Latest news with #Whitefield
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
101 reasons why this family are delighted to be living in this historic house
In the latest of our series on notable figures who called the borough home, Neil Brandwood discovers a writer whose work became a Disney classic. Cruella de Vil would no doubt be appalled that there's a dog grooming parlour and a dog well-being shop in close proximity to her creator's house, but Anya and Vivian Spencer couldn't be more delighted. The couple had no idea the Whitefield house they are renting was the first home of Dodie Smith – the author who wrote The Hundred and One Dalmatians. Born in 1896, she spent the first two years of her life living at 118 (since renumbered 167) Bury New Road. The large, four-bedroomed house still has the original stone pillars at the gateway, engraved with the house's name, Stoneycroft. The Bury New Road house where Dodie Smith was born (Image: Newsquest) The original house name can still be seen on the gate post (Image: Newsquest) It's doubtful whether all those children passing by on their way to nearby Higher Lane Primary School have any idea of the link to the classic children's book. Handsome though the house is, Dodie was not impressed. Writing in her autobiography, she said: 'When I was about 10, I was driven past my birthplace and found it to be the most insignificant of semi-detached villas.' She wrote The Hundred and One Dalmatians in 1956, and it was adapted into an animated film in1961, and a live action version starring Glenn Close in 1996. Dodie was born in the house on May 3, the only child of Ernest and Ella Smith. Ernest was a bank manager but died in 1898 when Dodie was just two. Following his death, she and her mother went to live with her grandparents in Old Trafford. 'We didn't know she lived in this house,' said a delighted Anya Spencer, 42, who has been renting number 118 with her husband, Vivian, 42, for the last five years. 'It's fabulous! I'm sentimental so I just love it!' The couple were even more delighted to break the exciting news to their nine-year-old twin daughters, Ella and Eden. 'They love reading and The Hundred and One Dalmatians is one of their favourite books. When we told them Dodie lived here they were so excited.' Newsquest (Image: Newsquest) Ella (left) and Eden enjoy one of their favourite books (Image: Newsquest) Dodie's, whose real name was Dorothy, began writing the book in 1953 when she returned to London after living in America. A dog lover, she kept dalmatians—at one point owning 17. The family watching Disney's adaptation of Dodie Smith's book (Image: Newsquest)READ NEXT > Cat charity facing closure shares emotional plea following £17k bill READ NEXT > NHS waiting times revealed as borough trust falls under target Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox by signing up to the Bury Times morning newsletter as well as our breaking news alerts Her first, named Pongo, inspired the book's hero. The idea came when a friend joked that her dogs would make a beautiful fur coat - sparking the story's creation. She died on November 24, 1990, but achieved literary immortality thanks to her book about canine capers and one of the greatest villains of all time.
Hindustan Times
27-06-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Bengaluru vs Hyderabad: Where should techies buy their first home? Netizens weigh in
For young techies, many in their 20s and early 30s, the question is: Is Bengaluru's sky-high property prices, fragmented city layouts, traffic, infrastructure challenges, and recurring flood issues still worth the premium, or is Hyderabad the smarter long-term bet? For young techies, many in their 20s and early 30s, the question is: Is Bengaluru's sky-high property prices, fragmented city layouts, traffic, infrastructure challenges, and recurring flood issues still worth the premium, or is Hyderabad the smarter long-term bet? (Representational Image)(ChatGPT) The debate has gained momentum on online forums like Reddit, where tech workers are actively discussing the trade-offs between India's two leading IT hubs. A 25-year-old software engineer wrote, "Bengaluru offers better career opportunities and a thriving startup culture, but with it comes punishing traffic, sky-high property prices, and a fragmented city layout." "Hyderabad, on the other hand, promises better infrastructure, lower costs, and a more centralised IT corridor, but fewer opportunities in startups and product-based companies," he wrote. Also Read: Will Bengaluru real estate market be impacted as tech layoffs impact tenants and buyers? Experts weigh in Bengaluru: The career capital but at a cost For many Redditors, Bengaluru is the epicentre of India's tech and startup economy. With deep networks of product companies, venture capital, and unicorns, it's the city that promises a dynamic job market. 'If you're chasing the startup buzz and long-term IT growth, Bengaluru still rules,' wrote one Reddit user. 'Yeah, traffic feels like hell and prices are wild, but the ecosystem's unbeatable.' But the costs, both financial and logistical, are rising fast. Tier-I builders in Bengaluru now quote upwards of ₹ 1 crore even for modest 2BHKs in well-connected locations. Commutes are becoming more unpredictable, especially with IT hubs like Whitefield, ORR, and Electronic City scattered across the city with limited public transport interconnectivity, they said. 'Bengaluru is nearing its breaking point,' commented another user. 'Infrastructure takes years to fix, and the city may become less livable in five years if things don't improve.' Also read: Hyderabad real estate: Are soaring property prices making it difficult for young techies to buy homes and get married? Hyderabad: Affordable and efficient? For several Redditors, Hyderabad's appeal lies in its well-planned road networks, relatively lower real estate prices, and concentrated IT zones, mainly in West Hyderabad areas like Gachibowli, HITEC City, and Financial District. "Hyderabad is killing it with better infra and pricing," noted one user. 'The question is: do you want fast-paced hustle or peaceful, value-for-money living?' Even in high-demand areas, homebuyers can still find larger properties at 20–30% lower prices than comparable homes in Bengaluru. However, many agree that when it comes to career growth, especially in niche tech domains or entrepreneurial ecosystems, Hyderabad still trails Bengaluru. 'If you're young and your income depends heavily on job switching or startup exposure, Bengaluru is hard to beat,' one Redditor wrote. 'But if you're closer to retirement or prioritising a quieter life, Hyderabad makes more sense.' Also Read: Hyderabad real estate: NRI couple sees just 0.5% return in 15 years; Lessons for overseas Indians investing in property Real estate prices in Hyderabad and Bengaluru Between January and March 2025, Hyderabad's high-demand real estate markets recorded consistent appreciation in property values. According to data from Cushman & Wakefield, prime luxury localities such as Banjara Hills witnessed an 8% increase, with average prices now hovering between ₹ 12,000 and ₹ 15,000 per square foot. Comparable upward trends were noted in tech-driven zones like Madhapur and Gachibowli, where rates climbed to around ₹ 8,000– ₹ 8,250 per square foot. In Bengaluru, most prime areas command prices upwards of ₹ 13,000-15,000 per square foot, with some outskirts of tech corridors like Whitefield and Electronic City coming at ₹ 9000-10,000 per square foot, real estate brokers point out. 'Buyers who invested in Hyderabad during the early 2000s paid a fraction of today's rates,' said GV Jagdish, a realtor based in the city. 'Over the years, Hyderabad's transformation, driven by large-scale infrastructure developments and the influx of major IT companies, has positioned it as a significant technology hub. As a result, premium locations like Banjara Hills and Gachibowli are now almost matching Bengaluru in terms of real estate pricing and investments.' According to real estate brokers, residential return on investment (ROI) in Bengaluru's prime localities typically ranges between 3% and 4%. In Hyderabad, properties near tech hubs like Hitec City offer slightly lower yields, averaging between 3 and 3.5%. 'Right now, many buyers are leaning towards Hyderabad due to its significant infrastructure improvements,' said Kiran Kumar, a realtor with Hanu Reddy Realty. 'In contrast, Bengaluru continues to grapple with severe traffic congestion and recurring flood issues, which are major concerns for homebuyers.'
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Five people rushed to hospital after devastating house fire
Five people have been rushed to hospital following a devastating house fire in Bury. Emergency services were scrambled to Sandgate Road in Whitefield at around 5pm on Sunday (June 22) following reports of a blaze at a domestic property. Five people were assessed at the scene before being rushed to hospital by North West Ambulance Service, a spokesperson for the fire service said. The full extent of their injuries is not yet known. READ MORE: Live updates as M60 remains closed due to ongoing 'police incident' READ MORE: LIVE: Huge emergency services presence as five rushed to hospital in house fire - updates Pictures show serious damage to the roof of a house, with Sandgate Road taped off around the property. Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE In a statement, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: 'At just before 5pm today (Sunday 22 June) fire crews were called to reports of a fire at a domestic property on Sandgate Road, Whitefield. 'Six fire engines from Manchester Central, Whitefield, Heywood, Salford, Broughton and Agecroft quickly attended the incident. 'Firefighters used eight breathing apparatus and two hose reels to extinguish the fire. 'Five people were assessed at the scene and then conveyed to hospital by North West Ambulance Service. 'Crews remain in attendance.' Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) have been contacted for more information.
Yahoo
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Cricket club's 3-day festival to showcase beer and gin brands
A cricket club is set to host a long weekend of drinks and music. Whitefield's Stand Cricket Club's Beer and Gin Festival will take place from Friday, June 27 to Sunday, June 29. The festival will feature 11 breweries serving drinks from 14 taps, alongside small-batch gins from six regional distilleries. Treasurer at the club, Elliot Barker, said: "We're delighted to welcome everyone back for another fantastic year of the beer and gin festival. "With our largest-ever selection - 11 breweries pouring from 14 taps and six gin distilleries - it promises to be our biggest event yet. "The festival is not only a celebration of great drinks and community spirit but also a vital part of our annual fundraising efforts." The festival will begin on the Friday with junior cricket training, food from Cugini's Pizza, and music from The Bury Busker. On the Saturday, Stand Cricket Club's 1st XI will play against Walshaw Cricket Club, followed by a performance from four-piece soul and funk band Soul Food. The Sunday will feature a friendly cricket match to round off the festival. READ MORE: Bury man shares mental health journey to inspire others Bury dad's battle to find a school and medication for daughter Bury Food and Drink Festival 2025 coming to town centre Featured breweries this year include Squawk Brewing Co, Moorhouses, Lilley's Cider, Bowland Brewery, Blackjack Brew Co, JW Lees, Brightside Brewing Company, Pomona Island, Marble Brewery, Shindigger, and Hideaway Brewery. Gin distilleries to feature at the festival include Bolton Gin, Ginsmith, Manchester Gin, Prestwich Gin, Stockport Gin, and Holcombe Gin. Entry is free, and no tickets are required. For updates, follow Stand Cricket Club on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.
Epoch Times
27-05-2025
- General
- Epoch Times
Reviving the Soul: Lessons From the Great Awakening
Imagine if a televangelist like Joel Osteen or Billy Graham made the front page of every newspaper in America. Not because of a scandal, but simply out of enthusiasm for their spiritual message. This is what happened in 1739, when English minister George Whitefield toured America. A star celebrity in his day, Whitefield was already famous in England for his charismatic preaching style that stressed personal conversion. Instead of reading long sermons as other ministers did, Whitefield spoke in a more impromptu way and made emotional appeals to congregations. His oratory made him popular, but also controversial. George Whitefield preaching, in an 1857 engraving. Public Domain In his famous 'Autobiography,' Benjamin Franklin described the excitement this preacher stirred up when he came to America: 'In 1739 arrived among us from Ireland the Reverend Mr. Whitefield, who had made himself remarkable there as an itinerant preacher.' By 'itinerant preacher,' Franklin meant that Whitefield traveled from church to church. Some of the local ministers in America were offended by his bluntness, seeing him as a threat to their established orthodoxy. They 'soon refused him their pulpits, and he was obliged to preach in the fields.' Franklin was among the huge 'multitudes of all sects' that gathered to hear the man. Attending out of curiosity and silently resolving 'that he should get nothing from me,' the rational inventor ended up emptying his pockets into the collection plate. Franklin was one of thousands who had been won over. He Related Stories 5/10/2023 1/11/2023 Franklin was right. The world was 'growing religious.' But why? Reacting Against Materialism Whitefield was exceptional, but he was not the only preacher stirring things up. In the 1730s, change was in the air. The period preceding what is now known as the 'Great Awakening' was a time much like our own. In the early 18th century, American civilization was undergoing a crisis. Tired of the religious wars that had dominated the previous century, the educated classes turned to science and reason as a guide. The Enlightenment began to take hold as thinkers like Francis Bacon and Isaac Newton inferred the laws of nature from experiments and mathematics. Ordinary people, however, were not satisfied with these materialistic explanations. In their unrest, they turned to charismatic preachers like Whitefield to feed their spiritual hunger. Early Social Media To realize their goals, these preachers used the printing press. While its existence was not new, its use became more widespread during this time. Whitefield himself cultivated a 'preach and print' strategy to attract his massive crowds, exploiting the commercial possibilities of newsprint to build his revival. It sounds impressive to learn that every newspaper in America was reporting on Whitefield's preaching. Actually, though, there were only 12 colonial newspapers in print in 1739. Boston had five, New York two, and Pennsylvania three. Just two, the Virginia Gazette and South Carolina Gazette, were located in the South. The head of one of these papers was, in fact, Benjamin Franklin. It was he who helped publicize Whitefield's evangelism in his Pennsylvania Gazette, even supporting construction of two separate building projects, a preaching venue and an orphan house. It worked. In 'Inventing the 'Great Awakening,'' historian Frank Lambert writes that 'even armies arrayed for the biggest battles did not match the revivalist crowds in number.' Mass Conversions Jonathan Edwards (L) published "A Faithful Narrative of the Surprising Work of God" in 1737. Public Domain Jonathan Edwards was another popular preacher of the time. The opposite of Whitefield, Edwards had a quiet voice more suited to intimate settings than large crowds. Thanks to the power of printing, though, he was able to reach a wide audience. It was Edwards who helped launch the Great Awakening through a 1737 publication. In 'A Faithful Narrative of the Surprising Work of God,' he described how hundreds of people in his small town of Northampton found spiritual salvation by turning away from the material realm. Their hearts became wholly absorbed in 'the great things of religion and the eternal world,' he wrote. 'All the conversation, in all companies and upon all occasions, was upon these things only.' Worldly affairs, by contrast, were treated as 'a thing of very little consequence.' Following this, other preachers began publishing similar accounts of awakenings in their communities. Strange things began to happen. Jonathan Parsons, in an account of the revival at Lyme in Connecticut, Rev. Jonathan Parsons. Public Domain Though the Great Awakening subsided after the 1740s, it led to the rise of new denominations, including those of the Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians. Following criticisms from Whitefield and others that institutions of higher learning had become corrupt, four new universities were eventually founded: Princeton, Brown, Rutgers, and Dartmouth. The echo of the Great Awakening can be heard down to our own day. It reminds us that the true measure of a life well-lived lies not in possessions, but in purpose. What arts and culture topics would you like us to cover? Please email ideas or feedback to
