Swinney says reform is at heart of his programme for government

John Swinney, the First Minister, is set to unveil his government’s agenda for the coming year, with a strong emphasis on public service reform. He emphasized the need to “embrace change,” placing such reforms at the core of his policy direction. A new cabinet minister has been appointed to spearhead these reforms, with a broad… Continue reading Swinney says reform is at heart of his programme for government

Early release: What's happening with prisoners in Scotland?

The intense public backlash surrounding the potential early release of the two teenagers responsible for the killing of PC Andrew Harper in England has thrust the issue of prison overcrowding into the spotlight. While this controversy has sparked heated debates across the border, Scotland has seen less headline attention despite wrestling with its own significant… Continue reading Early release: What's happening with prisoners in Scotland?

We survived the Aberfan disaster, but were told not to speak of it

The text you provided tells the stories of survivors from the Aberfan disaster, which occurred in 1966. Key points from the content include: – **Janett Bickley** was among the children affected by the disaster. She remembers being dug out of the wreckage by a classmate and being the only child from her street to return… Continue reading We survived the Aberfan disaster, but were told not to speak of it

New storm names for 2026-2027 released by Met Office

The selection of storm names is a collaborative effort between the Met Office, Met Éireann, and the KNMI, with the goal of representing communities from the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands. For the 2025/2026 storm season, these three meteorological organizations sought public input on potential names. During 2025, over 40,000 name suggestions were received from… Continue reading New storm names for 2026-2027 released by Met Office

Man charged after Grangetown fire in which woman and niece died

A tragic house fire in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals: 34-year-old Natalie McDonald and her seven-year-old niece, Valentina Foster. The fire occurred in the early hours of August 26 and has since led to the charging of a 23-year-old man. Police have identified Jaden Wright, who currently has no… Continue reading Man charged after Grangetown fire in which woman and niece died

Why so many black Britons still don't swim

The article discusses the persistent issue of drowning among black people in the UK, highlighting that black children and adults are over-represented in drowning statistics. Despite swimming being a statutory skill taught in UK primary schools, many black people still cannot swim, a trend that has existed for decades. Key points covered in the article… Continue reading Why so many black Britons still don't swim

Andy Burnham to face Parliament as prime minister for first time

Andy Burnham is scheduled to deliver a speech in the House of Commons later today, marking a significant moment as MPs return from their summer break. This will be his first appearance at the dispatch box as prime minister, a role he has assumed just six weeks ago. His last time speaking here was 16… Continue reading Andy Burnham to face Parliament as prime minister for first time

Holy Cross: School dispute was 'hatred at its worst' says Priest

On the 25th anniversary of the Holy Cross dispute, Fr Aidan Troy reflected on the painful events that unfolded during the conflict. Serving as the parish priest in Ardoyne at the time, Fr Troy emphasized that the “hurt” experienced during those days remains an ever-present risk. This lingering possibility motivates him to remain committed to… Continue reading Holy Cross: School dispute was 'hatred at its worst' says Priest

Heaton Park synagogue attack memorial service attended by 800

Around 800 people gathered at the Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester to honor the victims and survivors of the tragic attack that took place there last year. Among those in attendance were Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Communities Secretary Angela Rayner. The ceremony served as a remembrance for Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby, who lost… Continue reading Heaton Park synagogue attack memorial service attended by 800

Lowestoft rollercoaster beaks down with 27 people being rescued

Richard Lines, a visitor at the park, recounted being on a different attraction near Wipeout when a power failure occurred, impacting several rides at once. According to Lines, he noticed a staff member attending to the immobilized ride, a scene captured in footage shared with the BBC. Following this, the ride’s carriages briefly resumed motion… Continue reading Lowestoft rollercoaster beaks down with 27 people being rescued