City news in 250 words

METROLINK TRAMS RAN ON LINES “BEYOND REPAIR”, before a speeding tram derailed and injured three passengers, an accident report says. A report by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch says GMPTE knew the track in the city centre was “beyond economic repair” before the Piccadilly-bound tram derailed on June 29 last year.

TWO VAN COURIERS STAGED A FAKE RAID, in which more than 10,000 blank passports and visas were stolen, Manchester Crown Court has heard. Stephen Shaw and Alan Burke claimed they were robbed by a gang soon after picking up the delivery in Chadderton. The court heard the robbery, in July 2008, was part of an elaborate plot to steal the passports and visas. Burke, 49, from Oldham, has admitted conspiring to steal the passports but Mr Shaw, 57, denies the same charge.

A BUDGET AIRLINE CHIEF WAS REPRIMANDED by police after he berated his check-in staff at Manchester Airport. Jet.com chief Philip Meeson’s outburst came after he saw long queue of passengers at his check-in in Terminal One. Despite being applauded by the passengers, police received a phone call saying that a man was being abusive to staff, resulting in the officers warning Mr Meeson under the Public Order Act.

ANDRE-MANIA HAS LED TO AN APPEARANCE by Peter being cancelled at the HMV Arndale store because of the music giant’s fears for public safety. The singer will now appear at the Asda store in Horwich from 5pm today to sign copies of his new album for his adoring fans.

This ’N’ That wisdom: He who fears being conquered is sure of defeat

Taken from the free calendar available at This 'n' That, Soap Street, Northern Quarter. Wisdom rating: 7/10