VE Day: Pubs to stay open later to mark 80th anniversary

To mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), the government has confirmed that pubs in England and Wales will be able to extend their opening hours until 01:00 BST. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that pubs and bars, which typically close at 23:00, will have the opportunity to serve customers… Continue reading VE Day: Pubs to stay open later to mark 80th anniversary

Wales tourism tax 'risky economic move', says holiday let provider

The potential implementation of a tourism tax in Wales has sparked controversy, with the UK’s largest holiday let provider, Sykes Holiday Cottages, warning that such a move could have negative consequences on the economy. The Welsh government is proposing a levy of £1.30 plus VAT per night for hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodations, along with… Continue reading Wales tourism tax 'risky economic move', says holiday let provider

Essex senior police officer sacked for sexual misconduct

A former chief superintendent with Essex Police, Tom Simons, has been dismissed without notice and barred from joining any other police force after engaging in sexual behaviour without consent. The disciplinary hearing found that he abused his position for a sexual purpose with a colleague and also displayed sexualized behavior with two other colleagues. Additionally,… Continue reading Essex senior police officer sacked for sexual misconduct

Music, painting and yoga: 'How I recovered from a 5,000ft fall'

Following a harrowing 5,000ft fall during a paragliding accident, Jonny Fox, a paragliding instructor from Brighton, found solace and healing through his newfound passion for landscape painting. Describing his artwork as a “love letter to being alive,” Jonny opened an exhibition titled Back Story at The Crypt Gallery in Seaford. This exhibition showcases his determination… Continue reading Music, painting and yoga: 'How I recovered from a 5,000ft fall'

Easter travel disruption expected on rail and roads

The upcoming Easter weekend poses potential travel disruptions for millions of individuals, as a result of various factors such as rail engineering works, an airport strike, and heavy traffic. Network Rail is set to undertake more than 300 maintenance projects, including work at London Euston, throughout the extended weekend. The RAC has cautioned about the… Continue reading Easter travel disruption expected on rail and roads

Rapid purchase of properties for Grenfell residents criticised

A council in London is currently in the process of selling 14 properties that were originally obtained to accommodate survivors of the tragic Grenfell Tower fire. These properties have been deemed unfit for rental due to their poor condition. The Kensington and Chelsea Council made the decision to purchase a total of 290 properties following… Continue reading Rapid purchase of properties for Grenfell residents criticised

No-fly zone at Sandringham Estate after drone sightings

A drone sighting during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk prompted the establishment of a no-fly zone in the area. The restrictions were put in place on 10 March, restricting aircraft from flying below 2,000ft (610m) for public safety and security reasons. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander signed off on the… Continue reading No-fly zone at Sandringham Estate after drone sightings

Joe Thompson: Former Rochdale midfielder dies at the age of 36

Former Rochdale midfielder Joe Thompson, aged 36, has passed away after battling cancer for the third time. Thompson, who retired from playing five years ago, was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that had spread to his lungs. He began and ended his career with Rochdale and had three stints with… Continue reading Joe Thompson: Former Rochdale midfielder dies at the age of 36