Newspaper headlines: 'Business blames budget' and 'UK economy takes hit'

The new UK budget announcement has resulted in a decrease in private sector activity. A survey of businesses reveals that they have given a “thumb’s down” to the government’s decision to increase employer National Insurance contributions, leading to a 13-month low. The poor outlook, as reported by the Daily Mail, comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'Business blames budget' and 'UK economy takes hit'

Natasha Harding: former Wales football player faces fresh claims

A growing number of parents and businesses are coming forward claiming to have lost money to former international footballer Natasha Harding, with up to 70 allegations now being made. It is believed that the total figure lost by all parties could be almost £70,000. The former Reading captain, who is one of Wales’ most capped… Continue reading Natasha Harding: former Wales football player faces fresh claims

Spectrum: Sisters build global beauty brand from garage in Barry

A Welsh beauty business started by two sisters from their garage has grown into a worldwide operation that is worth millions. Sophie and Hannah Pycroft founded Spectrum Collections 10 years ago and it has sold over two million makeup brushes and accessories already in 2021, while the company generated its highest year of sales in… Continue reading Spectrum: Sisters build global beauty brand from garage in Barry

Charity shops report rising Christmas demand in cost of giving crisis

Charity shops across the UK are experiencing an increase in demand ahead of the festive period, as shoppers seek out bargains and sustainable alternatives. Charity shops are proving an attractive option for those looking to save money, with reports of a Versace handbag being sold for just £15, and even a TV being bought for… Continue reading Charity shops report rising Christmas demand in cost of giving crisis

'We are being robbed': Homeowners feel trapped by rising fees

Homeowners on new-build estates in the West of England have criticised property management company FirstPort for raising service charges to cover the upkeep of communal areas while delivering a poor quality of service. Complaints have included FirstPort neglecting basic maintenance such as weeding and mowing grass as well as including questionable charges, such as “terrorism… Continue reading 'We are being robbed': Homeowners feel trapped by rising fees

War on the wards – how staffing row has split NHS

The British medical community is divided over the role of physician associates (PAs) in the National Health Service (NHS). PAs have been in the NHS for 20 years, providing support to doctors by assessing patients and carrying out examinations. Their numbers have grown rapidly, from a few hundred three years ago to 3,500 now, as… Continue reading War on the wards – how staffing row has split NHS

Allison Pearson felt 'bullied' in Essex Police probe

Allison Pearson, a journalist for The Daily Telegraph, has spoken out about feeling “bullied and threatened” after Essex Police paid her a visit as part of an investigation into alleged incitement to racial hatred following a complaint from a member of the public relating to a social media post. Pearson told BBC Radio 4’s PM programme… Continue reading Allison Pearson felt 'bullied' in Essex Police probe

Kate Nash says OnlyFans photos will earn more than tour

British singer Kate Nash has said she believes she will earn more money from selling pictures of her bottom on OnlyFans than from playing concerts. She is using the profits from the site to subsidise her tours, saying tours more often than not make losses rather than profits. It also brings attention to the difficulties… Continue reading Kate Nash says OnlyFans photos will earn more than tour

Olivia Rodrigo: US pop star spotted in Llandudno

Olivia Rodrigo has been spotted in the Welsh town of Llandudno. The American singer-songwriter, known for hits such as Drivers License and Good 4 U, was shopping in a Marks & Spencer store when she was captured in a selfie by M&S worker Rose Ann Bituon-Thomas. According to Bituon-Thomas, Rodrigo had been walking around Llandudno… Continue reading Olivia Rodrigo: US pop star spotted in Llandudno