24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on At least one dead & 19 injured as two tourist hot air balloons crash into each other in Turkey
ONE person has died and 19 others have been injured after two hot air balloons crashed in Turkey.
The horror accident happened near the Ihlara Valley in Aksaray province, a holiday hotspot for tourists looking to ride hot air balloons.
x.comAt least one person died and 19 were injured after two hot air balloons crashed in Turkey[/caption]
It is currently unclear what exactly caused the tragic crash.
Emergency services are understood to have rushed to the scene to help injured people following the horrifying ordeal.
Hot air ballooning is a popular activity for tourists in central Turkey, which is home to attractions such as the “fairy chimneys” in Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Terrifying footage shared by the Ilhas News Agency showed the deflated balloon descending from the skies, with its passenger basket lying sideways.
Emergency services could also be seen nearby, tending to injured people.
It comes as the latest in a string or air disasters in the last few days.
On Thursday, Air India Flight AI171 smashed into a doctors’ hostel in Ahmedabad, killing at least 279 people.
The London Gatwick-bound Boeng Dreamliner was seen on video descending less than a minute after take off, before blowing up into a horrifying fireball.
And on Sunday, seven people including a toddler died after a helicopter carrying Hindu pilgrims from a shrine crashed in the Himalayas.
More to follow… For the latest news on this story, keep checking back at The U.S. Sun, your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, sports news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures, and must-see videos.
Some can get help covering the cost of white goods such as washing machines and fridges, and even beds for children.
The council wouldn’t say how much the average price of a white good someone will receive might be.
Households requesting help must be referred to the council by someone like children’s services, adult services or Age UK.
You’ll need to be of limited income to be referred. The criteria you must meet is:
Single adult in work: Your household income must be below £26,057 (before tax and National Insurance)
Two or more adults in work: Your household income must be below £38,870 (before tax and National Insurance)
Your household savings must be under £2,000
If you’re a pensioner, you can have savings up to £16,000
If you have received help towards the cost of white goods from Blackburn with Darwen Council in the last 12 months, you cannot get help in this latest round.
More details on the scheme and how to apply are here – www.blackburn.gov.uk/cost-living-support/household-support-fund.
Isle of Wight Council
Isle of Wight Council is distributing funding to local organisations to help residents pay for energy-efficient white goods like ovens and fridges.
That means if you want help you will have to apply via either your local town or parish council, schools or colleges or a local charity.
If you are on a low income or benefits, it’s worth contacting the Isle of Wight council to see if you qualify for help.
The number to contact is 01983 823644.
Enfield Council
Enfield Council is offering free white goods to households in need, with home delivery included.
Those who qualify for help will be contacted by a supplier who will arrange for any appliances to be installed.
You will need to prove you’re struggling financially to apply though. To apply, you must:
live in the borough of Enfield
have an annual household net income of less than £40,000
have less than £1,000 in savings
To find out more and apply, visit: www.enfield.gov.uk/services/benefits-and-money-advice/household-support-fund.
Southend-on-Sea City Council
Southend-on-Sea City Council is open for applications from hard-up residents – and households can get white goods.
Households can also apply for help covering the costs of beds, bedding and clothing.
You can apply for help if you’re 16 or over, live in the Essex area, are on a low income and fit any one of a number of criteria.
For example, one of these criteria is that you need help to ease “exceptional pressures” on yourself and your family.
Another is that you cannot meet your immediate short-term needs because of an emergency like a fire or flood in your home.
For more details and to apply, visit www.southend.gov.uk/extra-financial-help/essential-living-fund/4.
Barking and Dagenham Council
Barking and Dagenham Council is distributing support to residents through a number of means including help towards the cost of white goods.
The council has said help will only be given to those who need an appliance due to an emergency.
To be eligible you need to be living in the borough and struggling with rising living costs like food and energybills.
You also need to prove you have previously taken steps to boost your income by claiming council tax support, housing benefit, Universal Credit or another benefit.
More details can be found via www.lbbd.gov.uk/household-support-fund-hsf.
What to do if you live outside these areas
If you don’t live in one of the above areas, check your local council’s website to see what help you can get.
You might not be able to get help covering the cost of white goods but may be eligible for other help.
You can find what council area you fall under via www.gov.uk/find-local-council.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you’re battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
The last round ran until the end of March 2025, but was extended.
The most current round is running between April 2025 and March 2026.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on UK weather: Brits to bask in glorious sunshine today after Met Office storm warnings as temperatures rise to 24C
BRITS are set to bask in glorious sunny weather today with temperatures rising to 24C.
The Met Office said that Sunday would be “largely dry for most” after wild conditions in the past few days.
Beachgoers enjoying the scorching hot summer sunshine at the seaside resort of West Bay in Dorset yesterdayAlamyBrighton Beach was packed and sunny over the weekendSUSSEX NEWS AND PICTURESIt follows rainy and stormy weather yesterdaySplash News
Today will be a quieter day for many today with variable amounts of cloud and sunny spells developing, said the forecaster.
London and Hull are predicted to see highs of 24C today while Birmingham will also see pleasant 23C weather.
The forecaster said that there would be a few isolated showers breaking out during the afternoon for central and eastern parts of England.
Those in the northwest could also see some patchy rain during the day.
Tonight’s weather will be largely dry with “clear spells” expected, according to the Met Office.
Monday and Tuesday look mostly dry with plenty of sunny spells, especially in eastern and southern parts of the country.
Temperatures will feel warm where the sun shines, with highs reaching into the mid-20s Celsius.
Monday could see highs of 26C in some areas as the weather looks to heat up again next week.
It comes after the UK was lashed by flash floods, thunder and lightning.
Parts of the UK were battered by thunderstorms on Saturday as the rainy weather caused flooding and travel disruption in parts of England.
More than 30,000lightningstrikes were recorded on Saturday as storms push northwards, although the Met Office said the “vast majority” had been over the sea.
But the weather came shortly after the mercury soaring to sweltering temperatures on the hottest day of the year to date.
The Met Office said Santon Downham inSuffolkreached 29.4C on Friday – setting a new high for the year.
Scotland also had its warmest day of the year so far with 25.7C recorded in Lossiemouth in Moray.
The Met Office previously said showers will continue to ease through Sunday, with dry weather for most of the country on Monday and Tuesday.
Katharine Smith, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: “There is a risk of significant and localised surface water flooding impacts in parts of England.
“Environment Agency teams have ensured rivers and watercourses are clear ahead of the storms and stand ready to support local authorities in their response to surface water flooding.
“We urge people not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.”
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on Victoria Beckham posts Father’s Day tribute to David Beckham with video of Brooklyn and his siblings singing amid ‘feud’
VICTORIA Beckham has posted a Father’s Day tribute to David using a sweet video of their son Brooklyn and his siblings singing, amid the family ‘feud.’
The mum-of-four took to social media to post the clip, and wrote as the caption: “Happy Father’s Day to the best daddy there is! You always lead with love and our four beautiful children are a reflection of that. We all love you so so much!!”
Victoria Beckham has posted a Father’s Day tribute to David using a sweet video of their son Brooklyn and his siblings singing, amid the family ‘feud’instagramBrooklyn can be seen in great spirits in the clipinstagraminstagramVictoria posted a string of family snaps for Father’s Day[/caption]
Brooklyn was recently revealed to have no desire to speak to his parentsinstagram
Victoria then tagged all of her children in the heartfelt post.
The video shared by the fashion designer sees David sitting beside Brooklyn, Cruz and Harper, all snuggled up on a sofa.
They’re enjoying drinks while singing Sherry by The Four Seasons, and all look in great spirits.
David attempts to sing too low at one point in the clip, leading Brooklyn to break out into laughter.
One person commented: “I always thought he was a very present father, with strong life values, loving but authoritative but also strict. Together you raised four “healthy” young adults and I think that in your world it is not easy unfortunately. Good job!”
A second person penned: “Happy Father’s Day to your wonderful husband,” and a third said: “No matter what is happening with Brooklyn you will still protect him at all cost! Nothing but respect for you.”
Victoria also posted a carousel of throwback photos of David with all of his children.
Victoria took to social media on Saturday to share a sweet photo hugging her husband, and planting a kiss on his cheek.
The fashion designer penned a lengthy caption, which read: “You’ve always been my knight in shining armour, but now it’s official. Sir @davidbeckham!!! What an honour, I couldn’t be prouder of you.
“Your dedication to the things that matter most — your country, your work, your passion, and most of all, your family — has never wavered.
“The way you’ve touched so many lives over the years with kindness and humility speaks volumes about the man you are and continues to inspire us everyday. But above all else, I’m so, so proud to call you mine. I love you so much xxxx”
Victoria wasn’t the only one of the Beckham clan to share their congratulations, with Romeo Beckham also posting on his social media.
What do David Beckham’s tattoos mean?
Hands
Starting with the hands, and David Beckham has the word “Love” inked across the top of his left hand, with a swallow on either side.
This is joined by the numbers 723, a combination of the shirts he famously wore for Manchester United and later Real Madrid.
On his little finger, he has the year he was married.
Becks also has a small female-stick figure designed by his daughter Harper.
The devoted husband has “Posh” tattooed on a finger as a nod to wife Victoria Beckham‘s Spice Girls nickname.
Arms
Becks has two sleeve tattoos on both his arms with the centrepieces paying tribute to his marriage to Victoria.
The most famous of his body art comes in the shape of her name along the inside of his forearm, which is inked in Sanskrit.
Both Posh and Becks have Hebrew tattoos, which they got to celebrate their sixth wedding anniversary.
The matching tatts translate to, “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine”.
Meanwhile, Becks also has a separate rose inking on his left arm to mark the couple’s tenth anniversary.
Neck
One of Beckham’s most famous tattoos is on his neck, which is a gothic style cross and wings.
It is symbolic of to his religion and acts as a protective guardian of his son Romeo, whose name is tattooed just below the angel wings.
Beckham also has the name of his daughter, Harper, on the side of his neck.
This was later updated to include the words “Pretty Lady”, to mark her fourth birthday.
Back
Beckham’s back tattoos serve as tribute to his sons.
He has angel wings at the top as a sign of protection for them.
Becks has both his eldest on Brooklyn, and his youngest son Cruz‘s names inked across his back.
Body
Beckham has a large chest tattoo that is an image of himself as Jesus, with three cherubs representing his sons, Brooklyn, Romeo, and Cruz.
The footy ace also has a vertical tattoo down his left side in Chinese symbols – this translates as “Death and life have determined appointments”.
Paying homage to his father, he has an inking of a ship at full mast – which is identical to the same one his dad has.
He shared a black and white snap from David’s 50th birthday in May, and wrote: “So so proud of you,” followed by heart emojis.
Cruz Beckham also shared some kind words for his dad, and posted a photo of him sitting outdoors gazing at the camera.
David’s youngest son wrote: “I’m so proud dad I love you. Sir David Beckham has a nice ring to it.”
As of yet, David and Victoria’s eldest son, Brooklyn, hasn’t shared a message of congratulations publicly for his father.
But including all his family in his celebratory knighthood statement, David wrote: “Growing up in East London with parents and grandparents who were so patriotic and proud to be British I never could have imagined I would receive such a truly humbling honour.
“To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career and literally a boyhood dream come true.
“It will take a little while for the news to sink in but I’m immensely proud and it’s such an emotional moment for me to share with my family.”
The sourced said: “Brooklyn told his family he wants no contact and he’s not responding to those that try to connect.”
However, a source close to Brooklyn denied this and said, “this seems to be another deliberate attempt to misrepresent the truth, and it only serves to distract from this honor being bestowed on Brooklyn’s father.”
instagramVictoria and David with their four children[/caption]
instagramVictoria posted a sweet tribute to David after his Knighthood was revealed[/caption]
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on Thousands of UK drivers face huge speed limit change under new road rules – is your route affected?
THOUSANDS of UK drivers will face a huge speed limit change under new road rules – is your route affected?
The Welsh Government announced plans to lower the default speed limit from 30mph to 20mph, in 2023.
GettyWelsh councils can revert to a 30mph speed limit[/caption]
The decision sparked major public backlash, with hundreds of thousands of locals signing petitions calling for the rule to be scrapped.
It appears residents were heard, as the Government later confirmed that councils could opt out by restoring some roads to the original 30mph limit the following year.
This prompted fresh discussions, as local authorities began working with drivers to decide which roads should return to the higher speed limit.
Some areas have since reverted to the 30mph limit, while others are still in the process of making the change.
At the time, plans to slash the threshold for drivers being fined on 20mph roads have been branded “utter madness” as the Welsh Labour Government continues to develop the controversial policy.
Motorists across Wales were still getting used to the 20mph speed limits on restricted roads as the Government worked with local authorities to make necessary changes.
Following the heavily criticised rollout, Labour announced it would look to amend the policy so it was more focused on roads that actually need it – instead of it being a blanket measure.
To that end, the standard threshold for drivers to be slapped with a speeding fine is 10 per cent plus two miles per hour.
This was changed to four miles per hour for the new 20mph roads, as requested by GoSafe, who called on chief police officers to be more lenient on drivers as they adjust to the nationwide proposal.
This means that if a driver is caught speeding at 24mph in the 20mph zone, they will not be fined.
However, a penalty charge notice could be issued if they’re caught at 26mph.
But reports now suggest changes could be introduced to amend this threshold and could see drivers fined if they’re travelling at 24mph.
According to Wales Online, chief police officers were set to review the policy in March.
The former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies MS, Senedd Member for South Wales Central, said: “Dropping this threshold would be utter madness.
“The 20mph policy is crackers enough without implementing a low threshold which is hard to match at low speeds.
“Labour’s failed 20mph experiment should be dropped.”
In 2024, 48,203 offences were recorded in Mid and South Wales, while 36,710 were given out in North Wales.
In total, 84,913 offences were recorded across the country.
Average offence speeds peaked in April for Mid and South Wales at 30.4mph, while North Wales saw the average offence speed peak at 32.7mph in May.
Throughout 2024, the GoSafe road safety partnership revealed that 13,443 engagement sessions had taken place in which the Welsh Fire and Rescue Services delivered a 10-minute presentation about the speed limit changes.
A spokesperson for GoSafe said: “While the public get used to the change in default limit, chief police officers have allowed us to increase this to 10 per cent plus 4mph in 20mph only, meaning we start to prosecute at 26mph in a 20mph limit.
“This allows us to concentrate on offences more significantly over the speed limit.
“The increased enforcement threshold is scheduled to be reviewed by Chief Officers in March 2025, however, they will continue to monitor it and may review it before this date. Any change will be communicated in advance through official sources.”
The roads that are in contention for changes
Anglesey
These roads have been proposed to change to 30mph.
Amlwch A5025
Amlwch, Lon Parys to Ffordd Madyn
Benllech, A5025
Bodffordd, A5 approach
Bryn Du, unnamed Class 3 road
Bull Bay, A5025
Caergeiliog, A5 Bryngwran approach
Gaerwen, Lon Groes – industrial estate road
Holyhead A5153, Parc Cybi
Holyhead A5154, Victoria Road
Llanddaniel, A5 approach
Llanddaniel, Llanedwen approach
Llanddaniel, level crossing approach
Llandegfan, Ffordd yr Eglwys
Llanfachraeth, A5025
Llanfaes, unmamed Class 3 road from the B5109
Llanfair PG A5025 near park and ride facility
Llanfihangel yn Nhowyn, RAF Valley, Minffordd Road
Llangefni, Industrial Estate Road
Newborough, A4080 Malltraeth approach
Pentraeth, B5109 Beaumaris approach
Rhosmeirch, B5111 Coedana approach
Rhosneigr, A4080 Llyn Maelog approach
Talwrn, Old school road (Due to Closed School)
Trearddur Bay, B4545 Lon St Ffraid East
Blaenau Gwent
A section of the A467, Aberbeeg Road, will revert to its former speed limit of 40mph.
All other roads currently set at 20mph should remain.
Caerphilly
It has been reported that dozens of roads in the county are being considered to be reverted back to 30mph from 20mph but no further details are available.
Cardiff
Four roads inCardiffwill be reverted back to 30mph
Newport Road: All of Newport Road except for a section which runs outside St Illtyd’s Catholic School. The road has four lanes for the majority and a bus corridor between Cardiff and Newport, allowing it to revert to 30mph.
Western Avenue:A section of Western Avenue west of the Taff River Bridge up to the junction with Cardiff and Llandaff Road. The council decided there are enough pedestrian crossings and significant separation between carriageways and footways to allow a return to 30mph.
Ocean Way:From Beignon Close to Rover Way. As the area is mainly non-residential and carries a lot of traffic to the Link Road the speed limit will change.
Hadfield Road:The section between the junction with Leckwith Road and Penarth Road. The road will change as it is also mainly industrial and feeds onto both Leckwith and Penarth Road, both of which have 30mph limits.
Carmarthenshire
The following A and B Class roads are proposed to return to 30mph, subject to consultation and the Traffic Regulation Order process:
A484 Cwmdwyfran (in full)
A484 Pentre-Morgan (in full)
A484 Pentrecagal (in full)
B4297 Heol Y Bwlch, Bynea (in part – for a length of 600m from its junction with Yspitty Road to its junction with Y Gerddi)
B4333 Hermon (in part – on southern approach to the village only)
B4312 Llangain (in part – on both approaches to the village)
B4312 Moument Hill, Carmarthen (in full)
B4308 Carmarthen Road, Kidwelly (in part – on the southern approach to the town for a distance of approximately 246m)
B4556 New Link Road, Penygroes (in full)
B4306 Heol Y Parc, Hendy (in part – from Llannon direction up to its junction with Clos Glyn Dwr)
B4337 Llanybydder (in part) – for a distance of 150m on the eastern approach into Llanybydder from Ty Mawr
Ceredigion
There will be no proposed changes to any existing speed limits.
Conwy
ConwyCouncil has drawn up a list of priority roads that will be assessed. A final decision has yet to be made on the following roads.
B5115:
B5115 from Brompton Avenue, Bae Colwyn (Colwyn Bay) through Llandudno Road, Bae Penrhyn (Penrhyn Bay)
B5115 Colwyn Road, Llandudno to Conway Road, Llanrhos
Bryn Lupus Road, Llanrhos
Rhos Promenade and Marine Drive, Llandrillo-yn-Rhos (Rhos on Sea)
Glan y Mor Road, Bae Penrhyn (Penrhyn Bay)
B5106:
B5106 from Gyffin through Tal y Bont
B5106 Dolgarrog to Trefriw
A547:
A547 Llanddulas Road, Abergele
A547 Abergele Road, from Wynnstay Road to the 40mph east of Highlands Road, Hen Golwyn (Old Colwyn)
A547 Conwy bridge
A548: Foryd Road and Towyn Road, Tywyn (Towyn) and Bae Cinmel (Kinmel Bay)
B5383: Rotary Way, Hen Golwyn (Old Colwyn)
St Asaph Avenue, Bae Cinmel (Kinmel Bay)
B5113: Kings Drive to Llanrwst Road, Bryn y Maen
B5279 Tyn y Groes Road
Meirion Drive, Conwy
B4406 Penmachno to A5
Conway Old Road to Bwlch Sychnant (Sychnant Pass)
Maesdu Avenue, Deganwy
Denbighshire
The council has announced it has no plans to increase the speed limit on any of its 20mph roads
Flintshire
The council has said that it will begin the process of reverting some roads back to 30mph in July. It said more than 1,000 requests had been received and all had been assessed.
These are the roads which have been nominated to have their speed limit changed. Final decisions on them are yet to be confirmed:
A5026 from Lloc to A5151
A5026 Holway Road/Fron Park Road/Halkyn Road, Holywell
A5104 Chester Road to High Street, Saltney
A5104 Main Road, Broughton
A5104 Mold Road, Broughton
A5104 Pontybodkin to Coed Talon
A5119 Flint, Northop Road
A5119 King Street
A5119 King Street to Leadmills
A5119 New Brighton
A5119 Northop Road, Northop
A5119 Ruthin Road, Mold
A541 Caergwrle
A541 Cefn y Bedd
A541 Denbigh Road, Mold
A541 Hendre
A541 Pontblyddyn
B5441 Welsh Road, Deeside
A548 Bagillt Road
A548 Mostyn Road
A548 Oakenholt to Flint
A548 Weighbridge Road, Deeside
A549 Dobshill to Penrhwylfa Roundabout
A550 Gladstone Way, Hawarden
A550 Hawarden Road, Caegwrle
A5119 Aber Road, Flint
Alltami Road, Buckley
Aston Hall Lane
Aston Road
B5121 Brynford Road
B5121 Greenfield to Holywell
B5125 Glynne Way
B5125 Hawarden
B5129 Kelsterton Road
B5129 Sandycroft
B5129 Shotton
B5444 Wrexham Road, Mold
Bagillt High Street
Bannel Lane, Buckley
Brunswick Road
Bryn Lane, New Brighton
Bryn Road, Mynydd Isa
Bryn-y-Baal Road to Bryn Road, Mynydd Isa
Burntwood Road to Wood Lane
Carmel Road
Chambers Lane
B5128 Church Road, Buckley
B5129 Connah’s Quay High Street
Deeside Industrial Park
Drury Lane
Drury New Road
Dock Road, Greenfield
Evans Way, Shotton
Ewloe Interchange
Factory Road, Sandycroft
Fagl lane
Ffordd Llanarth
Ffordd Nercwys
Ffordd Pentre Bach
Gas Lane, Mold
Globe Way, Buckley
Green Lane East
Greenfield Street to Greenfield Road
Gwernaffield Road
Hall Lane
Kelsterton Lane, Connah’s Quay
Jubilee Road
Level Road
B5127 Liverpool Road, Buckley
Llinegar Hill, Penyffordd
Lower Aston Hall lane
Maes Gwern, Mold
B5126 Mold Road, Connah’s Quay
Manor Lane Industrial Estate
Martins Hill
Megs Lane
Monastery Road
Moor lane
Mount Pleasant Road
Nant Mawr Road, Buckley
New Road, Drury
Oakfield Road
Padeswood Road South, Buckley
Pen-Y-Maes Road
Pinfold Lane, Buckley
Plough Interchange
Precinct Way, Buckley
Queensferry roundabout
Queen’s Lane, Mold
Raikes Lane
Rhes-y-Cae
River Lane, Saltney
Sandy Lane, Saltney
Spence Industrial Estate
St Davids Park
Shotton, Woodland Street
The Willow
Tinkersdale, Hawarden
Vounog Hill to Wrexham Road, Penyffordd
Wepre Lane to Wepre Drive, Connah’s Quay
Whitefarm Road, Buckley
Wood Lane to St David’s Park, Ewloe
Woodlands Road, Mold
Merthyr
The council received comments on the following 20 roads, however a review will take place to decide whether they will be reverted back to 30mph.
Pant Industrial Estate
Pant Road to Pontsticill
A4054 – Cardiff Road Treharris/Quakers Yard
Aberfan to Troedyrhiw
A4054 – Plymouth Street
A4054 – Old Hoovers factory to petrol station
A4054 – Caedraw roundabout to road bridge
College Boulevard – Merthyr College/gyratory to Vauxhall garage
A4054 – Caedraw roundabout to Vauxhall Garage roundabout
Bethesda Street
Brecon road – St Marys Church to Cyfarthfa Arms
Cyfarthfa road – Pandy Clock to Mormon Church
Top of Galon Uchaf roundabout to 10th Avenue
Penydarren roundabout to Pontmorlais
Top section of Swansea Road
Aberdare Road
Winchfawr
A4054 – Upper Cefn High Street
A4054 – Full length of Cefn High Street
Whole of A4054 to revert back except outside schools
Monmouthshire
MonmouthshireCouncil has decided it is not reverting any roads from the current 20mph speed limit.
Neath Port Talbot Council
The council has said it has received 93 comments about streets or roads following a consultation after the revised Welsh Government guidance.
It said it was reviewing all the comments and assessing them against the guidance.
Newport
In March, 2025, the council stated its intention to change the speed limit for the following 16 streets in Newport. A public consultation has taken place and a final decision will be made after the feedback from the consultation is assessed.
Caerphilly Road (part – extend existing 30mph from the property ‘Brambles’ up to Garth Terrace)
Bassaleg Road (part – Pye Corner up to 130 Bassaleg Road)
Bettws Lane (part – from Malpas Road to Newport High School)
Duffryn Drive
Duffryn Way
Frederick Street
George Street
Lighthouse Road (part – between Morgan Way to a point prior to controlled crossing near Duffryn Way)
Morgan Way
Royal Oak Hill (part – extend existing 30mph to junction with Chepstow Road)
Tredegar House Drive
Tregwilym Road (part – Western Valley Road to Chartist Drive)
Usk Road (part – extend existing 30mph to junction with The Hawthorns)
Wern Industrial Estate
West Nash Road (part – from junction with Nash Road to point near St Mary’s Close)
Wharf Road
Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire Council has asked for the public’s views on any changes that should be made in its area.
Powys
It has been reported that the council has been consulting on possible changes and that the results of this will be presented in due course to cabinet.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council
The council has been looking into 313 requests to change roads back from their current 20mph limit. But no decisions have so far been taken on any changes.
Swansea
There are 17 roads in Swansea that could potentially see their limits increased from 20mph to 30mph.
A48 – From Penllergaer to Pontlliw -From a point 60 metres south of Parc Penderi in Penllergaer to a point 60 metres south of Oaklands Road in Pontlliw.
B4295 – The Promenade, Penclawdd -From the current 30mph limit at a point 45 metres southwest of its junction with Graig-y-Coed west to its junction with Hall Lane.
B4296 – Pentre Road (Pontardulais) -From the current 30mph limit at a point 360 metres south of its junction with Park Terrace to a point 130 metres south of this junction.
B4296 – Pentre Road (Grovesend) -From the existing 30mph limit at a point 50 metres north of its junction with Clos Brynlliw, Grovesend south to a point 10 metres north of Clos Pengelli.
B4296 Coalbrook Road (Grovesend) -From the existing 30mph limit 420 metres north of its junction with Frampton Road northwards for a distance of 100 metres.
B4436 Mayals Road -From its junction with Mumbles Road west to the 40mph limit at a point 100 metres west of its junction with Curlew Close.
B4620 Swansea Road/ Carmarthen Road (Llewitha) -From the existing 40mph limit on Swansea Road 570 metres east of its junction with Hospital Road east to a point on Carmarthen Road 250 metres west of its junction with Ystrad Road.
B4603 Clydach Road -From a point 30 metres north of its junction with Field Close north to a point 50 metres south of its junction with Lanllienwen Road. From its junction with the northern kerbline of the junction 45 roundabout of the M4 north to a point 30 metres south of its junction with Christopher Road. From a point 20 metres southwest of its junction with Quarr Drive southwest for a distance of 690 metres.
Carmel Road – From a point 40 metres east of Colwyn Avenue to a point 50 metres west of Crymlyn Road.
Brynmill Lane – From its junction with Sketty Road southeast to its junction with Park Place.
Gors Avenue -From a point 10 metres west of its junction with Townhill Road to its junction with Carmarthen Road.
Townhill Road -From its junction with Gors Avenue to a point 10 metres west of its junction with Mayhill Road.
Heol Ddu -From a point 20 metres west of its junction with Llangyfelach Road west to the existing 40mph limit 20 metres southwest of its junction with Roger Street.
Heol y Cwmdu -From its junction with Carmarthen Road to a point 10 metres west of the access road to Parc Cwmdu.
Mynydd Newydd Road -From the existing 40mph limit 50 metres south of its junction with Penplas Road to a point 20 metres north of its junction with Broughton Avenue.
Pant Lasau Road – From the existing 40mph speed limit 113 metres southwest of the southern boundarybof the property known as Brynsirol northeast to a point 60 metres southwest of its junction with Heol Maes Eglwys.
Pentregethin Road -From its junction with Pontarddulais Road east then southeast to a point 10 metres southeast of Woodford Road.
Torfaen
Consultations have taken place regarding the following roads to be revised, this is set to be completed by the end of spring, 2025.
Newport Road, Cwmbran (part)
Estate Road, Blaenavon (including Gilchrist Thomas Industrial Estate)
The A4043 north from Pontypool towards Abersychan (part)
New Road, between Griffithstown and New Inn (part)
Usk Road, New Inn (part)
Riverside, Pontypool
Turnpike Road, Llanyravon (part)
B4236 Caerleon Road (part) – 40mph section
Vale of Glamorgan
The speed limit on 83 roads could change in the Vale of Glamorgan but a list of which roads are being considered has not been shared.
Wrexham
These are the roads set for reversion to 30mph:
B5445 Marford Hill, Marford
B5445 Chester Road, Gresford
A5152 Chester Road, Acton (A483 – Garden Village)
A5152 Chester Road, Acton (Garden Village – City)
Ty Gwyn Lane, Acton
B5100 Rhosnesni Lane, Acton
Jeffreys Road, Borras
A534 Holt Road, Wrexham (Hullah Lane to Greyhound)
A534 Holt Road, Borras (Greyhound to Link Road)
A525 Ruthin Road, Wrexham
A541 Mold Road, Gwersyllt
A525 Kingsmills Road, Hightown
Kingsmills Loop (Old A525)
Abenbury Road, Abenbury
Cefn Road, Abenbury
A525 Marchwiel Road/Bangor Road, Marchwiel
A528 Overton Road, Marchwiel
A525 Bangor Road, Cross Lanes
B5130 Holt Road/Kiln Lane, Cross Lanes
B5425 New Road/ Main Road/ Llay New Road, Rhosrobin
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on My hair’s thin & short but a £12 buy helped it grow so full & thick – I can’t believe the difference & it smells amazing
HAIR loss is a result of many factors; menopause, diet changes, stress…the list goes on.
And it can really affect a person when they see clumps of hair falling out, or excess shedding.
You lose between 50 and 100 hairs a dayGETTYThe tonic has been around for over 200 yearsBOOTS
Several shoppers who have experienced hair loss for a variety of reasons are claiming to have found a product that is brilliant at stimulating new hair growth.
The Weleda Rosemary Revitalising Hair Tonic is usually £13.95 but is currently on offer for £10 at Boots.
Holland & Barrett also sell it for £15.95.
It’s a “natural treatment against hair and scalp problems, hair loss, thinning or brittle hair, dandruff and dryness”.
The product description reads: “Used for centuries to stimulate the circulation, rosemary helps restore the health of the scalp, while stonecrop and horseradish extracts work together to discourage microbial development and reduce inflammation.”
The benefits are said to be:
Strengthens hair, invigorates scalp and nourishes hair roots
Reduces hair loss and promotes hair growth
Uplifting rosemary scent, suitable for men and women
Dermatologically tested, certified natural hair care
Free from synthetic preservatives, fragrances, colourants or raw materials derived from mineral oils
But what do customers think?
Giving if five stars, Lesley Anne said: “I’ve been using this product day and night for nearly three months and I can’t get over the difference in my hair. I have typically thin, short hair but I recently noticed more thinning than usual so I gave this a go!
“I wish you could post pictures here because the difference is honestly unbelievable. I’m not concerned about tying up my hair anymore, no it looks full and thick. Not surprised Weleda are still selling this product, it is absolute gold!”
Daria shared her experience using the product: “Very good for hair growth, using for the second time and love it.”
Yasemin’s review read: “It definitely stimulated new hair growth around my temples which is where I apply the tonic. pleasant smell and not too runny/oily once applied. Recommend.”
Veronika also had great things to say about the tonic: “The product is perfect, it actually helps to grow a new hairs and keep the hair healthy.”
Hair re-growth FAQs
Anabel Kingsley, Consultant Trichologist and Brand President at Philip Kingsley spoke exclusively to Fabulous.
How long does it take for hair to grow back?
Hair grows, on average, half an inch a month. You cannot speed this up.
Do rosemary oil and scalp massages work?
Oils do not promote hair growth. In terms of rosemary oil, the current trend stems from one small study carried out on 50 men in 2015. No women were involved, and the study compared the effects of 2 per cent minoxidil to Rosemary oil. 2 per cent minoxidil doesn’t do much for male pattern hair loss anyway, so the results were not very impressive. Oils do serve a purpose in conditioning hair treatments though. They help add shine and smooth the hair cuticle to lock-in moisture and improve combability. Scalp massages alone won’t cure hair loss, but it can help relax you, aid in lymphatic drainage, exfoliate and help topicals penetrate.
Are there any products or foods/vitamins you recommend someone using oreating to help with hair regrowth?
To support healthy hair regrowth, if you are experiencing hair thinning we’d recommend our Density Preserving Scalp Drops clinically proven to help slow hair loss with continued daily use within three months.
Telogen effluvium (hair shedding) due to nutritional deficiencies can often be simply treated with changes to your diet, and nutritional supplements such as our specially formulated Density Healthy Hair Complex and Density Amino Acid Booster.
Iron and Ferritin (stored iron) in red meat, dried apricots and dark, leafy greens. Vitamin B12 in animal products and fortified plant-based foods. Protein from oily fish, lean meat, cottage cheese, tofu, nuts, chickpeas, and beans.
However, there may be an underlying cause for their hair loss and rather than this being masked by using an off-the-shelf product, they should be encouraged to seek the advice of a specialist such as a Trichologist.
However, not everyone who has used it raves about it. Karen explained: “Only half way through first bottle and am squinting my head brain eyes trying to see a difference and nothing!”
Another also failed to see new hair growth: “Being a huge fan of Weleda products, I was so excited to try this, but sadly I didn’t notice any difference. I used it every morning and night for around 4/5 months (I purchased two bottles).”
What’s the evidence behind rosemary oil for hair growth?
Rosemary oil is believed to stimulate hair follicles and improve scalp circulation, potentially leading to hair growth.
It’s often used as a natural alternative to minoxidil, a medication used for the treatment of high blood pressure and pattern hair loss, with some studies suggesting it may be equally effective.
While more research is needed to fully understand its benefits, many individuals report positive results from using rosemary based products for hair growth.
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on What do the winners of Soccer Aid get?
SOCCER AID is one of the most friendly but competitive football matches in summer – and fans want to know what the winners will be awarded for tonight’s 2025 edition.
The huge annual charity game is known for putting smiles on millions of faces as they see their favourite celebrities face off on the field.
World XI have won Soccer Aid the most amount of timesREUTERS
And although the main goal is to raise money for charity, it can often get really competitive.
But what is the prize that some of the world’s biggest names are battling for?
What do the winners of Soccer Aid get?
The winners of Soccer Aid are presented with a medal each and get the chance to lift the famous title.
There is no prize money as the sole purpose of the annual match is to raise money for charity as well as entertain its spectators.
England ended a five-match losing streak last year after thrashing World XI 6-3.
And Soccer Aid 2024 raised a huge £15 million, bringing the total since the charity match was founded in 2006 to over £106million.
When is Soccer Aid 2024?
Soccer Aid 2025 takes place TONIGHT – Sunday, June 15
The huge annual charity match is scheduled to get underway at 7:30pm BST.
Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United is the chosen venue for the iconic event.
England thrashed World XI 6-3 in last year’s encounter.
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on Seven simple wedding hacks to save £10,000 on the big day – without cutting the guest list
GETTING married is one of the happiest times of your life, but planning a wedding can be incredibly stressful and very expensive.
The average UK wedding now costs over £19,000, so it’s no wonder that couples find that their budget spirals out of control.
GettyA couple has revealed how they cut costs on their big day to save some cash[/caption]
GettyThere’s even a handy tip that will help you save hundreds on a wedding dress[/caption]
Getty - ContributorAnd your invitations could be costing you a fortune when it doesn’t need to[/caption]
And with so much to consider, brides and grooms can quickly find it becoming overwhelming – both mentally and financially.
To get rid of some of the stress, one couple decided to break tradition and do things a little differently.
And they actually managed to save a jaw-dropping £10,250 in the process.
Holly and Dan, both 29, from Birmingham, were overjoyed to be engaged – but were quickly blown away by the costs.
Determined not to start married life in debt, they made a bold decision: cut the fluff and focus on what mattered most.
In the end, they managed to have a beautiful wedding for under £8,000, packed with love and laughter — and most of all, no regrets.
People still tell us it was one of the best weddings they’ve ever been to. And the best part? We didn’t start our marriage in debt
Holly
They’ve now opened up about some of the decisions they made in a bid to help other engaged couples save some vital cash.
Holly and Dan revealed the seven key things that made the biggest difference – and it wasn’t cutting down the guest list.
Speaking to wedding dress experts at Chesca, Holly said: “We weren’t aiming for a luxury wedding, but even basic things were spiralling.
“It started feeling like we were paying for pressure instead of meaning.
“People still tell us it was one of the best weddings they’ve ever been to. And the best part? We didn’t start our marriage in debt.”
The first thing they did to save some money was decide that they weren’t getting married on a Saturday.
Being the peak day of the weekend, Saturdays are the most popular for ceremonies amongst brides and grooms.
But where the demand grows, so does the price tag, meaning it is often one of the most expensive days to tie the knot.
Often, venues will charge a few thousand pounds less for the same size of wedding on another day of the week.
Dan said: “The same venue was £2,300 cheaper on a Thursday. We grabbed it — and guests were more than happy to take a long weekend.”
We weren’t aiming for a luxury wedding, but even basic things were spiralling. It started feeling like we were paying for pressure instead of meaning
Holly
Another key way to save money is by not having printed invites – with almost everything being digital in this day and age, it seems like an easy way to cut back
And Holly said it meant they got their RSVPs back within hours instead of weeks – and saved them £400 in the process.
She added: “We used a free wedding website and set up a WhatsApp group. No printing, no postage, and RSVPs came back in hours”.
Traditionally, at weddings, guests enjoy a three-course dinner after listening to the speeches.
But the couple decided to do things a little differently and opted for a buffet instead, which saved them £200.
Dan revealed: “We swapped the three-course meal for a buffet with grazing boards. People ate more, relaxed more, and no one missed the formality
Wedding favours are, in theory, very sweet reminders of your big day and a lovely treat for your guests.
However, most guests actually leave them behind or throw them away within weeks, so they’re not always worth the hundreds of pounds that are usually spent on them.
Holly told how they decided to ditch the favours and donated some money instead, which ended up saving them £200.
She explained: “We were about to spend a fortune on little jars of sweets. Then we thought, no one remembers them — so we donated to a local charity instead.”
Another surprising place you can cut back on costs is your photographer.
AlamyDitching a fancy car can also save you a fortune[/caption]
While everyone wants the perfect photos of their big day – because this is what you’ll have left to remember all the little moments for years to come – it doesn’t need to cost a fortune..
It’s a common belief that the best photographers are the most expensive, but this isn’t always the case.
Just because a snapper charges premium rates, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they will deliver the best results.
Holly and Dan decided to use a student photographer who took just as stunning photos but at half the cost – saving them £1,500.
Dan said: “We found a brilliant final-year student who charged a third of what others quoted. The photos are stunning — and she was thrilled to add them to her portfolio.”
If you’re not too worried about a wedding car, then this is another easy way you can cut back costs.
Wedding Guest Outfit Etiquette
If you're struggling to decided on a dress to see you through wedding season, here's a few rules on what not to wear so you don't get in trouble.
Folklore says that wearing red at a wedding means you slept with the groom.
Casual attire like jeans and flip flops should always be avoided.
Any colour that could be picked up as white or cream – even if it’s not.
Most would agree that your cleavage needs to be covered.
Wearing white is a massive no-no if you’re not the bride
Holly said her dad drove them to her wedding, and while it saved her and Dan £650 on cars, it also created touching memories that will last a lifetime.
She said: “My dad drove me in his Volvo. It was personal, emotional — and completely free.”
Every little girl dreams of wearing the perfect wedding dress, but Holly has reminded brides that this doesn’t mean it needs to be brand new.
Buying her gown second-hand saved her £1,200, and Holly has urged brides-to-be to consider it an option – after all, it was only worn once!
She explained: “I found a designer dress for £400 on a preloved bridal site. Worn once, dry cleaned, looked brand new.”
This was one that the wedding dress experts at Chesca agreed with, and they said that more brides are making this smart, budget-friendly choice.
They said: “You don’t need to spend thousands to look stunning. Many brides are now turning to secondhand or sample gowns — they’re sustainable, affordable, and just as show-stopping.”
GettyHolly and Dan saved £10,000 with these hacks[/caption]
24 hours agoLatest NewsComments Off on Community crop fundraiser gets re-opening of historic Imperial Hotel closer for Broomehill Village Cooperative
A 120-year-old hotel is one step closer to re-opening after the Broomehill Village Cooperative seeded its community crop fundraiser for the third year while also progressing new plans.