According to the latest data from Halifax, the average house price in the UK has surpassed the £300,000 mark for the first time. In January, the country’s largest mortgage lender reported that the typical property value reached £300,077. This development is seen as a significant milestone, although it poses challenges for first-time buyers attempting to… Continue reading Average house price tops £300,000 for first time, says Halifax
Author: Dave Carter
Anger over Alton Towers changes for visitors who are autistic or have ADHD
Families of individuals with certain disabilities have expressed frustration following recent changes to the eligibility criteria for ride access passes at several major theme parks in the UK. Merlin Entertainments, the operator behind popular destinations such as Alton Towers in Staffordshire and Thorpe Park in Surrey, announced that from the February half-term, conditions like autism,… Continue reading Anger over Alton Towers changes for visitors who are autistic or have ADHD
Gruffalo Granny: Julia Donaldson reveals new character and title for third book
Julia Donaldson, the renowned children’s author, has announced the title and main character of her eagerly awaited new addition to the Gruffalo series. The forthcoming book, titled *Gruffalo Granny*, marks the third installment in the beloved series about the iconic monster and his woodland companions. Set to be published in hardback and released as an… Continue reading Gruffalo Granny: Julia Donaldson reveals new character and title for third book
'Serial killer Steve Wright stalked me days before he murdered'
A woman who was stalked by the serial killer Steve Wright shortly before he murdered 17-year-old Victoria Hall believes that Wright had been trying to kidnap her as well. This woman, who has chosen to remain anonymous, recalls a night out with friends in Felixstowe, Suffolk, on 16 September 1999 when a man began following… Continue reading 'Serial killer Steve Wright stalked me days before he murdered'
Top government figures to hand over private messages with Mandelson
Key members within Sir Keir Starmer’s administration are preparing to submit extensive records of their electronic communications with Lord Mandelson as investigations advance concerning his appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. This ongoing controversy escalated after Sir Keir issued a public apology to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein, acknowledging that he had… Continue reading Top government figures to hand over private messages with Mandelson
Three African countries agree to UK migrant returns after sanctions threat
The UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has successfully secured agreements from three African nations to accept the return of foreign offenders and illegal migrants. This development follows a stern warning issued by Mahmood, threatening visa restrictions on countries that fail to cooperate with the UK’s removal processes. Namibia and Angola reached agreements shortly after the… Continue reading Three African countries agree to UK migrant returns after sanctions threat
Number of homeless refugees in England soars, BBC has found
Over the past four years, the number of refugee households experiencing homelessness or facing the risk of it has surged dramatically, increasing more than fivefold according to recent BBC findings. Official government statistics from England reveal that figures escalated from 3,560 in 2021/22 to 19,310 in 2024/25. Charitable organizations have attributed this alarming rise largely… Continue reading Number of homeless refugees in England soars, BBC has found
The Stranraer hotel ice rink producing some of the world's finest curlers
The passage highlights the significant role that a Stranraer businessman, Hamilton “Hammy” McMillan, and his family have played in the development and success of curling in Scotland and internationally. In 1967, six years after purchasing the North West Castle hotel in Stranraer, the McMillans innovatively added the world’s first hotel with an in-built ice-rink. This… Continue reading The Stranraer hotel ice rink producing some of the world's finest curlers
Newspaper headlines: 'PM battles for survival' and Rayner 'ready to go'
The appointment of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the United States by the Prime Minister has sparked significant controversy. It emerged publicly that Mandelson had maintained ties with Jeffrey Epstein following Epstein’s conviction for soliciting sex from a minor. This revelation has led to intense scrutiny and criticism of the Prime Minister’s decision. Reports indicate… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'PM battles for survival' and Rayner 'ready to go'
Families' debt 'nightmare' as thousands of retirement flats stand empty
Families across England and Wales are facing significant financial burdens after inheriting retirement flats that prove difficult to sell. These properties, often restricted to buyers above a certain age, are lingering on the market despite steep discounts, leaving relatives to shoulder ongoing fees. One individual shared with the BBC that even after reducing the asking… Continue reading Families' debt 'nightmare' as thousands of retirement flats stand empty