IT may feel too early to talk about hay fever, but it is actually the perfect time.
To avoid getting floored by symptoms as soon as the pollen count ticks up, prepare now.
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Dr Zoe Williams helps Sun readers with their health concernsCredit: Olivia West
Around 49 per cent of people suffer symptoms, according to Allergy UK, and the majority of those are allergic to grass pollen.
The grass pollen season starts from mid-May, with a first peak in early June, the Met Office says.
Some people may have already had hay fever due to tree pollen, which is typically around from late March to mid-May.
It’s recommended to start taking antihistamines early, because they can take up to a month to reach full effectiveness.
There are two main types, and a pharmacist can help you choose the best for you: Drowsy, which may be suitable for night-time sufferers, and non-drowsy, better for daytime use.
Check for own-brand antihistamines too, as these are cheaper than branded versions but work out just the same.
Meanwhile, here’s some of what readers asked me this week . . .
I HAVE A WEE PROBLEM
Q: I AM a 48-year-old male and I am seeking advice regarding ongoing bladder issues.
Since my twenties, I have struggled with continence problems.
In my clubbing days, I would often find myself spending more time in the toilets than on the dancefloor, needing to urinate frequently after just a few drinks.
Although it was embarrassing back then, it has become more concerning as I’ve grown older.
Over the last few years, I have noticed that I am waking up two–four times a night to urinate.
On some occasions, I have even woken up to find I have wet myself, which is quite distressing.
I don’t drink a large amount of fluids overall – I rarely feel thirsty – although I do tend to drink cola during the day.
I also often feel very tired, which may be related to the frequent night-time awakenings.
I would like to increase my water intake to improve my overall health, but I am worried that it would make the frequent urination even worse.
Additionally, when attending events like the theatre, I have to be careful to use the toilet beforehand, as I often feel a sudden need to urinate once I stand up.
I am not currently taking any medications.
I would appreciate any advice, investigations or treatments that might help improve my symptoms.
A: Have you ever been to a doctor to have this investigated and treated?
Firstly it would be important to assess the reasons why you have this issue, including blood tests and likely an ultrasound scan to check the health of the kidneys and look for any obstructions in the urinary tract.
An overactive bladder, weak pelvic floor and an enlarged prostate gland are just some of the other potential causes of your symptoms.
Once some answers have been found, then it is likely that there would be some way of improving your symptoms.
In the meantime drinking cola could be exacerbating the problem for you, as both caffeinated and fizzy drinks can irritate the bladder, so switching out cola for water would be a great first step.
Starting to do pelvic floor exercises three times a day can improve bladder weakness in a matter of weeks.
Check out the Squeezy app for men, which can guide you with this.
I’M HAVING PROBLEMS RELATED TO GRAVES’ DISEASE
Q: I WAS diagnosed with Graves’ disease about 17 years ago. I’m female and I’ve had quite a few problems related to this.
I’ve had anaemia since I was a child. I’m now 65, and currently get vitamin B injections every three months.
Six years ago I had a right parathyroid removed, and recently I had a review and I’ve been told all’s well and the results of my blood test were fine.
But over the last two years I have put on a lot of weight. I’m just under 15st at 5ft 5.
I am experiencing brain fog too. I avoid people because I can’t stay focused. My thinking is all over the place.
I am thinking about weight-loss injections but I don’t know if they would be suitable for me with this condition.
I take 100mg of levothyroxine daily. I would appreciate any advice you can give me.
A: It sounds like you’ve been through a lot over the past couple of years. These symptoms can understandably feel overwhelming, particularly when they begin to affect your confidence and daily life.
Both brain fog and weight gain can be a symptom of insufficient thyroid hormone, and sometimes people can benefit from taking a slightly higher dose, even if blood tests do show normal levels.
So this may be something to explore with your GP or ask your GP to consult your endocrinologist for guidance. It is important to rule out other potential contributors to your symptoms, which may include your Graves’ disease, anaemia, or other autoimmune conditions, menopause or stress.
Weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro, have no known interactions with thyroid medications like levothyroxine.
However, hypothyroidism can affect your metabolism and make weight loss more challenging and the injections may alter absorption of the levothyroxine. So it would be important for your thyroid levels to be closely monitored and for your GP to be aware you’re taking the injections.
Even with these jabs, sustainable results are best achieved when combined with a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity. So please explore lifestyle changes to support both your physical and mental health even if you do consider the weight loss injection route.
PULSE TINGLING IS A REAL WORRY
Q: I AM a male currently experiencing weird symptoms which have been worrying me. I get pulse-like sensations running through my body, from my legs right up through my head.
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Dr Zoe helps a reader who is getting pulse-like sensations running through their bodyCredit: Getty
To visualise it, it would look like a sonic pulse through water. I’m baffled, as I feel a bit uneasy on my feet when it happens.
I’m currently prescribed Sertraline (100mg) for depression and anxiety.
I’m 52 and in decent physical shape, 12st 7lb and 5ft 10in. Thank you.
A: While your symptom does sound quite unusual I have heard this description before.
These strange sensations of surges, which sometimes people also describe as “like electricity”, can be a symptom of anxiety, certain neurological conditions or medication side effects – especially as a withdrawal symptom when SSRI antidepressants (such as Sertraline) are stopped or doses are missed.
Anxiety and chronic stress can also cause these types of symptoms.
Stress chemicals like adrenalin and cortisol can affect the nervous system and create unusual sensory experiences.
Most people find that these symptoms resolve when walking.
Hormonal changes can also affect the nervous system.
For any female readers with the same problem, I have heard patients describe these symptoms when going through the menopause transition.
If none of this rings true for you – and especially if the symptoms seem to be progressing – it is worth considering whether an underlying neurological condition could be the cause, and seeing your GP.
If you think that this may be the cause in your case it is worth exploring some techniques to calm the nervous system, such as box-breathing, meditation, gentle yoga or simply going for a walk.
Feeling unsteady on your feet may also indicate an inner ear problem or something affecting your balance system.
SHINGLES VACCINE ‘CAN LOWER THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE’
THE shingles vaccine lowers the risk of a heart attack or stroke for up to eight years, new research shows.
People given a jab to protect against the painful rash illness have a 23 per cent lower risk of potentially deadly cardiovascular events.
The findings, involving more than 1.2 million people, were published in the European Heart Journal.
The protective effect was particularly pronounced for men, people under the age of 60 and those with unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol and lack of exercise.
Study leader Professor Dong Keon Yon, of Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, South Korea, said: “Shingles causes a painful rash and can lead to serious complications, especially in older adults and those with weak immune systems.
“Previous research shows that, without vaccination, about 30 per cent of people may develop shingles in their lifetime. In addition to the rash, shingles has been linked to a higher risk of heart problems.”
The data from adults aged 50 or older living in South Korea showed that those who got the jab had a 26 per cent lower risk of “major” cardiovascular events – a stroke, heart attack or death from heart disease – a 26 per cent lower risk of heart failure and a 22 per cent lower risk of coronary heart disease.
The protective effect was strongest two to three years after the vaccine was given, but researchers found that protection lasted for up to eight years.
Professor Yon said: “There are several reasons why the shingles vaccine may help reduce heart disease.
“A shingles infection can cause blood vessel damage, inflammation and clot formation that can lead to heart disease. By preventing shingles, vaccination may lower these risks. However, as this study is based on an Asian cohort, the results may not apply to all populations.
“This is one of the largest and most comprehensive studies following a healthy general population over a period of up to 12 years.”
The vaccine was a live zoster vaccine, meaning it contained a weakened form of the varicella zoster virus that causes shingles.
The research team plans to study the non-live type of vaccine that is offered in many countries, including the UK.
The Shingrix vaccine is offered free on the NHS to everyone in their 70s, as well as some over-65s following an expansion in 2023. But uptake is low, with fewer than half of eligible people in the UK taking up the offer.
AN ICONIC pub in Britain’s “poshest town” has finally re-opened after locals slammed its sky high prices.
The historic Windmill Inn of Linton re-opened its doors vowing to offer punters good value drinks with pints costing as little as £4.80.
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‘Britain’s poshest pub’ finally re-opened this week after being shunned by locals put off by sky high bar pricesCredit: SWNS
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Michelle Landers, 49, and Rob Lamb, 55, landlords of Windmill Inn who run its day to day businessCredit: SWNS
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The Windmill Inn of Linton, near Leeds, opened its doors vowing to offer locals good value drinks with pints costing as little as £4.80Credit: SWNS
The watering hole, which dates back to 1564, suddenly closed it doors in late January when the previous landlady left.
Some locals blasted the high prices for snubbing the hostelry which is in an area renowned for having many wealthy residents and with house prices in one street averaging £1.7million.
Now new leaseholders Sharon, 58, and Simon Colgan, 59, have reopened its doors and the residents are “over the moon”.
Sharon said: “Just because you are in a posh area doesn’t mean you should have to pay the expensive marked up prices.
“For those who want to pay extra they can – but it isn’t necessary if they don’t want to.
“We want to return the pub to it’s former days being somewhere the local residents can enjoy and call their own.”
She added that locals had been “so supportive” and that she was “thrilled to be able to give something back to them”.
The shock closure of the beloved pub came on January 24 after it hit financial difficulty.
But three months on, veteran pub landlords Sharon, 58, and Simon Colgan, 59, have signed an agreement to take on the joint.
Locals Heartbroken as Auchenmalg’s Only Pub, The Cock Inn, Closes Down
They were approached by its owners Bars and Stars – who are owned by Heineken – to see if they would like to take on the historic venue.
The duo who run 12 pubs in partnership all across the UK agreed, singing the documents on April 22.
Since then they have pumped £80,000 into refurbishments which include new carpets, a full re-paint, French polished tables and chairs, and updated outdoor benches.
The duo have also invested in new glass washers and a coffee machine.
They have even hired a new head chef and upgraded parts of the kitchen – purchasing new equipment like a cooker, new utensils, and microwaves.
Sharon said the boozer is “worth every penny”.
She said: “The pubs we are used to are what you would call old man pubs with proper ale and proper pub grub to fill customers’ belly.
“This is a new adventure for us – a little above our pay grade – but we are very excited to see where it takes us.”
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The pub is located in the exclusive village of LintonCredit: SWNS
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It has seen a stunning £80,000 refurbishmentCredit: SWNS
The Windmill Inn sits in Linton which is Yorkshire‘s most exclusive village.
One of it Streets – Linton Lane – was found to have an average house price an eye-watering £1,791,000.
Sharon appointed Michelle Landers, 49, and Rob Lamb, 55, as landlords to run its day to day business.
The couple have worked with Sharan and Simon before running one of their earliest projects, The World’s End in Knaresborough, North Yorks, five years ago.
Michelle said: “The community feel of this pub is second to none.”
“Whilst we have been cleaning and preparing for it’s reopening residents have been popping by telling us how thankful they are it is returning.
“We are really pleased with how it has come out so far – we are chuffed about the whole project.”
Sharon and Simon will pay £4,250 a month – £51,000 a year – to keep the doors open.
She said: “It’s not cheap but we know it will be worth it.
“We weren’t planning on taking on another location, but it is such a historic place in such a stunning location, we found it hard to say no.”
The duo are keen on keeping prices low but offering upgrades for those who are willing to pay.
Pints will cost range from £4.80 to £5 with the average meal setting customers back around £18.
The pub also sells sharing platters including steak and shrimp priced at £65.
The most expensive spirit is a single malt whisky which cost £7 for a single.
Sharon says the couple will pump all profits back into the pub to keep it going for a “couple hundred more years”.
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Pints will cost range from £4.80 to £5 with the average meal setting customers back around £18Credit: SWNS
Among the guests were Second World Warveterans Ruth Brook Klauber and Colin Deverell, both aged 101.
Bunting was hanging over the tables and draped over the ground floor windows of No 10.
Over in Preston, Lancs, six women stole the limelight as Land Army Girls — as they paraded proudly down a party street.
And in nearby Blackburn, around 10,000 turned up for a party in the park.
Karen Turner, 51, who was there with her family, said: “Eighty years is a big milestone and it’s important we celebrate it. There are not many veterans still with us.”
VE Day was a ‘jolly’ moment but work went on, 100-year-old former Wren says
Thirty miles west, in Lytham, a VE street party was in full flow.
And in Stockton-on-Tees, Co Durham, families gathered at a party at Preston Park Museum.
A late Victorian Street with period shops and cobbles was repurposed into a 1940s theme with wartime music played across the Union Jack festooned tables.
Sheila McIntyre, 73, dressed as a Land Girl, said: “It’s nice to see something happening that has a real community feel to it.”
Meanwhile, London’s East End — flattened by the Nazis during the Blitz — also rejoiced.
Wapping, home to the docklands and shipyards, was bombed for 57 consecutive nights during the war.
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Luka, seven, and Connor, six, join the party in military outfits in East LondonCredit: Peter Jordan
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Performers Polly and Cathy entertain crowds as Vera and Lynn at Cardiff CastleCredit: WNS
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A patriotic woman waves her Union Jack hat with pride at a street party in LythamCredit: Getty
But yesterday, with a hat tip to history, hundreds gathered on the village green.
Tom Simpson, 40, who took his son Luka, seven, said: “It’s important to celebrate it this year — perhaps more now than ever. We don’t want history to repeat itself.”
Carer Katie Mountain, 40, with son Connor, said: “We look after our own in Wapping and we’re doing that today.”
In South Wales, Cardiff Castle welcomed hundreds of families to a mass picnic on its giant lawn.
Performers Polly Kilpatrick and Cathy Peace entertained the crowds as Vera and Lynn.
In the North Yorks village of Kildwick, locals enjoyed a ration supper before listening to voice recordings of elderly residents who lived through VE Day as kids.
And in Hull, thousands flocked to East Park in the sunshine.
Singers in period costume belted out wartime classics.
THE opening round of the British Superbikes Championship has been abandoned after a horror 11-bike crash.
One bike caught fire after the pileup at the start of the Supersport Feature support race this afternoon.
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Medics rushed to the scene
A statement from the British Superbike Championship read: “At the start of the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park, exiting turn one there was a major chain reaction incident involving 11 riders.
“The race was immediately stopped and medical services attended.
“Due to the extent of the incident and following medical interventions it will not be possible to continue the event and therefore the event is cancelled.
“MSVR will issue a further statement in due course.”
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..
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In his first meeting with his players since being appointed Gareth Southgate’s successor, Tuchel told his players they only have a minimal period working together before next summer’s World Cup.
Tuchel and the FA’s decision over releasing players could impact as many as 12 players.
Chelsea contingent Cole Palmer, Reece James, Levi Colwill and Noni Madueke could be selected by Tuchel.
Players from Manchester City, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid – who are all involved in the inaugural Club World Cup – could all be selected in Tuchel’s squad for the international double-header.
Captain Harry Kane is at Bayern Munich while Jude Bellingham plays for Real Madrid and fellow midfielder Conor Gallagher for Atletico Madrid.
Should all players remain with the England squad, Chelsea could be the worst hit.
Teams competing at the Club World Cup are required to arrive in the USA no later than three days before their opening tie.
With that in mind, Enzo Maresca’s side face a potential Europa Conference League final in Poland on 28 May – three days after the final day of the Premier League season – before joining up for international duty.
Their first game of the Club World Cup is against Leon on 16 June – six days after the clash versus Senegal.
Manchester City’s first game of the tournament is on 18 June versus Wydad AC.
Bayern play Auckland City and Atletico face Paris St-Germain on on 15 June while Real are up against Al Hilal on 18 June.
Speaking in March, Tuchel hinted towards his reluctance to do favours for club managers saying: “I take care of the players. We take care about the schedule. But it would be the wrong signal to tell players now ‘hey, you have tough [club] matches coming up so I rest you now’.
“We do what’s good for us. We monitor them, we are in contact with the clubs, we are in high-level monitoring where the statuses are known and we won’t take any unprofessional risks. Because first of all I feel responsible for the players. I don’t want the player to be injured.
“So this is where it is and in the end we take care of ourselves and the clubs take care of themselves, and the main focus is taking care of the players.
“I experienced it many, many times in clubs that players from South American countries don’t even think about dropping one minute because they want to play for their country, they’re proud to play for their country. This is also something that we have to understand and accept.
“I always accepted it as a club manager. I never got involved in line-ups. I never pushed any national coach because I was hoping that my players get picked. I was also hoping that they are proud to play.”
CLAIMING the title of the best online casino in the UK is not an easy task, especially when there are so many high-quality gambling sites doing great things.
That being said, there are plenty of UK casinos that excel in certain areas. We closely examine each one of them and check if they can stand up to our rigorous testing for responsible gambling practices, customer service, offers, banking, and of course, games.
So, with this in mind, let’s take a look at the top casinos, what they do well, and, importantly, how you can get maximum value from your time online.
Best online casino sites in the UK
A closer look at the top casino sites for UK players
What are the best online casinos for UK players? That’s a tricky question to answer because some people place more emphasis on games than promotions, while other people put payment methods top of their list.
As an industry veteran, I know that everyone is different. That’s why I put my own preferences to one side when I’m reviewing UK casino sites. I have a checklist of features that I work through to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
That’s the science. The art of reviewing online casinos is my experience. There isn’t anything I’ve not seen or tried, which is why I’m able to provide honest takes on old and new UK casinos.
If it’s cutting-edge, I’ll point it out. If it’s an industry standard, I’ll tell you. If it’s below expectations, I won’t shy away from highlighting it. In short, the following casinos have gone through rigorous tests, which is why I can confidently call them the top casino sites for UK players right now.
Betway has been one of the biggest brands in gambling for over a decade, but that’s not why it’s on my list. The welcome bonus caught my attention because of the wager-free element. This penchant for promotions without wagering requirements extends to existing customers, so that’s a great reason to register.
The best reason I can give you, however, is Betway’s roulette lobby. Tap the sign-up link on this page, and you’ll have access to what I think is an unbeatable selection of roulette games. As expected, the classics are well covered. Alongside European, French, and American roulette is a selection of low-stakes tables, including 20p Roulette and 10p Mini Roulette.
For those with bigger bankrolls, Live Prestige lets you wager upwards of £500 per spin. For a final flourish, Betway has dozens of novel variants and themed tables. I love Vinnie Jones Roulette because I’m a football fan, but don’t sleep on innovative offerings such as Roulette 9 Masks of Fire and Volcano Roulette.
I’ve called Mr Vegas the top online gambling site for slots, but I could have simply said games. All of my top picks cover the basics and more, but none come close to the 8,000+ slots and table games available at Mr Vegas.
For context, that’s approximately 8x more than the best online gambling platforms, including my current number #1, Virgin Games. Quality doesn’t always follow quantity, but in this case, it does. Mr Vegas works with an impressive list of software providers, including Yggdrasil, NetEnt, and Pragmatic Play.
This means you get access to £4 million+ progressive jackpots, feature-rich video slots such as Tanked, and almighty Megaways slots. If I’m talking about slot games, I can’t ignore Encore and Rainbow Fridays. The former allows you to socialise and compete with other slot players, while the latter gives you guaranteed wins based on the spins you’ve made during the week.
People are often split when it comes to Duelz. Some people love the lively platform, while others see the animations as an unnecessary annoyance. I like the animated background but the sound effects (which can’t be muted) do become annoying after a while.
The virtual aspects of Duelz Casino might split the gaming community, but the live elements won’t. For me, Duelz has an impressive collection of live casino games. Blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat come in traditional and modern variants.
From this solid foundation, Duelz has built up a unique live games lobby. All of the latest live game shows are on display, including my favourite, Gonzo’s Treasure Map. Best of all are live casino games from OnAir Entertainment. Very few UK casino operators have partnered with this emerging software provider, which means Duelz has a unique selection of live games, including two exclusive branded roulette tables.
Why is Virgin Games among my top picks? There are two reasons: simplicity and entertainment. In my opinion, Virgin Games is the best online casino for newbies and novices because there aren’t any unnecessary or confusing features.
Don’t get me wrong, I like innovative features. However, I’ve seen a lot of online casino developers who want to be different. For me, the mark of a world-class casino isn’t in its aesthetics and design, it’s the products it offers.
That’s why I like Virgin Games. The software is reliable and safe. The interface is easy to navigate, and the platform isn’t overloaded with useless page elements. Removing distractions means you get instant access to over 900 games on any device.
That’s important in this context for two reasons:
1. Virgin Games not only offers slots, blackjack, roulette, and table games but a host of other options, including bingo and poker.
2. Unencumbered access to the varied games lobby makes it easier for you to enjoy the action and earn bonuses, many of which don’t have any wagering requirements!
In my view, all of these qualities make Virgin Games the best casino online for anyone who wants a pure gaming experience with plenty of added value.
My next recommendation for discerning UK casino players like you is Hot Streak Slots. This platform could easily be my top pick for slots because it has more spinners than most gambling sites. However, that’s too obvious.
The reason I rate this casino so highly is its payment methods. I love the fact that you can make instant deposits and withdrawals using PayPal. I’ve been using this eWallet for the best part of a decade because, quite simply, it’s efficient and safe.
I’m saying you can’t make fast payments with Hot Streak’s other options, including Visa, MasterCard, and MuchBetter. However, if you want to keep your money online, PayPal is the ideal solution. This, combined with the fact that withdrawals are completed within 24 hours, are the reasons why it’s my preferred payment method.
No wagering bonuses are the holy grail of online gambling. They’re sought after because you get bonus credits or free spins without any ongoing financial commitment. This means you don’t need to bet any money to convert your bonus to withdrawable cash.
MrQ has more no-wagering bonus offers than basically every other UK casino site out there. The promo code POTS200 gets you a generous welcome bonus worth 200 spins. After that, you’ll be able to claim reload bonuses, free spins, and referral rewards on a daily basis.
I could carry on giving you my take on why MrQ is the best online casino for bonuses, but I don’t need to. The stats speak for themselves. In addition to awarding players more than 6.8 million free spins in 2024, MrQ gave away £3.1 million in free bonus cash.
Dream Vegas kicks things off with a £300 deposit match backed by 150 bonus spins. The spins part of the welcome offer excites me more than the deposit bonus, but it’s a solid package, nonetheless.
For me, the real reason Dream Vegas is one of the top UK online casinos right now is its daily deals. A lot of popular UK casino sites give you one way to get something extra on a daily basis, but very few go beyond that.
Dreams Vegas not only goes beyond the norm but, in my opinion, sets the standard. Loyalty rewards are flanked by daily perks. These mystery bonus packages are sent out via email each day and contain everything from spins and bonus bets to exclusive prizes.
You can also spin the Dream Vegas Bonus Wheel once per day. Sometimes, you’ll spin and miss, but other times, you’ll win prizes that range from small cash payments to branded underwear. Yes, it might be a novelty, but it makes things more exciting.
The final thing I’ll draw your attention to is the software. The grab-to-swipe menu has plenty of useful filters that allow you to find games based on their title, features, and developer. I’d also urge you to use the “Play a Random Game” button. Aside from forcing you to try new games, it adds another layer of excitement to the mix.
2. WinBooster promo that offers guaranteed weekly wins
3. Wheel of Riches in-house slot jackpots
Baccarat is a forgotten casino game online. Despite being the preferred choice for high rollers in places such as Las Vegas, the majority of UK online casino sites don’t cover it particularly well. Enter Mega Riches.
Bringing baccarat back into the limelight like a boss, Mega Riches has more than 50 tables to choose from. The usual lineup of traditional and Dragon Tiger variants are well-represented, as are speed games. What’s impressive about Mega Riches’ baccarat lobby is the addition of “super speed” and no commission speed tables.
Rounding out the biggest baccarat lobby I’ve seen are themed games, mini tables, and bonus-payout variants. Basically, if you love baccarat, Mega Riches is the best online casino in the UK right now.
Luckster is great for slot players because all newbies get 100 spins alongside their first deposit bonus. I’d prefer the spins to be credited instantly, but there’s value in releasing them in five increments, namely that it puts a limit on the amount you can play.
I’m a huge advocate of responsible gaming, and this certainly helps in this regard. Something else I noted during my time using Luckster Casino is that it’s a member of GamStop. I’ve never used this service, but it’s great for people who need to cool off and limit their access to online gambling sites. Moreover, it’s another example of Luckster’s commitment to customer care.
Getting back to slots, Luckster is linked to Pragmatic Play’s Jackpot Drop network. This means you can play for a share of £2 million in random rewards every month. I’m also a fan of Luckster’s Game of the Week promotion because it gives you a way to unlock mystery bonuses by playing the latest hot slots.
It’s ironic that Vegas Mobile Casino doesn’t have an app, but that doesn’t mean it’s not capable of delivering world-class gaming on the go. I’m not a huge fan of the website’s aesthetic, but that’s a matter of personal preference. When it comes to the nuts and bolts, Vegas Mobile Casino is perfectly constructed.
Naturally, it’s optimised for use on all devices, which means you can switch effortlessly from your desktop to your mobile without installing any apps. The benefit of being able to play on any device means you’ve got instant access to over 2,500 casino games.
That’s more than most of the top mobile UK casinos. This desire to give players more is also evident in the welcome bonus. A £1,000 deposit match is massive in today’s gaming climate. The only downside is the 50x playthrough, which is slightly above the industry average of 40x.
Rounding out this impressive package is a selection of mobile-specific payment options, including Apple Pay, Payz, and Pay by Phone Bill. This, above all else, is why Vegas Mobile Casino is an ideal choice for iOS and Android users.
How we picked the best casino sites in the UK
I don’t pick online casinos at random. None of the experts here at The Sun do that. We only recommend UK casino sites we’ve tested and believe in and that rank high according to our “The Sun Factor.”
To prove my point, let’s walk you through the steps I take when reviewing UK casinos. I won’t call my process a magic formula. However, if a casino impresses in the following areas, I’ll back them to be a hit with you guys.
Casino licensing and security
If an online casino isn’t licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, it’s not legal in the UK. If that’s the case, I won’t endorse it. Not only that, but unlicensed online casinos are potentially dangerous.
So, to ensure you’re in line with UK gambling laws and not at risk in any way, I only review and recommend licensed casino sites. For me, UK online gambling licences are shortcuts. It tells me about the following things without having to check:
The casino’s games are fair because they’ve been tested by an independent company such as iTech Labs.
The casino uses the latest encryption technology to comply with data protection laws.
The casino offers safe and reputable payment processors, such as Visa and PayPal, to comply with UK financial laws.
Put simply, if an operator wants to be licensed by the Gambling Commission and offer its services to UK players, it has to comply with strict regulations. These regulations not only govern how gambling is conducted in the UK but mesh with other laws, such as data protection and financial security laws.
Adherence to responsible gaming standards
Online gambling operators need to care about your welfare as much as we do. Being licensed is the first and most important step in this process. Another way operators show me they care (and comply with UK gambling regulations) is by offering responsible gambling tools.
Every casino site has its own tools, but the minimum standards I expect are:
Deposit and betting controls that allow you to limit how much you risk.
Session limiters and reality checks so you can control how long you’re active.
Timeouts and self-exclusion options so you can take breaks whenever you need them.
Contact details for problem gambling organisations, such as GamCare.
In addition to the above, I like operators to provide responsible gambling advice and tips via an onsite FAQ. For top marks, I love to see constant reminders sent to players via email and social media.
GAMSTOP NEWS
GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme for online gambling, has reported record registration numbers to kick off the new year.
The service experienced its highest daily sign-up figures since launching in 2018, with 415 registrations on 1 January, 413 on 2 January, and 396 on 6 January.
Licensed online casinos offer safe payment methods, so that’s the first thing to keep in mind. After that, you should select a payment method based on your preferences with regard to accessibility and processing times.
The main online casino deposit and withdrawal methods to look out for are:
Payment Method
Deposits
Withdrawals
Average Withdrawal Time
Best Feature
Debit Card (Visa and MasterCard)
Yes
Yes
3-5 Days
Used daily by the majority of people for offline and online transactions.
eWallets (PayPal, Neteller, Skrill)
Yes
Yes
1-3 Days
Designed for online transactions, so withdrawals are processed quickly.
Mobile Payments (Apple Pay and Google Pay)
Yes
Yes (not available at some online gambling sites)
1-2 Days
An efficient way to make mobile casino payments without switching to a desktop device or between apps.
Pay by Phone
Yes
No
N/A
Charge deposits to your phone bill so you don’t have to provide any bank details.
Prepaid Cards (PaysafeCard)
Yes
No
N/A
Purchase vouchers online or with cash at affiliated shops.
Best casino games
Quantity is great, but I’m looking for quality when I review online casinos. For me, quality is based on two things:
Variety
Game features
A varied selection of online casino games consists of something more than slots and classics such as blackjack and roulette. A casino needs the latest innovations, including live dealer games, scratchcards, crash games, and live slots, to get top marks from me.
The main types of casino games to look out for are:
Slots
Poker
Blackjack
Baccarat
Roulette
Crash games
Craps
Scratchcards
Live dealer table games
Live dealer game shows
Live slots
Bingo
Lotteries
Virtual sports betting
In terms of the games themselves, offering products from leading software providers is important to ensure you can enjoy exciting features. That’s why you want games from brands such as NetEnt, Evolution, Big Time Gaming and Pragmatic Play.
Casino welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions
Generous promotions are great from a marketing perspective because who doesn’t want a pocketful of free cash? However, the best casino bonuses are more than flashy offers.
The right bonuses can help offset negative variance. If you don’t know what that is, let’s just call it bad luck, which is something we all experience playing online casino games. Bonuses counteract bad luck because they offer guaranteed returns.
Basically, if you meet the wagering requirements (very important), you’ll be rewarded with bonuses. These requirements must be fair. This means the minimum deposit should be achievable for all players (e.g., £10), and you shouldn’t have to wager an excessive amount of money to convert bonus credits to cash (aka the playthrough target).
The best UK casino bonus offers with fair wagering requirements are:
Matched deposits – these offers give you bonus credit equal to the amount you deposit, e.g. if you deposit £50, you’ll receive a £50 bonus.
No deposit bonuses – the opposite of a deposit bonus is a no deposit bonus. Rewards are released when you perform an action that isn’t a deposit, such as completing the registration process.
Reload bonuses – first deposit bonuses are also known as welcome bonuses because they’re for new customers. Reload bonuses are for existing customers because you’re reloading your account.
Bonus free spins – you can play some of the top online slots, such as Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest, without spending a penny by using bonus spins.
Cashback – losses won’t sting as much with cashback bonuses because you receive rebates when luck isn’t on your side.
Mobile experience
Today, the best mobile casinos are fully-stocked native apps for iOS and Android devices.
What’s neat about the top mobile casino apps is the fact that they contain features their desktop counterparts don’t have. For example, if you download the MrQ Casino iOS app, you’ll be able to swap your alphanumeric password for Face ID logins.
In addition to enhanced security, mobile casino apps can link directly to banking apps. This facilitates seamless transactions.
What if my favourite online casino operator doesn’t offer a mobile app? Don’t worry; mobile casino sites are just as slick as their app-based counterparts. What’s more, you can create a shortcut to the mobile site on your mobile’s home screen, which makes it as accessible as an app.
Customer support
The final quality I assess during my online casino reviews is customer service. For me, a top online casino needs to offer 24/7 support via an FAQ, email and live chat. If there’s a customer support phone number as well, that’s great.
A lot of UK online casino reviews simply list the available support methods. I don’t do that. I talk to customer service agents. I record response times and score agents based on how efficient, helpful, and polite they are. The top online casino operators have customer support agents who provide swift responses in a friendly manner.
Award-winning UK casino sites
I’m not the only person who rates online casino sites. Like any other thriving industry, gambling has its own awards ceremonies. In fact, there are a variety of respected organisations dedicated to naming the top online gambling operators.
By way of patting ourselves on the back for spotting quality, we’re proud to say that almost all of our partner casinos have won awards. I don’t have time to list them all, but here are a few of the accolades our recommended casinos have won in recent years:
Online Casino of the Year 2024 – LeoVegas (Global Gaming awards)
Digital Operator of the Year 2023 – BetMGM (Global Gaming Awards)
Rising Star of the Year 2024 – Mr Vegas (International Gaming Awards)
Best Customer Service Company of the year 2023 – Casumo (International Gaming Awards)
Mobile Operator of the Year 2023 – LeoVegas (International Gaming Awards)
Online Casino Operator of the Year 2023 – VideoSlots (International Gaming Awards)
Casino Operator of the Year 2024 (Bronze) – LeoVegas (EGR Operator Awards)
Poker Operator of the Year 2023 – PokerStars (EGR Operator Awards)
Online casino operators can’t do everything on their own. Even though companies such as PartyCasino make their own games, they don’t have the resources to launch new products on a weekly basis. That’s why they partner with independent software providers.
The best online casino software providers, as voted for by industry experts, work with our partner platforms, including Duelz, MrQ, and Virgin Games. Some of the notable winners are:
Online Casino Supplier of the Year 2024 – Pragmatic Play (Global Gaming Awards)
Online Slot of the Year 2024 – Money Train 4 by Relax Gaming (Global Gaming Awards)
Best Provider of the Year 2023 – Pragmatic Play (AskGamblers Awards)
Live Casino of the Year 2024 – Pragmatic Play (International Gaming Awards)
Innovator of the Year 2023 – Yggdrasil (International Gaming Awards)
FAQ about casino sites in the UK
That’s just about all I’ve got to say about the top online casinos, what they offer, and how you can find the right ones for your needs. However, before I go, I need to tie up a few loose ends. So, with that being said, here are the most frequently asked questions about online gambling in the UK and the correct answers.
1. Are casino sites legal in the UK?
Online casino gambling is legal in the UK as long as the platform in question is licensed by the Gambling Commission. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is the official governing body of all gambling matters. From horse racing and poker to sports betting and casino games, the UKGC ensures the regulations, as defined by UK gambling law, are upheld by its licences. Therefore, as long as you use a UKGC-licensed online casino, such as Virgin Games, you can be confident it’s legal and safe.
2. Can I use my credit card to play at an online casino?
No, online gambling operators haven’t been able to accept credit card deposits since 2020. The ban on credit card transactions was part of the government’s safer gambling reforms. Banning credit card deposits is designed to reduce the risk of people gambling with borrowed money. Debit card payments are still accepted at the best online casino sites, as are eWallets transactions from processors such as PayPal and Skrill.
3. What wagering requirements to expect at the best online casinos?
The top casino bonuses have a wagering requirement (aka playthrough target) of 35x or lower. You’d need to bet £350 to clear a £10 bonus with a 35x wagering requirement. Clearing a bonus means you’ve converted it from site credit to cash that can be withdrawn. Any online casino bonus with a playthrough of 35x or lower is almost always claiming if you can do it responsibly.
4. What online casino has the fastest payouts?
Duelz and Hot Streak Slots are two of the fastest payout online casinos in the UK. These popular online casinos typically process withdrawals within 1-2 days. The average payout time for UK online gambling sites is 3-5 days. Therefore, if you want your winnings in less time, it’s worth checking out Duelz and Hot Streak.
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About the author
James Anderson
James Anderson is a Betting & Gaming Writer at The Sun. He is an expert in sports betting and online casinos, and joined the company in November 2020 to work closely with leading bookmakers and online gaming companies to curate content in all areas of sports betting. He previously worked as a Digital Sports Reporter and Head of Live Blogs/Events at the Daily Express and Daily Star, covering football, cricket, snooker, F1 and horse racing.
For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.
MILLIONS of pensioners can ease pressure on budgets with free cash, and discounts stacking up to thousands of pounds worth of value.
Britons reaching state pension age can unlock a range of freebies through various schemes from companies and the government.
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Pensioners can get a whole range of freebies to ease cost pressuresCredit: Getty
Making the most of perks can help ease cost pressures as well as enhancing the quality of life without spending more.
The range from public transport helping you to get out and about, to council tax discounts which keeps more cash in your budget each month.
Here’s guide to the freebies and discounts available for pensioners this May.
Discounted days out and cinema tickets – £24
If you’re over 60, you can get discounted days out and cinema tickets.
Empire has special Senior screenings for over-60s every Wednesday morning and tickets cost £4.50.
Odeon also holds weekly Silver Cinema screenings for over-60s with ticket prices starting at £3.50.
Both cinemas also provide free refreshments too.
Plus, Vue cinemas senior screenings are discounted for over 60s and include a cup of tea and a biscuit.
Showcase offers senior admission every Monday to any standard film starting before 12pm and it costs £5.
You can find your nearest branches using the locator tool on the website.
Existing National Trust members aged 60 who have been a member for the last three years or more can get 25% off the price.
This means that you’ll pay £72 for individual senior annual membership instead of £96 for an adult membership, saving £24.
Discounted travel – £1,084
In England you can get an older persons bus pass for free travel when you reach state pension age, for both men and women.
In Wales and Scotland you can get a free bus pass when you reach 60.
Anyone over the age of 60 who lives in London can claim an Older Person’s Freedom Pass.
This allows you to travel free on TfL services anytime Monday to Friday, except between 04:30-09:00. You can travel free anytime at weekends and on bank holiday
There are further other schemes that run across the country, check with your local council to see what financial support is available.
The value depends on how much a bus pass is in your local area. In London an annual bus and tram pass is £988.
If you often travel on trains, the Senior Railcard offers a third off train fares.
It costs £30 but the average cardholder saves £96 annually, add that to the cost of bus travel and you see savings of more than £1,000.
Free passport – £94.50
British nationals born on or before 2 September 1929 can skip the charges of a passport and get one for free.
This saves a pensioner up to £94.50.
However, if you need to use the fast track service you’ll still need to pay.
If you need regular prescriptions and buy an annual prepayment certificate, you can save up to £114.50 annually.
Free Eye Tests – £25
All over-60s qualify for free NHS eye tests, which typically cost between £20 and £25.
You should schedule a check-up once a year, as well as testing your eyesight, it also checks overall eye health.
National insurance exemption – £1,851.20
Many choose to keep working past state pension age, but as you have reached entitlement to the state pension you no longer need to pay National Insurance.
The amount you save depends on how much you earn.
But to give you an idea, someone earning £20,000 a year currently pays £594 in primary Class 1 NICs, while an employee earning £40,000 this year will pay £2,194, according to data from Tax.org.uk.
And the average weekly wage in the UK according to the ONS is £687 for total earnings which would mean a typical £1,851.20 in National Insurance, which you save after State Pension Age.
Pension Credit – £3,900
When you reach state pension the benefits you are entitled to change.
It’s important to claim what you can as these are often the gateway for getting further discounts and freebies.
This is particularly the case with Pension Credit, which hundreds of thousands of eligible pensioners are failing to claim.
It tops up the income of pensioners on lower earnings.
It will take weekly income up to to £218.15 if you’re single or joint income to £332.95.
The exact value will depend on your income but DWP says the average reward is worth more than £3,900 a year.
It’s not difficult to apply for Pension Credit, you can do it up to four months before you reach state pension age through the government website or by calling 0800 99 1234.
Once you get pension credit you qualify for a while host of extra freebies, which we lay out below.
Free TV licence – £174.50
If you’re 75 or over and you receive Pension Credit you can claim a free TV licence, saving you £174.50 a year.
Free NHS dental treatment – save £26.80
If you or your partner claim Pension Credit, you’re entitled to free NHS dental care.
Depending on the treatment, this could save you anywhere from £26.80 for a routine check-up to £319.10 for dental work such as crowns or dentures.
Tell your dentist about your eligibility before receiving treatment.
Discounted broadband – save £142.92
Many broadband providers offer discounted social tariffs for those on low income.
Often you may need to be on certain benefits such as Pension Credit to qualify.
These plans often cost as little as £14.99 per month, compared to the average broadband cost of £26.90 per month, and they usually include line rental too.
Over the year, this could save you £142.92.
Discounted water bills
If you’re on a low income, ask your water provider about social tariffs, which can knock hundreds of pounds of your bill.
Discounts vary depending on the provider, and some offer a flat rate, while others will give a percentage discount.
Contact your supplier to find out what’s available.
Are you missing out on benefits?
YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to
Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.
MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.
You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.
Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.
THE UK has its own ‘Grand Canyon’ that contains hidden cave houses that are carved into the rock, dating back hundreds of years.
With summer approaching, the warm weather means that you might want to look into potential staycations or fun days out.
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Kinver Edge is characterized by its red sandstone, which gives a striking resemblance to Arizona’s Grand CanyonCredit: TikTok/@bellaprsn
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The Staffordshire location in the West Midlands includes houses that have been constructed into the rockCredit: Paul Tonge
Whereas there is one area in Staffordshire that has both amazing views and is a wildlife paradise.
It also has centuries-old homes that have been carved into the rock, but the location has until now been relatively unknown until now.
Kinver Edge in Staffordshire boasts picturesque views and is characterised by its signature soft red sandstone.
As such, the new UK hotspot shares a striking similarity to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA.
READ MORE ON PLACES TO GO
However, the unique feature of the area is the network of cavernous homes that were built into the three huge rocks.
Nanny’s Rock, Vale’s Rock, and Holy Austin are the mounts that have the intriguing feature which is fast becoming a go-to place for tourists.
According to The National Trust, the earliest record of inhabitants in these unusual dwellings dates back to 1777.
They were some of the last cave homes in England and families lived in them right up until the 1960s.
It’s located just over an hour’s drive from Birmingham’s City Centre, although Birmingham Live reports it’s roughly 45 minutes out from the city.
A resident named Bella, who lives in the city recently gushed about the location to the outlet.
She exclaimed: “The West Midlands surprisingly has more hidden gems than you think. This is Nanny’s Rock in Kinver.”
“We did a circular route following the purple arrows and taking about two hours. This took us past Nanny’s Rock and also the National Trust rock houses.
“The area that we’re exploring here is totally free, but the rock houses do cost, I think £7.50 and there’s a little café too.”
She also described the 6.4km moderate walking trail as ‘amazing’, although the one caveat is that dogs must be kept on leads.
Bella said: “The parking is great because it’s free here on Compton Road or on Kingsford Lane.”
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The only caveat is that dogs need to be kept on a leashCredit: TikTok/@bellaprsn
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Residents lived in the strange homes right up until the 1960sCredit: Paul Tonge
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Now they serve as a fascinating tourist attractionCredit: Paul Tonge
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The National Trust suggested that the earliest records of the houses date back to the 18th centuryCredit: Paul Tonge
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People have lived in the cave-like dwellings from 1777Credit: Paul Tonge
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It also boasts breathtaking viewers which are perfect for walkersCredit: Tripadvisor
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how you can save hundreds of pounds a year:
Odd boxes – plenty of retailers offer slightly misshapen fruit and veg or surplus food at a discounted price.
Lidl sells five kilos of fruit and veg for just £1.50 through its Waste Not scheme while Aldi shoppers can get Too Good to Go bags which contain £10 worth of all kinds of products for £3.30.
Sainsbury’s also sells £2 “Taste Me, Don’t Waste Me” fruit and veg boxes to help shoppers reduced food waste and save cash.
Food waste apps – food waste apps work by helping shops, cafes, restaurants and other businesses shift stock that is due to go out of date and passing it on to members of the public.
Some of the most notable ones include Too Good to Go and Olio.
Too Good to Go’s app is free to sign up to and is used by millions of people across the UK, letting users buy food at a discount.
Olio works similarly, except users can collect both food and other household items for free from neighbours and businesses.
Yellow sticker bargains – yellow sticker bargains, sometimes orange and red in certain supermarkets, are a great way of getting food on the cheap.
Super cheap bargains – sign up to bargain hunter Facebook groups like Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK where shoppers regularly post hauls they’ve found on the cheap, including food finds.
“Downshift” – you will almost always save money going for a supermarket’s own-brand economy lines rather than premium brands.
The move to lower-tier ranges, also known as “downshifting” and hailed by consumer expert Martin Lewis, could save you hundreds of pounds a year on your food shop.
The retailer’s IT systems have been down for nearly two weeks, which has affected product availability.
Morrisons
Morrisons will be keeping most of its 500 stores open as usual on Monday but the hours will vary by location.
Some stores will be open between 8am and 5pm, while others will be operating between 7am and 8pm.
Meanwhile, some locations will not open their doors at all, so it is important that you check before you head out.
Check your local store’s opening hours for exact times as they vary across the country.
You can find your local store’s trading hours by visiting my.morrisons.com/storefinder.
St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly may be just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of England, but it offers an idyllic escape that feels worlds away from mainland Britain
St. Martins Beach, Isles of Scilly.(Image: Getty Images)
Just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of Cornwall lies an island that feels worlds away from mainland Britain. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches that rival the Caribbean, St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly offers a surprising and idyllic escape – all without leaving the UK.
This 2.5-square-mile island may be small, but it promises an unforgettable experience. The adventure begins with the journey itself. Most visitors arrive on the Scillonian III ferry from Penzance, a scenic two-hour and 45-minute voyage that serves as a perfect transition from the hustle of daily life to the relaxed pace of island time.
For those looking for a quicker and more thrilling option, a 15-minute helicopter ride from Penzance provides spectacular aerial views that rival even some of those found in the Caribbean.
St. Mary’s Harbour, Isles of Scilly(Image: Getty Images)
Once you arrive, a visit to The Garrison, a star-shaped fortification dating back to the 16th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s strategic military past. Walking along its ramparts, you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the entire archipelago, making it a prime spot for photography that rivals observation decks in major European cities.
St Mary’s is home to several pristine beaches that feel as though they’ve been transplanted from far more exotic destinations. Porthcressa and Porthmellon beaches feature soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters that shimmer in the sunlight. Thanks to the island’s unique microclimate, which is warmer than mainland Britain, the conditions are ideal for swimming, particularly during the summer months.
It also serves as the perfect base for exploring nearby islands. Small inter-island boats regularly depart from the quay, making it easy to take day trips to Tresco, home to the famous Abbey Gardens, or to St. Martin’s, known for its award-winning vineyard. As you glide across the crystal-clear waters, you might even spot seals playfully swimming beneath the surface.
The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, and kayaking along the coast often brings you up close to the curious seals, who pop their heads above the water to investigate. Birdwatchers flock to the islands for a chance to see rare species attracted by the islands’ unique position.
The Scilly Isles lie off the southwestern tip of Cornwall (Image: Getty Images)
What makes St Mary’s even more special is its surprisingly mild climate, which feels more akin to the coastal towns of Spain than the typical British weather. While it may not boast sunshine every day of the year, the island enjoys far more bright days than the mainland, making outdoor exploration a delight no matter the season.
The island offers over 30 miles of walking trails, many of which follow the dramatic coastline. These paths wind through landscapes that range from windswept headlands to sheltered coves, each offering stunning vistas perfect for nature photography that could grace the covers of magazines.
St Mary’s captivates with its beaches reminiscent of tropical paradises, intriguing history, and remarkable natural beauty. This tiny island, just off England’s tip, offers an experience that feels both foreign and familiar, leaving you to wonder why more travellers haven’t yet discovered this gem, hidden in plain sight.
The Entertainer’s Barrow-in-Furness outlet first opened in 2017Credit: Google Maps
The store has been one of The Entertainers more than 160 stores in the UK, which took over from an Argos eight years ago.
Staff and customers have expressed their disappointment in the stores closure.
Keith Stenhouse, Head of Region at The Entertainer, shared his regret: “We are sad to beclosingour Barrow in Furness store as of 3rd May and would like to thank our customers and staff for their loyalty and support.
“We’re proud of the service we’ve offered and are committed to supporting our employees through this situation.”
He explained that it was a necessary decision from the company to shut down standalone stores that were “no longer profitable”.
This particular Entertainer store in Cumbria gained notoriety in the past due to the large donations it has made to charity, The Mail reports.
It gave away large amounts of toys to the children’s ward of Furness General Hospital during Christmas the year it opened.
The company has also made large donations to local charities, and was involved in Barrow BID, a group working to revitalise the town centre.
Taking to social media, shoppers reacted to the announcement of the scores closure.
One wrote: “Staff where brilliant I wish them every bit of luck in future as they always where very interactive with the kids it’s such a shame.”
Aldi shoppers race to the Middle Aisle to grab kid’s toys
Another added: “It’s a shame I always go here with grandson.”
A third also posted: “It’s such a shame it’s a lovely shop for the kiddies and it’s in town which is so important.”
John Edwards, who managed the store for a number of years, also expressed he was “incredibly sad” to see its closure, calling the site an “asset” to the community.
John added: “It was always important to me it wasn’t just a shop, it had to be an experience and be somewhere kids were excited to go – it’s a huge shame to lose that.”
This closure is among a number of stores that have been shuttered by The Entertainer in the past six months.
One reacted to the news and said: “Luton is on its knees.”
Andrew Murphy OBE, group chief executive at The Entertainer, explained the store had closed after its lease agreement came to an end.
Speaking at the time of the closure, he said: “Like most large national retailers, we continuously assess potential new locations while deciding whether to renew those shops which have reached the end of their lease arrangements.”
RETAIL PAIN IN 2025
The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.
Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April.
A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024.
Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure.
The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.
It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year.
Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: “The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025.”
Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector.
“By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer’s household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”
ROBOT drones that can blind Russian radars will fly with RAF jets to protect them on missions.
A new fleet of StormShroud drones will use electronic warfare jammers to “knock out enemy air defences”, the MoD revealed.
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StormShroud drones will protect RAF jets from enemy air defencesCredit: SWNS
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The drones have been battle-tested in UkraineCredit: Getty
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Keir Starmer met members of staff at Leonardo, one of the UK’s biggest defence and security suppliersCredit: Getty
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The AI-powered drones – which are made in west Wales and Southampton – have been battle tested in Ukraine.
The UK fleet – which is thought to number about 24 – will be armed with world-class BriteStorm signal jammers that can dazzle enemy radars.
They are designed to spearhead air attacks – flying ahead of the fighter jets to clear a safe path through air defence missiles.
Downing Street said: “The drones offer a step change in capability by using a high-tech BriteStorm signal jammer to disrupt enemy radar at long ranges, protecting our aircraft and pilots.”
They added: “In revolutionary new tactics, the drones support aircraft like Typhoon and F35 Lightning, by confusing enemy radars and allowing combat aircraft to attack targets unseen.
“This means for the first time, the RAF will benefit from high-end electronic warfare without needing crew to man it, freeing them up for other vital frontline missions.”
RAF chief Sir Rich Knighton said: “This is a seminal moment for the RAF to maintain our advantage in air combat and national security.”
The AI-powered drones will act autonomously, detecting and disrupting enemy air defence networks.
Sir Rich added: “Autonomous collaborative platforms will revolutionise how we conduct a range of missions, from intelligence gathering to strike and logistical support.”
The Storm Shroud is based on a Tekever AR3 drone fitted with an “electronic warfare payload” made by Leonardo UK in Luton.
Why US army is turning to ‘snipers in the sky’ in largest overhaul since Cold War
The RAF said: “Storm Shroud will support RAF F-35B Lightning and Typhoon pilots by blinding enemy radars, which increases the survivability and operational effectiveness of our crewed aircraft.”
The StormShroud drones are fitted with cutting-edge Britestorm signal jamming tech
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Personnel from the RAF will operate the dronesCredit: SWNS
TheRoyal Mailis even trialling drone delivery in remote areas.
While 84 per cent of budding drone businesses have fewer than 50 employees, analysts Drone Industry Insights said: “The drone market in the UK is among the top in the world, with significant potential for growth.
“The economy in the UK as a whole offers a unique opportunity for the drone industry to thrive, and it has witnessed significant advancements in the use of drones in recent years, particularly in healthcare and delivery.”
Meanwhile, a probe by The Sun on Sunday revealed that combat drones have now become the dominant killer on the battlefields of Ukraine.
Up to 80 per cent of casualties on both sides of the conflict have been caused by what are known by the military as “unmanned air systems”.
A BRITISH-made stealth jet has broken the world record for the longest continuous flight, spending 67 days in the sky.
That’s the equivalent of 1,608 hours – enough time to watch every episode of Top Gear, Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing that has ever aired in the UK.
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The unmanned plane, known as Aalto Zephyr, flew for more than two monthsCredit: Airbus
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The Zephyr is a drone-like aircraft with a wingspan of 85ft, and weighs just 75kgCredit: AALTO
In fact, it’s more than enough time, with Top Gear boasting 518 hours’ worth of content across 33 seasons, Love Island’s 390 hours and Strictly with a whopping 635 hours.
A total of 1,543 hours.
The unmanned plane, known as Aalto Zephyr, flew for more than two months from Kenya to Australia before being plunged into the Indian Ocean.
The flight beat a record held by two American pilots for over 50 years.
In 1959, Robert Timm and John Cook flew a Cessna Skyhawk continuously for 64 days and 22 hours in Nevada.
That record has now been bested by a British jet, built by Airbus at its facilities in Farnborough, Hampshire.
British defence company QinetiQ originally developed the project, before selling it off to Airbus in 2013.
The Zephyr is a drone-like aircraft with a wingspan of 85ft, and weighs just 75kg.
It has been hailed for its abilities for near ‘endless flight’, with it using solar power to charge its propellers during the day.
Hypersonic jet could whisk passengers from London to NYC in an hour
At night, the craft glides and loses altitude slightly as the batteries drain, until the morning sun recharges them.
The Zephyr can operate as a spy plane, carrying powerful cameras and sensors for Earth surveillance.
It is designed to fly above 60,000ft, making it well suited for delivering communications to remote areas.
The aircraft’s longest previous mission was a 64-day flight in 2022.
“With this new world-record flight, we have pushed the boundaries again for the burgeoning HAPS industry and aviation globally with a solar-powered, stratospheric aircraft,” Aalto CEO Hughes Boulnois said in a statement.
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The facility is adjacent to Farnborough airportCredit: AALTO
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The Zephyr can operate as a spy plane, carrying powerful cameras and sensors for Earth surveillanceCredit: Aalto / Airbus
There had been some worries regarding Sciver-Brunt’s workload with the captaincy, considering her importance as England’s best batter and one of their most experienced bowlers, but Edwards said she was confident that she could relieve some of the pressure and allow her to focus on the on-field matters.
Another criticism of England’s set-up – and another aspect which Edwards vowed to correct – has been the apparent lack of succession planning for leadership roles, considering the longevity of Knight’s tenure.
“We’re going to create a leadership group, and it might be different for different series and formats but it’s something we are really buying into.
“We have got to make sure we are planning for the future and giving players experience, giving them a voice.”
Edwards also confirmed that Knight would not be part of that leadership group, stating her desire for the former skipper to focus on enjoying the game again and just batting.
England faced criticism and scrutiny from their Ashes capitulation unlike ever before, with their off-field behaviour and attitude brought into question alongside the poor results.
Edwards acknowledged that the team would be changing their approach to social media and “looking at our professional behaviours”, but added that in her short time in the role she had already noticed changes.
“It is going to be different and it should be, but that doesn’t mean there’s a right or wrong. It’s just how Nat and I are going to do it,” she said.
“The team has been used to a certain way of doing things, but they’ve been great so far and so receptive of everything we’ve talked about.
“I’m expecting us to move in the right direction quite quickly.”
