City news in 250 words

THE METROLINK EXTENSION has been given the go-ahead. Three new lines to be built to Oldham and Rochdale, Droylsden in Tameside and Chorlton will serve parts of east and south Manchester. The project is being funded by local authorities in Greater Manchester and the Department for Transport.

THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL between Manchester United and Chelsea is to be screened at the M.E.N Arena. Following the screening of the Rangers game last week in the city, many United fans have called for the European Cup Final to be shown in a similar way. However, Sir Richard Leese said: “It would be unacceptable to have big screens after what happened [with Rangers].” The match will now be screened on a 60 metre screen inside the Arena. Tickets cost £10 and are only available in advance.

DOCTORS in Manchester are backing a campaign to save the traditional family doctor service. The government is currently pushing plans for 250 new private super health centres called polyclinics. If they are given the go-ahead it would mean GP surgeries would disapear. The government has already announced extra cash for the super clinics in Manchester, Bury, Salford and Trafford.

31,000 RUNNERS took to the streets of Manchester on Sunday for the Bupa Great Manchester Run. Jo Pavey defended her title with a win in the women's race. Austrian Gunther Weidlinger took first place in the men's race with his time of 28 minutes 10 seconds. The athletes were followed by thousands of charity runners.