The proposal, submitted by developers MacMarshalls, seeks permission in principle for up to four houses on land behind Silver Birch Close, near High Rid Farm.

Planning documents argue the site should be classed as “grey belt” land, meaning it does not strongly contribute to Green Belt purposes, and it is described as a small infill plot between existing development that would “not fundamentally undermine” the wider Green Belt.

The ‘beautiful’ tree helps provide a habitat for animals (Image: NQ)

But people living nearby say the field is anything but expendable.

Charlotte Woodcock, who lives on Silver Birch Close, said the land is centred around a “veteran” oak tree believed to be hundreds of years old.

She said: “It’s irreplaceable.

“It’s a veteran tree which is minimum three hundred years old and it’s beautiful.

A veteran tree is one that is of exceptional age, size or ecological value, often supporting a wide range of wildlife.

She added: “The unique selling point of my house is that it has a view on to this beautiful tree and land that I was told can’t be built on because it is Green Belt land.

“That will be ruined.”

“I will tie myself to the tree if I have to.”

The application, lodged with Bolton Council on April 23, comes as the authority cannot currently demonstrate a five-year housing supply, something the applicant says creates a “demonstrable unmet need” for new homes.

However, residents fear approving the scheme could open the door to further development.

Louise Williams, who also live son Silver Birch Close, said: “For me it’s all around this grey belt, because if this gets approved. It will set a precedent and then where is the line drawn?”

The Green Belt land is adjacent to more which worries residents (Image: NQ)

Wildlife is another key concern, with residents reporting deer and protected bats using the land.

Mature trees and hedgerows are known to act as important habitats and corridors for species, say residents.

Ms Williams said: “These are protected species, which I’m sure love this land and the tree. It’s such a shame for the wildlife.”

The planning statement maintains the site is suitable for development, stating it lies within Flood Zone 1 and suggesting any surface water risk could be addressed through design.

But resident Paul Roberts said existing problems are already evident.

He said: “Flooding can happen quite often especially in winter, the drain that runs along the bottom of all our gardens is full to the brim of water.

“The tree roots help prevent flooding by soaking up the water, if this goes it could risk more flooding.”

The drains run along the bottom of the land to prevent flooding into neighbouring propeorties (Image: NQ)

Andy Dakin, who works in property insurance claims, warned building on the field could make matters worse.

“I work in property insurance claims and see everyday issues the last thing we want to see is the urbanising of this farmland which would significantly increase impermeable surfaces, intensify run-off and materially exacerbate flood risk.”

Access to the site is also being questioned.

High Rid Lane where the proposed access route will be, is described by residents as a narrow, single-track road in parts, with space for only one vehicle at a time

While the application suggests traffic from four homes would be limited, council highways engineers acknowledge the road is “sub-standard in width and forward visibility”, albeit with no objection in principle if improvements are made.

Silver Birch Close residents are ‘not happy’ (Image: NQ)

Residents say that does not reflect reality on the ground.

“I walk a pram down this lane every day and can see first-hand the issues cars face trying to get down a one-track road,” Ms Woodcock said.

“Allowing an access road just wouldn’t be viable.”

There is also frustration over how the plans came to light, with some residents saying they only became aware through Facebook despite claims of consultation.

Planning documents state neighbours were consulted on April 27, but residents say no letters, notices or posters were received or displayed in the area, with many only becoming aware through social media.

Ms Woodcock said “I only found out because of a community group n Facebook.

“If I didn’t go on this page, I would have never of known, and for those older generations that don’t use social media, they won’t have a clue.”

The applicant concludes the scheme represents sustainable development in a location close to shops and transport links.

For residents, however, the issue is more fundamental.

“It’s a whole ecosystem that should just be left,” Ms Woodcock said.

A decision has yet to be made by Bolton Council

MacMarshalls has been contacted for comment.

People gathered at the Sands statue to mark 45 years since the republican’s death amid a row over it being erected without planning permission

A Bobby Sands statue that was erected without planning permission “is going nowhere”, a Sinn Fein MLA has said.

The statue of the IRA hunger striker, who was 27 and an MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone when he died in 1981, was unveiled last year at the Republican Memorial Garden in Twinbrook, west Belfast.

It then emerged that it had been erected without planning permission, although Belfast City Council had not previously taken any action.

A DUP motion before the council on Thursday calling for the matter to be “reconsidered” was passed, with support from other unionists and the Alliance Party.

A Sinn Fein amendment seeking a review of the “current enforcement status of all such structures” across the council area was unsuccessful.

SDLP councillors abstained from the vote, after which west Belfast councillor Paul Doherty resigned from the party, stating that the statue of the IRA hunger striker “holds real significance”.

On Sunday, people gathered at the Sands statue to mark 45 years since the republican’s death.

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Sinn Fein MLA Danny Baker said the hunger strikers, 10 of whom died during the 1981 Maze Prison hunger strike, had inspired “many generations and many generations here to come”.

He told the crowd: “The spirit of the prisoners (and) our communities can never be broken.

“Our opponents were shook to their core last year and will continue to be because we are on a path, a path to Irish unity, based on equality and rights.

“There’s one very simple message I was asked to give today: the statue is going nowhere, not now and not ever.”

Sinn Fein MLA Pat Sheehan told the crowd the emergence of the IRA was “a direct response to the violent and repressive nature of the orange state, layered upon 800 years of British colonial occupation”.

“I say to unionists, save your lectures and your moralising for others,” he said.

“We will commemorate our patriot dead in our own way.”

He compared unionists voting for a reassessment of the Sands statue to efforts by British prime minister Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s to “criminalise” Sands.

“Forty-five years later, today in 2026, those in unionism will also fail,” he said.

“This statue of Bobby Sands has pride of place and will have pride of place here in Twinbrook, in Bobby’s home community for generations to come.

“When all of us here today are dead and gone, and largely forgotten about, Bobby Sands will still be remembered. He and his comrades will remain a beacon of light for freedom-loving people everywhere.”

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On tackling crime in London, she backed more stop-and-search, more live facial recognition in crime hot spots, “immediate justice” with on-the-spot fines for graffiti and anti-social behaviour to “take back our streets,” and 10,000 more police officers nationwide, including many in London.

A vet has shared a 9-point new puppy checklist for dog owners to follow when bringing a puppy home for the first time, covering everything from vaccinations and vet registration to socialisation and training

A veterinary expert has identified nine essential steps that every pet owner should take straight away after welcoming their new puppy home.

Bringing a puppy into your household is both thrilling and often daunting, and according to Jen Wormleighton, Head of Veterinary Services at Animal Friends, the first few months of a puppy’s life constitute a vital period for shaping behaviour, establishing routines and ensuring lifelong wellbeing, , reports the Express.

What every new puppy owner should know…

According to Jen, concentrating on several key fundamentals can help owners in avoiding typical early pitfalls.

1. Know Your Puppy’s Stage Before They Arrive

By eight weeks old, the majority of puppies are weaned, inquisitive, and prepared to learn. It’s beneficial to confirm your puppy’s exact age with the breeder or rescue organisation so you’re aware of their needs upon arrival. This also allows you to arrange matters such as training, feeding schedules, and early routines with assurance.

2. Book Their Vaccinations, Flea and Worming Treatments Straight Away

If your puppy hasn’t had their first vaccinations, arrange them the instant they arrive at your home. Maintain their boosters every 2-4 weeks and keep on top of flea and worming treatments as well. These initial precautions help protect them as they develop and discover their new surroundings.

3. Register with a Vet Before your puppy arrives home

Register them with a vet so you’re fully prepared for routine care, advice and any emergencies. Make sure they are microchipped and update your contact details with the appropriate database, such as Pet Database, to ensure records remain up to date. If you’re adopting, your puppy should have already undergone a health check and received vaccinations, though it’s still worth familiarising yourself with the ongoing responsibilities so you feel ready for the road ahead.

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4. Start Socialisation from Day One

Puppies between eight and twelve weeks old are remarkably receptive to new experiences. This is the ideal opportunity to gently introduce them to new people, sounds, objects and everyday handling. If they haven’t yet completed their vaccinations, carry them outside so they can safely take in the world around them. These small but significant early encounters help nurture a confident, well-adjusted dog.

5. Establish a Simple Toilet Routine

First thing in the morning, after naps, meals and playtime, and approximately every hour in between, take your puppy to their designated toilet spot. Choose the same location each time, such as a patch of grass, and reward them when they get it right. Frequent, consistent trips yield excellent results.

6. Begin Gentle Training on Day One

Basic commands can be introduced as soon as your puppy settles in. Brief sessions using treats and praise will help them learn to sit, come when called and take treats calmly. Keep things enjoyable, relaxed and always end on a positive note.

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7. Offer Chews to Redirect Nipping

Teething occurs early in a puppy’s development, and those tiny teeth can be surprisingly sharp. Keep multiple safe chew toys within easy reach and offer them whenever your pup starts nibbling hands or clothes. This teaches them what’s acceptable to chew while providing relief for sore gums.

8. Restrict Walks Until Full Vaccination

After your puppy has completed their vaccination course, begin with short, gentle walks. Prior to this, limit outdoor exposure to carrying them outside for fresh air and new experiences without risking infection.

9. Create a Daily Routine From the Start

Mealtimes, toilet breaks, rest periods, play sessions and training work most effectively when they occur at approximately the same time each day. A consistent routine helps your puppy feel settled and makes the learning process easier for you both.

“

Kids aren’t getting worse. They’re just, very simply, getting fewer chances to practice being brave humans.

– JJ Kelly, licensed clinical psychologist known as the “Punk Rock Doc.”

These slightly uncomfortable conversations can have long-term positive effects.

How To End A Conversation

How To Disagree Without An Audience

How To Be With Someone Who’s Upset – Without Fixing It

How To Be A Good Witness When Something’s Wrong

How To Lose Well

Straight talk: Awkward conversations are worth the momentary discomfort.

StockPlanets via Getty Images

What can parents do to help get their kids’ social skills back on track?

Reassess the role phones/devices play in your child’s universe.

Reassess how you respond when your child brings conflict home.

Celtic came from behind to win at Easter Road, with Kelechi Iheanacho netting a late winner as Alistair Johnston impressed on his return but Sebastian Tounekti struggled before being hooked.

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Martin O’Neill believes a draw between William Hill Premiership title rivals Hearts and Rangers would be the best result for Celtic after they kept themselves firmly in the three-horse race with a “very edgy” 2-1 victory away to 10-man Hibernian.

Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute after the Hibees – who had Jamie McGrath sent off in the 20th minute – cancelled out Daizen Maeda’s 41st minute opener when Joe Newell notched in first-half stoppage time.

The Hoops moved level on points with the table-topping Jambos – with an inferior goal difference – and four ahead of third-placed Gers. Those two teams play their game in hand against each other at Tynecastle on Monday evening – and both still have to visit Celtic Park.

Here is how the Bhoys rated at Hibs:

VILIJAMI SINISALO

Given freedom to operate as a sweeper keeper for most of the match in Leith but was found wanting for the leveller. He misjudged his attempt before Joe Newell’s controversial effort found the back of the net. The Finland international attempted to maintain tempo with the numerical advantage and found himself unexpectedly busy as Hibs mounted late pressure. 6

ALISTAIR JOHNSTON

A game-changing presence who elevates Celtic whenever he features. His willingness to vary his positioning by drifting wide before surging into central areas proved highly effective. Johnston’s assist for the opening goal capped a tireless display down the right flank. The Canada international deservedly got his rest and his current form is encouraging ahead of the run-in. 8

AUSTON TRUSTY

When the towering American is attempting efforts from distance, you know Celtic are in control. Owen Elding worked hard but found little joy against Trusty and his defensive colleagues. A menace at attacking set pieces, he would have shared the general frustration with the inconsistent quality of delivery on an afternoon when dead-ball situations were plentiful. 6

LIAM SCALES

He slumped to the turf with relief when the whistle blew and the Irish defender gave everything physically. Scales seemed deliberately quickening his distribution and that matched the away side’s early ambitions. He was required to defend resolutely in the dying moments. 6

KIERAN TIERNEY

While he didn’t match Johnston’s impact on the opposite flank, the Scotland international produced a solid performance without any significant mistakes. Sebastian Tounekti, despite his shortcomings, seems well-suited to playing alongside the 28-year-old on the left side, given his preference for cutting infield. Although Tierney remained relatively quiet for extended periods, apart from delivering a few tidy crosses, he sparked into life during the closing stages. 7

ARNE ENGELS

The Belgian midfielder’s distribution fell below his usual standards at Easter Road. With the opposition sitting deep with 10 men behind the ball, his energy couldn’t make an impact, and he failed to provide the goalscoring threat that Martin O’Neill believes he’s capable of. His passing was often wayward and his attempts at clever through balls didn’t come off, though he did finish strongly. 6

CALLUM McGREGOR

The captain elevated his performance at Easter Road. He was both composed in possession and aggressive when winning the ball back. McGregor also showed his willingness to make forward runs and get ahead of play, a characteristic that seems to complement Alistair Johnston’s return to the first team. 7

BENJAMIN NYGREN

While the Swede’s 20-goal haul is clearly impressive, this match offered opportunities to both increase his tally and dominate proceedings. He thrives in the half spaces, yet there were numerous occasions where he hesitated rather than being decisive in crucial moments. Anthony Ralston came on to replace him late in the game. 6

YANG

While not quite the ideal complement to Johnston in the manner Nicolas Kuhn proved to be, the South Korean showed plenty of willingness to exploit space behind a tiring Hibs defence. At 23, he brings natural equilibrium when deployed on the right flank and posed problems in the opening period. However, when that extra touch of class was required, he fell short. Yang continues to be a valuable asset as the season reaches its climax. 6

DAIZEN MAEDA

An absolute bundle of energy from first whistle to last. If his finishing matched his work rate, his valuation would be through the roof. But there’s little point dwelling on weaknesses – the 28-year-old has rediscovered his form and his presence in attacking areas poses a genuine danger to Premiership opponents. He looked electric playing centrally and virtually unstoppable after switching to the left flank. 8

SEBASTIAN TOUNEKTI

The Tunisia international wasn’t flawless upon his introduction but at least demonstrated ambition. The 23-year-old now seems lacking in self-belief as he opts for the cautious option repeatedly. He was withdrawn for James Forrest after 63 minutes, though his substitution could have arrived much earlier. The player who once seemed guilty of overcomplicating matters has been diminished to a peripheral figure. Concerning for both immediate and future prospects. 5

LUKE MCCOWAN (Johnston, 64)

The former Dundee man made his presence felt and his incisive distribution pushed Hibs deeper. The former Dundee man displayed composure in the dying moments to help see out the match. 4 JAMES FORREST: (Tounekti, 64): He came on for Tounekti, prompted Yang to switch flanks and offered a reliable outlet down the right during the closing stages. 4

KELECHI IHEANCHO: (Yang, 70)

His finish was ice cool and summed-up his perfect role in this team. A specialist made for the biggest moments. They call it a closer in baseball and that’s what the Nigeria international is. Potentially a season-defining goal. 7

ANTHONY RALSTON: (Nygren, 77)

Bar a hairy backpass for Sinisalo, the Celtic utility man didn’t put a foot wrong. 4

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The sign is seen commonly at both underground and overground stations, but its purpose and role on the railway network appears to have left many travellers baffled

The purpose of a small sign that appears prominently beside London Underground and overground railway tracks has seemingly left many puzzled for years. Each one displays a series of numbers and letters alongside a slider, which prompted one person to seek answers online.

“What’s this for?” they asked in the London Underground community on Reddit alongside a snap taken of one of the signs at a Tube station. The question received responses from several knowledgeable individuals, with one explaining: “Its a Datum Plate, believe they are used for measuring height and track alignment, so it can be checked during engineering works and safety inspections.”

A second person agreed: “This is right on the money. This is the same as the ones on the National Rail network.”

While a third provided additional detail: “Trackmen use it to ensure the track is at the right level to the platform. My understanding is the track and the slider need to be set to level and everything is okay.

“If it’s way off the would be concern the train could collide with platform. My father fitted these many years ago, I remember having a kitchen full of them one upon a time.”

Then a fourth Reddit user highlighted: “Track datum plate some have red sliders, some are green sliders.

“Red is the current installed position. Green is absolute so basically the designed position.”

On YouTube, railway enthusiast Railway Mayhem suggests datum plates hold the “secret” to keeping the railways running smoothly.

“The coloured block is the key – if they have a red block, it shows where the track was when the plate was first installed, ensuring the train stays at the correct distance from the platform edge,” they explained.

“But if it is a newer green block, that indicates that the ideal track position according to new modern standards.

“Taking into account the speed limit and the slope and incline of the track, engineers use the information from the plates along with precise surveying tools to make adjustments ensuring the track is perfectly aligned for safe and smooth train travel.”

Elsewhere, the Railway Shop, which sells such plates that are no longer in use, states on its website: “Datum plates are fixed to structures (bridges, platforms and overhead line masts, etc.) that are located near the track.

“The details on the plate specify the relative position of the track from said structure, which can then be monitored for movement.”

Ryanair is closing its seven-aircraft base at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, cutting over two million seats a year

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Ryanair is poised to reduce flights from several UK airports following confirmation it will close a significant base in Germany.

The airline has revealed it will shut its seven-aircraft operating base at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) from October 24, 2026. As part of this decision, Ryanair confirmed it will slash its flight capacity to and from the German capital by 50% during its winter timetable, reports the Express.

This means routes between Berlin and UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh are anticipated to be impacted. Ryanair presently operates direct flights from those airports to Berlin multiple times weekly, with journeys lasting approximately two hours.

While the airline has not specified which particular UK routes will be axed, it stated its Berlin passenger numbers will drop from 4.5 million to 2.2 million in 2027. The carrier added that over two million Ryanair seats annually will be lost as a consequence of the closure.

Ryanair confirmed it will maintain services to Berlin, but using aircraft stationed outside Germany. All seven Berlin-based aircraft will be relocated to lower-cost airports in other EU nations, including Sweden, Slovakia, Albania and Italy.

The airline attributed escalating airport charges and aviation taxes in Germany for the move.

Ryanair DAC CEO Eddie Wilson said: “We regret to announce this planned closure of our seven aircraft Berlin base from 24 Oct 2026, but we have no alternative following the Airport’s latest 10% fee increase to its already high airport fees.

“This comes on top of the 50% increase in Berlin’s airport fees since 2019. Despite Berlin Airport losing 30% of its pre-Covid traffic thanks to its excessive airport charges, and Germany’s stupid aviation tax regime, they have now decided to increase charges by a further 10%, which will result in the loss of more than 2m Ryanair seats p.a. and seven based aircraft.

“Ryanair will still serve Berlin but on a/c based outside Germany and our Berlin traffic will fall by 50% from 4.5m to 2.2m pax in 2027.”

He added: “German aviation is broken. The Govt. admits that it is uncompetitive, yet there is no strategy to cut aviation taxes or high airport fees – despite Ryanair warning that Germany would lose traffic, connectivity, jobs and trade.”

Mr Wilson also warned that additional reductions in Germany were “now inevitable” without significant cost reform.

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He went on to say: “Efficient operations and competitive airport fees are the foundation which enable Ryanair to deliver long-term traffic growth and increased connectivity for airports and regions.

“This is impossible at Berlin following the German Govt’s failure to abolish its harmful aviation tax and Berlin Airport’s decision to again increase its already high airport fees.”

Ryanair confirmed that pilots and cabin crew based in Berlin have been informed of the planned base closure. Consultations with staff are set to commence imminently, with those affected being offered the opportunity to apply for alternative positions within the airline’s wider European network.

Nigel was diagnosed with a brain tumour after experiencing slurred speech that led to seizures

A Co Tyrone community are rallying around a father of four who is fighting against a terminal brain tumour.

Omagh resident Nigel Humphrey, 40, has been unable to carry out everyday tasks, work, or drive since receiving the diagnosis in March 2025.

Initially, it was thought that Nigel was dealing with a low-grade tumour. But on April 14, he received the devastating news that the tumour had progressed further and was now a grade four glioblastoma which has not responded to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

The devoted father has been told there are no further treatment options available to him, and he has now been referred to the palliative care team. His family is now raising £110,000 to fund advanced overseas treatment including debulking surgery and personalised immunotherapy, as they fight to give him more time.

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Nigel’s sister Amanda told Belfast Live: “We as a family don’t accept that this is the end fo the road and we want to do everything we can to help Nigel. He wants to fight this for his kids. We started researching and looking into different avenues including going abroad for alternative therapies.

“We have had support to help him get his body prepared for these treatments. A specialist in London has started him on new medication, supplements and a specialist diet. He is on a hydration and oxygen inhalation machine which was purchased by a friend of the family.

“We are on a very limited timeframe and we need to get him over to Turkey to start this treatment to help prolong his life. There are travel, accommodation and medical expenses so we are trying to raise as much money as possible because we as a family aren’t capable of affording it all.

“The community has been great, his friends have stepped up and come together. There have been some great prizes put up for raffles by people and we appreciate all of their efforts. All proceeds are going towards Nigel’s treatment and we really appreciate people donating.”

Amanda said Nigel loved sport and passing his passion onto his children. He previously played for Beragh Swifts and also took pride in his car, which his sister said he spent hours detailing. Nigel has also completed several projects around his house that highlighted his independence.

He is the father of 14-year-old twins Emma and Thomas. Nigel also has two other sons, Scott who is 26, and William, 22. Nigel was working full-time as a welder F and H engineering in Omagh when he was diagnosed.

Amanda added: “Nigel is too good to just give up on, he is independent and tries to do things for himself. He is struggling a bit with his speech at the moment but is determined to keep fighting. Since we set up the GoFundMe campaign he has been so positive to everyone around him.”

To find out more or to donate to the fund, click here .

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