Monarch of the Glen actor Alexander 'Sandy' Morton dies aged 81

Alexander ‘Sandy’ Morton, the Scottish actor widely recognized for his role as Golly Mackenzie in the BBC Scotland series *Monarch of the Glen*, has passed away at the age of 81. Born in Glasgow, Morton portrayed the devoted ghillie of the fictional Glenbogle estate throughout all 64 episodes of the show, which aired from 2000… Continue reading Monarch of the Glen actor Alexander 'Sandy' Morton dies aged 81

First minister admits north Wales NHS 'not a pretty sight'

During a recent live Q&A session with voters, Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan candidly described the situation at north Wales’ Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board as “not a pretty sight.” This acknowledgment came in response to audience members sharing difficult experiences with NHS services in the region. Morgan emphasized that despite these challenges, the Welsh… Continue reading First minister admits north Wales NHS 'not a pretty sight'

Sycamore Gap tree convict released from jail after 10 months

One of the individuals involved in cutting down the Sycamore Gap tree has been released from prison earlier than anticipated. Adam Carruthers, aged 33, was sentenced along with Daniel Graham, 39, to four years and three months in custody last July for inflicting criminal damage on the iconic tree located near Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland.… Continue reading Sycamore Gap tree convict released from jail after 10 months

US war on Iran was a 'mistake' says UK chancellor Rachel Reeves

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has openly criticized the United States’ decision to end diplomatic engagements with Iran and escalate to military conflict, describing it as a “mistake.” Speaking at CNBC’s Invest in America forum, Reeves emphasized that the most prudent economic approach for the UK and the world is to seek de-escalation rather than intensifying tensions.… Continue reading US war on Iran was a 'mistake' says UK chancellor Rachel Reeves

Murderer died in hospital from cancer and liver cirrhosis

An investigation has revealed that William MacDowell, convicted of murdering his partner Renee MacRae and their young son Andrew in 1976, died in hospital due to cancer and alcoholic liver cirrhosis. MacDowell passed away at Forth Valley Hospital in February 2023, only a few months after receiving his jail sentence for the killings. At 81… Continue reading Murderer died in hospital from cancer and liver cirrhosis

Theatre touring in crisis as drama performances drop 70%, report says

A recent comprehensive report has shed light on the dire state of touring across theatre, music, dance, and opera in England, describing the landscape as being “in crisis.” The study warns that without immediate and significant intervention, many parts of the sector may not survive. This conclusion comes from the State of Touring report, commissioned… Continue reading Theatre touring in crisis as drama performances drop 70%, report says

Shabana Mahmood promises action against 'sham lawyers' abusing asylum system

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has committed to taking stringent legal action against “sham lawyers” who exploit the asylum system by aiding migrants in making fraudulent claims. This announcement follows a BBC investigation that exposed how certain law firms and advisors have been charging significant fees to assist migrants in pretending to be gay, enabling them… Continue reading Shabana Mahmood promises action against 'sham lawyers' abusing asylum system

Ulster University to cut up to 450 jobs

Ulster University has announced plans to potentially cut up to 450 jobs among its workforce. This development was communicated to staff during a meeting chaired by the vice-chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew, on Wednesday. While the university hopes to implement these reductions through voluntary redundancy schemes, it has not ruled out the possibility of compulsory redundancies.… Continue reading Ulster University to cut up to 450 jobs

BBC to cut almost one in 10 staff in £500m savings

The BBC has revealed plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 1,800 to 2,000 positions, representing nearly 10% of its staff, as part of measures to address significant financial challenges. The broadcaster is tasked with finding £500 million in savings over the coming two years. Interim director general Rhodri Talfan Davies signaled that this savings… Continue reading BBC to cut almost one in 10 staff in £500m savings

Murdered UWE student Jamie Collins was 'bright' and 'kind'

The family of Jamie Collins, a university student who recently died from multiple stab wounds, have spoken about him as a “bright” and “unassuming young man” with his entire future ahead of him. They remembered Collins as a “gentle” and “kind” person who was eagerly anticipating completing his studies at the University of the West… Continue reading Murdered UWE student Jamie Collins was 'bright' and 'kind'