A SAVVY mum has revealed how she transformed her baby’s nursery on a budget – and it’s all thanks to DIY panelling.

So if you want to add style to your space but are on a tight budget and don’t have an endless amount of cash to splash, then you’re sure to be pleased when you see this jaw-dropping bedroom transformation. 

tiktok/@katiesilvv

A DIY enthusiast has shared how she and her partner transformed their daughter’s nursery without breaking the bank[/caption]

tiktok/@katiesilvv

Using bargain buys from Homebase, Katie was able to add style to the space – and many think it looks “amazing”[/caption]

And don’t worry if you’re a total beginner and are not a DIY whizz, as thanks to cheap buys from Homebase, there’s no cutting involved.

Posting on social media, Katie, a mother from the UK, gave her followers a before, during and after look at her baby Immie’s bedroom, which we think is one of the fanciest looking nurseries we have ever seen.

Alongside the short clip, the content creator penned: “How we panelled the nursery for under £50…”

Not only this, but Katie then added: “We picked up the boards from Homebase.

“They were pre-cut so it made it super easy!”

What was once a totally plain wall, has since been given a total overhaul with DIY panelling. 

In Katie’s video, viewers saw her partner stick down the panel boards to their daughter’s nursery wall. 

The Shaker Wall Panel Kit that Katie bought is currently available to buy on the Homebase website.

It secures easily to walls with glue, nails or screws and fits with multiple kits for longer runs.

According to the online listing, the Homebase buy comes “pre-cut, saving you time and effort during installation”.

Not only will these panel kids “add character” to bedrooms and lounges, but they will also “help you create the perfect finish in any space”. 

Whilst the kits were once priced at £34, they have since been slashed down to £28, making them perfect for those on a budget. 

Katie, who has two children under the age of two, later confirmed that she completed the panelling with a lick of Dulux paint in the shade Nutmeg White.

As well as this, she then painted the top of the wall with the Dulux paint Pure Brilliant White.

Additionally, Katie accessorised the space with a cot from IKEA, an Asda teddy bear and cute wall art. 

Social media users react

The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @katiesilvv, has clearly impressed many, as it has quickly amassed a whopping 663,600 views. 

Insane!

TikTok user

Not only this, but it’s also amassed 20,300 likes, 165 comments, 6,322 saves and 3,713 shares. 

DIY fans were impressed with the quick and easy makeover and many eagerly raced to the comments to express this. 

One person said: “Looks amazing.”

Another added: “How beautiful!”

A third commented: “Insane!”

Meanwhile, at the same time, someone else beamed: “That’s lovely.” 

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LOVE Island has never been short of jaw-dropping antics – but some moments have left fans totally cringing.

From steamy lap dances during the infamous Heart Rate Challenge that sparked Ofcom complaints, to toe-curling scenes that left viewers saying they were “sick in their mouth,” the ITV2 dating show has served up some truly unforgettable – and deeply embarrassing – TV gold.

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Viewers were left in hysterics as Anton thought Anna was going to pick him to couple up with[/caption]

Over the years, Islanders have pulled out all the stops to impress – or mortify – their fellow contestants, with grinding, stripping and even role-play making regular appearances.

But while some fans are living for the drama, others were left hiding behind their pillows – or reaching for the remote.

From outrageous outfits to awkward encounters, here are the moments that had the nation gasping, groaning… and tweeting in horror.

Curtis dancing for Ekin-Su

Eroteme

The Love Island heart rate challenge is a firm favourite among fans and sees the Islanders put on a sexy show to get their co-stars hot under the collar.

But it was on Love Island: All Stars where viewers saw the most raunchiest version of the game so far.

Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu transformed into a cheeky devil and recreated her iconic crawl across the terrace from series eight in 2022.

But it was Curtis Pritchard‘s Heart Rate challenge that was the most hotly-anticipated, with the All Stars and viewers being sent into a frenzy.

Curtis channelled his inner King Julien from Madagascar after his 2019 Heart Rate challenge performance.

Rocking some blue shiny shorts, which were tightly fitted and left very little to the imagination, Curtis also rocked a huge feathery headdress in a blue hue.

Thrusting in the girls’ faces, twerking and moving his body seductively, Curtis then knee slid on the floor leaving his co-stars and viewers at home gobsmaked.

Ekin-Su couldn’t keeps her hands of him as she passionately snogged Curtis on the floor – as the villa boys ran off in shock.

Ekin even rubbed her man’s face into her cleavage and moved his head up and down her body.

Viewers were left watching through their fingers as the pair appeared to romp wearing barely any clothes and slammed the episode as “porn”.

The steamy moment sent social media into meltdown – with fans branding it “too much” for pre-watershed TV.

Fans were not impressed with the couple’s actions and called Ofcom.

Liberty told that Jake doesn’t love her

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Liberty’s love bubble burst when her friends told her that Jake isn’t genuine[/caption]

Fans were left cringing after a very awkward moment when the girls inadvertently told Liberty Poole her romance with Jake Cornish wouldn’t work. 

During a typically candid chat on the terrace Priya asked the group if you can come back from not wanting to rip someone’s clothes off as she discussed her relationship with Brett.

The group pretty much unanimously said it wasn’t possible – leaving Liberty looking a tad baffled.

Liberty was devastated when she was shown footage of Jake talking about her.

In scenes that left her reeling, he said: “She’s not all that.

“It’s not 100 per cent. I haven’t got the girl, that I’m like, f**k me, I want to rip her clothes off. I don’t want to fake it, do you know what I mean?”

At the time, stunned Lib asked the girls: “What does that mean he doesn’t think I’m fit?” as one said: “No, it was just early days.”

But Liberty wasn’t convinced and later told producers in the Beach Hut: “To hear that coming from your partner, saying I didn’t want to rip her clothes off, I don’t fancy her, or know if the attraction is there, it is brutal.”

Jake finally told her he loved her after weeks of waiting – but the news didn’t go down well with the other Islanders who thought he was just saying it to get her off his back.

Chloe Burrows asked Liberty: “Do you not think he’s telling you what he wants to hear?”

Liberty replied: “Is that what all you guys think? Do you think I’m being an idiot?”

Despite protests from their fellow Islanders, Liberty and Jake made it to the final – but then Liberty had doubts about their relationship and left the villa.

Charlie’s heart rate challenge

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The moment left viewers feeling “sick”[/caption]

Viewers were horrified by Charlie Radnedge’s performance as a naked butler.

He stunned fans by performing a string of X-rated moves during the heart rate challenge.

He started off doing the worm dance move before awkwardly whipping off his trousers.

Unfortunately, Charlie was unable to get his butler’s trousers off in one clean move.

The estate agent stood in front of the girls in a tong and admitted he wanted to keep it “PG”.

The moment left viewers with “sick in their mouths” and called for Charlie to be “arrested”.

Yewande sits on Danny

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Yewande’s idea of pda is questionable[/caption]

Yewande Biala is forced to look on as Danny and Arabella Chi lock lips as part of the kissing competition.

Arabella goes to town when smooching Danny, while Yewande – who was coupled up with Danny – said: “I think Arabella kind of went for it with Danny.”

Yewande later made a vow to up the romance with Danny after she was accused of not showing him enough affection.

After pouncing on him for a kiss, Yewande can be seen sitting on Danny as he talks to Arabella.

Talking about the incident in the Beach Hut, Arabella says: “I think literally sitting on somebody when they’re just having a chat with someone was a little bit strange. I was a bit like, hmmm okay.”

Joey Essex’s Rap

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Joey just couldn’t forget about the “secret mission”[/caption]

Joey Essex performed a rap during the Love Island talent show, which garnered mixed reactions. 

He was styled in a backwards cap and wrap around sunglasses while he performed a rap he had written on his phone.

The rap was directed at his girlfriend, Jessy May Potts, and included a “secret mission” element that caused some awkwardness.

Rapping to girlfriend Jessy he said: “Jessy when you picked me for that date it was fate. With my crown on my head. But I lost the cape, Yeah. Going back in the garden was very bake but I risked it all for you girl, after the game of heart rate check it.

“I’ll tell you the truth on how I really feel I’m on top of the world and our connection is real. You’re a little sort, and you stood on some toes, as it goes.

“You’re the one for me. You’re my cup of tea. And it bringing out the best in me. I’m lucky to have you by my side. Or let it slide. It’s me and you now, baby, you’re my rid or die, Let’s go!”

As the klaxon sounded a third time, the other contestants applauded but Joey told them, “Wait, wait, wait. When I say secret – you say mission. Secret…”

There was an awkward silence and then Joey asked: “Anyone?”

And he then added: “Well that didn’t go that well did it?”

Anton thinks he’s getting picked

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Anton made a huge assumption that left viewers in hysterics[/caption]

Viewers were left in hysterics after spotting Anton Danyluk’s face drop when Anna Vakili picked Sherif over him.

The gym owner thought he was certain to be picked by the statuesque beauty when she mentioned that the boy she was choosing had a really good body.

The cheeky Scotsman had made it clear he thought Anna was hot and had tried to make a play for her several times.

And standing in the line up it appeared as though he thought his luck was in as Anna stood up and started revealing the reasons why she wanted to pick this person.

Anna said: “I would like to couple up with this boy because in such a short amount of time I’ve come to really care about him.

“I feel like everytime I’m a bit down he seems to put a smile on my face.”

However it was when Anna said: “He’s got a really sexy body, which is not bad to look at as well” – that Anton broke into a wide smile.

But when Anna picked Sherif, Anton couldn’t hide his disappointment and viewers didn’t miss it either.

One wrote: I can’t stop laughing to myself @Anton thinking Anna was talking about him #loveisland

While another joked: “Dying that Anton thought that Anna was talking about him and then picked sherif #loveisland

And a third added: “Anton with the little smile, well that was awkward #loveisland”

Molly watches Zac’s gym session

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Fans dubbed Molly as a “stalker”[/caption]

Love Island viewers were left in hysterics after Molly Marsh crashed Zachariah’s workout with new bombshell Charlotte.

Dubbing the move as “stalking”, fans watched as Molly made her way over to the gym area to watch.

Noticing the move, other islands were quick to comment on her antics.

Jess Harding in particular voiced her opinion, calling her actions “so obvious”.

Overhearing, Molly then called out Jess, telling her to “come join.”

As Charlotte walked away, Jess even pushed her to “go back”.

Taking to Twitter as the episode aired, fans couldn’t help but laugh at the tension, claiming Molly was exhibiting her partner Mitch’s behaviour.

One fan wrote: “Molly is on Mitch level crazy now”.

“Molly and Mitchell – mr and mrs unhinged”, another agreed.

A third added: “I take back what I said about Mitch 10 minutes ago… Molly is your soul mate”.

Olivia’s Casa Speech

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Viewers watching at home called out Olivia’s double standards[/caption]

Olivia Hawkins was called out for her double standards after she took a swipe at Kai Fagan – despite recoupling in Casa Amor herself.

She might have walked back into the Love Island villa with a new man on her arms, but Olivia’s takedown of Kai saw her come under fire from viewers.

While Kai faced a “very tough decision” when choosing to couple up with Sanam Harrinanan, he said he hoped Olivia had found a connection in the days they spent apart.

But when she walked back in with Maxwell Samuda… Olivia immediately let loose.

Olivia said: “It’s very telling, and I can’t say I’m shocked. Missing me already? Clearly not enough.”

Kai replied: “After a couple of days apart I could tell what is genuine and what isn’t… and I think I’ve got a real genuine now.”

However, Olivia didn’t miss her chance to jump in and told Kai everything he’d told her were “lies”.

Viewers watching at home called out her double standards.

Taking to X – formerly Twitter – one said: “Why is Olivia being like that? She literally recouped too.”

Another fan added: “Olivia you walk in with someone else then act shocked he done the same???”

A third penned: “Sorry… has Olivia not got a whole new man on her arm???? I’m confused.”

Mitch’s Roast

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Mitch’s roast left no on laughing[/caption]

Mitch Taylor has left Whitney Adebayo fuming after making a disastrous joke about her relationship with Lochan Nowacki.

The islanders went head-to-head in the fan favourite talent show challenge in a bid to impress each other.

But unfortunately for Mitch, his “roast” skit falls flat as he ripped into Whitney and Lochan’s romance.

His big moment came after Lochan showed off his frisbee throwing skills for his talent, telling his co-stars that he “played frisbee for Great Britain” a decade ago.

Clutching at his piece of paper, Mitch said: “This is my 2023 Love Island roast.

“Whitney and Lochan, you haven’t been through a hard time just yet.

“But until you get out this villa, and them DMs start flying, them frisbee skills aren’t going to get you anywhere, son.”

Unfortunately, no one laughed.

Instead, a furious-looking Whitney muttered that the only noise in the garden is “the crickets”.

AN urgent search has been launched for a vulnerable schoolgirl who’s been missing for more than 24 hours.

Ruby Wallwork, 13, was last seen at around 11pm on Friday (June 6) on Ellesmere Close in Kearsley, Greater Manchester, and reported missing at around 8am the following day.

Her mum Amy Bell said: “Ruby is a vulnerable young girl, our family miss and care about her so much.

“We just want her back home safe with us where she belongs.”

Detective Chief Inspector Helen Bagnall said: “If anyone has any information, no matter how small, or thinks they may have seen Ruby, we would urge them to contact us.

“We have a team of officers out looking for her and we desperately want to bring her home to her family.

“Officers have been trying to locate Ruby by reviewing CCTV, speaking to her friends and family, and checking known addresses.

“It is believed she may have caught a train so we are also working with neighbouring forces and British Transport Police.

“Anyone with information should contact our team on 0161 856 65224.

“Alternatively call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting log 885-070625, or via the reporting tools on our website.”

SIR David Attenborough is undoubtedly a national treasure – and he’s earning millions to prove it. 

The 99-year-old nature-loving TV presenter and documentarian’s income has been revealed after a staggering financial year and ahead of his latest show. 

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Sir David Attenborough has earned £4million in the past year[/caption]

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The star owns a 54% stake in his company, with his children also being shareholders[/caption]

Sir David’s production company is revealed to have earned several million in the last year alone. 

According to Daily Star, accounts filed this week reveal he earned £4million, with a cash reserve on the business of £1.2million. 

He owns 54% of the David Attenborough (Productions) Limited firm, with his son Robert and daughter Susan also being shareholders. 

This comes after a string of lucrative deals as the face of British nature documentaries, with last year seeing Sky Nature releasing Secret World of Sound with David Attenborough, and the BBC releasing Mammals.

This is not including his staggeringly impressive back catalogue of documentary series, including Dynasties, Planet Earth, Frozen Planet, and Seven Worlds One Planet. 

He has also released accompanying books on his shows, and supports multiple wildlife charities. 

His career dates back to 1953, with the star releasing dozens of projects every decade since, often resulting in public debate being sparked of the human effect on the animal world. 

Ocean With David Attenborough, which explores the depths of the sea and the creatures that inhabit it, was released last month on National Geographic and Disney+. 

The film delves into the wonderful world that lives beneath the water, including habitats that animals need to look after.

In an age of ocean discovery, Attenborough aims to emphasise the ocean’s vital importance, while also exposing the problems it faces.

This includes graphic footage of how fishing practice bottom trawling is damaging the seabed and causing long-term damage to the ocean.

The 90-minute movie aims to highlight opportunities for marine life recovery.

He said of the film’s release: “After almost 100 years on the planet, I now understand the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea.”

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The star has become the international face of wildlife documentaries[/caption]

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At 99 years old, the star continues to release multiple projects a year[/caption]

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Prince William has also been involved in his latest project[/caption]

SAINSBURY’S is selling the perfect dress for all of your summer events from the races to weddings, and it costs just £26.

The popular supermarket’s fashion range, Tu, is constantly wowing shoppers with its stylish yet affordable fashion.

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Sainsbury’s is selling the perfect summer dress for every ocassion[/caption]

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The dress is priced at just £26[/caption]

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It comes in two stylish patterns[/caption]

And its latest range of summer dresses does not disappoint.

With summer now upon us, and the Met Office predicting a scorcher, many of us are likely excitedly making plans for girly brunches and garden parties.

Finding a new outfit for each event can be one of the highlights of going out, however, with the cost of living crisis continuing to bite, forking out for a new frock is not affordable for many.

For those keen to look their best without breaking the bank, Sainsbury’s Floral Tea Dress is perfect for every occasion.

The dress comes in two designs, pink floral, and floral printed gingham, both priced at £26.

It comes in a wide range of sizes, from size six to size 24, and is available in store, or on the Sainsbury’s website.

Sainsbury’s said: “An elegant yet versatile piece for your summer rotation, this tea dress has been designed in a blue gingham patteren with a floral print.

“Cut to a midaxi length, it features flattering puff sleeves and v-neckline.”

The short sleeve number is a versatile piece, that would look chic dressed up with heels, and equally great dressed down with boots or trainers.

Whatever the occasion, the loose fitting design is guaranteed to make you feel beautiful, yet comfortable.

More TU Bargains

Eagle-eyed shoppers have fallen in love with Tu’s  Yellow Striped Tie Detail Midaxi Tea Dress, which is priced at £28.

Describing it online, the Sainsbury’s team say: “Perfect for summer occasions, our yellow tea dress has been designed with puff sleeves, an elasticated waist with shirred detailing, finished with a tie fastening at the neckline for a touch of elegance.

“Cut to a flattering, midaxi length. Wear with suede sandals and golden accessories.”

The dress is already sold out online so you’ll need to be quick to get your hands on it in store.

If you’re self-conscious about a mum tum or your upper arms, delighted fashion fans say this is definitely one for you.

One said: “Absolutely beautiful dress… even prettier in person. It’s a lovely light fabric to wear in summer and feels very flattering on my plus size body.

“The pockets are an added bonus! Very pleased with this purchase.”

A second wrote: “Bought this because I was drawn to the colour for the summer.

“Love the length of the skirt and the fit at the waist – really flattering!”

THE BIGGEST wave pool music festival in the world is taking place this summer at a waterpark in Europe.

WaterWorld Themed Waterpark Ayia Napa in Cyprus, is a huge water complex based on Ancient Greece.

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The water park is themed on Ancient Greece[/caption]

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There is a lazy river and kid’s play areas[/caption]

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The Wave Fest will run from June 29 to August 31[/caption]

Taking place every Sunday from June 29 to August 31, Wave Fest runs from 1pm to 6pm.

The event includes guest appearances and a “unique” stage where the music is synchronised with the water, according to the festival’s website.

In addition, the festival has the biggest sound system in the Mediterranean with international artists on rotation and a full line-up of DJ’s.

Tickets cost €50 (£42.08), which includes entry to both the waterpark and Wave Fest.

For an additional fee, visitors can also book a cabana.

WaterWorld Ayia Napa is one of Europe‘s largest waterparks.

The whole attraction has an Ancient Greek theme with over 25 rides, suitable for all ages.

The park opened back in 1996 and since has been Cyprus’s top tourist attraction.

The rides include slides, a lazy river, kid’s play areas and multiple dining options.

For little ones, there is the Pegasus Pool, with sprays, buckets and fountains.

There are also rolling logs in the activity pool.

The park is known for boasting great views at the top of the slides too.

The park also won a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award in 2024.

One recent visitor said: “Very good water park with lots of different water slides for both children and adults.

Another added: “The music was right on spot and it was making everyone feel a bit happier.”

There is also a new indoor waterpark with 500-room hotel and restaurants moves closer to opening in UK after success in US.

Plus, a massive European waterpark with 14 themed lands opens new outdoor pool and 150-seat swim up bar.

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The park is known for boasting great views at the top of the slides too[/caption]

MILLIONS of hard-up families can tap into financial help worth hundreds of pounds to ease the burden of extra costs over the summer holidays.

Every council in England has cash to dole out to support residents who are struggling to afford essentials with the government’s Household Support Fund.

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You could get hundreds of pounds in support to help with the cost of living[/caption]

The £742million scheme hands councils up and down the country to give households in need.

Each local authority gets a different portion of funding depending on the size of the catchment area, population, and number of vulnerable households.

The voucher or grant amounts vary by location, so you must check to see what you can get and how your council will pay you.

There are different criteria for applications too. But often councils specify that you will need to be in receipt of benefits such as Universal Credit.

The type of help available varies by area and may include cash payments, food vouchers, or help with energy bills.

Residents are advised to check their local council’s website or social media for updates.

Many councils have dedicated Household Support Fund pages with details on how to apply.

Here ares some of the schemes currently open and accepting appilcations from those on Universal Credit..

• Birmingham

Hard-up households in Birmingham can get up to £200 payments through the latest round of the fund.

Applications are opening at some point in June so keep an eye on the council website.

Those who have not received a payment from the council in the past 12 months will qualify for this round.

The money is intended to help with energy, grocery and water costs.

• Calderdale

Residents in Calderdale in need can get a up to two awards for £85 each:

• One between now and 30th September 2025, and;
• One between 1st October 2025 and 31st March 2026.

Anyone can apply including those on Universal Credit online at the council website.

But you’ll need to provide your last two bank statements for yourself and your partner for all accounts held to get the payments.

You’ll also need to be liable for paying council tax in the area.

• Cheshire West

 Cheshire West Council’s latest allocation of the Household Support Fund is worth £200 for those eligible.

Support ranges from vouchers to put towards food costs to cash for energy bills and help with other essentials.

It will be available to residents receiving either housing benefit or a council tax reduction which is accessible to those on a low income or benefits including Universal Credit.

You can apply through its online portal for cost of living support.

But, you can only make one application in a six month period and applications must be made per household, so partners cannot submit two separate claims.

• Doncaster

The city council will be providing one-off payments worth up to £300 to residents on selected benefits, including Universal Credit.

You’ll also be eligible if you receive:

• Housing benefit
• Local Council Tax Reduction
• Means-tested free school meals.

As part of the support, families can get £100 vouchers towards the cost of food if they have one dependent child.

Households with two dependent children will get £200, while families with three or more will get £300.

Other eligible households – including those without children – can get £100 towards the cost of energy bills.

Households that haven’t received a payment previously will need to submit an application.

You can do that using the link here.

• Hull

Eligible pensioners will be given £200 to help them out after the Government made cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment.

Low income families will also be eligible for a £40 school uniform grant, as well as food vouchers in school holidays for those eligible for school meal

Hull City Council has not yet opened applications for payments, but updates will be posted on the council’s website.

• Leeds

Struggling families in Leeds can get payments of up to £150.

All claimants must be in receipt of Council Tax Support, a scheme where those on a low income or benefits including Universal Credit can get money off the bill.

The council said those who are eligible for the support will receive the payment in the autumn and winter.

A qualifying date for when you need to have been in receipt of Council Tax Support to be eligible for the support has not yet been set.

So if you think you may be eligible for the support it might be worth submitting an application.

You can find out more by vising leeds.gov.uk/benefits/household-support-fund.

• North Somerset

North Somerset Council has also announced it will provide food vouchers worth up to £100 to those in need.

This will be automatically given to families eligible for free school meals.

The council is also distributing £50 food vouchers to support other vulnerable residents, including:

• Those on council tax reduction (CTR) which can be accessed through those on benefits including UC
• Pensioners
• People with severe mental impairments
• Care leavers
• Housing benefit claimants not already receiving CTR.

• Portsmouth

Residents in Portsmouth in financial hardship and struggling to afford essentials, can apply for an exceptional hardship payment worth up to £1,000 as part of the Household Support Fund.

Those on Universal Credit and other benefits can apply but you don’t need to be.

However the city is closing applications in just days on June 12 so you’ll need to move quickly.

You’ll need to provide evidence of your income and bank accounts.

You also need to tell what you’ve done to improve your financial situation and why you need help.

The exact amount you receive depends on household size -the maximum amount is for six or more of £800.

Whereas one person gets £350, two people £420, three people £500, four people £600, and five people £700.

Households deemed to be in the highest level of need can be awarded a further £200 taking the total payment up to £1,000.

Apply online at the Portsmouth city council website.

• Reading

Thousands of residents in Reading are in line to receive £125 vouchers in the coming weeks.

Households containing children eligible for free school meals are eligible.

Care levers will also be receiving a voucher payment of £125. 

For most care leavers this voucher will be sent to them by the Post Office, with some others being provided directly by the Leaving Care Team.

Vouchers will be sent in July and December 2025 and will need to be cashed by the end of September 2025, and January 2026.

• Redcar & Cleveland

Households in Redcar & Cleveland can now apply for support worth up to £230.

How much you can get depends on different factors such as whether you have children or not.

For example, if you are household without children receiving Council Tax Support you will receive a payment of £116.

And if you have one or more dependent children in your household and claiming the support you will receive £230.

Those with children who don’t receive Council Tax Support but have a low household income and are financially struggling will also receive £230.

• Worcestershire

Families living in Worcestershire can apply for cost of living cash worth £500.

You’ll need to be below earning limits as follows:

• £24,570 or less (for a single adult with no children)
• £31,000 or less (for all other households)

You must also have no savings, unless you’re of state pension age – in which case you can have up to £5,000.

You can be on Universal Credit but at least one person in your household must meet ONE of the following:

• Be of state pension age
• Have a long-term diagnosed health condition or be registered disabled
• Have a child under four
• Be in receipt of DWP benefits like Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, PIP or Disability Living Allowance
• Be receiving support from services such as food banks, Citizens Advice, Age UK, mental health or housing support, or your GP’s social prescribing team

• Windsor and Maidenhead

Households in the Royal borough can get payments of up to £150 to ease pressures.

However, the council isn’t accepting applications directly instead you’ll need to contact its partners.

The overarching partner is Citizens Advice East Berkshire (CAEB) and should be the first port of call for residents needing support.

What if my area isn’t on the list?

Some councils have very limited application windows for support.

If you don’t see your council on the list, visit their website and look for information on the Household Support Fund.

If there is a date that applications open, make a calendar note and apply as soon as it opens.

Some councils will close for applications as soon as cash is distributed – in some cases this can be on the very same day that applications open.

Other councils automatically give cash to those in receipt of certain benefits such as free school meals or coucil tax support.

Check the Household Support Fund pages on your local council website to find details of what’s on offer and how to apply.

WITH a new puppy and a night-shift job, Hannah Coggles put her constant exhaustion down to her hectic routine.

When her symptoms worsened, the then-26-year-old soon thought she might be pregnant, but repeated tests confirmed this wasn’t the case so she brushed her concerns aside. 

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Supplied

Even when some unexplained bruising appeared, Hannah didn’t think too much of it. She was otherwise healthy after all.

It wasn’t until she nearly collapsed at work that she thought something more serious might be at play.

Hannah, from Swaffham, Norfolk, tells Sun Health: “In October 2020, I was deeply fatigued almost all the time.

“My husband George and I had recently got a fox red Labrador called Noodle, just before we got married, and it was exhausting. 

“I almost passed out a couple of times – once at home, once at work. 

“At one point I did think that maybe I was pregnant, but the tests were showing negative.

“I then got bruises on my arms and legs. They weren’t necessarily big ones, but they were taking an incredibly long time to heal, and my other symptoms weren’t improving.”

That finally prompted her to book a GP appointment. 

Due to Covid restrictions at the time, this was over the phone – but thankfully, the doctor listened. 

Believing she might be anaemic, Hannah was referred for a blood test and the very next day she got a call from a nurse on the Macmillan Ward. 

“She told me to bring an overnight bag. I knew something wasn’t right,” she recalls. 

In January 2021, Hannah was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) – a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. 

There are around 760 new cases diagnosed every year in the UK. 

“I couldn’t process anything the consultant was saying,” Hannah says. “It was too much for my brain to process in the moment. 

“I just remember calling my loved ones. There were so many tears, a lot of crying between me and my husband.”

But there was no time to pause. She was admitted to the ward immediately, with treatment set to begin within days. 

The pandemic meant she faced much of it alone in hospital, but FaceTime, phone calls, and quizzes with family and friends helped keep her grounded.

Hannah was moved from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn, where she was able to see friends and family through a window, to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where she was in a top floor ward, with no visitors permitted. 

The gravity of the situation hit me hard and fast. I remember having a little breakdown the day I was due to go in to start my stem cell transplant treatment

Hannah Coggles

“My support system was incredible,” Hannah, a housewife and karate instructor, says. 

“My parents made long journeys just to drop off food and essentials, my husband brought clean clothes, and the nurses were amazing too. It was the little things that kept me going.”

Hannah underwent IV and oral chemotherapy, countless blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and intrathecal procedures. 

When targeted therapy failed, she had her ovary removed in the hope of preserving fertility. 

Then came high-dose chemo and radiotherapy to prepare her for a stem cell transplant from her sister Olivia in November 2021.

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She later noticed small bruising on her arms and legs[/caption]

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She underwent treatment, including a stem cell transplant from her sister Olivia[/caption]

Physically, treatment left her weak and drained. 

“I lost weight and couldn’t tolerate the taste of onion or garlic, things I used to love,” she says.

“As a result, I lost a lot of weight and was very unwell.”

Mentally, she held it together, until just before the transplant. 

“The gravity of the situation hit me hard and fast,” Hannah says.

“I remember having a little breakdown the day I was due to go in to start my stem cell transplant treatment. 

“But luckily I managed to stay as positive as I possibly could and faced every challenge head on.”

Even small victories mattered. 

“I did laps around my bed and practiced karate. I had to keep moving,” she adds. 

Her time in hospital meant she didn’t get to see much of little Noodle, but she was always “so excited” to see her when she did.

“Watching her grow via pictures was sad as I missed out on a lot of the puppy stage,” Hannah adds.

Thankfully, the treatment worked and Hannah, 31, is now in remission and back home. But her journey continues. 

She has routine check-ups, will continue to take daily antibiotics for the rest of her life to protect her spleen, and is on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), usually taken during the menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, as treatment has left her infertile.

Despite continued difficulties, her perspective on life has shifted completely. 

‘Remission doesn’t mean the ordeal is magically over’

“I’ve made a lot of progress physically,” Hannah, who now also has a goldador dog called Queso, says. 

“My muscles and joints aren’t what they used to be, and the fatigue is still there. But I’m alive, and I’m grateful.

“I say ‘yes’ more. I don’t let people take me for granted.

“The little problems don’t matter so much now and I’ve found peace in my own company.”

She stays strong in mind and body through regular gym workouts, karate practice, and dog walks – as well as staying close to her family and friends.

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Hannah is now in remission, but she says the ordeal ‘isn’t magically over’[/caption]

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For anyone newly diagnosed, Hannah’s advice is simple and powerful. 

“Stay positive,” she says. “Don’t be too hard on yourself, even though it may feel like the world is crashing down. 

“Some people may not be there for you that you thought would, and that’s OK. Not everyone knows the right words to say – just know that it’s nothing you have done.

“Get up and move, even if you’re tired. And drink water – lots of water – I can’t stress that enough!”

And she has a message she wants the world to hear. 

“Remission isn’t the end,” Hannah says. “It doesn’t magically mean the ordeal is over. 

“A lot of us still live with the effects of what we have experienced. 

“Be patient with us. And please, learn the signs.”

‘A powerful reminder’

Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer. There are many different types, but collectively it affects around 10,300 people every year in the UK.

Common symptoms include:

• Feeling weak or tired
• A high temperature or fever
• Bruising and bleeding easily
• Picking up or not being able to shake off infections easily
• Weight loss
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of your lymph nodes 
• Feeling full in your tummy 

Colin Dyer, CEO at Leukaemia Care, says: “Hannah’s story is a powerful reminder of how vital it is to spot the signs of leukaemia early. 

“Fatigue, bruising, and persistent illness are often dismissed but they can be symptoms of something far more serious. 

“Every day in the UK, 28 people are diagnosed with leukaemia, and early diagnosis can make all the difference.

“Through the #SpotLeukaemia campaign, with support from JCDecaux Community Channel, we want to ensure that everyone knows what symptoms to look out for and what to do if they are worried about a possible leukaemia diagnosis. 

“The sooner someone is diagnosed, the better their treatment outcome. Early diagnosis saves lives.”

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Hannah wants to warn others to look out for symptoms[/caption]

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Fiona Hazell, CEO of Leukaemia UK, adds: “Unlike solid tumours, leukaemia can usually be diagnosed by a simple full blood count test. 

“Unfortunately, many people aren’t aware of the signs and symptoms of leukaemia until they or someone they know is diagnosed, which can lead to dangerous delays.

“Early diagnosis saves lives, so we want to make sure more people are aware of the signs and symptoms and know to contact their GP to ask for a blood test if they’re experiencing them, just like Hannah did. 

“Together, we can stop leukaemia from devastating so many lives.” 

BEN DAVIES has signed a new one-year deal at managerless Tottenham.

The Wales star, 32, is the club’s longest serving senior player after joining from Swansea in the summer of 2014.

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Ben Davies has agreed to remain at Spurs for another year[/caption]

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He won his first piece of silverware with the club last month[/caption]

And, just two days after Ange Postecoglou was sacked, Davies will extend his stay in north London to 12 years after Spurs triggered the option on his contract.

SunSport revealed earlier this year that Spurs intended to take up the 12-month option on the defender’s deal.

A club statement read: “We are delighted to announce that we have exercised the option to extend Ben Davies’ contract, which will now run until the summer of 2026.

“Now our longest-serving senior player, Ben joined us from Swansea City in the summer of 2014 and has been a constant, reliable presence in our squad ever since.

“He’s currently up to 358 appearances in all competitions, level with the great Darren Anderton – making him one of only 29 players in history to have played 350 or more games for us.

“With 73 games under his belt in Europe, he’s just three off the record for the highest number of European appearances in our history.

“Over the course of his 11 years here to date, Ben has scored nine goals and led the team out as captain on 13 occasions.”

Davies has largely been a back-up centre-back in recent years.

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But he still made 17 Premier League appearances this season and 28 in total as he won his first piece of silverware for the club by helping them lift the Europa League last month.

Postecoglou hailed Davies as one of the club’s best trainers during the Aussie’s first campaign at the club, underlining the defender’s professionalism.

Brentford’s Thomas Frank is the front-runner to take the job, while Fulham’s Marco Silva is still in the mix.

A POPULAR Freeview box has received a key upgrade which looks set to fix a bug affecting a slew of features.

Manhattan released the software update for its T4-R and T4 Freeview boxes.

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A new software update looks set to remove bugs from Manhattan’s T4-R and T4 Freeview boxes[/caption]

The latest version – 2.06 – will finally fix a long-standing standby mode issue that has affected a number of users.

The update, which began rolling out this week, addresses numerous stability issues while fixing compatibility problems with popular streaming apps and improving recording reliability on the T4-R.

If you’ve been using Energy Saver mode as a workaround to avoid the standby problems, you can now safely switch back to Sleep or Smart standby modes without fear of your box becoming unresponsive.

The upgrade comes after households were warned of widespread Freeview disruption this week that could make their TVs stop working properly.

Viewers may switch on their telly to find a black, pixelated or flickering screen as a result of planned engineering works.

Some 87 areas are expected to be affected, according to Freeview.

Freeview has urged households that the disruption is only temporary and to not retune their TV.

“If you are affected by engineering work, please don’t try and retune your TV – reception will be restored as soon as the engineering work is completed,” the company said.

“Occasionally, routine engineering work is required on transmitters in order to improve terrestrial TV services.

“While every effort is made to minimise the impact on viewers, this can cause temporary disruption to reception.”

If you don’t want to miss your favourite TV shows while the work is taking place, Freeview has suggested households check out its online TV guide.

The Freeview Channel Checker tells viewers what changes are taking place that may affect their service and viewing.

To use it, simply enter your postcode to see what will be affected.

If you have a hybrid or smart TV, you can watch uninterrupted TV during the engineering works via the Freeview app or website.

While Freeview typically requires an aerial, you can access many Freeview channels and on-demand content through streaming apps like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and All 4. 

If you’re not sure what transmitter you’re predicted to get your signal from, put your postcode into Freeview’s Detailed Transmitter Information tool to check.