SplashKym Marsh is single again after she split from partner Samuel Thomas[/caption]
Not known, clear with picture deskThe couple had referred to each other as “soulmates” in the summer[/caption]
An insider said: “Kym and Sam fell head over heels when they first met and couldn’t wait to tell the world.
“But once Kym’s role in 101 Dalmatians ended it became harder to spend time together and some of the magic they had at the beginning just disappeared.
“It’s such a shame, especially before Christmas but Kym surrounded herself with family.”
Despite being very public about their new romance, neither Kym or Sam posted about each other on Valentine’s Day last week.
Kym and Sam also spent both Christmas and New Year apart – both sharing with fans the different things they got up to.
The source added: “There is no hard feelings, it was all very cordial.” Kym met and fell for Sam not long after the breakdown of her third marriage to Army Major Scott Ratcliff.
She told fans back in August: “Met the most amazing man ever!
“Sometimes the most unexpected things happen at the most unexpected times. @samuelthomasuk I love you #beautiful #soulmate.”
After telling one doubter to “do one”, Kym later added in another response: “It’s time to grow up and get on with your own life instead of giving hate to someone else’s life.”
To another hater, she added: “I wonder what’s missing from your life that you need to comment on others. Sad really.”
samuelthomasuk / InstagramThe couple met whilst performing in 101 Dalmatians: The Musical[/caption]
samuelthomas/InstagramSamuel is 19 years younger than Kym, and the same age as her son David[/caption]
InstagramKym was forced to defend her relationship with Samuel against trolls[/caption]
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on Stella McCartney at war with neighbours over HATED £5million ‘modernist’ mansion as revamped plans spark fresh backlash
PROPOSED plans by Stella McCartney and her husband Alasdhair Willis to build a home in the Scottish highlands are facing resistance from locals.
Community council officials have expressed concerns over the revamped plans to build the £5million gaff in the village of Glenuig on country’s west coast.
Not known, clear with picture deskProposals by Stella McCartney and her husband for the secluded hideaway have sparked criticisms[/caption]
Not known, clear with picture deskDozens of objections have been lodged with Highland Council over the £5million mansion plans[/caption]
Getty - ContributorThe couple’s huge house is planned to be built at Commando Rock in Glenuig[/caption]
Stella, the son of legendary musician Sir Paul McCartney, and her husband scooped the plot of land for £450,000.
More than 60 objections have been filed from locals since architects submitted fresh proposals last year.
Arisaig and District Community Council penned a letter to Highland Council stating that a “large number of second homes” already exist in the local area.
“Having discussed the application at some length at our recent meeting, Arisaig and District Community Council would like to request that these concerns are given careful consideration before granting planning permission for what will be, for the current applicant, solely a holiday home, but may in future be a full-time residence,” it reads.
“Arisaig & District Community Council share Roshven residents’ concerns that: the impact on wildlife – otters and pine marten in particular – on one of the last undeveloped parts of the Roshven coastline, should this development be allowed to go ahead, will be irreversible.
“The potential impact on the Corsican pine trees and ancient woodland on the headland should be taken seriously.
“There are concerns over the access track which is not owned by the applicant – and fear that the organisation of any future works to upgrade it will be blocked by the applicant.
“There is also concern over the amount of noise and disruption the creation of a track will cause over an extended period.
“Installation of a reliable water supply will be difficult given the remoteness of the property.
“It should be noted that water supply in the Roshven area is already an issue, with many homes using an unreliable private supply (a small burn) which can dry up in the summer months.
“Whilst the demands of a large house used only a few weeks of the year may not be problematical, this could change if the house was subsequently bought by full-time residents.
“Additionally, we feel that a development plan for the area that considers all the various concerns should belatedly be put in place, in conjunction with local residents.
It added: “What is Highland Council Planning Department’s vision for this seemingly unstructured/unplanned area that has very little infrastructure and a precious environmental footprint?”
The couple had previously hired conservationists, in an attempt to prove there were no otters in the surrounding area, as part of the planning application.
Residents then revealed they installed animal trap cameras and filmed otters and pine martens in the area.
Michie MacDonald, the wife of the area’s Liberal Democrat MP Angus MacDonald, said “this plot is just not suitable for development” siting issues over water supply, wildlife and access for emergency vehicles.
“Camera traps were set up by a neighbour and I, and we immediately had photo and video evidence of otters, pine martens and numerous birds.
“There are runs through the grassy areas, mounds of droppings, a freshwater bathing pool and lying up areas. I am sure there will be a holt in the rhododendron scrub or the jumble of rocks.
“The planning department must be brave and and not ever grant permission for this site to be developed. Since outline permission was granted 30? or so years ago there has been rampant building, and this parcel of land is the last redoubt for people and fauna alike.”
Karen White, the previous owner of the site, who has been critical of the plans said: “On numerous occasions over the past 50 years, I have seen single otters, pairs of otters and families on the rocks, and there is no doubt they would be distracted should this building be allowed to proceed.”
However, the Willis’ planning agent has said: “We can find no evidence of any such holt and have not been made aware of any evidence to the contrary.”
Ms McCartney and her husband altered plans for the glass-fronted house in an effort to save the area’s natural habitats.
New plans submitted in September changed the designs of the house in an effort to avoid damaging tree lines.
An updated ecological survey submitted by the architects said the revised placement of the house on the site “largely eliminated any impacts to the trees on site”.
It added: “A management plan which commits to the promotion of a wider area of native tree stock and the removal of invasive, non-native species in a manner which assures trees and native woodland is increased and features in this landscape in perpetuity would lead to a positive impact in the medium and long term.”
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on Major carmaker ‘on brink of collapse’ lobbies Starmer to relax EV sales target as ‘mega-merger’ with rival falls through
NISSAN is desperately seeking changes to the UK government’s EV sales targets – with the car giant seemingly on the brink of collapse.
The Japanese manufacturer has suffered a decline in sales in recent years, brought about by poor management decisions and a failure to adapt to the growing electric vehicle market.
GettyCar giants Nissan are worryingly close to the abyss after suffering a decline in sales in recent years[/caption]
GettyThe Japanese car giant recently lobbied Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in an attempt to have the government’s EV sales targets relaxed[/caption]
GettyShould the manufacturer collapse, it would be a huge blow to the some 6,000 workers at their plant in Sunderland[/caption]
Nissan, one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, has struggled under growing competition from Chinese brands like BYD.
Worries are further exacerbated by the Zero-Emission Vehicle, or ZEV, mandate, requiring 28% of car sales to be electric in 2025 — or face fines of £15,000 for every car they fall short on.
Currently, Nissan’s sales of electric cars, such as the Leaf, are lagging behind their rivals, putting them at risk of significant penalties.
Naturally, the brand is pushing for a relaxation of these rules – not least because Nissan runs the UK’s largest car factory in Sunderland, and a collapse for the manufacturer could spell disaster for the 6,000 British workers employed there.
According to a report from The Times, Nissan’s global boss, Makoto Uchida, spoke to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at an autumn investment summit, raising concerns about the impact of the government’s rules on their business.
Nissan warned ministers, including Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, that the current rules could put the Sunderland plan at risk.
To this end, Nissan asked the government to pause the rules for two years, suggesting they make them “monitoring only” instead of enforcing fines.
The government has since launched a review of the rules, with a consultation closing soon.
Reynolds, who is from the northeast and has a personal connection to Sunderland, has hinted that the rules might be relaxed.
He said he’s worried about low demand for electric cars and wants to ensure they’re made in the UK to protect jobs in the automotive sector.
Latest figures show Nissan’s issues around electric car sales in the UK, with fewer than 10% of its UK sales electric – with brands like BMW and Mini outselling them.
Worse still, if the ZEV rules remain as they are, Nissan could face tens of millions of pounds in fines.
Nissan’s problems aren’t just limited to the UK; their sales have also dropped in key markets such as China and the US.
In December, the Japanese car manufacturer discussed a possible “mega-merger” with Honda – but these negotiations have since fallen through.
The original idea was to combine forces, along with Mitsubishi, to create the third-largest global carmaker in sales volumes after Toyota and Volkswagen.
But recent reports suggest Honda was looking to change the conditions and make Nissan a subsidiary – something Nissan felt went against their agreement.
Industry insiders say Nissan is open to mergers with other automotive or technology firms – with Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Technology Group, a potential candidate.
Nissan, which has been around for some 91 years, started selling cars in the UK in 1968, under the Datsun brand.
Since then, they’ve found success with a diverse range of models, including the Micra, Primera and X-Trail.
However, it is the Qashqai—rolling off Sunderland’s production lines every two minutes—that revolutionised the UK’s crossover SUV market and secured its position as one of the nation’s all-time best-selling cars.
AFPNissan and Honda met late last year to discuss a potential ‘mega-merger’ – but those talks have since broken down[/caption]
GettyNissan now face a worrying 12 months that could make or break the 91-year-old firm[/caption]
GettyBusiness Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has hinted that the rules around EV sales might be relaxed[/caption]
Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension under the Occupational Injuries Scheme
The pay-out is an extra €2.50 per week, in addition to your primary payment, Living Alone and Fuel Allowance.
Over one year, it will total €130.
There is no application form and it should be paid automatically.
If you believe you qualify for the Telephone Support Allowance, but are not receiving it after 4 June 2018, you can contact the Longford or Sligo office.
Meanwhile, a major change is set to come into effect in weeks as a popular payment is coming to an end.
The 2024/2025 Fuel Allowance, which started in September 2024, will stop in April.
Recipients get a weekly payment of €33 for 28 weeks or they were paid out in two lump sum payments.
The allowance, which totals €924, will come to an end on Tuesday April 4, 2025.
Only one Fuel Allowance payment is paid to a household.
To get Fuel Allowance you must live alone, be getting a qualifying payment (unless you are 66 or over) or satisfy a means test.
People over 66, who aren’t qualifying for a social welfare payment already, can avail of the payment – but it is means tested.
Social welfare payments are either based on your PRSI contributions (social insurance payments) or means-tested social assistance payments.
The list of qualifying social insurance payments and social assistance payments are available on citizensinformation.ie.
For those over 66, you can have income of up to €524 per week, or €1,048 per week for a couple and still qualify for Fuel Allowance.
The total telephone support is €130 annuallyGetty Images - Getty
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on I tried four new spring outfits from Dunnes Stores from just €20 – they are so pretty
A FASHION fan has tried four cute new outfits for spring at Dunnes Stores – and they are so pretty.
The retailer has brought out some fantastic bits in their spring range, with everything you need for the warmer weather.
She tries on a stunning feather giletTiktok/@eimearcampbell96The dress is currently on saleTiktok/@eimearcampbell96She also tries on a grey cardiganTiktok/@eimearcampbell96
Eimear Campbell alerted her followers to the new arrivals.
In the caption of the post, she wrote: “New in Savida – outfits of the week”.
First, she tries on a stunning grey cardigan.
The Savida Boucle Cardigan costs just €30 and is available in sizes XXS to XXL.
The grey cardigan features large silver buttons up the centre.
In the official item description on the website, fashion chiefs said: “Sumptuously soft, this cropped cardigan from Savida is crafted from a soft and cosy boucle fabric.
“Featuring classic ribbed trims and intricately designed buttons, it can be worn with a skirt and boots or with your favourite denim.
“Savida is available exclusively at Dunnes Stores.”
Next, Eimear can be seen wearing a stunning feather gilet that is perfect for spring.
She wears it over a grey t-shirt and a pair of black jeans.
The Savida City Girl Borg Gilet is a must-have for shoppers, costing just €30.
It is available in sizes XXS to XXL, and is perfect for a range of events.
Shoppers could wear it on top of a stunning dress, or pair it with shorts, tights and boots for a dressy look, like Eimear did.
Or, pair it with a top and jeans for a casual but chic outfit.
Next, she keeps the top on, but this time adds on a stunning leather skirt.
Neither the top nor the skirt are available on the website, but may still be stocked in stores.
Eimear then tries on a fab black dress, with a cinched waist and pleated skirt.
She accessorizes by adding a black belt with a gold clasp.
And even better, shoppers can pick up the dress on sale.
The Savida Sienna Puff Sleeve Dress was originally priced at €40, but is now reduced to just €20.
Available in sizes XXS to XXL, shoppers have been racing to pick it up as the only size left in stock online is XXS.
In the official item description on the Dunnes Stores website, fashion bosses wrote: “From Savida, this black mini dress combines texture and volume for a gorgeous evening option.”
“Crafted from a subtly patterned fabric, it features voluminous sleeves and a flared hem for a flattering silhouette.
“Savida is available exclusively at Dunnes Stores.”
Shoppers could add a pair of high heels for a big event.
The new range is available in stores and online now, but is set to fly off the shelves.
She then tries on a fab leather skirtTiktok/@eimearcampbell96
THE HISTORY OF DUNNES STORES
DUNNES Stores opened its first store on Patrick Street in Cork in 1944 - and it was an instant hit.
Shoppers from all over the city rushed to the store to snap up quality clothing at pre-war prices in Ireland’s first ‘shopping frenzy’.
During the excitement, a window was forced in and the police had to be called to help control the crowds hoping to bag founder Ben Dunne’s ‘Better Value’ bargains.
Dunnes later opened more stores in the 1950s and began to sell groceries in 1960 – starting with apples and oranges.
The retailer said: “Fruit was expensive at the time and Ben Dunne yet again offered Better Value than anyone else in town.
“Over time, our food selection has grown and that spirit of good value has remained strong.
“Now we offer a wide range of carefully-sourced foods from both local Irish suppliers and overseas.”
The retailer’s first Dublin store opened its doors in 1957 on Henry Street and a super store on South Great Georges Street was unveiled in 1960.
They added: “In 1971, our first Northern Irish store opened, and many others soon followed.
“Expansion continued in the 1980s in Spain, and later into Scotland and England.”
Dunnes now has 142 stores and employs 15,000 people.
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on Hat-trick hero Omar Marmoush puts Dream Team managers on notice but tricky fixtures loom large
ANY Dream Team managers unfamiliar with Omar Marmoush (£4.4m) now understand why Manchester City forked out just shy of £60million for his services in January.
The Egypt international scored a sensational hat-trick in the space of 14 minutes against Newcastle on Saturday as Pep Guardiola’s side recorded one of their most impressive wins of the season.
Dream TeamStatement made[/caption]
Marmoush exhibited a range of finishes in a destructive first-half blitz against in-form opposition.
The Magpies had won 12 of their last 14 games in all competitions prior to their 4-0 defeat at the Etihad.
The ex-Frankfurt forward was substituted midway through the second half but the damage had already been done by that stage as the earned 26 points in one fell swoop.
Marmoush’s hat-trick is clearly the headline but it shouldn’t go unnoticed that he also notched three bonus points for his efforts in other aspects of the game.
For much of the campaign, Man City have been overly reliant on Erling Haaland (£8.1m) to score the goals and so fans will be thrilled that one of their new recruits has proven himself capable of clinical finishes.
PAMarmoush is Gameweek 24’s top performer right now[/caption]
As is often the case, a sizeable chunk of Dream Team bosses have been enamoured by a hat-trick hero.
The deadline is still a few days away but Marmoush is by far and away the most popular recruit ahead of Gameweek 25 at this stage after a tidal wave of transfers over the weekend.
Man City will be in action again before the deadline as they’re due to face Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League play-off on Wednesday night.
Needless to say, if Marmoush picks up an injury in the Spanish capital then many gaffers will be reversing their transfers and switching to Plan B.
More broadly, the result in Madrid will impact the viability of all Man City players going forward as they will be without European fixtures for the remainder of the season if they are unable to overturn their 3-2 loss from the first leg.
GettyMarmoush appears in 3.5% of teams[/caption]
Double Gameweek 25 will feature 20 fixtures in total with every Premier League side set to play twice.
This opens up all manner of options for Dream Team managers.
Marmoush’s hat-trick makes him an appealing differential as he currently features in just 3.5% of teams but City’s double header is far from favourable.
The defending champions welcome Liverpool to the Etihad next Sunday before a trip to Tottenham the following Wednesday.
Ange Postecoglou’s side have underwhelmed this season and victory over Manchester United has only lifted them up to 12th in the table but Spurs have long been a bogey team for Guardiola.
James Maddison inspired his side to a 4-0 win in Manchester back in November.
RexMan City host Liverpool next Sunday[/caption]
All things considered, Liverpool and Spurs represents a tough challenge for City in Gameweek 25.
It’s not inconceivable that Marmoush will provide plentiful returns but gaffers who take a fixture-first approach will be reluctant to recruit the 26-year-old at this point in time.
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6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on ‘Truly game-changing’ new test backed by Sir Chris Hoy ‘diagnoses prostate cancer with 96% accuracy’
SCIENTISTS have a developed a “game-changing” new “super test” that can diagnose prostate cancer with 96 per cent accuracy.
Olympic cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy – who revealed he had terminal prostate cancer last year – has “wholeheartedly welcomed” the test after calling for men to get access to earlier and more accurate screening.
GettyA game-changing prostate cancer super test could spot the disease with 96 per cent accuracy[/caption]
AlamySir Chris Hoy – pictured with wife Sarra Kemp – wholeheartedly welcomed the test[/caption]
GettyIt’s maker said it was more accurate than PSA tests used by the NHS[/caption]
The test, developed by EDX Medical, can spot cancerous cells and signs of early and late-stage cancer, as well as the disease’s sub-type and whether it’s slow or aggressive.
Scientists at the digital diagnostic group say their tool is more accurate than blood tests currently offered by the NHS, known as the PSA test.
The PSA test checks for levels of prostate specific antigen in the blood – high levels can show that someone has prostate cancer, but it can also indicate other non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate.
EDX Medical said it’s test measures “more than a hundred clinically validated biomarkers” – whereas current tools rely on “up to 20 biomarkers”.
Blood and urine samples are taken and sent off to a lab, where they’re analysed by scientists and an AI algorithm.
The test then takes into account PSA levels in combination with biomarkers and genetic factors to make it more accurate.
The analysis assesses specific proteins in the samples and any DNA mutations, the company said.
By compiling all of this data and using AI to sift through it, people who have prostate cancer but no symptoms are more likely to be diagnosed earlier.
EDX claimed this method can detect prostate cancer with 96 to 99 per cent accuracy across different ages and ethnic groups, whereas current testing – involving PSAs and biopsies – can be only 50 per cent accurate.
Prof Sir Chris Evans, founder and chief scientific officer of EDX Medical, described the test as “truly game-changing”, saying it could be “transformative in tackling prostate cancer in men who may have no idea if anything is wrong with them”.
He added that it would enable earlier detection and better prediction of risk, for example, because of someone’s genetics, allowing for more personalised treatment plans.
Sir Chris hailed the test, saying: “I now know there is a need for better and more accurate prostate cancer screening tests and I wholeheartedly welcome this initiative.”
The Olympic legend has previously suggested men shouldget prostate checks in their forties, after being diagnosed with incurable cancer aged just 48.
A “little” pain in his shoulder was the only sign of the Olympic legend’s incurable cancer, which had spread from his prostate to his bones.
PAThe Olympic legend announced his terminal diagnosis last year[/caption]
His statement that it was a “no-brainer” to offer prostate cancer testing to men below the current standard age of 50 prompted Health Secretary Wes Streeting to announce the Government was looking into the matter.
The NHS is now set to review its guidance for prostate cancer testing.
In the UK, more than 50,000 mean are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year and over 12,000 men lose their lives to the disease.
According to Prostate Cancer UK, as many as one in eight men will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime – with black men, over 50s and people with a family history of prostate cancer most at risk.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer affects a small, walnut shaped gland that sits underneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra – the tube carrying pee outside the body.
It usually grows bigger as you get older.
The prostate’s main job is to help make semen – the fluid that carries sperm.
Most men with early prostate cancer don’t have any signs or symptoms – that’s why it’s important to know about your risk.
Possible symptoms include:
Difficulty starting to urinate or emptying your bladder
A weak flow when you urinate
A feeling that your bladder hasn’t emptied properly
Dribbling urine after you finish urinating
Needing to urinate more often than usual, especially at night
A sudden need to urinate – you may sometimes leak urine before you get to the toilet
If you do notice changes in the way you urinate, this is more likely to be a sign of an enlarged prostate, which is very common and non-cancerous.
But it’s still a good idea to get it checked out.
In the UK, about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Some factors may mean you’re more likely to get it.
This includes:
Getting older – it mainly affects men aged 50 or over
Having a family history of prostate cancer
Being Black
If you have any of these risk factors or if you have any symptoms, speak to your GP.
They can talk to you about your risk, and about the tests that are used to diagnose prostate cancer.
Rio Ferdinand, former Manchester United and England captain, whose mother and first wife Rebecca died of cancer, said: “Those of us who have lost a loved one to cancer and have campaigned for research and more awareness know full well the need for better and earlier testing across a range of cancers.
“Ethnic minority men not only have twice the risk of getting prostate cancer, they also have higher rates of stage 3 and 4 and more aggressive cancer.
“We know if it can be caught early these men can be mostly cured, but it’s not, and too many men are dying unnecessarily.”
Andy Taylor, guitarist with Duran Duran who was diagnosed with prostate cancer at 55, also responded to news about EDX’s test, saying: “To know your prostate cancer status, stage and type and all your genetics when you were unaware there was a problem at all is a life saver and game-changer.”
The company will be seeking regulatory approval this year in both the UK and US before rolling out the product privately at the start of 2026.
It will then also make an application for it to be used on the NHS, the Telegraph reported.
It’s not the only prostate cancer screening test in development.
Imperial College London is leading a trial backed by Prostate Cancer UK to assess multiple different types of tests to identify what is the best for the NHS to use moving forward.
Prostate Cancer UK said there were “several emerging tests in development which show great promise”.
Simon Grieveson, the assistant director of research at Prostate Cancer UK, told the Telegraph: “We very much welcome advancements that may lead to more accurate and earlier diagnoses; however, many of these tests are still very early in their development and require robust testing in clinical trials before we can know with any certainty just how useful they may be.”
He said the £42 million TRANSFORM trial run at Imperial College would “investigate the best ways to screen men for prostate cancer, including looking at an individual’s genetic risk of prostate cancer”.
“We will also be establishing a vast resource of patient samples and MRI scans which will be hugely valuable in further developing and validating these novel emerging tests for the future,” he added.
Last year, charityProstate Cancer Research called for a national prostate cancer screening programme to be rolled out across the UK.
Under such a programme, men would be checked for the disease between the ages of 50 and 69, while those at higher risk would get called in for tests from the age of 45, the charity’s head Oliver Kemp said.
There are currently national screening programmes in place to spot breast and bowel cancer, but none for prostate cancer.
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on Popular health store with 720 locations across the UK to close branch in ANOTHER blow for ravaged high street
A HUGE high street chain with 720 locations across the UK has shared the news that it is closing its doors.
The shop is part of a series of closures which have devastated Hanley’s high street in Stoke on Trent.
Hanley’s Holland & Barrett will be closing its doorsgoogleThe closure is another blow for Hanley’s high streetGoogle
Holland & Barrett is one of the UK’s leading health stores and is known for selling a range of vitamins, vegan food and beauty products.
However, in increasingly hostile high street conditions, the brand’s Henley branch has chosen to relocate.
The new store will be opening in The Potteries Centre and will open in mid-March.
They also have stores in Tretham Shopping Village and Affinity Staffordshire.
Ahead of the move, Holland & Barret said: “We can confirm we will be closing H&B Hanley later next month and opening our new, bigger and better store in The Potteries Centre.
“We are delighted to be opening a larger store with an even wider range of products and an increased store team of experts to support the community on their wellness journeys.
“We look forward to welcoming our customers from our Hanley store soon.”
The closure of the Hanley shop marks another big brand leaving the high street.
Travel company TUI left Market Square after 31 years in 2024, with locals saying that their departure was the “end of an era”.
Shoezone closed their Hanley store in April 2024, leading one resident to say that the area was becoming a “ghost town”.
Why are retailers closing shops?
EMPTY shops have become an eyesore on many British high streets and are often symbolic of a town centre’s decline.
The Sun’s business editor Ashley Armstrong explains why so many retailers are shutting their doors.
In many cases, retailers are shutting stores because they are no longer the money-makers they once were because of the rise of online shopping.
Falling store sales and rising staff costs have made it even more expensive for shops to stay open.
The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs from April 2025, will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.
At the same time, the minimum wage will rise to £12.21 an hour from April, and the minimum wage for people aged 18-20 will rise to £10 an hour, an increase of £1.40.
In some cases, retailers are shutting a store and reopening a new shop at the other end of a high street to reflect how a town has changed.
The problem is that when a big shop closes, footfall falls across the local high street, which puts more shops at risk of closing.
Retail parks are increasingly popular with shoppers, who want to be able to get easy, free parking at a time when local councils have hiked parking charges in towns.
Many retailers including Next and Marks & Spencer have been shutting stores on the high street and taking bigger stores in better-performing retail parks instead.
In some cases, stores have been shut when a retailer goes bust, as in the case of Carpetright, Debenhams, Dorothy Perkins, Paperchase, Ted Baker, The Body Shop, Topshop and Wilko to name a few.
What’s increasingly common is when a chain goes bust a rival retailer or private equity firm snaps up the intellectual property rights so they can own the brand and sell it online.
They may go on to open a handful of stores if there is customer demand, but there are rarely ever as many stores or in the same places.
The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.
Footfall fell by 2.2 per cent from 2023 meaning far fewer shoppers headed to the high street.
Sadly, 11,341 of the closures were independent retailers.
The Centre for Retail Research has warned that “worse is set to come in 2025”.
GettyTui closed their Hanley branch with shoppers declaring the “end of an era”[/caption]
GettyShoezone also put their shutters down in Hanley[/caption]
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on Beloved Michelin-starred Paris eatery suddenly CLOSES sister restaurant less than 2 years after it opened in London
A LEGENDARY restaurant that was the first of its kind to obtain three Michelin stars has quietly closed its popular London eatery.
All references to the branch seem to have been removed from the website and a subtle hint on the brand’s page also confirms the decision.
Instagram/@cafelaperouse.londonBeloved Michelin-starred Paris eatery has suddenly closed its sister restaurant[/caption]
Café Lapérouse at the OWO in London‘s Whitehall has shut its doors after less than two years serving guests.
Situated in the central courtyard next to the iconic Raffles London, the restaurant previously offered space for 80 diners.
Hinting at the move, the OWO website states: “NEW CONCEPT A remarkable new dining destination is on its way to the Grand Courtyard.
“Until then, enjoy the exquisite restaurants and venues already awaiting you at The OWO.”
The website also has a new page that simply states: “A new dining outlet is coming soon.”
Listing the available dining options, the sister site to the first restaurant to be awarded three Michelin stars back in 1933 is no longer advertised by the OWO.
The current options include Mauro Colagreco’s Chef’s Table, Saison, Kioku by Endo, Paper Moon, The Drawing Room, Pillar Kitchen, Langosteria and The Guards Bar.
For some of the list only hotel guests and residents have the option to book.
Café Lapérouse previously offered wines from £70 and mains up to £80.
Why celeb restaurants go bust
By Paul Lochhead - managing director of Drinkstuff
THE recent wave of celebrity chef restaurant closures can indeed be attributed to several factors, with the pandemic being a significant one.
The hospitality industry, particularly high-end restaurants, faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic. Restrictions on dining, a shift to takeaways, and the need for social distancing significantly reduced footfall and revenue for these establishments.
However, the impact goes beyond the pandemic. High-end restaurants operate on a model that requires substantial overheads—premium locations, top-quality ingredients, and skilled staff.
With the economic uncertainty and a change in consumer behaviour post-pandemic, there’s been a shift in dining preferences. Many diners are now seeking more casual, value-driven experiences, which puts pressure on the viability of luxury dining.
Moreover, for celebrity chefs, these ventures are often passion projects rather than primary revenue sources.
If a restaurant isn’t performing well, it may not be worth the continued investment, especially when compared to the other income streams they have, such as media appearances, books, and endorsements.
It was one of nine restaurants planned for the building which was used by the British high command to prosecute their war against the Nazis.
The first Café Lapérouse opened in Paris in 2021 with the brand being controlled by the Moma Group.
A spokesperson for the company owners told The Standard: “Moma Group has decided not to continue operating Café LapérouseLondon.
“This decision is part of a review of the group’s locations and brands, their local and international ambitions“
The outlet also reported that the site has served its last meal to guests.
Previously the restaurant received a one star hygiene rating from the Food Standards Agency but this was quickly upgraded to five after a reinspection.
Reviews seemed to vary across the board with Tatler offering a sparkling description.
The Spectator write up seemed less pleased, calling the moment “fascinating”.
Rayner also described the restaurant as “dismal” and “expensive”.
The Sun has approached the Moma Group for comment.
6 days agoworld NewsComments Off on Emmerdale limo crash horror sees one villager die and THREE lives left hanging in the balance
EMMERDALE has been rocked by a chilling disaster as a limo plunged into an icy lake – leaving at least three lives hanging by a thread and one villager feared dead in a shocking twist.
The ITV soap pulled out all the stops for a dramatic stunt which saw a limo full of beloved characterscrash onto an icy lake.
*Major spoilers ahead for tonight’s Emmerdale*
ITVCharity served the limo after seeing Noah in the road[/caption]
ITVThe limo crashed into an icy lake and is quickly sinking[/caption]
ITVSeveral Emmerdale favourites are fighting for their lives after the horror crash[/caption]
Several Emmerdalefavourites were left fighting for their lives – but who made it out and who met their grisly end?
Charity Dingle, Chas Dingle and Liam Cavanagh were left sinking in the limo, alongside Leyla Harding, Amy Barton and Kerry Wyatt.
Tracy Robinson, Vanessa Woodfield and Suzy Merton were all there too.
After the crash, the women slowly regained consciousness – but not everyone woke up.
Suzy succumbed to her injuries, and Vanessa quickly confirmed that she wasn’t breathing.
Despite Liam’s desperate attempts to revive her, Suzy was pronounced dead, leaving the group devastated.
But with the limo sinking further into the icy lake, there was no time to grieve.
Charity admitted she had swerved after seeing her son Noah in the road. Encouraged by Chas, she set off to find him and get help.
After she carefully navigated the ice, Charity discovered Noah unconscious in the woods – but will he survive?
Meanwhile, Liam led the others across the frozen lake, with Chas narrowly avoiding a deadly fall.
Vanessa and Amy followed, but disaster struck when Amy plunged into the freezing water.
Struggling to break through the ice, she fought for air – only to be met with a chilling sight beneath the surface… a dead body.
Soap sleuths are convinced they know exactly who it belongs to – but have they got it right?
Most devastating soap deaths
SOAP viewers are frequently left heartbroken after watching some of their favourite characters bite the dust.
Here is a list of the most devastating deaths that have taken place in soapland over the years.
EASTENDERS
Barry Evans – Evil Janine (Charlie Brooks) lured her trusting fiance to Scotland for a quickie marriage after learning he was dying.
Her plan to inherit Barry’s fortune was thwarted when Barry told her that the doctors had mixed up his medical files.
Furious that she was no longer set for a windfall, she pushed Barry off a cliff after telling him their love was “fake”.
Bradley Branning – Bradley was accused of killing Stacey Slater’s rapist Archie Mitchell (Larry Lamb) after he punched him twice on the night he died.
He was spotted in the Square by a police woman who chased him up a fire escape.
Bradley lost his balance and tragically plunged to his death.
CORONATION STREET
Tina McIntyre – Tina was getting it on with Peter Barlow – despite him being married to Carla Connor.
When she threatened to reveal the truth, Carla’s brother Rob got into a physical altercation with her.
Tina lost her footing and fell off a balcony – then warned Rob she was going to tell the cops he pushed her.
In a panic, Rob brutally clobbered her over the head with a metal pipe.
Molly Dobbs – Molly was one of the victims in Corrie’s 2010 tram crash, alongside Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold).
Sarah Sugden – After the family got into financial problems, Sarah’s son Andy (Kelvin Fletcher) decided to make some quick cash from an insurance company by setting fire to the Sugden barn.
He didn’t realise his mum was inside the building, and she got trapped in the blaze.
Nine villagers – The shocking 1993 plane crash episode brought in 18 million viewers for Emmerdale.
Mark Hughes was killed by a falling wall, Archie Brooks was burned by jet fuel, Elizabeth Pollard was killed by debris and newcomer Leonard Kempinski died in a car crash caused by the crash.
Five other non-recurring characters from the village also died.
HOLLYOAKS
Carmel McQueen – The talented singer died in shocking scenes when a train crashed into a her family’s car.
Carmel managed to free her cousin Theresa from the rubble – but got stuck in it herself.
Moments later the train exploded and Carmel died in the arms of her family members, promising to be their guardian angel.
Some Emmerdale viewers speculate that Ruby Milligan’s father, Anthony might still be alive and that the hand belongs to him.
In a shocking twist, it seems the past is about to resurface – quite literally.
As the ice begins to crack in upcoming Emmerdale scenes, could Anthony’s body finally be discovered, exposing Ruby and John’s dark secret?
And if so, what does this mean for Aaron, who still believes he’s the one responsible?
Did John’s secret burial spot just come back to haunt him?
Taking to a fan Facebook page, one wrote: “Just a thought but I’m not convinced Anthony is dead, like I say just a thought.”
Another added: “There’s a rumour I read from Emmerdale that Anthony has got a twin brother, and Ruby is in a bad way when she finds out.”
A third penned: “Might be Anthony that Charity hit if he wasn’t dead when John buried him? Read his body needs id’ing next week.”
A fourth said: “Could the person’s hand in the ice be Ruby’s father that was dumped by John thinking the body was at the bottom, but the crashed car has disputed the body?”
With Kerry and Leyla still trapped in the sinking limo, will they make it out alive?
Suddenly, Liam stumbled, looking unsteady on his feet before collapsing and violently throwing up.
A worried Chas rushed to his side, holding him as she desperately called out for help.
Did he suffer an injury in the crash – or is something even more serious going on?
The ITV soap have confirmed that the end of the week will show a vigil held by grieving villagers.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 or stream from 7am on ITVX.
ITVSuzy was confirmed dead after Liam failed to revive her[/caption]
ITVBut can the other make it out unscathed?[/caption]
ITVCould Anthony’s body finally be discovered?[/caption]
