As 2026 unfolds, social media seems to have taken a sudden trip back to 2016, reviving memories and trends from a decade ago. From The Chainsmokers dominating music playlists to everyone perfecting their Snapchat dog filter poses, the year 2016 feels surprisingly present once again. Events like Leicester City’s unlikely Premier League victory and viral… Continue reading Why 2016 nostalgia is taking over social media in 2026
Author: Dave Carter
Jessy Nelson spoke about SMA this week – I've lived with it for years
BBC journalist Ben Morris shares his personal journey living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition causing muscle weakness that worsens over time. Diagnosed with SMA type two as an infant, Ben’s parents were initially told he might not survive past his second birthday. However, defying these early expectations, he is now 25… Continue reading Jessy Nelson spoke about SMA this week – I've lived with it for years
Musk says X outcry is 'excuse for censorship'
Elon Musk has responded to criticism surrounding his social media platform X, stating that opponents are merely seeking “any excuse for censorship.” This statement comes amid allegations that X’s AI chatbot, Grok, was generating sexualized images of individuals without their consent, including children. In response to these concerns, the UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, has launched… Continue reading Musk says X outcry is 'excuse for censorship'
Debt charities report January spike in calls as worries mount
Charitable organizations that offer debt advice have reported a significant surge in the number of individuals seeking help with financial difficulties following the Christmas period. This time of year is traditionally a peak for calls to helplines as people struggle with the financial strain caused by holiday spending. Notably, StepChange, an advice charity, revealed that… Continue reading Debt charities report January spike in calls as worries mount
Digital gun licence system in NI 'too difficult' for elderly
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is currently reviewing whether it provides adequate support for individuals who struggle with the mandatory online system for firearms licensing in the region. Since 2018, all firearm permit applications must be submitted exclusively via an online portal. However, a recent update to this system has reportedly caused frustration… Continue reading Digital gun licence system in NI 'too difficult' for elderly
Newspaper headlines: 'Regime teeters in Tehran' and 'Clearing the heir'
Several newspapers have focused on the ongoing protests in Iran, which began two weeks ago amid widespread economic difficulties. The Times led with the headline “Regime teeters in Tehran,” echoing remarks from the US President who told Fox News that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, might be considering fleeing the country. This perspective highlights… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'Regime teeters in Tehran' and 'Clearing the heir'
Ice warning as Storm Goretti impact lingers in Wales
Wales continues to experience challenging winter weather conditions following the impact of Storm Goretti, which brought significant snowfall and icy conditions across the region. The storm led to school closures, power outages, and widespread travel difficulties. Even as the immediate storm has passed, lingering effects remain a cause for concern, particularly as temperatures cause partially… Continue reading Ice warning as Storm Goretti impact lingers in Wales
The beauty queen who caught Scotland's most prolific catfish
This passage tells the story of Adele Rennie, a nurse from Kilmarnock, Scotland, who catfished multiple women over many years by pretending to be a man called David Graham. Some key points from the text are: – Abbie, the granddaughter of a hospital patient, discovered Adele was using a fake male identity to deceive others… Continue reading The beauty queen who caught Scotland's most prolific catfish
Man admits racist abuse of footballer Jess Carter
A 60-year-old man has admitted to sending abusive messages via social media to England footballer Jess Carter. Nigel Dewale directed the offensive communications to Carter’s TikTok account during last summer’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 tournament, where the Lionesses successfully defended their title. The posts contained racist slurs, including harmful stereotypes targeting Carter’s race, and made… Continue reading Man admits racist abuse of footballer Jess Carter
UK facing £28bn defence spending gap claims
Reports suggest that the UK government’s efforts to prepare its armed forces for potential future conflicts will require significantly more funding than previously allocated. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is reportedly expecting a shortfall of around £28 billion over the next four years to cover forecasted costs. While the government has not officially denied these… Continue reading UK facing £28bn defence spending gap claims