-
The Scottish government has confirmed Glasgow as the host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games after Australia's Victoria state withdrew due to rising costs. The event will feature a scaled-down format with 10 sports and will be funded primarily through compensation from Victoria, ensuring minimal public expenditure.
-
As e-bike usage surges in UK cities, local councils face mounting complaints over safety and parking issues. Brent Council threatens to ban Lime bikes unless conditions are met, while Bristol Airport's fines may be unenforceable. Meanwhile, AI traffic management trials in Birmingham aim to improve cyclist safety.
-
Over 180 council-run libraries in the UK have closed or been handed to volunteers since 2016, with many more facing reduced hours. Authors like Lee Child and Children's Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce emphasize the importance of libraries as community spaces for learning and social interaction, particularly in deprived areas.
-
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) announced on September 9, 2024, that 64 roles are at risk due to a major restructure, while 22 new positions will be created. This decision follows financial challenges exacerbated by the new Professional Game Partnership, which has increased costs significantly.
-
Motorists in the UK are facing significant delays due to multiple road closures for maintenance and infrastructure work. Key routes, including the M62 and parts of the A12, are affected. Commuters are advised to plan alternative routes to avoid disruptions as work continues through the weekend.
-
Robert Jenrick leads the Conservative leadership race after the first round of voting, securing 28 votes. Kemi Badenoch follows with 22 votes, while Priti Patel has been eliminated. The party conference will showcase the remaining candidates as they vie for leadership ahead of the final vote on November 2.
-
A groundbreaking clinical trial for a pancreatic cancer vaccine has begun in Europe, with the first patient enrolled in Birmingham, UK. This trial aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment options for a disease known for its low survival rates. Experts express optimism about the vaccine's potential impact.
-
A new 50-mile rail link between Lichfield and High Legh has been proposed to address capacity issues on the West Coast Main Line. The plan, backed by mayors of Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, aims to deliver significant benefits at a lower cost than the scrapped HS2 Phase 2. This comes after HS2's northern leg was abandoned in 2023.
-
The royal family publicly wished Prince Harry a happy 40th birthday for the first time since 2021. The message, shared on social media, comes amid ongoing tensions between Harry and the royal family, particularly with his brother William and father Charles. Harry celebrated in California with Meghan and their children.
-
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy announced a return to full-time office work starting January 2, 2025, reversing the previous three-day-a-week policy. This decision has sparked significant backlash among employees, who express concerns over work-life balance and company culture. The move aims to enhance collaboration and reduce bureaucracy within the organization.