City news in 250 words: Wednesday 23 March

£4M INVESTMENT FOR NEW COUNCIL HOMES: A £4m investment from Manchester Council has assisted in the building of energy efficient bungalows in Blackley. The bungalows will run on solar power and were designed for the over 60s to live in. New resident, Carol Smith who recently moved in with her husband said: “It’s absolutely fantastic and it’s a joy to live here”.

BIKER DIES AFTER LAMPPOST CRASH: A 35-year-old motorcyclist has died after crashing into a lamppost. Police arrived at the scene on Monday where they found Darren Barry who was then rushed to hospital but pronounced dead soon after. Wife Tracey said: “Darren was a wonderful husband and father who lived for his family”.

UNITED LEGEND ROBSON TO PARTICIPATE IN ASIAN CHARITY TOUR: Despite suffering from throat cancer, Manchester United footballer Bryan Robson is set to tour Asia on behalf of UNICEF. Robson will attend fundraising dinners in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong in April after successful surgery on 3 March. Robson said he was “extremely lucky and even more committed to raising funds to help improve the life of youngsters”.

SECOND DAY OF LECTURER STRIKES is causing more chaos for students in Manchester. Manchester University lecturers are striking as a result of discontent with pensions. The University has said they can’t afford final salary schemes. Manchester University UCU union spokesman David Beale said that a stern message was sent out by yesterday’s strikes.

This week in 1993: Building of the Bridgewater Hall Manchester began. It is supported by huge springs which absorb outside noise and vibrations.

Out of the window weather forecast: It must be getting hotter. The deckchairs in Spinningfields are out.