City news in 250 words: Tuesday 18 May

EDGAR WOOD DESIGNED BUILDINGS around Middleton, are to be preserved with the help of a £2m lottery grant. The Manchester architect was renown for his buildings designed in the arts and crafts style. The Heritage Lottery Fund grant is being awarded to 11 UK town centres where significant structures are rundown.

STUDENT JAILED FOR ATTACKING PARAMEDIC: Melissa Massey, 20, was being tended to as she lay on the pavement after a night out with friends, when she suddenly attacked the paramedic. Judge Alan Berg said: “The incidence of this type of offending in city centres in particular, and in Manchester, is far too great and the courts have got to step in.” Massey, who is expected to graduate with a first class degree this summer, has been jailed for eight weeks.

LESS THAN TEN PER CENT OF CHILDREN believe protecting animals is important. 10,000 five to 18-year-olds were asked to rank their priorities. Forty per cent said watching TV was at the top of their lists, whilst nine per cent said they would choose to help protect birds. The survey was released ahead of UN's International Day of Biodiversity on Saturday, which will see young people around the world plant trees.

IS YOUR BABY A POTENTIAL SOAP STAR? Coronation Street producers are looking for a new baby to join the soap. Adverts in Greater Manchester hospitals state they are looking for a white baby boy due to be born next month, who will be available for filming from July.

Out of the window weather forecast: A dazzling day