City news in 250 words

HUNDREDS OF BIKERS are causing delays on motorways outside Manchester. The convoy of bikes is causing traffic to back-up on the M60 in protest against high fuel prices. Police estimate that around 500 bikers are demonstrating today. The demonstration has been organised by motorcycling groups and they have also been joined by some taxi and lorry drivers.

STAR TREK apartments could be built on Jackson's Wharf in Castlefield if Peel Holdings get their way. The property company is appealing to government planning chiefs after the controversial plans were rejected the first time around. Opposition argued that the futuristic Star Trek style apartments wouldn't be in keeping with the Castlefield conservation area. Peel Holdings now want to try and overturn the council's decision.

MANCHESTER GP and TV doctor Chris Steele has received an MBE from the Queen. Better known as Dr Chris on ITV's This Morning, he has been a GP in Didsbury since 1968. He has received the honour in recognition of his services to the medical profession and broadcasting.

MARK HUGHES is the new Manchester City Football Club manager. The club announced today that Hughes, 44, has signed a three-year contract. The club's new executive chairman Garry Cook told mcfc.co.uk: “He is the brightest young manager in the game and our number one target for the manager’s job. He made it clear to us from the moment we met that he shared our vision and ambition to make City one of the top sides in the country.”