City news in 250 words

THOUSANDS of Manchester properties are empty due to a slump in the market. Investors are reportedly leaving flats and houses across the city empty as they wait for the housing market to take a turn for the better. 15 per cent of properties have been left vacant in the so-called ‘buy-to-leave’ trend and the number is rising.

A WOMAN has been raped near Victoria Station. The 26-year-old was pushed to the ground and attacked by a man in a pub on the station last Thursday. The attacker is described as white, aged 32, 5ft 4in tall and of a heavy build with dark shaved hair. Police are appealing for witnesses. Det Sgt Roger Edwards, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "I would like to reassure the community we are doing all we can to find the person responsible.”

MANCUNIANS are miserable according to a new survey, despite a rise in education and a drop in crime statistics. The report which looks at Manchester’s economic and social state, reveals that only 13 per cent of people in the city describe themselves as very happy.

FOLLOWING the accusation by FIFA President, Sepp Blatter that Manchester United treat Cristiano Ronaldo like a modern day slave, former United captain Bryan Robson has spoken out about the wingers future. He told the Daily Star: “In 1983 I was wanted by three Italian clubs. United too priced me out of a move. I was happy to stay and I think Ronaldo is happy at the club too.”