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Hillingdon Times | News

Hillingdon Times News

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 13:03:06 +0100
Congestion Charge hike could cost drivers extra £750
DRIVERS in London could be hit with an extra £40 million in Congestion Charge fees when the daily charge increases from £15 to £18 from January 2.
original article

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:58:11 +0100
Avast there! Hillingdon care home turned into pirate ship
A CARE home in Hillingdon swapped everyday life for the high seas, with residents, families and staff joining for a pirate-themed party. 
original article

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:14:26 +0100
Autumn Declutter: Why Brits are hanging on to old tech, clothes and shoes
The average Brit owns 17 items they no longer use – hanging onto them just in case they ever need them again.
original article

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 14:04:42 +0100
Murder probe after man dies in Cowley High Street
DETECTIVES have launched a murder investigation following a fatal assault in Cowley High Street on Friday.
original article

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:35:42 +0100
Two face murder charge after shooting of Hillingdon teenager
A MAN has been charged with murder following the death of an 18-year-old from Hillingdon.
original article

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 19:19:51 +0100
Experts rate Ruislip Manor pub among nation's best
A RUISLIP Manor pub has been acclaimed for the quality of its real ale – by members of the Campaign for Real Ale.
original article

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 19:08:58 +0100
TfL staff rewarded for brightening stations and depots
STAFF across London's transport network have transformed parts of stations and depots into colourful gardens of flowers, fruit and vegetables for TfL’s annual In Bloom competition.
original article

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:24:45 +0100
Two charged with murder after death of Hayes girl, 3, in 2023
TWO people have been charged with murder as part of an ongoing investigation into the death of a three-year-old Hayes girl in 2023.
original article

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 14:50:35 +0100
Lewis Capaldi surprises shoppers with rooftop gig on top of Nottingham Aldi
Shoppers doing their weekly shop were left stunned when Lewis Capaldi popped up on the roof of their local Aldi – rebranding the store “Cap-Aldi” with a giant cardboard ‘Cap’ taped to the sign before breaking into an impromptu gig.
original article

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 09:14:56 +0100
Gen Z have big dreams of running their own small businesses
Gen Z are setting their sights high on entrepreneurship, as new joint research from Small Business Saturday UK and American Express finds 71% of 18- to 24-year-olds are interested in starting their own businesses, with almost a third of this number (31%) saying this is a closely held dream.
original article

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 16:08:57 +0100
Indian street food cafe opens at Hayes shopping park
INDIAN street food brand Chaiiwala is opening its 107th café in the UK at Lombardy Retail Park, Hayes.
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Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:44:30 +0100
A large-scale 3D timer installation has been erected in London Southbank
A large-scale 3D timer installation has been erected in London Southbank, bringing to life the urgent reality of cardiovascular deaths across the UK.
original article

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 17:00:30 +0100
Hillingdon salutes its foster family heroes on awards night
THE dedication and unwavering support of Hillingdon Council's foster carers were recognised at a ceremony at the Winston Churchill Theatre, Ruislip. 
original article

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:15:00 +0100
Get paid to eat pizza, national search for a ‘CE-Dough’ starts
Ahead of the arrival of its new Specials range to supermarkets this week, PizzaExpress, the nation’s number one chilled pizza brand, has launched a nationwide call-out for a budding taste-tester to step into the brand-new role of ‘CE-Dough’. The brand is giving one lucky pizza fan the chance to embark on the ultimate side-hustle – to be paid to eat pizza. The role has been created to celebrate the brand-new 11” Specials range that lands in supermarkets this week, which brings more iconic restaurant flavours to supermarket shelves including the iconic Margherita Speciale, Pollo Ad Astra and Hot Honey Dough Balls.The successful applicant will earn the rightful title of ‘CE-Dough’ and play a vital role in shaping future supermarket launches for the brand, as well as being granted access to behind-the-scenes product development and a free supply of PizzaExpress supermarket pizza, Dough Balls, dressings and more, plus receive a £1,000 gift card to use at PizzaExpress restaurants.The announcement of the new role comes as new research by the brand revealed that over a third (34%) of people would choose ‘professional taste tester’ as their dream side hustle, with ‘pizza’ (39%) coming in the top two food & drink items that people would choose to taste test for. What’s more, almost half of respondents wish they could do something more fun for work (44%), with 65% believing they already have what it takes to take on the role of professional pizza taste tester.In the job description issued by the brand, the chosen applicant will need to be a true pizza enthusiast and will play a vital (and delicious) role in shaping the future of PizzaExpress’ supermarket range. The chosen candidate will be required to have ‘strong opinions on crust thickness, topping combos and the perfect hand-stretched base’.To apply, budding CE-Doughs should send a short video of themselves explaining why they feel they’d be a good fit for the role and most importantly, why they already love PizzaExpress supermarket range so much to PizzaExpress’ Instagram DMs by Wednesday 1st October.Richard Mills, Retail Director at PizzaExpress, said: “We know everyone is looking for the perfect side hustle, and we don’t think there’s a better one than this. We’re constantly testing and trialling new recipes in our kitchen, but there’s no tougher (or tastier) test than putting our creations into the hands of real pizza lovers. “Our new Specials pizzas already include a Margherita Speciale which has been rated the Margherita of choice for 80% of those who sampled it in blind tastings, but with this new role, we’re really putting our range to the test. We want to see who’s got the palate, passion and personality to help us level up our next launch - and continue to ensure our supermarket range is every bit as delicious as what you’d find in our restaurants.”Whether it’s pizza night with family, friends’ night in, or a solo treat, the new range lands in Sainsbury’s this week.
original article

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:16:51 +0100
Kids rebrand fruit and veg to encourage others to give it a go
Eight in ten children admit they take inspiration from their peers when it comes to healthy eating.Exactly (82%) say they’re more likely to eat fruit and veg if a friend or schoolmate recommends it thanks to their often-colourful ways of describing the taste, texture and colour (29%), with 77% also responding better to playful, imaginative descriptions of food that showcase the flavours and textures.Tesco, who commissioned the research, is now handing over the reins to mini-merchandisers as it trials new in-store fruit and veg product names and descriptions thought up by 4 - 8-year-olds.Following research and taste tests across the UK, the kids were inspired by the incredible flavours and textures, to rebrand apples as “Crunchy Munchies”, broccoli as “Juicy Green Trees” and blackberries as “Dark Stormy Clouds”.The rebrand is to mark the launch of the second year of the Tesco Fruit and Veg for Schools programme, which was developed in partnership with the British Nutrition Foundation. In its first year, the programme provided funding for more than 400 schools with higher-than-average free school meal ratios, providing over 10 million portions of fruit and vegetables to around 140,000 pupils.In year two, Tesco will provide fresh fruit and vegetables to pupils in more than 550 schools to give their diets a healthy and nutritious boost, while shining a spotlight on the amazing things that schools are already doing with their fruit and veg – from cookery lessons to smoothie clubs.As it seems that ‘Pear pressure’ really does exist, Tesco has decided to utilise the weird and wonderful ways that kids describe fruits and vegetables to inspire others to try them. From “Happy Cactus” (pineapple, reimagined by Ella, 6), “Velvet Tennis Balls” (peaches, renamed by Gwen, 7), “Green Water Drumsticks” (cucumber, renamed by Layla Grace, 7) and “Unicorn Horns (baby corn, as interpreted by Emilia, 6), the pupils at three participating schools did such a great job with the descriptions that Tesco has added them to signage in their local stores.Ashwin Prasad, Tesco UK CEO, commented: “Schools have told us what a positive impact the Tesco Fruit and Veg for Schools programme has made on their children, so we are delighted we are able to support even more schools in year two.“The first year of our programme has been a huge success and by expanding it we can ensure that even more young people in some of the most challenged communities in the UK get access to more fruit and veg.”Elaine Hindal, Chief Executive of the British Nutrition Foundation, said: “Tesco’s Fruit & Veg for Schools programme has helped to improve the diets of our young people by helping them get more of their five a day, try new varieties and develop healthy habits that we hope will stay with them through life. We’re delighted to see the programme expanded to provide daily fruit and vegetables to even more children who might not normally be able to access them.”The majority of parents (80%) say they struggle to get their kids to try new fruits and vegetables at home, taking an average of 12 minutes trying to persuade them to eat their greens before giving up To get kids to eat their greens, parents cut them into fun shapes (46%), talk up the health benefits (58%) and some even give them new names to make them sound more appetising (21%) - with top monikers including “Cute-cumbers” and “Tiny Trees”.Two thirds of parents say their child is a picky eater and 63% believe their child is more adventurous when they eat at school, largely because they like to try what their friends eat (52%) or see other kids enjoying different foods and join in (59%). Kids agree it seems, the majority of those (61%) that eat more fruit and veg at school say it’s because they copy their friends who eat healthy and more than three quarters (77%) say they’ve tried a food because their friend made it sound cool.When they do try something new, nearly half (46%) of kids say they like or even love it, with just 6% saying they tend to dislike or hate the taste of fruit and veggies.Harriet Hodgson, Family engagement Officer at Coed y Dderwen Community Primary School, who took part in the first year of the programme added: “The funding we received from Tesco has already made a meaningful difference to our school community. We are now able to provide fresh fruit daily to all our pupils, promoting healthier eating habits and encouraging children to make nutritious choices throughout the day. We have even seen improvements in both attendance and concentration amongst the children, which is fantastic to see.”See how the children at Coed y Dderwen Community Primary School found new names for their fruit and veg favourites HERE.
original article

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:10:38 +0100
Edwards tells aunties to protect loved ones from avoidable sight loss
A new initiative fronted by TV personality Brenda Edwards, launched by Specsavers with advice and guidance from Glaucoma UK, hopes to prevent sight loss in people from African-Caribbean communities, who have an up to four times increased risk of developing the condition and may develop it earlier in life.[1],[2] Dubbed The Auntie Army, it calls on self-appointed ‘aunties’ to talk their friends, family and other loved ones into an eye test and identify glaucoma before it causes avoidable vision loss.[1] Glaucoma UK – Who is at risk of glaucoma? https://glaucoma.uk/who-is-most-at-risk-of-glaucoma/ [Accessed September 2025][2] Tham YC, Li X, Wong TY, Quigley HA, Aung T, Cheng CY. Global Prevalence of Glaucoma and Projections of Glaucoma Burden through 2040: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Ophthalmology. 2014 Nov 1;121(11):2081-90. https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(14)00433-3/fulltext
original article

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:04:06 +0100
Parents warned to throw away popular Amazon toy immediately
Trading bosses are warning parents to throw away a popular Amazon toy immediately - due to 'serious' risk its small magnets could 'block their kids' intestines'.
original article

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:04:50 +0100
Hillingdon residents urged to recycle all they can
TO mark Recycle Week (September 22-28), Hillingdon Council is encouraging residents to discover how to reduce household waste at a themed event.This year’s theme, Rescue Me! Recycle!, encourages people to recycle all they can by highlighting items regularly thrown away in general waste that can be repurposed.  Items the council can’t recycle can sometimes still be found in mixed recycling sacks by collection crews.To help residents eliminate those, a ‘Top of the Contaminants’ campaign highlights how items, like food and clothing, can be recycled through other services the borough offers.  It has weekly rubbish and recycling collections, garden and food waste recycling, small electrical bins in libraries and doorstep textiles collections in partnership with the charity, Traid.Harefield Civic Amenity Site also has dedicated bins for vapes and coffee pods. Hands-on guidance for repairing clothes and small electrical items will be available at a free Repair and Reuse Day at Botwell Green Leisure Centre in Hayes, this Saturday (27) from 11am to 2pm.  Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: "It’s great that so many households in Hillingdon already do their best to sort and separate what they can.“For most other items, from small electricals to coffee pods and batteries, the council offers a recycling solution.”www.hillingdon.gov.uk/rubbishandrecycling.
original article

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:28:52 +0100
People feeling less safe on the roads new survey reveals
People feel less safe on the roads because the numbers of cops has plummeted to a 10-year low
original article

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:28:55 +0100
Over half of Brits 'caught off guard' when winter weather arrives
Despite being a nation fixated on the weather, it seems we fall behind when it comes to getting prepped for the colder months, with over half (52%) of Brits admitting they feel ‘caught off guard’ when winter weather arrives.
original article

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:07:34 +0100
Uxbridge firm is keen backer of Heathrow opportunity award
AN Uxbridge firm is benefiting from Heathrow’s World of Opportunity grant programme, which helps exporters sell their goods and services around the world.  The programme is back for 2025, with successful applicants receiving cash prizes as well as advice on expanding overseas.  Last year’s winners, Heart Relocation, based at Waterside House, Riverside Way, Uxbridge, are using the grant to unlock new markets.  Heart Relocation’s personalised approach ensures seamless relocations for businesses. The grant and support it received has enabled them to conduct in-depth research and access expert guidance on expansion.  Heathrow is calling for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to come forward and share their exporting ambitions.It has partnered with the Federation of Small Businesses, who will promote the programme and help judge the applications.This year’s World of Opportunity programme is open until December 31 and 12 recipients will be chosen.    Co-Founder of Heart Relocation, Anna Fletcher, said: “Receiving the grant meant more than just funding—it was a moment of real encouragement and support with access to expertise and knowledge that is infinitely valuable.“We care deeply about the families we support, and this grant gave us the chance to invest in tools and ideas that make their experience even better.”   To find out more and apply, visit: heathrow.com/world-of-opportunity   
original article

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:01:31 +0100
Ruislip author publishes comic tale about the gaming tables
RICHARD Templar is a man stuck in a rut and looking for a change.A timely intervention by his agent sets him on an investigation into the dubious background of the ruthless megalomaniac, Sir Rufus Blades.From a Scottish castle to the red-light district of Amsterdam, then on to Marbella, he follows different leads and meets some outlandish characters.Ruislip author Nick Wilson spent 40 years in the casino industry, travelling and living abroad for eight years.Now, he enjoys sport and often travels abroad with his son for international tennis competitions.He said: “While working in both elite and underground casinos in London and abroad,  I came across many eccentric characters.“These included mavericks varying from the pompous to the villainous. They provided a wealth of material which inspired me to write. I particularly enjoy reading satire and comical novels, with books by Tom Sharpe and Ben Elton being amongst my favourites.”His novel, Flipside, was released last month and  is available for £10.99. ISBN: 9781836283720.
original article

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:19:35 +0100
Rochelle Humes stuns in statement look at London Fashion Week
Rochelle Humes donned a statement archive piece for London Fashion Week as she made an appearance at the highly-anticipated Marques ‘Almeida show. The Saturdays star, 36, watched as intergenerational models showcased a capsule collection, designed to be worn for years to come all in the name of sustainable fashion. The S/S 2026 runway show, which was held at 22 Bishopsgate, saw the fashion house collaborate with Dylon Detergent, as they put long-lasting pieces at the heart of its new collection. “It’s such a special moment to be at the show to celebrate the Marques ‘Almeida collaboration with Dylon. It’s so important to look after your clothes because you can ensure you are keeping favourite pieces looking their best,” Rochelle said. “Alaia is already raiding my wardrobe and got her eye on a few items so I’ll definitely be holding onto this one so that she can wear it when she’s older!  Most of my statement pieces from my favourite designers are carefully crafted and require a gentle wash - which is exactly why Dylon is perfect- it cleans gently, looks after the fibres and keeps colours fresh.” Seven pieces of the collection were washed with Dylon's Triple Renew formula, extending the lifespan of the clothes and enabling fashion lovers to pass them down through generations. 'As a brand, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do - from transforming waste into fashion to maintaining a transparent, local supply chain. We’re not about fast fashion or fleeting trends; we want our clothes to hold memories, tell stories, and, most importantly, be worn and loved for as long as possible,” brand founder Marta Marques said. “That’s why we’ve partnered with Dylon Detergent - to help our customers care for their clothes, keeping them looking fresh so favourite pieces can be cherished and passed down for generations.'' With enough clothes on the planet to dress the next six generations, it’s no surprise that 81% of Brits admit that their wardrobe is packed with items that they have never worn, according to a new poll conducted by Dylon.  And despite this, a whopping 99% are still regularly hitting 'add to cart' for brand new clothes. However, this is changing amongst Gen Z, with the research showing that vintage and pre-loved clothes are gaining more popularity with 81% of 18-24 year olds owning an item that was passed down to them and 64% looking to pass their own items on again.
original article

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 09:47:03 +0100
You wake at your most dehydrated yet Brits reach for a coffee over water
You wake up at your most dehydrated and yet more than half (58%) of Brits reach for a coffee or a cup of tea over water first thing according to new research. The study of 2,000 adults commissioned by Gatorade, to mark the launch of its Hydration Booster revealed, nearly half (44%) choose tea or coffee, with Gen Z twice as likely as Millennials to opt for tea. This comes despite our bodies being the most dehydrated when we wake up.Other results showed, most Brits wake with common signs of dehydration - dry mouth (65%), thirst (70%), fatigue (54%) and headaches (29%). More than half (52%) overlook hydration as the cause, instead pointing to poor sleep, stress, or just feeling generally tired. Hydration plays a key role in how energised and alert we feel, and yet four out of 10 people (41%) are unaware that our bodies are most dehydrated when we wake up.  To get the energy boost, Brits look to caffeine, even though the buzz is short-lived for nearly half (46%) of brew drinkers, who say it fades in under an hour, while two in five (42%) admit they’re still tired and lethargic after their brew. It’s clear hydration is a low priority, as 6 in 10 (59%) only reach the recommended water intake twice a week or less. Despite electrolytes offering a convenient rehydration solution, nearly two thirds (64%) have never bought an electrolyte drink outside of a workout.  43% don’t realise that electrolytes can hydrate more effectively than water alone - helping to restore essential minerals, fuel your energy, and support day-to-day wellbeing - and 42% of Brits wrongly believe they’re only for athletes or gym-goers. Dr. Emily Prpa, PhD, Nutrition Scientist commented: “Dehydration can affect everything from concentration and energy to mood and digestion, think fatigue, headaches, dry mouth and brain fog – and they can kick in before we’ve even left the house. We wake up at our most dehydrated, yet many of us reach straight for caffeine. While coffee isn’t the enemy (it does contribute to fluid intake), caffeine can temporarily mask the signs of dehydration, such as tiredness, without addressing the potential root cause. It’s important to prioritise hydration first – think, hydrate before you caffeinate. “Prioritising hydration first thing in the morning is a simple but powerful habit that can support better health and help us feel more energised throughout the day. Products like Hydration Booster by Gatorade can be a useful way to include electrolytes as part of your hydration strategy - particularly when fluid or electrolyte losses are higher, such as during exercise or long travel days.”Here are Emily's five top tips for optimal hydration:
original article

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 15:01:48 +0100
ULEZ charge offenders made to feel the heat
A CLAMPDOWN on drivers who persistently evade penalty charges for ULEZ offences is being stepped up. Transport for London says it is aware of a specific group of drivers who persistently refuse to pay multiple outstanding penalties.Recent data shows that 94 per cent of the outstanding debt is from persistent evaders. TfL has been deploying an intelligence-led approach, alongside enforcement, which can include tracking evaders down to different addresses and employing more effective data-sharing with other national bodies, such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.This has led to around £16.5m of debt being recovered through enforcement between January and June this year. When there is no response over an extended period from a driver who has incurred a ULEZ charge, the enforcement process is triggered.It includes issuing warrants backed by the courts. Action to recover the debt involves enforcement agents visiting a home address to recover money owed.They can also seize particular belongings and use the proceeds of a sale to satisfy any outstanding debt, for example clamping a vehicle and selling it at auction.Between January and June, more than 530 vehicles were seized from drivers who failed to pay road user charges and penalties.More than 350 have been sold at auction, with more than £285,000 being raised through sales as a result. One persistent evader paid almost £17,000 in June to clear 46 warrants against his/her vehicle.
original article

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:18:29 +0100
Age-friendly festival focuses on Hillingdon's elderly
AN Age-Friendly Festival, a boroughwide celebration of older residents offering free activities, information and support, is being held by Hillingdon Council in October. Replacing the annual Day of the Older Person - traditionally held at The Pavilions shopping centre, Uxbridge – it features a series of events in libraries and community venues. Health fairs will be held at: Ruislip Manor Library – Wednesday, October 1, 11am-3pm Uxbridge Library – Monday, October 20, 11am-3pm Botwell Green Library – Friday, October 24, 11am-3pm St Mary’s Church, Harmondsworth – Friday, October 10, 10am-2pm. Each fair will feature stalls offering advice, music, arts and crafts, health checks and interactive health workshops, including taster sessions, such as walking football. Other events include a falls prevention talk at Botwell Green Library and a daytime disco at the Compass Theatre, Ickenham.The Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre will host a reminiscence event with objects on display, including ration books and typewriters.For the full list of events, visit discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/age-friendly-festival
original article

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:13:29 +0100
Hayes blue badge parking crackdown costs mother £8,000
A MOTHER has been ordered to pay £8,400 after being caught illegally using a family member’s Blue Badge during a parking fraud operation in Hayes. Nazir Fahima, 54, was fined for Blue Badge misuse by Ealing magistrates following an investigation by Hillingdon Council’s counter fraud team.  Fahima had denied the charge but was found guilty following a trial. The court heard how, in May last year, while carrying out Blue Badge checks, the parking enforcement team saw a female driver park in a disabled bay at Botwell Green Leisure Centre and place a Blue Badge on her dashboard. Fahima told the officers it belonged to her daughter, whom she’d just dopped off in nearby Hayes town with her father.She was asked to contact her husband and ask him to bring their daughter back to the car to verify her explanation.After calling, Fahima told officers her daughter didn’t want to come and, when pressed, finally admitted she’d actually dropped her husband and daughter to a restaurant in Yeading. Magistrates were told that Fahima had been given a caution in 2021 for misusing her daughter’s Blue Badge to park in Ruislip Lido car park while her daughter was at school. Fahima had claimed it was the first time and that she was “being lazy”.    Fahima, of York Avenue, Hayes, was fined £1,000, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £400 and the council’s costs of £7,000. Cllr Martin Goddard, Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation, said: “Blue Badge misuse impacts some of our most vulnerable residents and visitors.“We’ll do everything we can to take the strongest course of action against those who flout the law.” You can report suspected Blue Badge misuse anonymously at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/report-fraud.
original article

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 16:12:39 +0100
Older generations leading the charge with DIY
When it comes to DIY and home maintenance, young adults are relying on the services of professionals to get things fixed, while those aged 55+ are more likely to have a go themselves. In a survey of 4000 people, many gen-Xers and older claimed to be confident with practical tasks too, with 7 in 10 knowing how to rewire a plug and more (75%) able to bleed a radiator. New data from Smart Energy GB has found that those aged 55+ are less likely (38%) to pick up the phone right away and instead, in the case of Elaine Regan (68), from Borehamwood, adopting a make do and mend ethos. Elaine said: “When it comes to maintaining my home, I'll often have a go myself before calling a tradesperson. It’s very satisfying fixing something and I can be quite handy with a screwdriver, especially if it saves me some money! In comparison, half (51%) of those aged 18 – 24 call an expert when things go wrong, to ensure their home is safe (40%) and a because a tradesperson will do a better job (43%). And a quarter make the call because they have no idea what they’re doing. 2 in 10 of the age group can rewire a plug and 18 per cent say they are able to bleed a radiator. What’s more, under 6 in 10 (58%) know how to change a light bulb and a quarter (25%) can take a meter reading. For those unsure how to check their energy equipment, expert engineer Tom Hicks, who has installed smart meters for over eight years, advises what to look for and when to call a professional. Top tips: what to watch out for and when to call an energy expert: Check your wiring - Wiring and fuse boxes should be replaced every 15-20 years, but it’s not uncommon to see 30, 40 or even 50-year-old equipment on the wall. Call in an expert if you see any signs of overheating, distress on cables, electrical installation, charring, melting or exposed live contacts. Look for soot - Boilers can go wrong even when serviced every 12 months, but many wouldn’t notice an issue until it stopped working. We look for fine 'sooting' or abnormal marks on the walls and flue that indicate signs of gas spillage. If you see something that doesn’t look right, call a Gas Safe boiler engineer. Meter movement - If you have an old analogue gas meter and the dials are moving when all you gas appliances are turned off - even if very slowly over time - it can be a sign of a gas leak. We call it checking for creep. Anyone who has trouble accessing their meter can ask their energy supplier to send an engineer to check it. If you smell gas, especially if its continuously inside, call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. Power cuts – If this happens, the first thing you should do is switch off appliances and if you can, check your fuse box to see if a fuse has tripped (turned off). If not, check if your neighbours still have their electricity. If they are also affected don’t assume the experts have already been notified and give your Electricity Distribution Network Operator a call on 105. The sooner they know, the quicker they can help. Get a free visual safety check with a smart meter installation - Smart meters replace your old analogue gas and electricity meter and are great tools to help you manage your spending on energy. But they also come with a free visual safety check when they’re installed. It’s easy to request one, just contact your energy supplier, if you don’t already have a smart meter. Tom Hicks said: “Safety should always be your number one priority when it comes to energy equipment at home. It’s important to know what to look out for and make the most of the free checks and support available to households.” Despite safety being a key factor, 6 in 10 people are unaware that a visual safety check of gas and electrical equipment in the home happens as part of a smart meter installation. And it’s an important extra, with nearly two thirds (63%) keen to get one for peace of mind that everything is safe. The trend in age and experience is also reflected in how much people know about their home, with under half (47%) of younger people knowing what a stopcock does or where theirs is located. And 3 in 10 (28%) know it controls their water supply. But the research showed an increase in wisdom within older groups, as an impressive 95% of those over 55 can find their stopcock and 97% know what it does. Elaine Regan continued: “There’s a lot my husband and I would have a go at ourselves, but when it came to my energy equipment, we wanted to ensure things were safe and done properly. When we got a smart meter installed the engineer did a check on our gas appliances, wiring and the equipment surrounding my meters to make sure everything was working properly. This gave us peace of mind and because my readings are sent automatically, we rarely think about the meters anymore."   When turning to an expert to finish a job, households claim to have done so because the task was harder than expected, but a fifth (21%) claim they made the situation worse. Support from others is also essential for over a quarter (27%) of people experiencing a physical condition or limitation that affects their ability to carry out home maintenance tasks independently. To find out more about getting a smart meter, visit smartenergyGB.org.
original article

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:53:09 +0100
Buffering internet, slow walkers, and transport delays among top time irritants
Transport delays (42%), slow walkers (33%) and buffering internet pages (41%) have been ranked among the most annoying everyday delays in a new ‘impatient nation’ study.A poll of 3,000 adults uncovered that a fifth – the equivalent to 10.7 million Brits – consider themselves impatient*. This comes as almost two in ten (19%) blame social media for their lack of patience, with a further four in ten (40%) citing advancement of technology.The research, commissioned by Sky Broadband, revealed that just over a quarter (27%) of Brits will only wait for a maximum of three minutes when faced with a delay of any kind.When it comes to waiting for something to load online, almost a third (32%) of Brits admit to not being able to wait a single minute before losing their patience, and 12 minutes is the average amount of time people are willing to wait for public transport delays.Having already improved the nation’s second biggest frustration, slow internet, Sky Broadband is now helping Brits speed up other areas of daily life. As part of a new trial in Leeds and Glasgow, special ‘Fast Lanes’ have been introduced on busy pedestrian streets, which is favourable for the 44% of people who want to separate the strollers from the striders.Dubbed the ‘Sky Fast Lanes’, the lanes feature speed icons, run for 50m and are 2.2m wide. They mark the arrival of the fastest broadband speeds from any major provider in the UK, all in a bid to give busy Brits a high-speed commute and avoid the dreaded slow walker.Top 10 things that frustrate impatient Brits1.      Transport delays (e.g. plane, train, bus delays) - 42%2.      Slow or buffering internet - 41%3.      Slow or bad drivers - 37%4.      Slow service (in any capacity) - 34%5.      Slow walkers - 33%6.      Queuing - 33%7.      Pedestrian traffic (e.g. people taking up the whole path or someone stopping in the middle of a path) - 29%8.      Waiting for or missing a delivery - 28%9.      Film or TV show buffering part way through - 25%10.   Waiting for something to download or update - 25% It appears Brits want fast speeds elsewhere in their lives too, with slow drivers and slow service also listed as top frustrations.Londoners pride themselves in their capacity to be patient with 76% agreeing they can keep a lid on it compared to two thirds of Scots (66%) and 64% of those in Yorkshire.The British stiff upper lip prevails as sighing, groaning and, muttering under their breath, or simply staying silent topped the list of things people have done when frustrated and faced with delays (42% and 33% respectively).Three in ten admit to furiously refreshing apps or slamming the close door button in a lift. Over a quarter (28%) have shouted at their smart speaker when it doesn’t understand them first time, and 21% are guilty of rudely drumming fingers on the table whilst waiting for service.Generation X have emerged as the most impatient generation (24%), meanwhile, three-quarters of Gen Z claim to have a zen-like patience.Despite this, however, Brits generally agreed that Gen Z gets their patience tested the most often, citing on average four delays a day in comparison to Millennials and Gen X who experience three and Boomers who experience a mere two delays per day.Gen Z, facing more delays than any other generation, are relying on sneaky time-saving hacks such as using AI platforms (36%), going to a self-checkout rather than queueing for a cashier (41%), using mobile data instead of sorting out slow internet speed (48%). Two in five even admitted to watching videos on 2x speed (42%).Ben Case, Managing Director of Connectivity at Sky, said:“From slow walkers to traffic jams, delays are part of everyday life. With Sky Broadband Gigafast+ now offering the fastest speeds from any major provider in the UK, we’re launching ‘Fast Lanes’ to speed up more than just broadband, helping commuters reclaim their time and keep life moving frustration-free.”The Fast Lanes celebrate the launch of Sky’s new Full Fibre 2.5 Gigafast+ and Full Fibre 5 Gigafast+ packages, giving customers a superior connectivity experience at home.  Now available on the CityFibre network, the packages deliver the UK’s fastest broadband speeds from any major provider. The 2.5 Gbps and 5 Gbps speeds will be delivered by the new Gigafast+ hub, Sky’s most advanced yet, to power the demands of a modern home, from remote working and 4K streaming to gaming.  As part of Sky’s wider range of speeds, the Full Fibre Gigafast package (900Mbps) is available for £25pm for new customers in CityFibre areas from the 25th of September 2025.**
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Thu, 18 Sep 2025 10:39:57 +0100
Perfect way to eat iconic British chocolate treat revealed
The perfect way to eat one of Britain’s most iconic chocolate treats has finally been revealed.Promising to unlock the ultimate taste experience, the team at Maltesers claim the family favourite should be eaten by popping the ball in whole, before crunching down completely to provide the ultimate pairing of crunchy malt and creamy white chocolate at the same time.On average, Brits believe the whole process should last approximately 22 seconds per ball, enough time to savour the sweet, white chocolate taste and allow the right ratio of melting for its crunchy malt centre.According to the experts, it’s this approach that will cover the largest surface area of the taste palette and provide a multi-sensory experience, stimulating both taste receptors and auditory senses through the distribution of flavour and sound of the crunch.As Maltesers®️ White Chocolate makes its long-awaited arrival to supermarket shelves, it’s been revealed the best time to enjoy the treat is between 7-9pm, (22%), where Brits are most likely enjoying them in front of the TV (57%) or as an after dinner treat (20%).And while over half (53%) insist room temperature is best, a third (31%) prefer them chilled straight from the fridge.Maltesers’ Megan Rushman revealed why, saying: “While the malt interior is undeniably tasty, it actually serves a clever purpose - it helps break down the chocolate, preventing that sticky, hard-to-clean feeling you get on the roof of your mouth from a solid piece of chocolate.“It's the unique texture and balance between the chocolate and the malt centre that makes the sweet treat so iconic and loved by so many and that’s no different when it comes to the launch of the new Maltesers White Chocolate.”But a study of 2,000 adults found, those that go against ‘official guidance’ by sucking the ball do so because they like how the malt dissolves in their mouth (27%) or they want to prolong the experience (23%).While those who use ‘The Nibble and Chew’ method prefer it because either it gives them two flavour hits (28%) or they simply want to take their time with the treat (27%).And it seems superfans will even take taste into their own hands, with viral TikTok trends seeing Brits attempt to make their own Maltesers®️ White Chocolate treat by submerging the snack in milk before tucking in.In a new film for Maltesers®️, broadcaster, Kate Lawler, and husband, Boj, put each take to the taste test. Weighing in on the debate, Kate Lawler comments: “As a nation we love a food debate, and it’s no different in my house! Boj is adamant that you nibble the outside, while I love to pop one in and give it a crunch. Science might agree with me but to be honest whether you nibble, melt, or pop them in one, figuring it out is all part of the fun! As for Boj’s nibbling face… let’s hope I get to the Maltesers White before he does!”But no matter how they’re eaten, one thing’s clear - Brits are deeply devoted to their Maltesers®, with almost 2 in 5 (39%) ranking the treat within their top three chocolates of all time.Maltesers®️ White Chocolate is now widely available in all main supermarkets, including independents, in treat bag, single and sharing bag formats.The new product promises to tantalisingly tease tastebuds with its combination of the classic Maltesers®️ crunchy centre that consumers know and love, and a delicious thin layer of white chocolate, creating a perfectly sweet and uniquely Maltesers®️ treat.
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Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:35:15 +0100
Invisible kitchens, light up wallpaper and the death of the plug
These neighbours have carved a tiny door into their - so their 'best pal' sausage dogs can play together all day.Eve Chalmers' dachshund Olive loves playing with next door's dog Gatsby when they're out on walks or dog sitting.The 24-year-old's handy dad Kerr Chalmers cut a 2ft x 1ft hole in one of their garden fences then re-attached the wood with a latch to create a door.Adorable footage shot this weekend [July 12th and 13th] shows six-year-old Olive, and Gatsby, two, squeezing through the hatch and chasing each other around the gardens.Civil engineer Eve says the handy invention has stopped the playful pair getting bored - while allowing 'anxious' Gatsby to race home if he feels overwhelmed.Her TikTok video has been viewed more than 1.6 million times, with users joking that neither families can move out now.Eve, from Glasgow, Scotland, said: "We've been joking that we should put a hole in the fence, then my dad actually made one."They've just been running through the gardens and it's really cute."Last weekend we had the latch open all the time so they could go into each other's gardens and houses then when we went back inside, we closed it."Gatsby can be a bit anxious if he's round and he'll cry to go back home but now with the hole he's so happy knowing he can get back easily."It stops them from getting bored too because they can be a handful."I'm so chuffed, they're adorable together."Eve says the dachshunds became friends when both families would dog sit while the other was out.Her adorable footage has been liked more than 110,000 times and it has more than 500 gushing comments.One user commented: "This made my heart feel really happy."A second said: "This is amazing. They're living their best lives."A third joked: "None of you can move out now."
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Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:20:43 +0100
Stylish new ceremony rooms opened at Uxbridge Register Office
TWO new ceremony rooms at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge, are now ready to take bookings for weddings and civil partnerships.The register office can cater for up to 20 guests in the Nova Room and 80 in the Astra Suite.  Whether you're planning a wedding, civil partnership, or any other significant life event, the dedicated team is on hand to provide exceptional service and help your ceremony go as planned.  Bookings are also being taken for vow renewal ceremonies, often chosen to celebrate special anniversaries like silver, ruby, and golden wedding anniversaries.The rooms can also be used for non-religious naming ceremonies, to celebrate the birth of a baby or to welcome adopted or stepchildren into the family.Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon Council’s Deputy Leader, said: “Our new register office looks fantastic. The ceremony rooms offer elegant spaces for celebrating your special day, while showcasing the best of our Grade II listed Civic Centre.”You can visit the office from 9am to 4pm on weekdays or go to www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ceremony-venues. 
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Wed, 17 Sep 2025 15:00:00 +0100
TAB secures £500 million facility from AB Carval to power Tab Mortgage and TAB Bridge
TAB today has secured a landmark £500 million funding facility from funds managed by global investment manager AB CarVal marking a pivotal evolution in its growth trajectory. This strategic infusion of institutional capital transforms TAB from a bridging specialist into a mainstream lender with both scale and ambition and ready to redefine the mortgage and bridging landscapes.
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Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:31:56 +0100
Uxbridge MP shown challenges for sufferers on Dementia Bus
RYEFIELD Court, the Berkley Care Group’s care home in Hillingdon, was represented at an event in Parliament last week.The group sent its Virtual Dementia Tour Bus to give MPs, including local Uxbridge and South Ruislip MP Danny Beales, a first-hand insight into the daily realities of living with dementia. The day also included a parliamentary reception which welcomed close to 40 leaders from across the care sector to discuss the future of dementia care. The Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, also visited the event, underlining the significance of the initiative. The simulation, which uses specialised equipment to replicate the sensory and cognitive changes caused by dementia, offered a window into the daily challenges faced by those living with the condition. 
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Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:16:00 +0100
How to get the new iPhone now and every year
The nearly six million people who want to upgrade their mobile each year can get their hands on a new iPhone – now and every year going forward.This means customers can get a new phone on a 24-month Phone Plan – or a year early on longer plan lengths – with no early upgrade fees and nothing left to pay* on their Phone Plan.Better yet, and thanks to Vodafone Xchange, customers can save up to £552 today on the iPhone 17 with Vodafone’s Trade-in Guarantee.Only 24% of Brits are maximising savings on a new device by unlocking the value of their old one but with Vodafone’s Trade-in Tool it’s easy – giving customers an instant guaranteed value for their old phone, meaning there are no surprises, only savings.New and existing customers can save up to £552 on the iPhone 17 Pro when trading in an eligible iPhone with Vodafone’s Trade-in Guarantee.As part of the recent merger with Three, Vodafone customers can now automatically use Three's network, at no extra cost. This means customers’ devices will automatically connect to more coverage where available – whether that’s on the Vodafone or Three network – proving that two networks are better than one. What’s more, with Vodafone’s 5G Ultra, customers can enjoy 10x faster speeds than 4G and greater 5G coverage.Because Vodafone recognises that some customers want to keep their phone lasting longer, it offers the UK’s only Lifetime Service Promise on all Pay Monthly phones. This means every new and refurbished phone comes with Battery Refresh and Lifetime Warranty, so phones last longer with Vodafone, at no extra cost.What’s more, with all of Vodafone’s Pay Monthly Phone Plans, customers can spread the cost up to 36 months at 0% APR, with flexible upfront costs. And, with Vodafone Insurance, customers can protect their new iPhone for less, with the first three months half price. Vodafone’s cover is built with tech in mind, from our manufacturer approved parts to worldwide cover, next day replacements and inclusive AppleCare services.Finally, for those looking for an award-winning loyalty scheme and perks, VeryMe Rewards offers weekly discounts and giveaways, such as a free drink at Costa Coffee or Two Odeon tickets for £8. Or you can even gift selected rewards to a friend.The new iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max alongside the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3 are available to pre-order now on Vodafone (www.vodafone.co.uk).
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Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:42:24 +0100
Traditional hobbies thriving again with help of 21st century tech
In a fast-paced world dominated by screens and technology, many Brits are finding comfort in the slow, tactile joy of traditional hobbies. From baking and gardening to knitting, painting, and sketching, heritage pastimes are making a stylish comeback, offering a much-needed escape and a new way to connect, create, and unwind.And Hilary and Michael Whitehall have been leading the way during a romantic date in which they carried out drawing challenges but there was a twist, the date coincided with the arrival of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 series, which features Galaxy AI Drawing Assist - a tool that enhances sketches and transforms them into styles like illustration, pop art, or 3D cartoon.The parents of comedian Jack Whitehall and stars of Netflix show Travels with My Father and Channel 4’s Celebrity Gogglebox revealed their artistic sides producing portraits of Harry Styles, Taylor Swift - and each other - during their day out in London this week.Alongside drawing, heritage hobbies like birdwatching, soapmaking, pottery, calligraphy and quilting are seeing a reemergence, according to a new study that has found 76 per cent of Brits find activities provide a good way to develop relationships. Hilary and Michael said: “We’ve been married for nearly 40 years, so we know each other very well, maybe even too well. We both enjoy drawing, but with minimal abilities they usually don’t turn out quite as we’d hoped. Thankfully the Sketch to Image feature came to our rescue. It’s really simple to use and it was amazing to see it transform our ‘artwork.’” “It was lovely to relax, draw and reminisce about happy memories that we share together, and all squabble free.”Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product and Marketing at Samsung UK & Ireland added: “We’re seeing a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation; people want the tactile joy of working with clay, wood, or yarn - but they also appreciate how AI can help bring their vision to life, guiding beginners and inspiring creativity.“The redesigned S Pen offers that familiar pen-to-paper experience, giving users an authentic drawing feel. It’s really about using technology like the Galaxy Tab S11 series to enable, not replace, traditional skills.”20 Traditional Hobbies Making a Modern Comeback 1.           Baking-30%2.          Gardening-27%3.          Knitting-24%4.          Crocheting-23%5.          Reading-21%6.          Drawing /sketching-20%7.           Painting-17%8.          Bread making-12%9.          Playing an instrument-10%10.     Woodworking / furniture restoration-9%11.       Pottery making-8%12.      Rambling/hiking-6%13.      Tapestry/embroidery/needlepoint-6%14.     Dancing-6%15.      Coin collecting-5%16.     Bird watching-5%17.      Calligraphy-5%18.     Fishing-4%19.     Quilting-3%20.    Soap making-3%
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Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:13:51 +0100
Warning to job hunters as lying on your CV could be breaking the law
One of Britain's biggest recruiters Reed states that they, and many other established recruiters, complete full reference checks as standard practice
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Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:21:14 +0100
Apple crumble is crowned the nation's favourite but trifle risks extinction
Brits are mad for pudding – especially apple crumble – but the nation’s nostalgic favourites like trifle are disappearing from restaurant menus and risk extinction in their traditional form, according to new research fromCreams Café. Apple crumble (29%) has been crowned the UK’s greatest nostalgic pudding of all time, followed by apple pie (22%). Trifle still ranks strongly (20%), sitting alongside rice pudding (20%) and jam roly poly (18%) in the top five. Yet despite its popularity, trifle is rarely spotted when dining out. Over half of Brits (54%) either never recall seeing a trifle on a menu or can’t remember the last time they did. Include those who last saw one more than a year ago and the figure jumps to two-thirds (67%) – making trifle one of Britain’s most endangered puddings. Generational differences are clear: over-55s overwhelmingly prefer apple crumble (31%), while younger Brits aged 18–34 are fuelling a revival of jelly and ice cream (24%) as their nostalgic top pud. But while six in ten (59%) say traditional desserts still trump modern fancy ones, more than a third (37%) believe they need a revamp to stay relevant.With restaurants failing to keep classics on menus, Creams Café – the UK’s largest dessert parlour – is stepping in to rescue them. With its new range reimagining retro favourites for a modern twist,The strategy has proved successful. Creams revealed its new Oreo Trifle Treat is currently its best-seller, alongside strong sales of the Pineapple Caramel Trifle Treat and Jelly & Ice Cream Sundae. It comes as over half of Brits (57%) say they crave nostalgic comfort food – with Gen Z showing the biggest cravings (67%). Part of this trend may be thanks to TikTok, with 43 per cent saying it is responsible for the surge in popularity for modern takes on retro puds – with a third (33%) crediting younger generations for fuelling the revival.“We couldn’t believe that despite demand for modern takes on retro desserts, almost nowhere serves them,” said Everett Fieldgate, CEO at Creams. “Trifle, in particular, seems to have been wiped off menus – which is why we’ve brought it back with a modern twist that’s already become our top-selling product this summer“The rest of the range is performing strongly too – we’ve taken the flavours we grew up with and remixed them to tempt a new generation, while giving long-time pudding fans something to get excited about.” Creams Café has even launched a petition to give trifle protected status, warning that without action, many of Britain’s beloved desserts could vanish from menus altogether. Alongside the Pineapple Caramel Trifle Treat, Oreo Trifle Treat and Jelly & Ice Cream Sundae, Creams’ retro line-up also includes sticky toffee pudding, banoffee hot pocket, black forest hot pocket, lemon meringue “cheesecakundae,” caramel apple crumble pie, and a chocolate cake & meringue doughnut.
original article

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:13:31 +0100
Can’t Cook, Can’t Budget: TV stars serve up help for hungry students
As thousands of students head off to university for Freshers’ Week, new research reveals nearly half are struggling to budget for food - despite spending on average £150 a month on takeaways. To help students learn from their foodie faux pas, TV presenter Olivia Attwood and Gogglebox alumnus Joe Baggs took to a London café, serving fry-ups to students as they began to navigate university life. Dishing out NationFry-Ups at NationFried - backed by building society Nationwide -  the duo also offered a generous helping of life advice to those embracing their independence.  Nationwide’s research found that 42% of students struggle to budget for food, even as they spend an average of £150 a month on takeaways, with nearly one in five splurging over £200. Almost a quarter (24%) blame their delivery dependence on being too lazy to cook, while over half (51%) admit to only having five meals in their homemade repertoire.  Whether it’s a late-night bite after a night out (34%) or a fry-up with friends the following morning (23%), it’s clear that students are more than happy to spend a little extra to enjoy a treat and hang out with friends.And the researchers also found the top five budgeting mistakes made by students. Topping the list is buying too much food that perishes in the fridge followed by eating out in restaurants that they really can't afford. Third culinary clanger is relying too much on expensive takeaways and fourth is not knowing where to get the cheapest ingredients... and then having to lean on others instead of cooking for themselves. Fifth and finally it emerges undergrads admit they don't have the proper recipes to actually cook a meal. The pop-up café celebrates the launch of Nationwide’s FlexStudent account, an interest-free student current account dishing out tasty perks to help student’s money go further, including £100 free cash, £120 worth of Just Eat vouchers and an interest-free overdraft for up to £1,000 in your first year. Students can also bag an extra £40 in Just Eat vouchers for referring up to two friends. Olivia Attwood said: ““Starting university is such an exciting time, but let’s be honest, learning to look after yourself and manage a budget can be a real challenge. Like many others, I’ve had my fair share of pasta nights, which is why it was so fun to pass on my advice and serve up some much-needed fry-ups to those getting ready to embark on their university journey!” Joe Baggs said: “When you’re trying to meet new friends and make the most of your newfound freedom, it's not always easy to balance a budget. When I flew the nest, I found it hard not to overspend and always gave in to buying myself little treats on my way to the checkout. Having learnt a lot over the years, it was so exciting to be able to help students kick-off their Freshers Week with a full belly and some top tips that I hope they don’t hold me to!” Fred Powell, Head of Product at Nationwide, added: “Food plays such a huge part in student life. It’s not just about meals, it’s about socialising, comforting dishes, and the first taste of independence. But, with many learning to budget for the first time, and the cost of living higher than ever for students, it can be tricky to find that balance. Our FlexStudent account helps students to stay on top of their finances, manage their money more easily and gives them tasty perks so that they can save money and enjoy treats like a delicious takeaway”. Because when it comes to student life, a full belly and a balanced budget go a long way.
original article

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:45:03 +0100
Delve into Hillingdon's history as a heritage member
A NEW scheme giving visitors a chance to explore the borough’s history through exclusive benefits and immersive experiences has been launched by Hillingdon Council. Hillingdon Heritage Membership, introduced to coincide with Heritage Open Days (September 12-21), the UK’s largest annual celebration of history and culture, gives members access to events and activities not available to regular visitors. Featured venues include the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre at Uxbridge, Manor Farm House and The Great Barn in Ruislip, Cranford Park, Hayes and Eastcote House Gardens. With annual costs starting from £32, the advantages of special ‘member days’ include dedicated access and priority booking for walks and tours, as well as discounts on food, drinks and gift shop items. Members will also receive a quarterly newsletter. By joining, you will receive: Battle of Britain Bunker: One complimentary bunker tour each year, unlimited access to the visitor centre, free admission to the speaker series talks, plus a 10% discount at the café and gift shop Manor Farm and The Great Barn: One free guided tour of the house and tour of The Great Barn each year as part of a member day, as well as access to an expanded speaker series Eastcote House Gardens: One complimentary walking tour of the site annually, along with access to exclusive speaker series talks Cranford Park: Updates on events in the park. The Museum and Archives Service and new local history museum, currently under construction at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge and due to open in December, is also covered by membership. Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: “Hillingdon has a wonderfully vibrant heritage with some unique locations for residents and visitors to come and explore, uncover history and see how it has shaped today’s borough.” Visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/heritage-membership. 
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Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:40:28 +0100
Pebbles and Tiny help Harefield residents come out of their shells
RESIDENTS of a Harefield care home had unusual visitors in Pebbles and Tiny, a pair of two-year-old African miniature tortoises. They belong to the grandchildren of Cedar House’s wellbeing co-ordinator, Samantha Dreelan, who arranged the visit as part of the regular activities programme..Many enjoyed holding them gently, taking photographs and sharing laughter as the tortoises wriggled in their hands.Samantha said: “ The residents were so engaged and curious, asking lots of questions about how the tortoises are cared for and what they like to eat.”Spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress, encourage social interaction and support overall wellbeing, says the home.
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Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:08:30 +0100
Treasure hunt to mark Central Line's 125th birthday
TO mark the Central Line’s 125th anniversary this month, Transport for London is holding an anniversary treasure hunt this Saturday (20) as part of London’s Open House Festival .It is encouraging customers to look out for the range of architectural detail at many of the line’s historic stations.The treasure hunt, which starts at Shepherd’s Bush station and will run from 10.30am-3.30pm, is free and open for all to attend on a drop-in basis.The Central Line opened in 1900 as a cross-London route from Shepherd’s Bush to Bank, and this event is an opportunity to discover more about its history and heritage, as well as its hidden stories.Visitors will pick up a clue pack at Shepherd's Bush, then follow it through several stations before finishing at Bank.At each station, they will be faced with several questions, the answers to which can be found by carefully observing the station and paying close attention to posters, plaques and artwork.Other stations on newer parts of the Central Line also reflect the evolution of architecture - and customers are encouraged to look out for the varied styles of the buildings.These include Gants Hill, inspired by Moscow’s subway system, the modernist White City and Grade II listed Perivale, designed by Brian Lewis, marked by a large curved concave window set inside a red brick structure.TfL is investing £500m to overhaul trains on the line with wheelchair bays, improved customer information, a new moquette and CCTV cameras.
original article

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:25:56 +0100
It’s always exciting for the family when the latest smartphones launch
It’s always exciting for the family when the latest smartphones launch – whether it’s the upgraded cameras or better battery life to fresh new designs.With children returning to school and parents weighing up whether to buy phones for their kids heading to senior education – it’s a busy time for technology in the home.And whatever device you’re eyeing up, it seems as though there’s only one place to go for parents this summer and that’s Vodafone.With Vodafone Xchange, you can get a new phone a year before your contract ends, saving money on purchases for your kids – and unlike the upgrade programmes offered by other networks or manufacturers, there are no additional premiums added to your contract for the benefit of upgrading.You simply keep your phone in good condition – easier said than done with kids – and you can send it back to Vodafone and get a newer model every year: there are no early upgrade fees, and nothing left to pay on old phone plans.Worried about tracking or reaching your kids while they head off to senior school for the first time, customers can now automatically use Three’s network, so their phones will use the signal of whichever network is best at their location. This will over time bring better mobile coverage to 16,500 square kilometres of the country – an area roughly 10x the size of London. That’s great news if you’re a Vodafone customer, as you can automatically use Three’s network for more coverage, at no extra cost.If you prefer to hold on to your phone for longer and buy a new one for the kids, Vodafone can help it last with the UK’s only Lifetime Service Promise.This gives you a Lifetime Warranty to cover against manufacturer faults, plus free battery health checks and replacements for the duration of your phone plan, so if your battery starts to deteriorate over time, you can swap it for a new one at no extra cost.Vodafone's Trade-In Guarantee makes upgrading more affordable. You can trade in your old phone against the cost of your new airtime plan – and with a guaranteed value up-front you can be sure that the price you're quoted is the price you'll get. You can pay for your handset your way: up to 36 months interest free – a full year longer than many rivals – and choose from a great selection of up-front options to find the one that works best for your budget.
original article

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:43:17 +0100
Prolific Heathrow parking fraudster jailed after Hillingdon probe
A FRAUDSTER who conned Heathrow travellers out of more than £1.3m through a bogus airport parking business has been sentenced to 32 months in prison.Sonny Kaushal, 37, director of Airtime Parking Ltd, was also ordered to repay more than £725,000, following an investigation by Hillingdon Council’s trading standards team.He was sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court on Tuesday after admitting one count of fraudulent trading and two of engaging in an unfair commercial practice.In earlier proceedings, the court heard how Airtime Parking was advertised as offering ‘safe and secure’ vehicle storage with security fences, CCTV and 24-hour security patrols.Among services offered were ‘premium valet parking’, ‘park and ride’ and capacity to store 1,000 cars safely in its roofed compound within three miles of the airport.In reality, customers’ vehicles were parked in a variety of insecure locations, from a field in Datchet, on the roadside in Hillingdon’s streets and an industrial estate, to even being left in Heathrow’s own short stay parking.The court was told how some cars had been damaged while under the care of Airtime Parking and some had even received parking tickets.Car keys had been lost, customers were charged extra drop off and collection fees, some failed to receive their shuttle to the airport, staff were aggressive and there had been a failure to respond to complaints.Judge HHJ Edmunds KC made a confiscation order against Kaushal and Airtime Parking Limited under the Proceeds of Crime Act to the value of currently available assets of £708,606. However, the total value gained from the scam was deemed to be £1,357,171, the court heard. In his sentencing notes, Judge Edmunds said of Kaushal: “I found he was hiding behind a mask of ignorance and incompetence as an excuse for running more than one company in a way which disregarded all normal commercial and legal practices, in turn to mask his dishonesty.”Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon’s Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: “This prolific scammer exploited holidaymakers in their moment of trust, only to dump their cars and pocket their cash.”Kaushal, of Old Slade Lane, Iver, was given three months to pay the amount in the confiscation order, with the risk of five years in prison if he defaults. He was further ordered to pay £3,053.13 in compensation and £14,319.80 in costs. He was disqualified from acting as a company director for 10 years.If you suspect a business based in Hillingdon is acting fraudulently, let our trading standards team know by emailing tradingstandards@hillingdon.gov.uk.  
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Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:38:48 +0100
Hillingdon urges betting shops reform over concerns in Hayes
HILLINGDON will join a coalition of more than 40 councils to lobby the Government for changes to gambling legislation.They are seeking increased powers to regulate high street betting and protect vulnerable residents. Last night (11), councillors unanimously agreed a motion, tabled by Cllr Peter Curling, leader of the Hayes Independent Party Group, to demand changes in licensing and planning regulations.It follows concerns about the number of licensed betting shops in Hayes town centre.  Hillingdon currently has limited powers to stop new gaming centres opening or to close them if they are having a negative impact on the community. The cross-party coalition of councils have a set of demands:place all gambling premises within a single planning use class, to give councils more control over local developmentrequire local authorities to consider health and social impacts when making licensing decisionsintroduce a statutory levy on gambling operators to pay for treatment and education related to gambling harmimplement stricter controls on gambling advertising and promotions. Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Community and Environment said: “We hope our residents welcome this motion and our unified commitment to protect them from gambling-related harm. “This is not a call for a full ban. We believe adults should be able to place a bet if they want to, but a request to the Government to step up and make changes to legislation that will give councils the power to decide what’s best for their residents.”
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Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:46:34 +0100
Appeal for help to trace well-spoken Eastcote sex offender
DETECTIVES have released footage of a man they wish to speak to following a string of sexual assaults in Eastcote.Numerous women aged between 47 and 74 have reported what is believed to be the same man.He is alleged to have conducted physical and verbal sexual abuse, as well as harassment and stalking.The man is said to have followed several women while they walked outside, shouting inappropriate remarks at them before blocking their route and sexually assaulting them.The man is described as black, approx 5ft 8in tall and of slim build. He appears well spoken and is thought to be aged between 15 and 21.He has worn a black rucksack during three of the incidents and often wears dark-coloured clothing.The incidents took place between January and June all around the Eastcote area. Every incident occurred during the day.The investigation team is looking to hear from anyone who believes they saw – or know - this man. Contact 101, quoting reference 01/7092055/25. 
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Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:00:11 +0100
Actor hails National Lottery funding for life-changing opportunities
An actor from West Yorkshire has praised the impact England's leading learning disability performance and live arts company has had on his life and the lives of other neurodivergent performers, crediting National Lottery funding with creating life-changing opportunities.Jake Thow's success story is one of many made possible by The National Lottery's £15.6 million investment in Bradford 2025, demonstrating how lottery funding transforms lives.Thow, 30, who hails from Crossgates in Leeds and has autism, has been acting with Mind the Gap, England’s premier learning disability performance and arts company, since 2018, and said the opportunities the organisation had given him had changed his life.Mind the Gap, founded in 1988 by Tim Wheeler and Susan Brown, exists to enable people with learning disabilities and autism to be part of an arts sector free from discrimination. In November 2024, Thow, graduated from the Performance Academy, a  level 4 course in theatre, dance and music validated by York St. John University.Thow will next be performing in the company’s new production of The Invite, an immersive theatre experience that has been commissioned by Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, and will take place at The Beacon, Bradford 2025’s touring venue, in Lister Park, Bradford from 17 – 20 September.“Without Mind the Gap, I wouldn't be where I am today,” said Thow, who has also performed at Leeds Playhouse.“I got to graduate from York St. John as part of my training which was incredible; it was like a royal wedding. When I did shows at the Playhouse and after it shut for renovations, there was a point where I thought, ‘what am I going to do?’ and that was around 2018/2019.“That is when I found out about Mind the Gap, and they have been very important. They help prove that people who have a learning disability can achieve something in their life.”The Invite is a blend of music, movement and raw storytelling, with the actors’ own lived experiences inspiring the production’s creation and script.Thow feels this adds a special authenticity to the performance and hopes it can help people who have also gone through the same difficulties.“It’s great that our work could act as an outlet for people,” he continued. “One thing I did find through being with Mind the Gap is that I'm not the only one who has gone through some difficulties at school and maybe others can relate to that through our work.”Mind the Gap has been one of multiple recipients of The National Lottery funding over the years, receiving funding since 1997 through Arts Council England and The National Lottery Community Fund. It is among the recipients of funding for arts projects as part of Bradford 2025, using the money to put on The Invite to mark the year-long celebration.Founded in 1988, Mind the Gap is a non-profit organisation which is part-funded by National Lottery players which distributes £30m a week to support good causes.Such funding has allowed Mind the Gap to continually breakdown barriers, celebrate diversity and empower individuals with learning disabilities and autism in the world of performing arts, demonstrating the transformative impact of National Lottery investment on communities. During its 30-year history, The National Lottery has invested £333m in more than 4,000 good causes across each of Bradford’s 30 wards.“Thanks to funding from the National Lottery, Mind the Gap is able to create bold, innovative productions like The Invite for Bradford 2025 and beyond,” said executive producer Maria Thelwell.“National Lottery players make it possible for us to put learning disabled and autistic artists at the heart of the creative process and challenge perceptions of who gets to make and experience world-class theatre. It would be fantastic to share what we do with patrons who believes in what we believe; that art is for everyone.”Darren Henley, Chief Executive Officer, Arts Council England, said: “I’m so proud that we are able to support Mind the Gap through National Lottery funding, they do incredible work in creating productions with and about learning disabled and autistic artists, reflecting their lived experiences. Mind the Gap are pivotal to our cultural landscape, both in Bradford and West Yorkshire, and beyond. It is great to see their work showcased as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture’s programme of activity which reflects the creativity of the communities that live across the district - giving them the chance to tell their stories. And it’s all happening thanks to public investment from taxpayers and National Lottery players."
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Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:39:51 +0100
TV Tales Unveiled: Brits' Secret Viewing Habits Exposed!
Brits are using the likes of complex crime thrillers, historical biopics and prestigious period productions as camouflage for their real screen-time loves such as dramas, comedies and classic favourites.New research commissioned by TV streaming platform U has lifted the lid on the nation’s “authentic self” when it comes to what we watch, how we watch, and who we watch with.The study found more than half (54%) of Brits openly admit to exaggerating, fabricating or downplaying their viewing habits to sound smarter (28%), cooler (28%) or more “in the know” (27%).While many claim to stick to intellectually-stimulating documentaries or prestige productions, their true choices range from new dramas to classic series and familiar favourites.The most popular type of TV Brits lie about watching includes documentaries (20%), crime thrillers (15%), and historical biopics (13%), whereas when left alone, their “authentic selves” opt for dramas (17%) and comedies (12%).  In fact, 78% of the nation think that there is a societal pressure to like TV programmes because they are popular.Furthermore, “Generation-bending TV” is on the up with viewers of all ages embracing stories both new and familiar. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of older viewers are exploring new and popular titles, while almost nine out of 10 (89%) of younger audiences are discovering the appeal of established classics.U reflects this broadening of tastes with a diverse mix of free programming for different generations, with enduring favourites such as Gavin and Stacey, Sons of Anarchy, Parks and Recreation, Call the Midwife; new acclaimed originals like Bangers & Cash and Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over; and drama content such as Bergerac, Whitstable Pearl, The Count of Monte Cristo and The Marlow Murder Club.Steve North, Chief Content Officer, UKTV commented: “TV has always been a reflection of who we are – and this research shows the joy in being authentic about what we watch. At U, we’re bursting with a wide range of shows to lose yourself in – from original and exclusive dramas to entertainment and real-life to lifestyle. We believe in celebrating the TV you truly love.”The national TV audit also revealed new habits around how we watch, including generational divides. Subtitles are now embraced by a whopping 87% of Gen Z, compared with just 29% of Boomers. Double-screening is common, with four in five (80%) of Gen Z and Millennials scrolling while they watch, whilst only 43% of Boomers do.Nearly nine in 10 (87%) of the nation enjoys watching nostalgic viewing when it comes to TV programming. With over one in three (37%) of those polled in the census saying they would prefer to watch established classics on TV, rather than anything new, whilst a further third are overwhelmed by the amount of choice on TV (38%).As households juggle preferences, 74% of homes now have multiple TVs or even designated “viewing zones”, with a quarter (26%) preferring to watch TV on their own than with their partner, family member or housemate.TV viewing is set to peak through autumn and winter, with 75% of Brits saying watching what they love is the highlight of their day.The research supports U’s new campaign: Lose Yourself in What You Love – a celebration of authentic viewing, with shows that let people be unapologetically themselves.
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Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:02:51 +0100
Handover of Hillingdon Early Years centres complete
HILLINGDON has completed the handover of its three early years centres to a charitable childcare social enterprise.The London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) has taken on the running of Nestles Avenue Early Years Centre in Hayes, South Ruislip  and Uxbridge centres from the council under 15-year leases.The keys to the three sites were officially handed over today (11) by Cllr Susan O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Families, and Cllr Jonathan Bianco, the  Deputy Leader, to Rob Allman, Area Operations Manager for LEYF, and Ann Coughlan, nursery manager.The new arrangement will generate regular income for the council, with LEYF having sole occupancy of the sites, allowing it to expand the number of places it offers.June O’Sullivan, CEO of LEYF, said: “Local authority nurseries are so often the beating heart of their communities. At LEYF, our social enterprise model helps them thrive – boosting occupancy, attracting talented educators and reinvesting every surplus back into nurseries.”Children's centre services previously available at these sites have been relocated to the Uxbridge and Hayes Family Hubs and other local children's centres.South Ruislip Children's Centre was relocated to the Wren, on the Queens Walk Resource Centre site, in January.   Image - Cllr Jonathan Bianco and Cllr Susan O'Brien with Rob Allman, Area Operations Manager for LEYF and Ann Coughlan, Nursery Manager.
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Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:30:30 +0100
Old Vinyl Factory Festival returns to Hayes
THE Old Vinyl Factory Festival is returning to Hayes on Saturday, September 27, following its debut earlier this year.  Held at Record Walk and Material Walk, the free outdoor event, from 11.30am to 5pm, will be a celebration of the borough’s rich musical heritage. In partnership with Hanwell Hootie and Intrepid Collective, the festival will feature live music performances, a vinyl record fair, curated by Groove Seekers, and a street food market  with support from T&T Markets.  There will also be free activities and creative workshops for children. The festival, part of Hillingdon Council’s strategy to enhance town centres, is a celebration of the musical history and culture of Hayes, paying tribute to the former home of EMI Records.  By bridging past and present, it aims to inspire a new generation of creators and music lovers while cementing the town as a cultural, creative and business destination. Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, said: "Our first festival was a roaring success, which more than 1,200 people attended.  “I’m delighted it’s back for round two, and we’ve listened to feedback to make it bigger and better.”  More details at discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/old-vinyl-factory-festival. 
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Last updated by System Admin on 27th August, 2018