Hundreds run into sea for Boxing Day swim in Cromer and Aldeburgh

This year’s Boxing Day saw numerous swimmers take to the frigid waters of the North Sea, as captured in stunning aerial photographs. Despite the icy conditions, many participants donned their festive hats and jumpers to take part in the North Norfolk Beach Runners’ Dip at Cromer. The event included a 20-minute fun run, providing an… Continue reading Hundreds run into sea for Boxing Day swim in Cromer and Aldeburgh

The Singing Binman: Charles Cavey has busked in a Cambridge bin for 25 years

For over a quarter of a century, the locals of Cambridge have been treated to the musical stylings of Charles Cavey, also known as The Singing Binman. This unique and beloved performer first came up with the idea while working for a local punting company. As he watched the refuse trucks moving along the busy… Continue reading The Singing Binman: Charles Cavey has busked in a Cambridge bin for 25 years

Courage has gone out of broadcasting, says Grange Hill creator

Sir Phil Redmond, creator of TV shows Grange Hill and Hollyoaks, has criticised modern broadcasting for lacking courage. Speaking on the BBC’s Today programme, Sir Phil argued that gritty programming is important, especially for today’s youth. He also suggested that watchdog rules should be broken more often, and singled out social media as an area… Continue reading Courage has gone out of broadcasting, says Grange Hill creator

Starmer pays tribute to brother Nick after death aged 60

The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has released a statement mourning the passing of his brother Nick, who passed away on Boxing Day at 60 years old from cancer. Starmer described his sibling as “a wonderful man” who “met all the challenges life threw at him with courage and good humour.” The Prime Minister… Continue reading Starmer pays tribute to brother Nick after death aged 60

'Why Gavin & Stacey stars got in touch with me at Christmas'

The owner of a cafe that was featured in the hit TV series Gavin & Stacey has revealed that he struggled to hold back the tears while watching the show’s final episode. Marco Zeraschi, who runs Marco’s cafe in Barry Island, said that numerous members of the show’s cast and crew had been in touch… Continue reading 'Why Gavin & Stacey stars got in touch with me at Christmas'

HMP Five Wells prison officer arrested over alleged misconduct

A female prison officer has been arrested over allegations of misconduct in public office after a video of her having sex with an inmate was circulated among prisoners at HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. The officer, aged 19, was arrested on 23 December and suspended from her job at the facility, which opened in… Continue reading HMP Five Wells prison officer arrested over alleged misconduct

Soho: Man charged after car driven into people on Christmas Day

A man has been charged with four counts of attempted murder after a car hit four pedestrians on Christmas Day in London’s West End. The Metropolitan Police said that at 00:45 GMT on Wednesday, a car had been driving on the wrong side of the road in Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho. The alleged perpetrator, Anthony Gilheaney,… Continue reading Soho: Man charged after car driven into people on Christmas Day

'Very worrying' pass rates for maths and science in Scotland

Scotland’s Commission on School Reform has expressed concern over student performance in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects, after analysing exam pass rates for secondary pupils between 2015 and 2024. Only 40.1% – or less than half – of Scottish fourth-year (typically aged 14 to 16) pupils achieved a pass rate for National 5… Continue reading 'Very worrying' pass rates for maths and science in Scotland

Make more use of open prisons, former minister David Gauke says

According to the man leading the government’s sentencing review, David Gauke, the UK should use open prisons more often to reduce overcrowding and reoffending rates. Speaking to The Times, Gauke explained that the system has now reached full capacity, and giving inmates the freedom to leave prisons during the day to study and work could… Continue reading Make more use of open prisons, former minister David Gauke says