City news in 250 words

MANCHESTER is to become a 'health town' under new government plans to tackle the obesity problem. Dudley, Halifax, Sheffield, Tower Hamlets in London, Thetford in Norfolk, Middlesbrough, Manchester, Tewkesbury and Portsmouth will share a £30m pot. Health Secretary Alan Johnson said: "Obesity is the biggest health challenge we face. Healthy towns is just the start. Our aim is to create a healthy England."

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS were switched on last Friday in Manchester with a street party on Albert Square. Over 10,000 people gathered to watch Strictly Come Dancing star Alesha Dixon and X-Factor winner Leon Jackson switch the lights on. Lord Mayor Mavis Smitheman said: “On behalf of Manchester, we hope you enjoy the party. We have tried to ensure there is something for everyone.”

A BUS DRIVER abandoned his bus after it was chased by a man he refused to let on. The driver of the free Metroshuttle bus on Princess Street was verbally abused by the man who also banged on the door. He managed to chase the bus down the street when it got stuck in traffic. The driver decided enough was enough, abandoning his bus and a dozen passengers. A disciplinary hearing is likely, but it is believed the driver will not be sacked.

SIR ALEX FERGUSON has expressed concerns over Manchester United's point return in the last three games after this weekends defeat against Arsenal. He told MUTV: “It's the complete opposite of last year. At the end of the day we've got to get above 85 points to win the league.”