Ive used the village hotels about 20 times when using SA.
Good thing is they have a automated check in at some, plus you can meet in the cafe bar there and then go and check in if you like. Or you can arrive early and check in. No key card entry at all.
You can pay em cash, and same as mentioned above just use a gmail address.
Nice place, and they seem to always give out the disabled room for day use, Ive had some good shower fun in the disabled "wet room"
4 round Manch, hyde, ashton, cheadle, bury.
Mal maison is good also in the centre
Good luck