How to fix frozen water pipes and how to deal with burst ones

A sudden shift from severe cold to warmer weather can often cause water pipes that were frozen to burst, leading to potentially costly damage. United Utilities, the water provider serving north-west England, has issued a warning urging residents to carefully inspect their plumbing for any signs of leaks following periods of sub-zero temperatures. The transition… Continue reading How to fix frozen water pipes and how to deal with burst ones

Whitchurch canal repairs to take most of 2026

Authorities have estimated that the restoration of a collapsed section of the Llangollen Canal in Whitchurch, Shropshire, may extend through most of 2026. The damage followed a breach on 22 December, as revealed by recent aerial footage displaying extensive destruction to both the canal embankment and its bed. The breach resulted in two narrowboats sinking… Continue reading Whitchurch canal repairs to take most of 2026

Dog rescued from 'filthy house' in Northallerton adopted by her vet

A springer spaniel named Floss, rescued from deplorable living conditions described by an RSPCA inspector as one of the worst in her career, is now thriving in a loving home. Floss was found severely underweight and infested with fleas at a property in Northallerton, where authorities also discovered a deceased dog. Shannon Hamilton, the veterinarian… Continue reading Dog rescued from 'filthy house' in Northallerton adopted by her vet

Starmer tells BBC 'I'll be PM this time next year'

In an exclusive interview with the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Sir Keir Starmer confidently addressed ongoing doubts about his leadership, asserting that he expects to remain prime minister a year from now. Despite facing a challenging year in 2025 marked by sluggish economic growth, disappointing poll results, and rumors of potential leadership contests, he… Continue reading Starmer tells BBC 'I'll be PM this time next year'

UK-French air strike targets IS arms dump in Syria

Royal Air Force Typhoon jets recently collaborated with French aircraft to conduct a targeted strike on an underground weapons depot in Syria used by the Islamic State group (IS), according to the UK Ministry of Defence. Intelligence sources had identified the site, located in mountainous terrain just north of Palmyra, an ancient city in central… Continue reading UK-French air strike targets IS arms dump in Syria

Dreading going back to work? How to ease the post-Christmas return

As the Christmas break winds down, many people find themselves in a transitional phase: still technically off work, but mentally beginning to gear up for the workweek ahead. After a period marked by late nights, family gatherings, and a slower rhythm, shifting back to a regular schedule often triggers feelings of reluctance, unease, and low… Continue reading Dreading going back to work? How to ease the post-Christmas return

How UK plush toy Jellycat conquered China

During the pandemic, Stella Huang found solace in purchasing her first Jellycat plush toy after losing her job. Introduced to the British-designed brand by a school friend, her affection truly blossomed when she spotted a gingerbread house plush on the Chinese social media platform RedNote. Though Christmas is primarily commercial and less traditionally celebrated in… Continue reading How UK plush toy Jellycat conquered China

How to look after dogs, cats and other pets in cold weather

This winter, much of the UK has been hit by cold and snowy weather, posing challenges not only for people but also for their pets. Keeping animals warm and safe during these chilly conditions is essential, as they, like humans, are susceptible to the dangers of low temperatures. Pets can suffer from hypothermia if they… Continue reading How to look after dogs, cats and other pets in cold weather

Will 2026 be the year MPs and peers agree how to repair Parliament?

A significant decision looms for members of the UK Parliament regarding the future of the Palace of Westminster. Substantial maintenance and restoration work, costing billions of pounds, is urgently needed to address the building’s deteriorating condition. The question now is whether MPs and peers should temporarily vacate the historic site to enable these essential repairs.… Continue reading Will 2026 be the year MPs and peers agree how to repair Parliament?

Newspaper headlines: 'America on the warpath' and 'Trump to run Venezuela'

Sunday’s newspapers are dominated by headlines and images surrounding the dramatic capture of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro by US special forces, along with extensive military strikes on the South American nation. The Mail on Sunday leads with “America on the warpath,” featuring a striking front-page photo of a blindfolded and shackled Maduro following his arrest.… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'America on the warpath' and 'Trump to run Venezuela'