City news in 250 words

MASS VACCINATIONS have begun for the measles epidemic in Cheshire. More than 10,000 children will be given the MMR vaccine. Officials say the outbreak is a consequence of fears over the safety of the MMR jab in the 90s when a large number of babies didn't get the MMR vaccine when they should have had it.

A MAN who died in a drink-drive crash made the fatal journey just hours after a friend hid his keys to stop him from going out in his car under the influence. An inquest jury has heard how Darren Foulkes, 26, from Trafford, was spotted speeding by police, who followed him. Mr Foulkes then switched off his lights and sped away before losing control and ploughing into a tree. The jury have recorded a verdict of accidental death.

LIE DETECTORS are to be used to catch out potential benefit cheats. The voices of callers phoning to claim housing and council tax benefits will be monitored by a Voice Risk Analysis (VRA) system which detects subtle voice changes that indicate if they are giving false details. The scheme is being piloted in Bury and is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions. If it is successful it could be adopted across Greater Manchester.

TAKE THAT have had the highest recorded first day sale of the year, with their new album, Circus. The album, which was released on Monday, sold 133,000 copies in one day. The group's album exceeded sales of Britney Spears' new album of the same title, outselling her 14 to one.