City news in 250 words

MANCHESTER has one of the highest number of TV licence dodgers in the country. Over 3,600 people in the city were caught without a licence between January and June of this year. Last year Manchester a topped the list with more than 9,100 people caught dodging fees. Liverpool, Birmingham, Glasgow and London were above Manchester in the poll.

HAPPY HOUR in pubs could be banned in a bid to promote safe drinking.The government is due to release an independent review on the marketing of alcohol and responsible drinking. A new report by Alcohol Concern shows that current industry self-regulation is ineffective. The British Beer and Pub Association has welcomed the government review.

A REWARD has been offered by a man who was held hostage naked in his home, stabbed and beaten by robbers in Greater Manchester. Eddie Nevins, 54, from Bury was asleep when robbers broke in back in May. He is now offering £20,000 to anyone who can help find his attackers. Det Con Dave Potter said: "Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home and I am determined to catch whoever is responsible.”

MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly considering taking legal action against Tottenham Hotspur chairman, Daniel Levy. Levy called United boss Sir Alex Ferguson arrogant and hypocritical during a complaint Speaking about the war of words, Ferguson told reporters in South Africa. “It is going to be very embarrassing for them (Tottenham) but you know what Daniel Levy is like. He is different.”