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Police in Cheshire have launched a crackdown on what they describe as ‘rogue’ airport car parks in an operation around Manchester Airport. Police, immigration officers and tax officials were among a 50-strong team targeting sites in Styal, Cheshire. It follows several incidents ranging from car thefts to criminal damage, and reports of some motorists returning from holiday to find their car had been driven hundreds of miles. In one particular incident in April of this year, police say around 150 people returned to find their car keys were missing and their vehicles were stuck in a boggy field. Although the police admit that the car parks they have targeted are not illegal, they believe that some of the activities on the sites are illegal. They want to send a message to other operators that they need to operate lawfully. They also warn consumers to be wary of selecting the cheapest option for their holiday car parking.

The loss to business caused by this week's rail strikes has been put at more than £100 million. Retail analysts Springboard also say there'll be 10% fewer shoppers on the High Streets. And it's the shops and hospitality venues that are directly reliant on rail passengers that are also feeling the financial strain. We've been hearing from businesses dependant on passengers around Piccadilly Station in Manchester.

The demand for second-hand car parts is causing a crisis in the industry among some suppliers. It's because people are holding on to their older cars for longer, together with the fact that there's a shortage of parts for new cars. It's putting huge pressure on the suppliers of second hand car parts. Not only is the parts shortage causing problems for businesses it's also fuelling an increase in the number of those operating illegally. The trade association representing around 200 licensed car recycling companies has accused the Government of failing to tackle the illegal trade in parts.

Getting away on holiday has been a challenge the last couple of years. With travel abroad restricted, many of us opted for staycations instead. But what about swapping houses? The home exchange platform Love Home Swap says they have seen a 140% increase in their UK members taking trips compared to the start of 2021. It works by paying a membership fee to a home swap website, taking some photos of your home and uploading them to the site, along with a description. Then you contact others - both in the UK and abroad - to agree a date to stay in each other’s homes. We hear from some who've swapped homes - the benefits, and the pitfalls.

PRESENTER: PETER WHITE
PRODUCER: CRAIG HENDERSON