Good Old Trafford

I’m back! You may remember I was at the ChillFactor ski centre, right here in Trafford, at the very beginning of my odyssey around the North West. The chaps and chap-esses in charge thought it was a splendid idea to have me (a penguin) there (in the snow) – and it was!

So I’ve returned, though this time I’m down the road in Stretford.

I’ve met some marvellous people here today; they gave an uncommonly warm welcome to the good folk at Smokefree Northwest. In fact, the Smokefree team, who have been pointing people in the direction of NHS stop smoking services, were so pleased with the reception that they’re staying till Saturday. Last year 1,160 smokers quit with the help of Trafford PCT Stop Smoking Service. Shockingly efficient, what?

Trafford has an awful lot going for it y’know. It’s famously home to Manchester United Football Club and Lancashire County Cricket Club – have you ever played cricket on ice? By Jove, it’s thrilling. I still have last season’s bruises.

But this most engaging district is also home to the Imperial War Museum North and Sale Water Park, where you'll find the Broad Ees Dole nature reserve which provides a sort of B&B for migrating birds. I’ve never really understood why some of my feathered friends migrate – what’s not to like about winter?

If you missed me at Stretford in Trafford earlier today but would like to quit smoking, do call my Penguin Stop Smoking Hotline on 0800 032 7252.

See you tomorrow in Stockport!