a legal challenge stop this from happening?
- [Real hope, real trains or why the Green Party changed its mind on HS2](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/real-hope-real-trains-green-party-hs2/) - The Green Party voted on HS2 at their conference, and the results were surprising to many
- [A new lease of life for workers in the Lake District](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/a-new-lease-of-life-for-workers-in-the-lake-district/) - The Lake District Hotels Association is at the forefront of employing older people, which has advantages both for businesses and for employees
- [North’s transport links set for major transformation](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/transport/norths-transport-links-set-for-major-transformation/) - A major upgrade to the transport links in the North of England is due to make changes for travellers and reduce emissions
- [Dressing up your dog? Not a good idea.](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/dressing-up-your-dog-not-a-good-idea/) - Dressing up the dog in a Christmas outfit? Surely it will look cute? But be aware, it might actually harm your pet!
- [Xylitol – one of the many foodstuffs that can kill our pets](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/xylitol-one-of-the-many-foodstuffs-that-can-kill-our-pets/) - Vet warns “even a small amount of xylitol can cause seizures or death in dogs”
- [Are robots in classrooms the answer to pupil attendance?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/education/are-robots-in-classrooms-the-answer-to-pupil-attendance/) - School attendance has dropped dramatically since lockdown and robots may provide a solution
- [Five ways the budget shows Rachel Reeves is thinking long-term more than the Tories ever did](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/five-ways-the-budget-shows-long-term-planning/) - Chancellor Rachel Reeves presented the Labour government's first budget, with seems to be a long-term plan.
- [A walk to Overexposed – the Bleaklow Bomber](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/a-walk-to-overexposed-the-bleaklow-bomber/) - The wreckage of the Bleaklow bomber - a B-29 that went down in November 1948 - is still visible on a remote plateau near Manchester
- [Elon Musk’s AI startup – not-so-artificial legal challenges](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/elon-musks-ai-startup-not-so-artificial-legal-challenges/) - Elon Musk has founded a new artificial intelligence company, but it is alleged he has done so by misappropriating Tesla’s assets and commercial opportunities
- [Elon Musk and Tesla – 99 (legal) problems](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/elon-musk-and-tesla-99-legal-problems/) - Tesla and its proprietor Elon Musk appear to be facing strong headwinds on numerous fronts. Can they both survive them?
- [Elon Musk and the illusion of full self-driving](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/elon-musk-and-the-illusion-of-full-self-driving/) - The much-hyped ‘full self-driving capabilities’ for Tesla that Musk promised has not yet materialised and now people are starting to take legal action
- [Could Tesla go bankrupt?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/could-tesla-go-bankrupt/) - Tesla’s car business is slowly dying, but Musk makes yet more bold promises for the future. Can Tesla, the cash cow of his empire, survive?
- [Book of Horror vol. II by 4am Productions – ambitious and playful](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/book-of-horror-vol-ii-by-4am-productions-ambitious-and-playful/) - Book of Horror volume II was a night to remember – a scarefest blending horror, humour, and biting social commentary
- [Labour suspends MP who punched constituent](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/labour-suspends-mp-who-punched-constituent/) - Labour MP suspended after being caught on video punching a constituent to the ground.
- [A scary time is coming for dementia patients](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/a-scary-time-is-coming-for-dementia-patients/) - We are approaching Halloween and Diwali, two occasions that may prove to be scary and anxiety inducing for those with dementia. What can we do?
- [2000 subscribers celebrate the journey of Genius Loci Digest](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/subscribers-celebrate-genius-loci-digest/) - Andy Marshall, an architectural photographer and storyteller, is delighted to announce that Genius Loci Digest has reached 2000 subscribers
- [Mental health in seniors: strategies for reducing loneliness and anxiety](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health-in-seniors-strategies-for-reducing-loneliness-and-anxiety/) - Many seniors suffer loneliness and anxiety, and physical problems can make their mental health even worse. What can be done to help them?
- [Cumbria residents left short-changed over bin collections?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/cumbria-residents-left-short-changed-over-bin-collections/) - If you pay your council tax, should you be able to expect something in return? Such as your rubbish bin getting emptied? Not in Cumbria it seems
- [Council asks 50 alleged sex abuse victims for ‘expert medical reports’](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/crime-and-justice/council-asks-50-alleged-sex-abuse-victims-for-expert-medical-reports/) - 66 people have claimed they suffered horrific abuse at the hands of Ian Farquharson, a former headteacher at Formby High School
- [How foster family changed young Lancashire man’s life](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/how-foster-family-changed-young-lancashire-mans-life/) - How foster care helped one young man turn his life around
- [No rest from politics in Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/no-rest-from-politics-in-manchester/) - The Rest is Politics podcast is very popular – but can it be translated to the huge O2 Apollo arena in Manchester?
- [Steel – a play that packs a punch](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/tv-film-and-theatre/steel-a-play-that-packs-a-punch/) - Steel is an intense theatre play with fun and serious issues that keep you focussed
- [Free speech vs public safety – a modern dilemma](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/free-speech-vs-public-safety-a-modern-dilemma/) - How the digital age has made guarding our right to free speech more complex and challenging
- [Romeo and Juliet at Theatre by the Lake](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/romeo-and-juliet-at-theatre-by-the-lake/) - Theatre by the Lake’s Romeo and Juliet is an inspired retelling of the tale, capturing the essence of the story in a relaxed, modern setting
- [Does English only belong to native speakers?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/culture-language-and-religion/does-english-only-belong-to-native-speakers/) - As the English language is spoken worldwide, it is no surprise it comes in many different varieties, and there is not one correct one
- [How quality rest enhances learning and retention](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/how-quality-rest-enhances-learning-and-retention/) - Rest and sleep are very important to help your brain learn and for retention of information
- [Labour’s social care silence: where’s the plan?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opinion/labours-social-care-silence-wheres-the-plan/) - Labour’s first few months in government have been incredibly busy, yet they are still to address social care
- [Finding my new shoes: leaving Colombia for student life in Belfast](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/finding-my-new-shoes-leaving-colombia-for-student-life-in-belfast/) - One student’s experience of self-discovery, from Colombia to Belfast, from one country with a history of conflict to another
- [Hedgehog champion awarded international accolade](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/nature-and-wildlife/hedgehog-champion-awarded-international-accolade/) - As hedgehogs are under threat in the UK, a student at University of Chester has been awarded an international accolade for his work in hedgehog conservation
- [Labour introduces renters’ rights bill](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/labour-introduces-renters-rights-bill/) - Private renters need protection from unscrupulous landlords, but is Labour’s renters' rights bill likely to improve things?
- [Can citizens’ assemblies solve our problems?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/can-citizens-assemblies-solve-our-problems/) - Ireland has tried citizens’ assemblies. But why did they fail to impress some critics?
- [Martyn’s Law had its first reading in the Commons](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/martyns-law-had-its-first-reading-in-the-commons/) - After the Manchester Arena bombing, calls for changes to the way big venues handle security caused the submission of Martyn’s Law to Parliament
- [Germany’s traffic light coalition is go!](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/germanys-traffic-light-coalition-is-go/) - Progressives in Britain who are interested in the politics of coalitions could learn a lot from Germany’s new 'traffic light' coalition
- [I’m Lizzie, Fly me](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/im-lizzie-fly-me/) - How can it cost £500,000 to send Foreign Secretary Liz Truss to Australia and back?
- [Left With No Choice: Hong Kong couple flee to Manchester under Chinese security law](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/left-with-no-choice-hong-kong-couple-flee-to-manchester-under-chinese-security-law/) - Due to restrictive Chinese security laws in Hong Kong, there are more and more Hong Kong citizens coming to the UK for safety.
- [Walking in the North West: right to roam under threat ](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/walking-in-the-north-west-right-to-roam-under-threat/) - Andrea Milne writes about how our right to roam the countryside is under threat in the North West of England.
- [Liverpool's colonial statue of Major-General Earle](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/liverpools-colonial-statue-of-major-general-earle/) - Liverpool has an impressive statue of Major-General William Earle, but the Imperial legacy of the bronze statue makes it problematic.
- [Beware of prime ministers bearing gifts](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/covid/beware-of-prime-ministers-bearing-gifts/) - Recently the prime minister decided to relax covid rules and restore an element of ‘freedom’. However, this gift of choice comes at a cost.
- [The last BBC Licence Fee announcement of all ](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/bbc-licence-fee/) - Dave Edwards attempts to put some perspective on one of the strangest BBC Licence Fee announcements of them all.
- [Upscaling, upskilling, uplevelling – a time for critical thinking ](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/upscaling-upskilling-uplevelling-critical-thinking/) - Critical thinking is a key skill that businesses want from future employees yet most graduates can't confidently demonstrate it.
- [Levelling up the North West: a token effort](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/levelling-up-the-north-west-a-token-effort/) - A good understanding of the country and global economy ought to be at the centre of levelling up plans, but this still seems to be missing
- [Five great towns to visit in Lancashire to take some fabulous photographs](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/five-great-towns-to-visit-in-lancashire-to-take-some-fabulous-photographs/) - Professional photographer Jamie Robinson showcases five towns in the historic county of Lancashire to visit to take some photographs.
- [Do we have the right to repair our electronics?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/technology/right-to-repair-electronics/) - Dominic Jackson discusses whether consumers or third parties have the right to repair our electronic devices.
- [Universal Basic Income - Could it be embraced by the Right?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/universal-basic-income/) - Adam Parkinson writes about whether Universal Basic Income would be embraced by those on the Right of politics.
- [How Warrington Borough Council were shocked by the energy market](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/warrington-borough-council-shocked-by-energy-market/) - Investing in the energy market will lose Warrington Borough Council tens of millions of pounds. How did this happen?
- [Discovery, collaboration, communication: our logo explained  ](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/our-logo-explained-jodrell-bank-lovell-telescope/) - Brian Derby explores the Jodrell Bank Lovell Telescope, its history and why it was the perfect choice of logo for North West Bylines.
- [The UK fire-safety scandal ](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/human-interest/uk-fire-safety-scandal/) - The UK fire-safety scandal doesn’t just involve unsafe cladding, it also involves the government putting profit over people.
- [German comparison shows government’s plan for levelling up is inadequate](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/uk-levelling-up-plan-is-inadequate-compared-to-germany/) - Britain will need a vast amount of investment in its poorer areas to achieve a Levelling Up result similar to Germany.
- [Protesting Putin's war: not in their name](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/not-in-their-name-ukraine-war/) - A photo gives rise to some thoughts on the different ways people find themselves caught up in despot wars.
- [UK government’s response to the Ukrainian crisis - What are we doing?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/uk-government-response-to-ukrainian-crisis/) - The UK’s response to the war in Ukraine falls short of other countries' responses to aid Ukrainian refugees.
- [A closer look at migration](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/problems-migrants-face/) - Julie Ward explores the history of migration as well as various issues faced by migrants today in both Europe and the UK.
- [Is the Human Rights Act at risk?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/is-the-human-rights-act-at-risk/) - The government's recent actions suggest that common misconceptions about the 1998 Human Rights Act put it at risk.
- [Understanding the Russian Invasion of Ukraine](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/understanding-the-russian-invasion-of-ukraine/) - Gary Wilson writes about the underlying issues and events that have led to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- [Escape from Kyiv into the clutches of the Home Office](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/escape-from-kyiv-into-the-clutches-of-the-home-office/) - How one family escaped from Kyiv at the beginning of the Russian invasion, only to fall foul of an unhelpful UK Home Office.
- [The North West responds to the Ukraine crisis](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/the-north-west-responds-to-the-ukraine-crisis/) - North West Bylines reports on how the region is responding to the Ukraine crisis
- [UK Research and Innovation awards ECMage grant for Liverpool researchers - hoping to explain the ageing process](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/age-uk-awards-ecmage-grant-for-liverpool-researchers-hoping-to-explain-the-ageing-process/) - Liverpool University has been awarded a grant for research into ageing.
- [Stop Putin, Stop the War - if you can get to the protests](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/stop-putin-stop-the-war-if-you-can-get-to-the-protests/) - Since Russia invaded Ukraine, there have been protests against the war. There is another protest this Saturday in London.
- [Is the UK ready to speak to a multilingual world?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/is-the-uk-ready-to-speak-to-a-multilingual-world/) - Language skills in the UK are not good enough for today's multi-lingual international stage. Education is failing.
- [Zombies](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/zombies/) - The assault on truth and reality by Putin’s propaganda machine, as ordinary friends and family become ‘zombies’, immune to rational argument.
- [Homes for Ukraine – can the scheme make a difference?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/homes-for-ukraine-can-the-scheme-make-a-difference/) - The government's Homes for Ukraine Scheme is the way forward to help Ukrainian refugees. Help them get a Visa and a place to stay.
- [The elections bill: democratic principles under threat](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-elections-bill-democratic-principles-under-threat/) - Lord Rennard looks at the government’s controversial elections bill and accuses it of changing the rules unfairly and of voter suppression
- [Living and dealing with anxiety in these volatile and worrying times](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/mental-health/living-and-dealing-with-anxiety-in-these-volatile-and-worrying-times/) - For many with anxiety, the lockdowns were an escape from the pressures to interact socially, for others their mental health deteriorated
- [A 21st century war horse for the 225-year-old Cheshire Yeomanry regiment](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/a-21st-century-war-horse-for-the-225-year-old-cheshire-yeomanry-regiment/) - The Cheshire Yeomanry regiment marks its 225 year anniversary, and a memorial sculpture was commissioned to celebrate this.
- [Lessons learnt for levelling up from our EU experience](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/lessons-learnt-for-levelling-up-from-our-eu-experience/) - What is levelling up, why is it important and what happens now that EU funding has stopped?
- [Open letter to James Daly: Boris Johnson should resign](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/open-letter-to-james-daly-boris-johnson-should-resign/) - Open letter to MP James Daly requesting Boris Johnson to resign
- [Opposition parties agree on electoral co-operation](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/opposition-parties-agree-on-electoral-co-operation/) - Many progressive parties in local councils are already working together, in part because of support by Compass campaigners
- [EMERGE Recycling is looking for investors across Greater Manchester](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/emerge-recycling-looking-for-investors-greater-manchester/) - EMERGE Recycling is looking for investors who want to make a difference to their community in developing a more sustainable future
- [Local elections - who bothers and why?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/local-elections-who-bothers-and-why/) - A pensive on local elections and the lack of campaigning in Winstanley, Wigan
- [A possible new coal mine for Cumbria - climate neutral or not?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/a-possible-new-coal-mine-for-cumbria-climate-neutral-or-not/) - Paul Bright discusses whether the proposed net zero coal mine in Cumbria could be beneficial to climate change.
- [Quest for a pioneering treatment for children with long Covid](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/health/quest-for-a-pioneering-treatment-for-children-with-long-covid/) - Unable to get the help in the UK for her daughter suffering with long covid, Binita Kane took her to Germany. Her improvement has been huge.
- [How do you do, fellow kids: No. 10 appears on TikTok](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/no-10-appears-on-tiktok/) - Number 10 Boris Johnson has joined TikTok but won't be dancing. Social Media reacts.
- [Lancaster’s Festa Italia: sì, sì grazie](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/lancasters-festa-italia-si-si-grazie/) - Following the success of the event last year, Lancaster Festa Italia makes a welcome return, running from 21 to 29 May.
- [The online safety bill: populist censorship, doubling down on past mistakes, or both?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/the-online-safety-bill-populist-censorship-doubling-down-on-past-mistakes-or-both/) - Government attempt to regulate internet communication via the online safety bill is a mix of populist sops, censorship and failure to learn
- [The Way to Cycle Cheshire](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/the-way-to-cycle-cheshire/) - Taking the slow way round the Cheshire Cycle Way allows time to explore this beautiful and multi-faceted county.
- [Local elections in the North West of England – winners and losers, changes and new opportunities across the region](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/local-elections-in-the-northwest-of-england/) - Local council elections in the North West - some parties gained seats, some lost, some remained the same.
- [Home Office absurdities: creating new hurdles for dual citizens of Spanish origin](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/home-office-creating-new-hurdles-for-dual-citizens/) - Spanish dual nationals are liable to fall foul of Home Office rules due to differing national legal conventions
- [About the need for making Britain independent from Russian Oil and tightening sanctions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/about-the-need-of-making-britain-independent-from-russian-oil-and-tightening-sanctions/) - Letter to the editor — why Britain should swiftly free themselves from any dependency on Russian oil
- [Manchester Airport chaos and Brexit](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/brexit/manchester-airport-chaos-and-brexit/) - Manchester Airport flights are cancelled at the last minute due to staff shortages that have been aggravated by covid-19 and Brexit.
- [Time to bring UK democracy into the 21st century](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/time-to-bring-uk-democracy-into-the-21st-century/) - Our outdated voting system encourages extreme politics, is more likely to lead to war, and favours unequal representation – let’s update UK democracy
- [Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to speak to University of Manchester Students](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/zelenskyy-speaks-to-university-of-manchester-students/) - University of Manchester students have a rare opportunity to speak to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy on 10 June 2022.
- [UK’s first cloudy beer](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/local-business/cloudy-beer-chester-beer-uks-first/) - Would you drink cloudy beer? Cloudy beers are now recognised and popular, Rhiannon George Daniel investigates why.
- [The life of pie](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/the-life-of-pie/) - Mike Gregory muses on Orwell and the life of pie as a Northerner.
- [Great Musgrave Bridge - protestors successfully reverse infilling](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/great-musgrave-bridge-protestors-successfully-reverse-infilling/) - National Highways used emergency powers to fill in the Great Musgrave Bridge with concrete, an act of “vandalism” that is now to be reversed
- [How the North West benefitted from the slave trade](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/slavery-and-the-north-west/) - Examining the history of slavery, the role of the North West in the slave trade and how we benefited
- [Green space access is not equal in the UK – and the government isn’t doing enough to change that](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/green-space-access-is-not-equal-in-the-uk-and-the-government-isnt-doing-enough-to-change-that/) - People in Northern cities have less access to parks and green spaces than their Southern counterparts.
- [DriveSafe](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/drivesafe/) - Mike Gregory satirically details a DriveSafe course he did via zoom.
- [Why there’s nothing climate neutral about plans for the Cumbria coal mine](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/why-theres-nothing-climate-neutral-about-plans-for-the-cumbria-coal-mine/) - Estelle Worthington from Friends of the Earth explains why the Cumbria coal mine is not climate neutral or good for climate change.
- [Dairy UK launches campaign to champion sustainable practices in the dairy industry](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/environment/dairy-uk-launches-campaign-to-champion-sustainable-practices-in-the-dairy-industry/) - Dairy UK showcases the UK as world-leaders in sustainability for the dairy industry.
- [“I've never been so scared”: horrific turn of events at Champions League final](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/news/world/ive-never-been-so-scared/) - Peter Rafferty shares his terrifying story of what happened at the Champions League final match between Liverpool and Madrid.
- [Mark Jenkinson, MP for Workington: is he having a laugh?](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/region/workington-deserves-better-than-mark-jenkinson/) - Workington MP, Mark Jenkinson, jokes on twitter about standing as the new Tory leader, Interesting responses from his constituents.
- [Galleries continue to erase women artists in their blockbuster exhibitions](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/lifestyle/women-artists-not-represented-in-galleries/) - The National Gallery collection has less than 1% of art made by women - it's time that women artists became better represented by galleries
- [UK citizens' rights are being taken away](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/uk-citizens-rights-are-being-taken-away/) - Anna Schurer examines how voting, protesting and asylum rights are slowly being taken away from citizens and dual citizens in the UK.
- [Cost of living crisis: what research says about the potential psychological impact](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/economy/cost-of-living-crisis-the-psychological-impact/) - Over 2/3 of low-income private renters in England will be unable to eat and heat their homes at least one day per week because of rising living costs
- [UK political resignations: the current uncertainty could affect the economy for nearly two years](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/business/resignations-and-political-uncertainty-may-affect-economy/) - Research has found that uncertainty about UK economic policy can damage GDP growth - how will Boris' resignation impact the economy?
- [Pressing reset on Conservative values: a plea for One Nation Toryism](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/pressing-reset-on-conservative-values/) - As leadership contenders espouse ever more Johnsonian nationalism, is it possible to contemplate a more moderate and pragmatic conservatism?
- [Revising the Northern Ireland Protocol: why it is a dangerous game](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/politics/revising-the-northern-ireland-protocol/) - Gary Wilson provides a summary of what led to the Northern Ireland protocol being agreed, and why moves to abandon it are so dangerous.

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- [‘Not Just for Christmas’: Dickens’ Christmas stories](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/not-just-for-christmas-dickens-christmas-stories/) - Mike Gregory goes beyond A Christmas Carol, for once, and finds some fresh Dickens nuggets to treasure.
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## Categories

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- [Covid](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/news/health/covid/) - Any articles about Covid, long-Covid, lockdown and the pandemic
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- [NHS](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/news/health/nhs/)
- [Pollution](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/environment/pollution/) - Covering pollution of the seas, air and land
- [Equality](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/news/equality/) - Articles and issues concerning equality
- [Climate Change](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/environment/climate-change/) - Anything to do with climate change
- [Cartoon Series](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/lifestyle/art-craft-photography/cartoon-series/)
- [General Election](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/politics/generalelection/) - Information about the 2024 General Election, candidates, scandals, manifestos and the outcome of the election.
- [Opinion Corner](https://northwestbylines.co.uk/category/opinion-corner/) - Articles giving the opinion of the author (and not necessarily that of North West Bylines) on a range of topics.