City news in 250 words: Friday 11 March

MANCHESTER FOOD RESEARCH CENTRE professor, Christopher Smith has revealed the best way to eat marmalade. According to the bizarre research, his team of researchers say the bread should be cooled for ten minutes in a well-ventilated space to enjoy the maximum marmalade experience. The bread must also be white, 9mm thick and toasted for exactly a minute at 220C (428F). Adults aged between 20 and 60 took part in the marmalade study, commissioned by preserve maker Duerr’s.

SEVERAL HOMES IN WILMSLOW were evacuated last night after a loud explosion. Emergency services were called to Beech Lane where chemicals were found at the property in which the blast occurred. Two men were arrested on suspicion of arson. Residents from 12 homes were evacuated to a nearby leisure centre but later returned to their homes.

MANCHESTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL is to help set up a new state run primary school in east Manchester. A senior MGS staff member would devise the curriculum and the grammar school would also help run the primary school. The primary school is planned to be built on the former Cardroom Estate which is now being redeveloped as New Islington.

A SUSPECTED CRIMINAL on a most wanted list was recently arrested in Salford. Andrew Spooner was thought to be hiding on the Costa del Sol in Spain but was found in Salford. He was placed on a most wanted list by the Serious Organised Crime Agency after failing to appear at Glasgow High Court to face serious drugs charges.

Out the window weather forecast: A bright morning with light showers expected this afternoon. Keep that brolly handy