52 minutes ago Don’t give in to pessimism, says Pope Francis in BBC Thought for the Day

Hope and kindness ‘touch the very heart of gospel’ and show people how to behave amid war and social injusticePope Francis has urged people not to be drawn towards “pessimism and resignation” despite wars and social injustices throughout the world, but to retain a “gentle gaze of hope”.The head of the Catholic church gave the Thought for the Day on BBC Radio 4 on Saturday, wishing listeners “peace, fellowship and gratitude” for the new year and emphasising the importance of humility. Continue reading...

Politics

17 hours ago U.S. homelessness crisis surges to record levels alongside rising rents and immigration

Advocates demand urgent action on housing and family support while Trump promises tent cities and ‘mental institutions’

Society

98 minutes ago Editor picks top deals in Antler's Winter Sale with up to 40% off on premium luggage

Antler's big Winter Sale is now live and you can save up to 40% off suitcases, luggage sets and travel bags in a variety of sizes and colours for all your holiday needs

Economics

18 hours ago Gavin and Stacey fans spot huge errors in finale as Neil the Baby goes 'missing' from scene

Gavin and Stacey fans were left sobbing at the show's festive finale, but some viewers couldn't help but notice a few awkward blunders throughout the 90-minute episode

Sport

40 minutes ago The temperature you should wash your bedsheets to kill winter germs and 'maintain cleanliness'

An expert also explained how often we should be washing our bedding during the winter months.

Events

37 minutes ago ‘I saw the reflection of his back rolls in the glass door’: Spencer Ostrander’s best phone photo

The American photographer on capturing a moment of intimacy between himself and his baby sonOn a sunny Sunday morning in June, Spencer Ostrander returned from the local hardware store to find his wife, Sophie, gardening in their back yard in Brooklyn, New York. “I handed her the supplies she needed, and a hot coffee, and she handed over our son,” Ostrander says. Their boy, Miles, was six months old at the time.“As I was taking him inside, I saw the reflection of my son’s back rolls in the glass door.” Ostrander grabbed his iPhone 14 Pro and turned the front camera on. “He was teething back then; not crying, but not his usual pleasant self either. I was juggling a wiggling baby and my phone, so I could only take two frames.” Continue reading...

Culture

16 hours ago Expert predicts women will be having more sex with robots than men next year

Women might overtaken men in the adoption of sex robots by 2025 - in part, because they already have a technological head start, according to futurist Dr Ian Pearson.

Science

13 hours ago Christmas travel chaos breaks out at UK airports including Gatwick and Manchester with more than 100 flights delayed or cancelled after 'heavy fog' descends on Britain

Travellers are being urged to check with their airline as air traffic restrictions are in place at several UK airports due to fog, the country's main air traffic control (ATC) provider Nats said on Friday.

Transport

68 minutes ago Royal expert reveals the real reason Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are disliked by Americans 

Prince Harry was once one of the most popular members of the Royal Family , but following his decision to leave and publicly criticise the institution, his reputation has plummeted.

Politics

19 hours ago Airdrie Action Partnership's Christmas appeal receives £2k donation from XACT/Airdrie & Coatbridge 41 Club

Appeal supports local children and families during the festive period.

Society

2 hours ago SPOT THE DUPE: Gold leather trousers are the ultimate investment this party season, but can you tell which look totals £129 and which costs £4,287?

Gold leather trousers are everywhere right now, but how much do you need to spend? With more than £4,000 separating these, we'll let you decide

Economics

19 hours ago Gavin and Stacey fans spot continuity error during Mick's stag night tribute to Smithy

The gaffe comes as James Corden thanked fans for tuning into the finale after it secured the highest Christmas Day ratings since 2008

Sport

43 minutes ago Warning to Amazon Echo users to keep device out of certain areas in the home

Your smart speaker may be doing more than just playing music, according to experts.

Events

98 minutes ago Best TV media storage units from wall mounted to freestanding models, tried and tested

Every inch is utilised with these hardworking TV cabinets and units

Culture

21 hours ago Constipated? Top gut doctor reveals 'expert level toilet hack' that WILL instantly get your bowels moving...

NHS Surgeon Dr Karan Raj told his 5.3 million followers that gently rocking back and forth on the toilet can help your bowels move.

Science

22 hours ago Drivers urged to note diversions as trio of Monklands roads set to close for works next month

Alternative routes will be available to use during the closures.

Transport

98 minutes ago Best waterproof cameras to capture the action on underwater adventures

Splash out on one of these to capture underwater moments

Politics

22 hours ago Will house prices go up in 2025? Six property experts give their verdict

We revisit six experts and ask them for their house price predictions for 2025, as well as where the housing market hot and cold spots will be.

Society

4 hours ago Liz Earle's winter sale slashes prices on skincare and fragrances by up to 40%

Treat yourself to glowing, healthy skin for the New Year, or surprise a loved one with a luxe gift set

Economics

21 hours ago Gavin and Stacey fans livid as they spot huge 'blunder' in final episode

Gavin and Stacey officially bowed out after a thrilling final episode, but some eagle-eyed viewers were less than thrilled when they spotted a bizarre plot hole in the story

Sport

68 minutes ago Top breast cancer expert reveals only diet change that guards against breast cancer...as disease continues to soar in under 50s

As a breast surgeon who was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 40, I feel strongly about raising awareness of lifestyle factors that could reduce risk of the disease.

Events

4 hours ago How to dress ‘smart casual’ for men? This independent London label offers a solution

Introducing Batch Ldn — the start-up brand offering a signature suit to solve ‘smart casual’ dressing dilemmas

Culture

27 hours ago Hair experts explain frustrating Christmas symptom that has an easy solution

Hair experts have explained how to look after your hair during the Christmas season

Science

2 hours ago The vitamin con: Do supplements do anything or are we all being scammed?

As we all embark on yet another ‘New Year, New You’ journey, Helen Coffey asks the experts whether supplements are more silver bullet or placebo when it comes to improving our health

Politics

9 hours ago Jennifer Lopez bundles up in a puffer coat on winter shopping spree with Emme, 16, in Aspen

Jennifer Lopez was every inch the doting mother while enjoying a lavish jewelry shopping spree with her 16-year-old child Emme Maribel Muñiz in Aspen, Colorado.

Economics

24 hours ago Gavin and Stacey fans spot hilarious continuity error during Mick's touching stag night tribute to Smithy

The moving scene showed an emotional Mick describing Smithy as a second son to himself and wife Pam, after they struggled to conceive another child.

Sport

98 minutes ago Martin Lewis issues urgent warning to anyone still repaying their student loans

Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has encouraged anyone who still paying off their student loan to check whether they have overpaid - and how you can apply for a refund

Events

22 hours ago Mission Impossible films 'get a HUGE update as Tom Cruise begins work on the next two movies in the iconic series'

The Hollywood legend, 62, could be on the hunt to find the perfect fit to play younger Ethan Hunt in the epic action franchise - in a bit to unveil more of the protagonists' past.

Culture

34 hours ago Make it easier for those with lung cancer symptoms to get tests, experts say

Researchers called for the widespread adoption of services that allow patients to self-refer without a GP consultation.

Science

3 hours ago Only those with sharp eyes can spot the scared mouse hiding from cat in baffling image

Put your eyes to the test with this baffling optical illusion and see how sharp your eyesight really is - all you need to do is spot the mouse in under seven seconds

Politics

18 hours ago Amazon's 'so comfy and soft' slippers in 11 colours that are 'great' for under £20

Banish the winter chill with these well-regarded fuzzy slippers from Amazon

Economics

2 hours ago Zelensky urges China to put pressure on North Korea over military aid to Russia

Volodymyr Zelensky has urged China to put pressure on North Korea if it “is sincere in its statements that the war should not expand.”

Events

22 hours ago The top 25 holiday destinations of 2025, picked by experts: These are the festivals, events and secret relaxing hotspots you should book NOW to get an amazing bargain

In its annual report on travel trends, hospitality giant Hilton declared 2025 the 'Year of the Travel Maximizer' - industry jargon for the idea that we all want more experiences.

Culture

4 hours ago Why enigmatic and misnamed 'grass of Parnassus' must be saved for Scotland

Continuing our Scotland’s Wonderful Wildlife series, Dr Deborah Long explains why grass of Parnassus is one of her favourite plants and how gardeners can help it survive

Politics

19 hours ago Inside Gerwyn Price's incredible Valleys 'man cave' he's built with darts prize money

The Welshman is back in action at Alexandra Palace for the World Darts Championships

Economics

2 hours ago ‘We need dramatic social and technological changes’: is societal collapse inevitable?

Academic Danilo Brozović says studies of failed civilisations all point in one direction – today’s society needs radical transformation to surviveFor someone who has examined 361 studies and 73 books on societal collapses, Danilo Brozović’s conclusion on what must happen to avoid today’s world imploding is both disarmingly simple and a daunting challenge: “We need dramatic social and technological changes.”The collapse of past civilisations, from the mighty Mayan empire to Rapa Nui (Easter Island), has long fascinated people and for obvious reasons – how stable is our own society? Does ever-growing complexity in societies or human hubris inevitably lead to oblivion? In the face of the climate crisis, rampant destruction of the natural world, rising geopolitical tensions and more, the question is more urgent than ever. Continue reading...

Events

4 hours ago 'I was really struggling': How the free Cyrenians art studio is helping young people open up

The Creative Natives project is run by Cyrenians, which is running a winter campaign to support those at risk of homelessness

Politics

19 hours ago Drivers urged to buy electric cars at certain time to avoid £2,050 car tax charge

The aim is to create a "fairer system".

Economics

4 hours ago Tim Spector says add one ingredient to gravy to boost gut health this winter

Studies have also linked it to a lower risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease

Events

5 hours ago Labour must ‘stick to its guns’ on UK employment rights bill, says TUC chief

In new year message, Paul Nowak says ministers must resist pressure from business groups to water down plansKeir Starmer’s government has been urged to “stick to its guns” amid growing pressure from business leaders to water down its plans to improve workers’ rights as the UK economy grinds to a halt.The head of the Trades Union Congress said company bosses were demanding concessions as a “quid pro quo” for accepting tax increases in Rachel Reeves’ autumn budget as they sounded the alarm over Britain’s flatlining economy. Continue reading...

Politics

20 hours ago When is the Steam Winter Sale ending? Find out when their festive deals dry up

Steam's Winter Sale is finishing soon, so be sure to grab the bargains while you can across Steam Deck and PC as we cover the end date – and when you can expect the next sale

Economics

8 hours ago Councils to be given ability to issue fines for minor misdemeanours as critics fear they could lead to abuses of power

Local councils are to be given sweeping powers to issue on-the-spot fines for minor misdemeanours such as climbing trees in parks.

Events

5 hours ago Six easy exercises you can do without leaving the house and why they're good for you

Fitness experts have shared six easy indoor exercises that you can do from the comfort of your own home

Politics

21 hours ago 13 little treats to buy for yourself in the winter sales if Santa didn't quite deliver

Let's face it: sometimes Santa gets it wrong, no matter how many 'subtle' suggestions you send or Christmas lists you write.

Economics

11 hours ago What is 'Kessler Syndrome'? Experts warn of 'imminent danger' from space collisions that would knock out Wi

'Unless we do something, we are in imminent danger of making a whole part of our Earth environment unusable,' one physicist warned during a meeting of experts in DC this month.

Events

6 hours ago Tartan Army chief transforms back garden into a spectacular sports bar after five

Chris ‘Gibbo’ Gibson created the stunning boozer so that pals have somewhere to meet up and watch games.

Politics

21 hours ago 'I've only put heating on three times this winter thanks to buy that costs 27p per hour'

While some dub it the most wonderful time of year, it is also one of the most expensive periods - and many are counting their pennines and trying to save on energy bills where they can

Economics

14 hours ago US saw dramatic rise in homelessness at start of 2024, housing agency says

US Department of Housing and Urban Development reports largest increase among families with childrenThe US saw a dramatic rise in homelessness at the start of 2024, counting 18% more unhoused people during its annual tally in January than the year before, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (Hud) reported on Friday.Cities reported counting a total of 771,480 unhoused people in January, a number that is larger than the population of Seattle. Representing 23 out of every 10,000 Americans, the number is the highest ever recorded during the tally. Still, experts consider the number an undercount, since it reflects one point in time and misses many people staying with friends or family. Continue reading...

Events

9 hours ago World Darts Championship 2025: Schedule, latest results and how to watch as Luke Humphries sails through

Luke Littler and Michael van Gerwen headline huge Saturday night of action at Alexandra Palace

Politics

22 hours ago Most ‘stunning’ structure in Greater Manchester set to get a £1.3m facelift

The Higher Woodhill viaduct in the Irwell Valley will have urgent repair work after receiving government cash

Economics

16 hours ago Pet owners urged to immediately check pet food as cat dies after eating bird

A cat has died from avian influenza after consuming contaminated pet food, and a voluntary recall has now being issued for the product that was found to contain the virus

Events

9 hours ago World Darts Championship: Luke Humphries sets up huge Peter Wright showdown in last 16

Gerwyn Price, Jonny Clayton and Luke Woodhouse all edge thrillers as Ally Pally action returns with a bang after Christmas break

Politics

25 hours ago Luke Littler loses huge amount of money as Darts World Championship star faces big bill

Luke Littler has made a fortune from playing darts this year, but he will have to pay a hefty chunk of his winnings back in tax - with one expert in particular identifying that he'll be lumping out around £130,000

Economics

16 hours ago Nigel Farage threatens legal action against Badenoch over Reform membership ‘fakery’ claim

Row comes after Reform UK claimed to have surpassed Conservatives in membership

Events

10 hours ago Badenoch urged to apologise or face ‘action’ from Farage over Reform numbers row

Reform UK’s Nigel Farage says he will spend the next couple of days weighing up possible action against Kemi Badenoch.

Politics

32 hours ago Fresh blow to High Street as number of Boxing Day sale shoppers tumbled by nearly 10 per cent

Experts said some bargain hunters had opted to shop online instead of visiting the shops in person.

Economics

17 hours ago Cyprien Sarrazin in intensive care after downhill crash on 2026 Olympic slope

Sarrazin, 30, set for surgery after head injury in crashFrench standout crashed during World Cup trainingFrench standout Cyprien Sarrazin was in intensive care with a head injury after a crash during training for a World Cup downhill race on Friday on the slope set to be used for the 2026 Winter Olympics.Sarrazin was one of two skiers airlifted to a hospital after crashing and the French ski federation said he was conscious but diagnosed with a subdural hematoma — bleeding near the brain. Continue reading...

Events

11 hours ago Miriam Margoyles issues expletive laden video message to the Government urging action

Miriam Margoyles called trophy hunters 'a**eholes' and 'the scum of the earth' in a profanity heavy video message sent to a bunch of MPs in an appeal to get the activity banned

Politics

17 hours ago The Guardian view on arms control: essential to prevent the total devastation of nuclear war | Editorial

Over the holidays, this column will explore next year’s urgent issues. Today we look at why an unqualified belief in nuclear deterrence can’t keep us safeNext November marks 40 years since the US president Ronald Reagan and the Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev declared that “a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought”. The statement was striking – not least because their militaries were pouring billions into preparing for an unwinnable conflict.A year later, at Reykjavik, the two came tantalisingly close to eliminating nuclear weapons entirely. That historic chance slipped away over Reagan’s insistence on his unproven “Star Wars” missile defence system. The moment passed, but its lesson endures: disarmament demands courage – and compromise. Continue reading...

Events

14 hours ago The 'deceptively large' cabin suitcase from Antler that has a 'surprising amount of room' now reduced in winter sale

There are some great deals to enjoy in the Antler winter sale

Politics

18 hours ago Microplastics in tea bags are linked to health problems: Experts warn they raise risk of cancer and infertility

Spanish scientists have found there's billions of microplastics in teabags that can seep into our drinks. Experts have warned of the alarming range of risks of these microscopic particles.

Events

15 hours ago Nigel Farage hints at legal action against Kemi Badenoch in Reform membership row

But Tory leader claims own party tally has risen as she accuses Reform UK of ‘fakery’

Politics

19 hours ago Police issue urgent appeal for missing Troon man who vanished on Boxing Day

Colin McKenna may have travelled to Edinburgh.

Events

15 hours ago Nigel Farage demands apology from Kemi Badenoch in Reform membership row

Nigel Farage would not rule out taking legal action against the Tory leader over her claim of ‘fakery’ in membership row

Politics

20 hours ago Convicted terrorist suing Saracen's Head landlords over 'racist' pub signs says he'll donate court winnings to Gaza orphans

Convicted terrorist, Khalid Baqa, who is pursuing civil action against Saracen's Head publicans over its 'racist' name says he will give his court winnings to Gazan orphans. 

Events

16 hours ago Phil Taylor hails Luke Littler and compares him to modern sporting great

Luke Littler is back in action at the World Championship against Ian White on Saturday - and Phil Taylor will be among those tuning in to watch the 17-year-old play

Politics

20 hours ago Urgent warning to tea drinkers from scientists over what could lurk in your cuppa

Scientists from the Mutagenesis Group of the UAB Department of Genetics and Microbiology in Spain have discovered some commercial tea bags release nano and micro plastics

Events

17 hours ago The 'remarkable intensity' of the Tameside tornado and the devastation it caused

Experts say it could be the 'widest tornado ever recorded in the UK'

Politics

20 hours ago World War Three countdown as experts predict escalating global tensions in 2025

Donald Trump will become President of the US again in 2025 and it will be a year of "greatest challenges to international order since World War 2 ended 80 years ago", say experts

Events

18 hours ago Value Scope: Each way horseracing tips from Steve Jones for Saturday on ITV

As the busy Christmas schedule continues our man runs the rule over the TV action from Newbury and Leicester and has four selections

Politics

20 hours ago British Gas, EDF, EON, Octopus, and OVO customers given four day warning

People are being urged to act in the coming days

Events