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Articles by Mark Frost
Forever Blue With Ian Cheeseman: City Slip Up On New Year's Eve
As well as exchanging Happy New Year messages to each other on our first meeting in 2023, we also wonder what the next twelve months will bring. Football is the great escape from life. In reality, it’s just our entertainment, it’s not life and death, but we all need something like football to divert our passions towards when so much else in the World feels frustrating and beyond our control right now.
LISTEN: Betfred Sports Talk - Arsenal Open Up Seven Point Gap On Manchester City
Arsenal have opened up a seven point gap on title rivals Manchester City. However, Pep Guardiola’s side are still favourites with Betfred to retain the title. Mark and Peter Spencer are back with the latest odds in a number of markets. VIDEO
LISTEN: Betfred Sports Talk - New Year's Eve Fixture Preview
Manchester United travel to Molineux to face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League at 12.30pm. Then, at 3pm, Manchester City hosty Everton at the Etihad Stadium. Here are the latest odds, courtesy of Betfred. VIDEO
Massey To Feature On Undercard Of Eubank Jr Vs Liam Smith
A boxer from Chapel-en-le-Frith is preparing for his biggest fight to date. Jack Massey, who trains under Charlie Schofield at the Phoenix Camp in Denton, is set to face Joseph Parker on the undercard of the middleweight clash between Chris Eubank Jr and Liam Smith at the AO Arena in Manchester. The bout, scheduled to take place on Saturday 21 January, gives 29-year-old Massey the opportunity to impress in front of a packed out home crowd.
Howzat For Support? Hadfield St Andrew's CC Fundraiser Backed By Local Community
A fundraiser to help a local cricket club get back on its feet after a heartbreaking pipe burst has received massive support from generous benefactors. Hadfield St Andrew's Cricket Club, whose first team are preparing for a new season in the Greater Manchester Championship, were hit with a major problem earlier this month when a water pipe burst in the social club, causing major damaging and flooding to the carpets and furniture.
Tameside Netball Club Hosts Men's Team In Christmas Cracker
Players representing Tameside Netball Club are usually accustomed to battling it out against the very best girls across the region. However, for one game only, the girls went head-to-head with a group of men who are spearheading a change in perception on court. Players from North West Spartans Netball Club, based in Stretford, Manchester, was formed in 2020 and has since grown from strength-to-strength.
New Year Football Fixtures
Boxing Day marked the end of the 2022 football fixtures in the local area, however they return for a bang on Monday, January 2 across a number of divisions.
LISTEN: 2022 Review: Football Clubs Enjoy A Year Of Success In All Areas
It’s been a memorable 2022 for our local non-league sides. Here, Mark takes a look at the Boxing Day fixtures and reflects on some of the memorable moments with interviews, ranging from FA Cup success and community outreach programmes, to women teams’ developments and a managerial departure at Stalybridge Celtic. VIDEO
LISTEN: Manchester City vs Liverpool - Carabao Cup Preview
Manchester City will be hoping to book their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals tonight. Pep Guardiola’s side host Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium in the fourth round. The fixture marks the first competitive game for both sides since the start of the World Cup. Here are the latest odds courtesy of Betfred. VIDEO
Memorabilia Collector To Activate Air Raid Siren At Midnight On New Year's Eve
When the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, the Tameside skyline will be alight with colourful fireworks and loud bangs to usher in 2023. However, residents may hear something a little bit different this year, as a World War One and World War Two memorabilia collector will be activating his air raid siren to celebrate the new year. Ray Fricker, who lives in Droylsden, has spent many years collecting war memorabilia.
Tuesday Night Football Review: Curzon And Hyde Slip To Defeats In Cup Competitions
It was a night to forget for two of our local sides, as Curzon Ashton and Hyde United were eliminated from the FA Trophy and Cheshire Senior Cup respectively. Curzon made the trip to Altrincham in the third round following Saturday's postponement, but they were unable to book their place in the next round against the winners of Wrexham and Scunthorpe United after a 1-0 defeat. The only goal of the game arrived in the 72nd minute when the Robins' Toby Mullarkey netted for the hosts.
Tameside Netball Club Players Celebrate A Memorable 2022
Tameside Netball club players have been letting their hair down as a mini break over the festive period commences. The club, which has achieved great success across a range of age groups during 2022, has organised a number of Christmas parties for its players over the past few weeks. The festivities provide an opportunity for the girls to socialise away from court, whilst looking ahead to what will hopefully be an equally successful 2023.
LISTEN: Primary School Headteacher Expresses Relief As Plans To Build New School Are Approved
A primary school in Denton is set to be rebuilt following years of structural problems. Russell Scott Primary School, based on Clare Street, has been chosen for the government's school rebuilding programme. It follows years of constant issues with the current facility, which include sewage overflows, flooding and a lack of a playing field for the pupils, after a two-year remodelling project by the now defunct Carillion.
LISTEN: Infinity Initiatives Chief Executive Left Heartbroken After Damage To Headquarters
The chief executive of a highly popular advocacy and support service has been left heartbroken just days before Christmas. Gemma Whittaker, who heads up Infinity Initiatives in Ashton, says she was devastated to learn of flooding to the headquarters, based on Wood Street, due to a burst water pipe. Such is the damage to the facility, Infinity have been left with no choice but to cancel a Christmas dinner for up to 20 people in the local area.
LISTEN: Ashton Cricket Club's Social Club Is Hit By Burst Pipe
Ashton Cricket Club officials have been left heartbroken after a water pipe burst in the Rayner Lane Social Club, causing minor damage to the carpets. It's a sad situation for the club, and one that will come at a big cost to resolve, especially with a function planned for New Year's Eve. We've been speaking to club official Martin Frost to get the latest on the situation, how preparations are going ahead of the 2023 campaign, and the importance of support from the Tameside Sport Network.
Rhys Samples A Taste Of The Big Time In Manchester United Debut
Having captained the Under 18s to FA Cup glory in front of 67,000 fans at Old Trafford last season, Manchester United defender Rhys Bennett sampled his first taste of action for the Red Devils’ first team last week. The former Russell Scott Primary School and Audenshaw High School pupil made the trip to Sevilla for United’s mid-season friendly against Real Betis.
Audenshaw Home Owner Thanks Local Community For Support With Christmas Event Fundraiser
A homeowner who has transformed her house into a winter wonderland to raise funds for Francis House Children’s Hospice has thanked the local community for their ongoing support. Kim Ryan, who lives on Woodhouses Avenue, Audenshaw, has gone all out to raise money for Francis House Children’s Hospice - a facility which took great care of her son, Cameron, who sadly died in 2010.
Martial Arts Coaches Scoop Prestigious Titles
A martial arts club based in Ashton has capped off a memorable year with two of its coaches being honoured with distinguished titles. King Kombat Systems, which is run by Jonathan King, provides local adults and youngsters with the chance to learn the sport in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. The gym is fully equipped with mats, wall bags, training pads and gloves, toilets and changing rooms.
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - World Cup Final Preview
Excitement is building ahead of the World Cup final between Argentina and reigning champions France. Mark and Peter are back with the latest odds in a number of markets, courtesy of Betfred. They also take a look at the latest odds for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year. VIDEO
Curzon Players Spread Festive Cheer To Sick Youngsters At Tameside Hospital
Children spending Christmas in Tameside Hospital were treated to a visit from Curzon Ashton's first team on Thursday night. The visit, which included manager Adam Lakeland and club mascot Super Nash, was inspired by the club's mission to become an integral part of the local community. The children received a range of gifts courtesy of the club. During their visit, Curzon's Community Foundation tweeted the following, whilst chairman Wayne Salkeld also offered his thoughts.
Weekend Rugby Union Fixtures
Weather permitting, here are the rugby union fixtures taking place this weekend.
LISTEN: Hillmen Youngsters Suffer Heartache In Futsal Final
It was a case of close, but no cigar for Glossop North End Community Club's youngsters on Monday night, as the Hillmen were pipped to the Manchester Futsal League title on goal difference. A showdown with Manchester Futsal Club in the play-off final ended in a nail-biting 3-3 draw. However, Manchester's slender goal difference ensured the Hillmen returned trophyless, but with an invaluable experience that will benefit the players moving forward.
Howzat For Progress? Stalybridge Cricket Club Right On Track To Build New Nets
Plans to develop a two-lane netting facility at Stalybridge Cricket Club are developing rapidly. In a bid to retain the current crop of members and entice new players to the club, Stalybridge decided the time had come to invest in new nets at Gorse Hall Road. In order to get the ball rolling, Stalybridge were required to raise a certain percentage of money towards the nets in line with the English Cricket Board's proposals.
WATCH: Tameside Netball Club Coach Strides Out For Charity
Tameside Netball Club coach, Nick Hill has set himself a challenge of completing a 5km per day throughout December to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Nick is striding out in the bitterly cold weather in a bid to raise £200. Donations have so far totalled £135. We spoke to Nick about the reasons behind his efforts, the latest updates on court, and how the girls will be celebrating the festive season over the coming week.
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - Agony For England But Ecstasy For France As The Three Lions Lose Out In Quarter-Final
It was a case of agony for England and ecstasy for France, as the Three Lions were knocked out of the World Cup on Saturday night. The result means France are the current favourites with Betfred to retain their title as world champions. Mark and Peter are back with the latest odds in a number of markets, as well as the latest front runners for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year. VIDEO
Festive Football Fixtures
Here are the festive football fixtures, running until Saturday, January 7.
WATCH: Audenshaw Residents Throw Themselves Into The Festive Spirit
With Christmas fast approaching, residents in Audenshaw congregated on Friday and Saturday night in a bid to feel festive. On Friday night, hundreds of people flocked to Audenshaw Memorial Gardens for the annual switch-on. The event included musical acts, magical lights and refreshments. 24 hours later saw another large gathering on Woodhouses Avenue, as home owner Kim Ryan put on her own event to raise funds for Francis House Children's Hospice.
LISTEN: Droylsden Amateur Boxing Club Donate Presents To Royal Manchester Children's Hospital
Children who are unfortunately spending Christmas at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital Charity will receive some much-needed festive cheer, thanks to Droylsden Amateur Boxing Club. Thanks to the efforts of the local community, the gym's members and walking football players connected with Droylsden Juniors Football Club, children are set to receive a mixture of gifts, ranging from colouring books and board games, to toys and selection boxes.
Weekend Football Fixtures
As we're halfway through the week, here are the football fixtures you can look forward to as the festive action gets underway.
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - Weekend Preview As England Face Senegal In World Cup Knockout Stage
An inspired performance from Marcus Rashford helped England to the World Cup knockout stages. The Three Lions will face Senegal on Sunday - and they head into the tie as favourites, whilst Rashford is currently priced at 4/1 to continue his form and score the first goal. There’s also the small deal of Tyson Fury v Derek Chisora on Saturday night at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The latest odds courtesy of Betfred. VIDEO
WATCH: A Festival Of Sporting Fun For S.E.N.D Pupils
We were at Denton Community College on Wednesday afternoon for the Panathlon Challenge Multi-Sport event. The competition, created in partnership with the Tameside School Sports Partnership, provides an opportunity for pupils with special educational needs to take part in a range of fun, friendly and competitive activities.
LISTEN: Kim Creates A Winter Wonderland To Raise Funds For Francis House Children's Hospice
A homeowner from Audenshaw has transformed her house into a winter wonderland to raise funds for Francis House Children's Hospice. Kim Ryan, who lives on Woodhouses Avenue, is going all out to raise money for @Francis House Children's Hospice- a facility which took great care of her son, Cameron, who sadly died in 2010.
Weekend Rugby Union Fixtures
Three of our local rugby union sides are competing on home soil this weekend.
WATCH: Audenshaw House Transformed Into Winter Wonderland For Francis House Children's Hospice
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at a house in Audenshaw. Ahead of Santa’s visit to Tameside in just over three weeks’ time, charity fundraiser Jamie Stirling, who lives on Baroness Road, is transforming his house into a winter wonderland to generate funds for Francis House Children's Hospice Jamie, who previously attended Audenshaw High School, has adorned his house with plenty of lights, a Christmas tree, baubles and much more.
Weekend Football Fixtures
As we head into the festive period, here are the first set of football fixtures in December.
LISTEN: Tameside Coach Hopes To Net Top Results
Netball has often been viewed as a female-dominated sport. However, recent figures released by Sport England suggest things could be changing. Despite this ingrained perception of the sport, an Active Lives Survey says 86,300 boys (5-16) play netball every week, while 99,500 men play netball at least once a year. And participation rates could grow even further - especially with the creation of men's teams and the integration of mixed leagues.
Weekend Football Review
Our sides returned to league action at the weekend with differing fortunes. In the National League North, Curzon Ashton were looking to bounce back from Tuesday night's defeat to Blyth Spartans and did so convincingly, cruising to a 3-0 win against AFC Telford Utd.Goals on the afternoon came courtesy of Smales-Braithwaite, Connor Hampson and Richards. The Nash, who move up to 16th in the table, are back in action on Saturday and make the trip to Chorley.
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - England Vs USA Preview With Latest Odds
It’s Game Day! England will be looking to build on their great start to the World Cup against the USA tonight. If you fancy the Three Lions to win 4-1, Betfred has that scoreline priced at 20/1. Mark and Peter are back with the latest odds in a number of markets. VIDEO
WATCH: Fan-Tastic - Curzon Link Up With Dukinfield School To Donate 135 Season Tickets
Curzon Ashton has linked up with a Dukinfield High School to give away 135 season tickets to lucky pupils. It's part of the latest drive from the community foundation to increase its appeal to local youngsters whilst helping out those in needs. Those who take advantage of the offer can watch Curzon for the first time this saturday against AFC Telford Utd at the Tameside Stadium. VIDEO
Hyde Continue Assault On League Title
Following a rest at the weekend, Hyde United return to league action this evening and will be hoping to return to the top of the NPL Premier Division. Under the guidance of manager Nick Spooner, the Tigers have been a force to be reckoned with this season and currently find themselves in second position ahead of tonight's encounter against Lancaster City at the Project Solar Stadium. The Tigers have a pretty formidable home record, having won six, drawn one and lost two.
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - World Cup Kicks Off In Style
England started their World Cup campaign with a 6-2 battering against Iran. The Three Lions are now priced at 7/1 to win the tournament and are currently the third favourites with Betfred. Mark and Peter are back with the latest odds in a number of markets - plus the latest on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out ff Here VIDEO
Weekend Rugby Union Fixtures
Here are Saturday's rugby union fixtures, Aldwinians, Dukinfield and Glossop are all at home.
Weekend Football Fixtures
Here are Saturday's football fixtures. Hyde United will be looking to further strengthen their grip at the top of the NPL Premier Division as the Tigers host Matlock Town at 2pm.
WATCH: Curzon Chairman Dreams Of Second Round Showdown
Can the impossible happen? Curzon Ashton chairman Wayne Salkeld is optimistic that his club can continue their FA Cup run and beat Cambridge United in the first round replay. But, regardless of the result, Wayne is hoping the buzz around the club will continue and the fans who turned out on Sunday will continue to pledge their support behind Adam Lakeland's side throughout the rest of the season. VIDEO
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - Latest Odds
Mark and Betfred’s Peter Spencer are back with the latest odds ahead of this week’s Carabao Cup ties. England are also second favourites to win the Rugby League World Cup and T20 World Cup. They also reflect on Curzon Ashton’s FA Cup draw with Cambridge United in the first round. And history was made this week, as Betfred owner Fred Done paid out £5 million to one lucky punter in America. VIDEO
LISTEN: Denton Boss Saville Has Long-Term Plan In Place
Denton Town manager Darren Saville believes his side is capable of delivering promotion this season. The Whittles Park outfit are currently joint-top of the Cheshire Football League, Division One, and have high hopes of moving up the non-league pyramid. We spoke to Darren to get his views on the season so far, his aims and ambitions, the growing fan base, and the importance of volunteers to the club's success. VIDEO
Weekend Rugby Union Fixtures
Our rugby union sides return to action on Saturday. If you're after some action, Aldwinians take on Warrington at home.
Weekend Football Fixtures
There's plenty of football to enjoy on Saturday, with six of our sides competing on home soil.
WATCH: Betfred Sports Talk - Premier League Preview
Mark and Betfred's Peter Spencer are back with the latest odds ahead of Manchester United and Manchester City's Premier League fixtures this weekend. They also look ahead to England's clash against Papua New Guniea in the Rugby League World Cup quarter-final. VIDEO
WATCH: Academy HQ Scarefest Is Terror-Ific
Local businesses in Stalybridge have thrown themselves into the Halloween spirit this afternoon. As part of a drive to bring the community together and to showcase the best of the town, Academy HQ has hosted a Scarefest from 10am-4pm. The event, which has included stalls, face painting, fun activities and tasty treats, was made possible thanks to a sizeable donation from Action Together.
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