SPECIAL REPORT | Abu Dhabi’s investment helped transform Manchester, turning derelict neighbourhoods into some of the city’s most desirable places to live. But as questions grow over land deals, public money and the influence of City’s owners, did the city get a fair deal in return? For the first time this is the never-before-told story of the deal and its consequences manchestereveningnews.co.uk/…

A true one-off, Coun Pat Karney was a familiar face to generations of Mancunians. Described as a 'force of nature', Pat was one of the city's most prominent and well-known local politicians, respected by colleagues from all parties across Greater Manchester. For many years, he was a champion and spokesperson for the Christmas Markets and festive events. He was the town hall's city centre spokesman, ensuring goings on in the heart of Manchester were smooth. He always wanted the city to shine on the world stage. As Manchester remembers a true Mancunian legend tonight, here are some of his many, many iconic pictures. ❤️📸

A couple of weeks ago the new Prime Minister Andy Burnham shut himself away at his home near his Makerfield constituency on a Friday. He was determined to concentrate on preparing for the biggest speech of his political life. Parts of the speech, which some are saying is the best made by a Labour leader in a generation, had been written on trains and planes - but now the PM wanted to give it his full attention. The draft address was shown to others and Mr Burnham took on board small suggestions and made changes. But, Labour insiders told the Manchester Evening News, this was very much his work. On Tuesday morning, the Prime Minister gathered his cabinet in a room at the conference centre overlooking the Mersey in Liverpool and talked them through it, including the policies that he intended to announce. Ed Miliband, Angela Rayner, Lisa Nandy and Wes Streeting were among those who offered their support, the MEN understands.