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Small UK city with houses for £190,000 voted best for first-time buyers

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Swansea is full of great beaches and walks
Swansea is full of great beaches and walks (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

With mortgage acceptance rates hitting a 15-month high earlier this year, you may be wondering, where’s the best UK location for first-time buyers?

In unexpected news, a study has found that the city you might want to buy in isn’t found in England or Scotland.

A mid-sized Welsh city has claimed the top spot when it comes to where new home-owners should put down roots.

The best place in the UK to buy a house for newbie buyers is… Swansea.

Taking the 30 most populated cities in the UK, the study took the areas and ranked by average house price, crime safety score, traffic index score and life satisfaction score.

These stats were then amassed into an overall score out of 100 – with Swansea landing the top overall score of 82.

Scenic view of Swansea, Wales, which has been voted top for first-time buyers in the UK
Swansea has a high life satisfaction rate and low house prices (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Quality of life in Swansea

Swansea also had one of the highest life satisfaction scores at 7.5, meaning the city’s residents have good levels of personal wellbeing, according to ONS.

It was also found to have lower crime levels, so you can feel safe, as well as lower traffic levels – meaning you aren’t going to struggle to get out of your drive way.

A big selling point for the Welsh city is its average property price, which is £196,029, according to Land Registry.

But it’s not just a bargain location. It comes with a pretty nice lifestyle, too.

Things to do in Swansea

Dubbed Wales’ ‘waterfront city’, Swansea sits right on the sea. Just a few minutes walk from the city centre is a five-mile stretch of sandy beach sweeping from the industrial docklands right up to the bustling seaside village of Mumbles.

Cycle paths line the bay to offer bikers a magnificent Sunday afternoon ride, where fish and chips on the Victorian Pier await those energetic enough.

Though Swansea lost out on their bid for UK City of Culture 2017 to Hull, there is cultural gold oozing from every corner of the city.

Swansea is home to several literary and music festivals, including Proms in the Park, while big names regularly perform at the Liberty Stadium, the Grand Theatre and Brangywn Hall.

The Swansea marina in Swansea was voted the best place to buy for first-time buyers
The Swansea marina in Swansea was voted the best place to buy for first-time buyers (Picture: Getty Images)

And the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery is just one of the many celebrated galleries in the city.

At the top of the long list of green spaces is Singleton Park, with acres of unspoiled space alongside a botanical gardens and boating lake.

There’s also Clyne Gardens, with its wonderful floral displays, and Cwmdonkin Park, where Dylan Thomas was inspired to write much of his poetry.

Voted as the most beautiful city back in 2016, Swansea is on the doorstep of the Gower Peninsula – and therefore has some of the best beaches in Britain nearby.

Which other UK cities are good for first-time home buyers?

Taking second spot for the best UK city for first-time buyers is the more expensive Edinburgh.

The home of the Fringe festival, the city scored 78.5 out of 100 overall. The average property price is a little steeper than Swansea, at £337,558, but it has a lower crime rate than the former.

If you’re a commuter, you might be interested to know that traffic scored poorly, although the wellbeing of Edinburgh’s residents was high at a score of 7.7 – the highest score of the entire study.

So, if quality of life is most important to you, then Edinburgh should be your new home city of choice.

Scenic view of buildings in Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is perfect for those looking for a work-life balance (Picture: Getty Images)

Totaljobs found that Edinburgh had the best work-life balance, offering residents higher rates of local happiness and access to affordable housing.

Third on the list finally brings England into the mix. The study, by Invezz, found Plymouth to also be first-time buyer friendly.

With an overall score of 74.2, the Devonshire city has an average house price of £217,534, but has a higher crime rate than both Swansea and Edinburgh.

It does rival Swansea for its life satisfaction score though, with an overall 7.5 rating.

Plymouth has the cheapest childcare costs at £700 per month (still extortionate in our opinion) beating Edinburgh – where it sets parents back £1,064.76 per month.

The coastline of Plymouth in South Devon
Plymouth in South Devon is also a great place for first-time buyers (Plymouth: Getty Images)

Public transport in Plymouth will cost you only £55.50 per month and the average house price is only £241,257. However, it has high levels of pollution and a longer commute time, with an average of 33 minutes.

Rounding out the top five best UK cities for first-time buyers is Sunderland in fourth and Newport in fifth.

Sunderland has an average house price of just £138,138 – and while there is a slightly higher crime rate than the top three, it still received an overall score of 74 out of 100.

Newport will cost you around £229,808 if you want to purchase a house and there’s a lot of traffic, although it still received a 7.3 score for life satisfaction.

The best cities in the UK for first time buyers

  1. Swansea – score 81.5/100
  2. Edinburgh – score 78.5/100
  3. Plymouth – score 74.2/100
  4. Sunderland – score 74/100
  5. Newport – score 68.3/100
  6. Leeds – score 68.1/100
  7. Blackpool – score 68.1/100
  8. Sheffield – score 68.1/100
  9. Stoke-on-Trent – score 68/100
  10. Derby – score 66.6/100

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Lotto winner ditches husband after he ‘squandered millions on cars and watches’

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Gillian Bayford at her wedding and holding a glass of champagne after winning the lottery
Euromillions winner Gillian Bayford has ditched husband Brian Deans (Picture: Shutterstock)

A lottery winner who won £148 million has finally kicked out her mooching husband after he ‘used her as a cash machine’ and squandered a fortune.

Gillian Bayford married convicted fraudster Brian Deans five years ago after initially winning a Euromillions jackpot in 2012, but has since ditched her husband after he ‘threw money left, right and centre’ on expensive cars, watches, and trips with friends.

The 51-year-old reportedly gave her husband a generous monthly allowance, but he kept blowing through it and begging her for more until she eventually booted him out of her home in Scotland.

A source told the Sun: ‘Brian saw Gillian as a cash machine, nothing more. She kept throwing money at him to try to make the marriage work.

Gillian Bayford with ex-husband Adrian, holding their lottery win cheque in 2012
Gillian and ex-husband Adrian Bayford won the mega-jackpot in 2012, although divorced shortly afterwards (Picture: PA)

‘She’d think nothing of giving £20,000 if he asked for it but no amount was ever enough and he wanted more and more.

‘She probably got out in the nick of time. If they had kept going the way they were they could have ended up skint.’

Deans was previously jailed in 2012 for defrauding Tesco out of £13,500 with fake customer receipts- on the same week Gillian won her life-changing jackpot alongside her previous husband Adrian.

He was said to have been living in a rundown Dundee flat at the time that they met, but later moved into her mansion and became used to living a lavish lifestyle, flashing his cash on holidays and expensive trips and letting everyone know he was paying.

Gillian Bayford and Brian Deans at their wedding slicing the cake
She later married convicted fraudster Brian Deans, who soon started spending her money

Eventually, ‘besotted’ Gillian found herself forking out more and more cash to cover his expensive tastes.

‘It’s probably hard for outsiders to get their head round what happened but Gillian was head over heels in love,’ claimed the source.

‘She believed everything Brian told her.

‘All she wanted was for him to be happy and she never questioned him.

‘If he wanted money, he got it.

‘Handing over £50,000 wasn’t a big deal for her.

‘All she wanted was for her family to stay together, from what I saw.’

Gillian Bayford celebrating winning the lottery with a glass of bubbly in 2012
Sources said Gillian got out of her marriage ‘in the nick of time’ (Picture: Shutterstock)

After finally being kicked to the curb, Deans is now reportedly running a pub in Auchterarder after being thought to have already spent everything he had from Gillian, and insists that he dumped her.

The couple also has a young daughter together, Emile, who was born during lockdown.

Speaking of her new baby Emilie, Gillian, who now runs a property firm in Dundee, told The Sun: ‘As far as she is concerned I’m not a lottery winner, I’m just Mum.

‘Some things are easier because of the money but it doesn’t really change anything. You still have to change a nappy or deal with her being sick on you regardless of how much you’re worth.’

She added: ‘She’s not dressed in designer clothes. She’s not got anything different to her brother and sister.’

‘They all need to know the value of money.’

Last year, Gillian spoke of how she no longer speaks to members of her family despite giving them £20 million and ‘bailing them out of every debt.’

She claimed that although the money was ‘supposed to make everyone happy’ all it ended up doing was causing division and making everyone ‘demanding and greedy.’

Her father allegedly tried to take control of her fortune himself, while her brother got married without telling her, despite living in a home she paid for.

‘They have lost touch with where they’ve come from,’ Gillian told The Mirror. ‘They’re rubbing people’s noses in it by flashing their cash, which I think is downright nasty.

‘I can hold my head up because I know I’ve taken them out of a situation. They brought our name into disrespect in the village and we had people threatening to torch the family house. 

‘My dad and brother built up one company after another and then closed them down. I’ve bailed them out of every debt.’

Upon marrying Deans, Gillian made him sign a pre-nup which ensured he wouldn’t be entitled to any of her cash during the divorce.

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Map shows where 37 flood warnings are in place across the UK

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Flooding in a UK street with a sign saying 'road closed'
More than 170 flood warnings and alerts complicate the UK weather outlook this week (Picture: Shutterstock)

Large parts of the UK are now prone to flooding after days of persistent rain which is expected to continue this week.

There are now 37 flood warnings in place across the country, marking areas where flooding is expected.

A further 151 flood alerts have been issued for areas where flooding is possible.

The most vulnerable spots are concentrated in south-western England, though there are a handful in East Anglia, Greater Manchester, Yorkshire and the North East.

Map of 35 flood warnings in place across the UK
These are the 37 places where flooding is expected to occur

The medium-risk areas are spread more widely, also covering London, the Midlands and more of the North West.

The Met Office is forecasting a mostly dry Monday, with ‘outbreaks of drizzle’ in the east and light rain in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

This will be followed by drizzle and showers across the UK on Tuesday which could ‘turn heavy at times’.

132 places deemed at risk of flooding shown on map
But there are another 151 places deemed at risk of flooding when more rain hits the UK

A wide front of heavy rain will hit Wales and north-west England in the morning before moving east, thinning out as it travels across the country so the east coast will only experience drizzle.

Wednesday is expected to bring more isolated showers concentrated in noth-west England, north-west Wales, Scotland and Belfast.

On Thursday, much of Scotland, Northern Ireland are set to experience light rain, with heavier showers in Cumbria.

Similar patterns are likely to recur on Friday, though the Greater Manchester area faces downpours in the morning while northern Wales could be soaked in the afternoon.

A car drives through floodwater in Harbridge, Hampshire in February 2024
Some areas could witness a repeat of last month’s heavy flooding (Picture: PA)

The long-range forecast indicates ‘broadly unsettled’ weather on the weekend.

The Met Office says ‘further bands of rain [are] expected to push in from the west and southwest, breaking to showers at times’.

‘Into the new week temperatures trend down toward average for the time of year as the broadly unsettled pattern continues with periods of rain, heaviest in western areas push across the country to be followed by occasional showers, with a risk of thunderstorms mainly in the south,’ it added.

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Boy, 13, stabbed while walking home from the mosque after prayers

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(Picture: Facebook)
The boy was rushed to hospital with serious injuries (Picture: Facebook)

A teenage boy was found in a pool of blood after being stabbed while he walked home from evening prayers.

The 13-year-old boy was attacked in Queens Park, Glasgow on at around 8.30pm on Friday.

He was walking home from a nearby mosque and was wearing a Jubba – a long garment worn by Muslims – when he was attacked.

The victim was rushed to the Royal Hospital for Children Glasgow where he is still in a serious but stable condition.

Aleesha Ntayomba, a friend of the victim’s family said: ‘The boy’s family asked me to share this to spread awareness for anyone who might get into situations like this and to provide justice for him.

‘This 13-year-old Pakistani boy was mercilessly stabbed with a knife on Friday evening. He had just came out from the mosque and was wearing a Jubba.

Police at the scene on Victoria Road near Queens Park in Glasgow
Police were called to Victoria Road near Queens Park in Glasgow

‘The boy is severely wounded and suffered cuts on his back and all over his body as he ran to save his life.

‘One deep cut went to his lung. He was seen drenched in blood by a family who called for police and ambulance.

‘The boy is in hospital where he will undergo multiple surgeries. He is in severe pain and shock.

‘Police are trying to trace whoever did this through CCTV around Queens Park. Please spread the news everywhere and raise your voices so this does not go unnoticed.’

Detective Sergeant Stephen Palmer said: ‘We have a team of officers working on this investigation and extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish what has happened.

‘Officers are gathering CCTV footage from the surrounding area and door to door inquiries are also being carried out.

‘We will have a continued police presence in the area and anyone with any concerns can approach these officers.

‘I would like to reassure the community that officers are working to trace whoever is responsible.

‘We believe the area was busy at the time and I am keen to speak to anyone with any private CCTV, dashcam, doorbell, or any other footage that they think would assist the enquiry.

‘If you were in the area, and can help with our investigation or saw what happened, then please get in touch.’

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Best place to live in the UK revealed — the first win for ‘heavenly’ seaside town

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UK, Scotland, North Berwick, Seaside town during summer music festival
North Berwick is centred around its beach (Image: Getty Images/Westend61)

Famed for its classic fish and chips shops and unwavering potential for picnics on the beach, a charming seaside town has been named the best place to live in the UK.

North Berwick topped a list of 72 locations chosen to represent the best of the UK in the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide, marking the first Scottish winner in the 12-year history.

The judges visited all the locations and assessed factors from schools to transport, broadband speeds to culture, as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street.

The town was applauded for its independent shops, the great outdoors and family-friendly houses, as well as its easy connections to Edinburgh.

The judges were also impressed by the wealth of activities North Berwick has to offer, as well as the fact that life revolves around the town’s beaches.

Likewise, they also highlighted the thriving independent shops as a sign of the positive effect that small businesses can have on a community.

Aerial of North Berwick seaside town in East Lothian, Scotland.
This year’s winner is the first Scottish destination to take the crown (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

With so much to offer, North Berwick has gained the nickname ‘The Biarritz of the North’, with long-standing comparisons to elegant seaside town on southwestern France’s Basque coast.

What to do in North Berwick

With a relatively small-town population of around 8,000 residents, North Berwick poses a quieter life by the seaside.

Undoubtedly, the sandy beach is the focal point of the community, offering a nearby selection of golf courses. It’s also a popular attraction for swimmers, rowers and sailors, with ample space for picnics and games.

There’s local wildlife to see here, including seals, puffins and occasionally even dolphins, as well as spectacular panoramic views at the top of North Berwick Law.

Akin to Arthur’s Seat in nearby Edinburgh, this hill looms over the town and is popular with many hikers.

Best places to live 2024, as determined by The Sunday Times

  1. North Berwick, East Lothian
  2. Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
  3. Boston Spa, West Yorkshire
  4. Buxton, Derbyshire
  5. Cardigan, Ceredigion
  6. Chorleywood, Hertfordshire
  7. Christleton, Cheshire
  8. Cirencester, Gloucestershire
  9. Clerkenwell, London
  10. Clevedon, Somerset
  11. Conwy, Clywd
  12. Crouch End, London
  13. Dartmouth, Devon.

North Berwick has a range of local restaurants to please culinary lovers, including the Lobster Shack and North Berwick Fry, both serving up freshly caught fish and seafood.

And, for a family-friendly adventure, the historic Tantallon Castle is a mere ten minutes away by car. Nearby is also the Archerfield Walled Garden with stunning greenery, a garden shop and even a food market.

What are house prices like in North Berwick?

North Berwick is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, but there are a range of properties on offer.

A slice of seaside life comes with a bit of a price tag, though. Data from Rightmove shows that, over the last year, the average property has sold for £492,031.

These prices marked a 3% increase on the previous year, further skyrocketing by 9% from the 2021 peak of £453,377.

UK, Scotland, North Berwick, Long exposure of Aurora Borealis over Firth of Forth at night
The northern lights have even been seen in North Berwick (Image: Getty Images/Westend61)

‘Wherever you are on the property ladder, there will be somewhere to suit you,’ said Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor.

‘Where you want to live is a very personal decision. We know it can be daunting, whether it’s deciding where to buy your first home or making a move as your circumstances change,’ added Kim Kinnaird, Halifax’s homes and protection director.

‘There can be lots to think about around what is right for you and your family.’

What people think of North Berwick

Visitors and locals alike are in love with North Berwick, most notably for its beach mentality. In fact, one local described Yellowcraig Beach as their ‘favourite.’

‘This is one of the beaches we regularly visit. Probably my favourite for walking and relaxing on,’ a Tripadvisor review from Highlander40 read.

A pair of North Atlantic Puffins
Puffins are often seen on the beach (Image: Getty Images/500px)

Likewise, another described the views as ‘unreal’ and applauded the ‘calm seas for paddleboarding.’

‘Great for walking the dog,’ Derek N wrote. ‘Really worth the drive. Absolutely stunning place.’

How to get to North Berwick

About 25 miles east of Edinburgh, North Berwick is about 50 minutes away by car.

However, it’s well-connected by public transport, with train prices starting at £4.05 one way on ScotRail. The journey takes between 24 and 41 minutes, traversing stunning Scottish countryside.

See you in bonny Scotland!

Best places to live: The 10 regional winners, as determined by The Sunday Times

  1. East of England: Wivenhoe, Essex
  2. London: Clerkenwell
  3. Midlands: Stirchley, Birmingham
  4. North and northeast of England: Leeds
  5. Northern Ireland: Portstewart, Co Londonderry
  6. Northwest of England: Stockport, Greater Manchester
  7. Scotland: West End, Dundee
  8. Southeast of England: Folkestone, Kent
  9. Southwest of England: Sherborne, Dorset
  10. Wales: Abergavenny, Monmouthshire.

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Hardcore sex art project has funding pulled because it’s too explicit

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Couple with man shirtless and woman's bra strap falling down
A recruitment ad specified that some of the roles would involve ‘hardcore’ acts. (Picture: Getty Images)

Scotland’s cultural funding body has withdrawn support from an art installation involving real sex acts.

Creative Scotland awarded the Rein project £84,555 earlier this year. It later emerged the installation planned to pay performers £270 per day to participate in sex acts.

A recruitment advert targeted at people with sex work experience stated that actors must be over the age of 18 to participate, specifying that some of the roles would involve ‘hardcore’ acts.

Writing on her website, Glasgow-based Project director Leonie Rae Gasson describes herself as someone who ‘approaches her work from a queer and neurodivergent perspective’.

The project website also said it would take audiences on a ‘magical, erotic journey through a distinctly Scottish landscape’ and described it as ending with a secret cave sex party.

Project director Leonie Rae Gasson
Project director Leonie Rae Gasson describes herself as someone who ‘approaches her work from a queer and neurodivergent perspective’. (Picture: Mail Online)

The news attracted criticism from public figures and feminist groups, including For Women Scotland, who said the project dehumanised women while promoting ‘unhealthy and dangerous’ relationships.

Scotland’s culture secretary Angus Robertson said there was ‘no way’ that the project should receive public money.

Creative Scotland said changes to the project had been made without consultation, and that organisers had breached the conditions of her award by proposing to film ‘real’ sex scenes. As a result, the body has withdrawn the funding, while attempting to get back the money already given to the project so far.

A statement from Creative Scotland reads: ‘Following a review of the application, assessment, and contractual agreement regarding the project Rein, Creative Scotland has made the decision to withdraw support for this project and will be seeking recovery of funding paid in respect of this award to date.

‘What has emerged in the latest phase of the project represents a breach of the conditions of funding award, as the nature of the project has changed.

‘The central role that ‘non-simulated’ sex acts now play in the project marks a significant change to the nature of the work presented in the original application which was assessed for funding,’ it added.

Mystery of shipwreck that’s been left to rot off the UK coast for 50 years

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Shipwreck sugar boat at sea on the River Clyde viewed from Firth of Forth Scotland Uk
The sugar ship has been left to rot since it sank 50 years ago (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A shipwreck left on its side after capsizing off the Scottish coast is still rotting away half a century later.

The MV Captayannis sank on January 27, 1974, after sudden 60mph gales whipped up waves which flooded the pump room and forced the vessel to keel over.

Its rusting wreck lies on a sandbank in the Firth of Clyde off the coast of Glasgow, Scotland, and while it has become a tourist attraction in its own right, the questions still remains as to why it’s still in place 50 years later.

It turns out that an ongoing legal wrangle between the MV Captayannis’s owners and insurers have left the wreck in place, and plans to blow the vessel up never came to fruition.

The MV Captayannis, a Greek ship, had moored in the Firth of Clyde as it waited to unload its cargo of raw sugar for the Tate & Lyle factory in Greenock – which explains why the wreck has become known as the ‘sugar ship’.

But sudden gales led to the pump rooms being flooded before captain Theodorakis Ionnis could order his crew to restart the engines.

MV captayannis
MV Captayannis pictured before it sank
Shipwreck sugar boat at sea on the River Clyde viewed from Firth of Forth Scotland Uk
The wreck is now a haven for sea birds and fish (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The vessel dragged its anchor and started to drift – and in the end drifted into the anchor chains of a BP tanker, British Light, which ripped a hole in the hull of the ‘sugar ship’ below the waterline.

Thankfully all 30 members of the crew were rescued without injury, and in the last 50 years the wreckage has become a hotspot for divers and kayakers.

But former Provost Billy Petrie said it was ‘always a puzzle’ to him as to why the wreck was never removed.

He told The Sun: ‘I remember discussions about it in the council at the time and we got in touch with the Clyde Navigation Trust, who said it wasn’t a navigational hazard.

‘I think the main issue with the removal was that no one would accept responsibility for it – between the owners and the insurers.

‘If it had been in the English Channel or something, it would never have been allowed to stay there.

‘The Waverley and small ferries used go on a detour to go and see it.

‘It was a big point of conversation in the town at the time. I went round it myself a few times in a small boat, and it really was quite a hulk. It was some size.

‘It felt a bit like being in Robinson Crusoe or something – it was such a big area, like an island.

‘You used to see boys sat on top of it fishing – whether they caught anything or not I don’t know.

Shipwreck at sea on the Firth of Clyde viewed from Greenock Scotland Uk
It’s not considered a navigational hazard as it sticks up so far out of the water (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Shipwreck sugar boat at sea on the River Clyde viewed from Firth of Forth Scotland Uk
It’s been left in place thanks to ongoing arguing over who’s responsible for it (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

‘The sugar load was never seen again – just like when you put sugar in your tea, it just dissolved in the water.’

The sugar ship has been looted extensively in the decades since it sank, meaning now only the steel hull and superstructure remains.

Despite this, the MV Captayannis’s deck is surprisingly still pretty intact.

The wreck has also become a haven for nature, with fish swarming in the wreckage and sea birds making their nests in its empty hatches.

This, the BBC says, means that anyone who gets close enough to the wreck is overcome by the stench of bird poo.

Plus, previous plans to blow the wreckage up were shelved due to its proximity to the Ardmore Point bird sanctuary.

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Dine and dashers dragged back to restaurant by police to pay £300 bill they left

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dine and dashers refuse to pay bill
The group refused to pay for their bill at the Black Bull in Dumfrieeshire because their night was not ‘amazing enough’ (Picture: Media Scotland)

A group of six men who walked out of a restaurant without paying were dragged back by police to pay their £300 bill of alcohol and food.

They told the owner that their night was not ‘amazing enough’ but they were swiftly marched back to the Black Bull in Dumfriesshire.

Owner Janie Seaton, 52, said: ‘The six had told us they had been unhappy with the mains so I took them off the bill.

‘They also said they were unhappy with the table.

‘One of the group then came up to the bar and said they were not going to pay the remaining £300.

‘I said that they couldn’t do that and got into a stand-off.

‘I felt I had to make a stand – a £300 non-payment would have been a big hit. I have had similar issues over the years.

‘Their attitude was disturbing and extremely misogynistic to me and my manager. I realised that I would have to call the police. At this point they legged it from the premises.

receipts group had to pay
The receipts that the group had to pay when they were escorted back by police (Picture: Black Bull/Media Scotland)
black bull inn
The Black Bull Inn was taken over by Janie in 2018 (Picture: Jim McEwan/Media Scotland)

‘We scored a small win for establishments like mine and staff who deal with these incidents daily. We took a stance. We didn’t back down and we never will. It was not just about the money, it was also about the principle.’

A seventh member of the group did pay before leaving.

Janie added: ‘The police came a short time later and were amazing. They spoke with the six and explained the legal situation and told me they were now going to pay.

‘They brought them in one by one with a police officer flanking either side of them. The police stood by until they made the payment and to ensure there was no further bother.’

Janie said incidents like dine and dash have become more commonplace in recent years.

‘Had they not paid I’d have taken it all the way through the civil courts,’ she said.

‘If people feel they can get way with ripping me off then other people try. The six had simply decided everything they consumed that evening was free.’

Leon Thompson, executive director of UK Hospitality ­Scotland, said: ‘Any customers walking out of restaurants without paying is simply unacceptable.

‘We would encourage any ­operators who experience walkouts to report it to the police.’

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Drunk pilot caught with two bottles of Jagermeister before eight-hour flight

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Drunk pilot caught with two bottles of Jagermeister before eight-hour flight
Captain Lawrence Russell, 63, was wearing his pilot’s uniform and Delta Airlines lanyard when he was stopped at Edinburgh Airport (Picture: Lawrence Russell)

A drunk pilot caught with two bottles of Jagermeister as he attempted to take control of a transatlantic flight has been jailed for 10 months.

Captain Lawrence Russell, 63, was wearing his pilot’s uniform and Delta Airlines lanyard when he was stopped at Edinburgh Airport on June 16 last year.

His carry-on luggage was flagged following an X-ray after being selected for inspection as he went to board a Boeing 767 headed to New York’s JFK Airport.

Staff found an opened bottle of Jagermeister inside, along with another which was half-full, prompting concerns.

Russell, from Georgia in the US, was found to be two-and-a-half times the alcohol limit after a breath test at 9.30am.

He pleaded guilty at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on March 6 to reporting for duty as a pilot while being impaired through alcohol, contrary to the legal limit of 20 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.

Russell was sentenced to 10 months at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday.

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES - FEBRUARY 21: A Delta Airlines plane takeoff from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in San Francisco, California, United States on February 21, 2024. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Delta said its alcohol policy ‘is among the strictest in the industry and we have no tolerance for violation’ (Picture: Anadolu via Getty Images)

Lynne Barrie, Procurator Fiscal for Lothian and Borders, said: ‘Lawrence Russell’s conduct would have endangered many lives; the consequences could have been catastrophic.

‘He showed a reckless disregard for the safety of his passengers and crew. The pilot of a commercial aircraft holds the lives of hundreds in his hands. He would have put all of them at serious risk.

‘This conviction should send the message that crimes of this nature will be robustly dealt with.’

Defence agent Pamela Rodgers told the court her client was a recovering alcoholic who had not drunk alcohol for 277 days and had completed the 12 Steps to Recovery rehab programme.

Ms Rodgers said Russell was just the fourth pilot to be prosecuted in Scotland for attempting to fly while under the influence of alcohol and he is ‘remorseful’ for his actions.

The lawyer added the pilot is a father of two sons with one due to be married later this year and he helps care for his elderly mother.

Following the pilot’s arrest, the flight to New York was cancelled and Delta Airlines confirmed all the passengers were then helped with their travel plans.

A Delta Airlines spokesperson said: ‘While Delta does not comment on on-going legal cases, Delta’s alcohol policy is among the strictest in the industry and we have no tolerance for violation.’

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Remote UK island now has more Easter eggs than people thanks to shop’s mistake

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Dan Dafydd ordered too many Easter eggs
Dan felt eggstremely embarrassed when he realised his mistake (Picture: Sinclair General Stores/SWNS)

As owner of the only shop on a remote Scottish island with 500 residents, stock management is extremely important.

But an ordering error means the Orkney island of Sanday now has more Easter eggs than people.

Dan Dafydd, owner of Sinclair General Stores, thought he’d put in an order for 80 individual chocolate eggs – so he was astonished when the delivery truck turned up two weeks later with 80 cases instead.

An impressive haul of 720 Easter eggs means that the chocolate treats now outnumber Sanday’s population. If they were going to team up and eat all of the eggs, each resident would need to eat just under one-and-a-half eggs each.

Dan explained: ‘I was wanting to order 80 Easter eggs – the deals weren’t great so I wanted to get the bare minimum, and we could always add more when the time gets closer.

‘I thought nothing more of it – until the delivery truck turned up two weeks ago with a lorry filled with Easter eggs.

Dan Dafydd with some of the over ordered Easter eggs at Sinclair General Stores. Photo released March 20 2024. A remote island shop accidentally ordered 720 Easter eggs - more than the population of 500 people. The shop, on the Orkney island of Sanday, mistakenly bought 80 cases of chocolate eggs - instead of 80 individual ones. Dan Dafydd, owner of Sinclair General Stores, is now raffling off 100 of the eggs to one lucky winner, in aid of the RNLI. Dan admits how their Easter egg stock now out-numbered the population of Sanday.
Dan didn’t realise his mistake until the delivery lorry turned up (Picture: Sinclair General Stores/SWNS)
Some of the over ordered Easter eggs at Sinclair General Stores. Photo released March 20 2024. A remote island shop accidentally ordered 720 Easter eggs - more than the population of 500 people. The shop, on the Orkney island of Sanday, mistakenly bought 80 cases of chocolate eggs - instead of 80 individual ones. Dan Dafydd, owner of Sinclair General Stores, is now raffling off 100 of the eggs to one lucky winner, in aid of the RNLI. Dan admits how their Easter egg stock now out-numbered the population of Sanday.
Dealing with a huge number of eggs isn’t all it’s cracked up to be (Picture: Sinclair General Stores/SWNS)
Some of the over ordered Easter eggs at Sinclair General Stores. Photo released March 20 2024. A remote island shop accidentally ordered 720 Easter eggs - more than the population of 500 people. The shop, on the Orkney island of Sanday, mistakenly bought 80 cases of chocolate eggs - instead of 80 individual ones. Dan Dafydd, owner of Sinclair General Stores, is now raffling off 100 of the eggs to one lucky winner, in aid of the RNLI. Dan admits how their Easter egg stock now out-numbered the population of Sanday.
At least he’s making the best of an unfortunate situation by raising money for the RNLI (Picture: Sinclair General Stores/SWNS)

‘You can imagine my surprise, shock and shame as I realised I had messed up and ordered 80 cases – not 80 singular Easter eggs.

‘It is mental how it kicked off! I imagine everyone is having a good giggle, which is good!’

There are now hundreds of Easter eggs in the Sinclair General Store – mainly appearing to be KitKat Chunky or Smarties themed.

Thankfully, Dan has come up with a plan to get some of the excess eggs off his hands (and out of his store room).

He’s set up a raffle, charging £1 per ticket for the chance to win 100 Easter eggs, and all money raised will go to the RNLI.

‘We are a small island surrounded by sea, lots of people have died here from boat related incidents, but RNLI serve the community and we have a colleague who works closely with them too,’ Dan explained.

‘So it just made sense to use RNLI – and it has coincided nicely as they are carrying out their 200 year anniversary too.’

A spokesperson for the charity couldn’t resist cracking an egg-related joke when they responded: ‘We’re eggstremely grateful to Dan at Sinclair General Stores in Sanday for this incredibly generous gesture after a rather unfortunate delivery of 720 chocolate eggs.’

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Scotland’s new hate crime law isn’t a threat to free speech – it could save my life

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Ugla in a red top, standing in front of a tree with pink flowers
I, for one, celebrate moves like this (Picture: Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir)

‘Maybe you should try killing yourself.’

‘You’re a paedophile that supports the mutilation of children.’

‘Cancer is becoming airborne.’

‘I miss it when people like you were put into mental asylums where they belong.’

These are just a selection of the abusive messages and comments I receive on a daily basis and all because of something I can’t change – the fact that I’m trans.

Sadly, these aren’t even the worst ones I’ve received. A few comments have been so truly horrific that my partner and I have seriously considered reporting them to the police.

However, despite recognising transgender identity as one of five protected characteristics alongside race and religion under hate crime law, the criminal law in England and Wales does not appear to treat all those characteristics equally, meaning my complaints have never gone anywhere. 

Thankfully though that does look like it’s beginning to change in other parts of the UK. 

On April 1, the Scottish Government is set to bring into force a new hate crime legislation which supporters say aims to ‘make Scotland a more tolerant society’. And I, for one, celebrate moves like this.

Ugla in a deep V lace top, standing in front of quaint houses - you can see their huge chest tattoo
No democratic society should tolerate and accept this kind of behaviour (Picture: Sharon Kilgannon)

The legislation will essentially ‘criminalise threatening or abusive behaviour which is intended to stir up hatred against someone purely because of who they are’. 

It lists age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity and variation of sex (also known as intersex) characteristics as the groups that would get protection under the law. 

To me, this can only be a good thing and moves us one step closer to creating a society where people cannot abuse and whip up hatred under the guise of ‘free speech’. 

Naturally though, it’s this supposed ‘threat’ to free speech that has certain online personalities so riled up.

It’s been incredibly frustrating (though not entirely surprising) to see the likes of Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling imply this new law is some gross violation of their rights. 

Let’s be clear. Freedom of speech does not entitle anyone to humiliate, abuse and attack someone online or in person simply for being who they are. 

In fact, that right ends where it starts causing active harm to others – and no democratic society should tolerate and accept this kind of behaviour. And that is where this new law comes into play.

You will not be punished because someone disagrees with your beliefs, or is offended by something you said. It is only interested in snubbing out the threatening and abusive behaviour towards these protected groups.

A selfie of Ugla, with long brown hair
The Scottish government has said it is working on a separate legislation that is relating to misogyny specifically (Picture: Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir)

My experiences online are proof that it is all too common for people to believe they are perfectly in their rights to misgender and humiliate me and my identity with impunity and without consequence. But this is what needs to stop.

There is a clear difference between disagreeing about a particular topic and discussing that, and openly calling people slurs, abusing them for being who they are, humiliating them for their identities, and using intimidating language that incites further hatred and discrimination.

Frankly, if you can’t disagree with someone without humiliating them or degrading who they are as a person, then you really need to learn how to communicate like a human being.

JK Rowling at a red carpet event
I’m not surprised to see JK Rowling speaking out (Picture: Getty)

The law has also been criticised by certain feminist groups for not including ‘sex’ as one of the protected characteristics, leading them to claim the law will then be used to ‘criminalise women who do not share their beliefs’.

While I agree that threatening or abusive behaviour based on sexist and misogynistic attitudes should have been included – and let’s not forget that the Scottish government has said it is working on a separate legislation that is relating to misogyny specifically – I feel that it is misguided to think this law will be used against ‘women’ in particular.

Do you agree with the policy? Have your say in the comments belowComment Now

It also falsely implies all women somehow disagree with trans rights or trans people’s identities which is not only untrue but completely misses the point.

This law is not going to distract from the very real systematic issues of sexism and misogyny which are clearly rife in our society (that trans people also suffer from), it’s just that the main purpose of the law is to protect people from abuse directed at them simply for being who they are. 

As a trans person, who has seen hate crimes and hate incidents towards my community increase in recent years, I hope it will address some of the worst abuse we receive, even down to my own comments section. 

Should those passing the law done so with more understanding of the reaction it was going to generate? Probably. They also haven’t really appeared to be equipped with arguments to counter misleading narratives and to calm the public.

And despite reports which said that Police Scotland will no longer investigate every low level crime, the Scottish government has said that there is funding allocated towards the right training to police officers to address these issues. It has also promised of record funding towards the police.

I sincerely hope all this is enough because, as someone who doesn’t have huge faith in police officers to handle these issues sensitively, I worry whether they will truly be fully equipped to handle these issues fairly and adequately.

My biggest concern is that the police will not be able to investigate and deal with cases brought to them with enough diligence and time. 

Still, I remain overall hopeful that the legislation in Scotland will make it easier for people who truly need it to get justice, and that vile abuse and communication meant to humiliate or whip up hatred against minorities will be taken more seriously.

While the law isn’t perfect, it is certainly a step in the right direction. We cannot build a society where everyone has equal opportunities if we are constantly allowing people to abuse, humiliate and whip up hatred against minority groups under the guise of ‘beliefs’ or ‘freedom of speech’.

It’s time we addressed what’s really happening here, and stop brushing off abuse and harassment as acceptable behaviour and matter of public debate.

Free speech has limits. It’s time to enforce them. 

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk

Share your views in the comments below.

EuroMillions winner to spend £1,000,000 winnings on new home with terminally ill husband

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Undated handout photo issued by National Lottery of Marlyn Anderson, 70, and husband Ian from Stirling, celebrating after their ?1 million win on EuroMillions. Issue date: Thursday March 21, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story LOTTERY Winners. Photo credit should read: James Chapelard/National Lottery/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.
Ian and Marlyn Anderson will now be able to live in comfort (Picture: PA)

A carer who won £1 million on the lottery plans to buy a bungalow to make her terminally ill husband’s life easier.

Marlyn Anderson, 70, and husband Ian, 77, have been living in the front room of their house due to the round-the-clock treatment he needs for a lung disease.

Ian developed pleural plaques and pulmonary fibrosis after working on construction sites, which he believes is linked to asbestos exposure.

The couple, who have two children, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild, have been married 32 years but they had to give up foreign holidays due to Ian’s diagnosis.

Marlyn described their current home in Stirling as ‘like a bedsit’, and she now hopes to find a spacious bungalow nearby after winning EuroMillions.

The couple have already bought an automatic car, a Citroen DS 7 Rivoli, with the winnings after Marlyn bought a lucky dip ticket online.

Undated handout photo issued by National Lottery of Marlyn Anderson, 70, and husband Ian from Stirling, celebrating after their ?1 million win on EuroMillions. Issue date: Thursday March 21, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story LOTTERY Winners. Photo credit should read: James Chapelard/National Lottery/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.
Ian has lived with lung disease in recent years after his work on construction sites (Picture: PA)
Undated handout photo issued by National Lottery of Marlyn Anderson, 70, and husband Ian from Stirling, celebrating after their ?1 million win on EuroMillions. Issue date: Thursday March 21, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story LOTTERY Winners. Photo credit should read: James Chapelard/National Lottery/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.
Marlyn said the whole experience has been ‘surreal’ (Picture: PA)

She initially believed the amount she had won was £1,000 and said she was ‘delighted’ with the small amount, but began to fear it was a scam when she saw the number of zeroes.

Marlyn believes her win couldn’t have come at a better time as it will ensure Ian can have the very best quality of life in the time he has left.

She said: ‘As a result of Ian’s condition, he is unable to get upstairs. He struggles to breathe so we currently have our living room set up like a bedsit. We have no other option.

‘Buying a bungalow will allow Ian to have his own bedroom and for us to have a sitting room too, all on one level. This will be so special as it is something we haven’t been able to do for such a long time. He will be able to live the rest of his life in comfort.’

She recalled when she got the news that she had won: ‘It was the day after the draw that I logged on to my emails just to see if there was any news about my ticket, and there was.

‘I just kept thinking it couldn’t be true and it must be a scam. I was desperately watching the clock tick to 8am when I could call the National Lottery number to confirm if what I was seeing really was true.

‘I couldn’t believe it when the person on the other end of the phone told me it was. I actually don’t think the news has fully sunk in yet. Neither Ian nor I can believe it.

‘It still all seems very surreal. There is no other word to describe what we are going through right now.’

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Hero brother and sister helped trapped passengers after bus crashed into block of flats

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The scene of a bus flat crash.
Emergency crews remain at the scene (Picture: Paisley Daily Express/Media Scotland)

A brother and sister sprinted onto a bus that crashed into a block of flats in Paisley, Scotland to try and rescue the injured passengers.

Emergency services were called at around 12.20pm yesterday after a McGill’s bus smashed into high-rise flats on Hamilton Court, Calside.

Five people were taken to hospital with the driver among the injured, McGill’s Buses said.

Witnesses say the bus was travelling along Craw Road when it veered off and they suddenly heard a ‘bang’ at lunchtime.

David Bannerman, 40, told BBC Scotland News he and his sister Debbie Tifften rushed out to help.

‘The people on the bus were all a bit dazed and confused so we just tried to calm them down. I think they’ll all be okay in the end,’ he said.

Emergency Services at Bus Crash Hamilton Court Paisley Picture by contracted freelance Andrew Neil
One of the siblings said the doors had ‘buckled’ (Picture: Paisley Daily Express/Media Scotland)

‘Me and my sister jumped onto the bus through the windows to see if we could help calm people down.

‘We couldn’t get the people off the bus because the doors were buckled but we made sure they were all sitting down until the emergency services got here.’

Another local said the incident must have been ‘frightening’ for the driver.

‘A car crashed into the building a few years ago too, it’s a bad bit of road,’ they said.

Ian Ward, 71, who lives in neighbouring Calside Court, added to The Gazette that a black Audi rammed into the block about 14 months ago.

‘I’m surprised at what has happened with the bus though,’ he said.

Emergency Services at Bus Crash Hamilton Court Paisley Picture by contracted freelance Andrew Neil
Locals said they heard a ‘bang’ (Picture: Paisley Daily Express/Media Scotland)

Officers had cordoned the area off and several roads are closed including Calside Avenue, Polsons Crescent, Craw Road and Alexandra Gate.

It is not yet known how the bus crashed however pictures from the scene show the vehicle wedged against the wall at the foot of Hamilton Court.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said yesterday: ‘Five people have been taken to hospital for treatment and enquiries are ongoing.

‘A number of road closures are in place including Calside Avenue, Polsons Crescent, Craw Road and Alexandra Gate. Drivers are asked to avoid the area.’

A spokesperson for McGill’s Buses said: ‘This is a live incident and McGill’s personnel are in attendance to establish the details of the crash. We cannot comment further at this stage.’

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Scottish Ambulance Service have been contacted for comment.

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Police hunting for man in tartan scarf after man murdered at ‘busy’ bus stop

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A busy Ferry Road in Edinburgh where red, black and green cars drive past stone buildings and shopfronts lit by sun
A busy Ferry Road in Edinburgh when a 65-year-old man murdered (Picture: Google)

A man in a red tartan scarf is being sought by police after a ‘random’ murder in Edinburgh.

Nashir Ahmed, 65, died in hospital after the ‘completely unprovoked’ attack at a bus stop on busy Ferry Road on March 10.

He was standing with a 48-year-old man at a bus stop near the junction with Great Junction Street and Coburg Street when they were attacked by another man.

Both men were taken to hospital at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, but Mr Ahmed could not be saved and died five days later on March 15.

The second man was discharged after receiving treatment for serious leg and facial injuries.

Mr Ahmed’s family have been informed and police are treating his death as a murder.

The suspect is described as black and around 30 years old, with short, dark hair.

He was wearing a red tartan scarf and a long, black jacket with a hood at the time of the attack.

Police are renewing their appeal for information that could help their investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector George Calder said: ‘Our thoughts and condolences are with Mr Ahmed’s family and the other victim and specialist officers are supporting them during this extremely difficult time.

‘This was a completely random and unprovoked assault on Mr Ahmed and his friend and it is absolutely vital that we trace the individual responsible for this despicable and senseless crime.

‘Ferry Road would have been busy around the time and we would continue to urge anyone who witnessed this attack as well as anyone with dash-cam or private CCVV footage of the area which could be of significance, to please get in touch.

‘Incidents of this nature can understandably cause concern to the local community however we are following a number of positive lines of enquiry and there will continue to be additional patrols in the area to provide reassurance.’

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Woman ‘too sick to walk’ caught finishing 5km run in under 30 minutes

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Perth Sheriff Court
Annette Bond is on trial at Perth Sheriff Court in central Scotland (Picture: Simon Armstrong)

A woman is on trial for suspected benefits fraud after it was discovered she was running regular 5ks – while claiming she could barely walk without support.

Perth Sheriff Court heard how silversmith Annette Bond spent nearly a decade conning taxpayers out of £67,062.50, despite being able-bodied.

Bond claimed her mobility was ‘severely’ impaired by her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 2004.

Bond’s mother, Elizabeth Bond, 68, told the jury her daughter exercised regularly to fight the condition.

Jurors at Perth Sheriff Court were shown video footage of Bond leaving her home in the Perthshire village of Stanley in high visibility running gear to carry out 5k runs around her neighbourhood – in less than 30 minutes.

Department of Work and Pensions fraud investigator Scott Hodge, 54, said the team eventually quit the surveillance operation early because they had gathered so much damning evidence against Bond.

He told the court that the team parked in view of Bond’s home and filmed her running the same route three times in a ten-day period in 2017.

Mr Hodge said: ‘She is walking briskly and then she turns at the junction and begins to run. That road was taking her away from Stanley and into a wooded area.’

‘I have gone ahead of the subject and then captured footage of her running along the road back into Stanley. It would have been hills, ascents and descents, at various different parts of the journey.

‘We used an internet website to ascertain the distance. The estimated distance run was 4,800 metres – just short of three miles.’

Woman feet running on road closeup on shoe. Young fitness women runner legs ready for run on the road. Sports healthy lifestyle concept.
Bond regularly ran 5k in under half an hour (Picture: Getty Images)

Mr Hodge told the court that Bond had completed the runs without any support from anyone else, had not been unsteady on her feet, and did not appear to be impaired.

He said the team had been granted a warrant to carry out the surveillance operation between May 30 and August 29, 2017, but brought it to a premature conclusion after less than two weeks.

Mr Hodge added: ‘It was felt that we would probably just see more of the same over the following days, so the decision was taken to end surveillance.’

He said Bond’s confident running – often alongside passing cars on main roads around the Perthshire village – was at odds with the claims she had made about her condition.

On her claim form, she stated ‘I prefer someone with me at all times when I am outdoors because I have poor balance. There is a risk of falling and dizzy spells.’

Bond’s mother told the court: ‘I occasionally saw her when I was on the way to work. She was out running. I was very pleased to see she was fit enough to run.

‘It was most mornings on my way to work. For months. She seemed to walk quite well. She was exercising to try and strengthen her legs.

‘I think she had a running machine in her house. I think it was a cross-trainer she had as well.’

The court also heard from a work colleague that Bond had been seen dancing during a Christmas night out.

No-one was helping to support her and she was not wearing any leg braces or similar equipment, the jury was told.

Jurors also heard Bond had not reported any change in her circumstances to the Department of Work and Pensions between June 2004 and November 2018.

Bond, 49, denies fraudulently obtaining £67,062.50 in benefits from April 2009 until November 2018.

She also denies failing to tell the DWP about a change in her condition which meant her support needs and physical ability had improved.

Her claims were for Disability Living Allowance ‘enhanced care’ and ‘enhanced mobility’ payments.

The trial, before Sheriff William Wood, continues.

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A UK island will pay you £150,000 to move there and ‘escape the rat race’

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View of a saltmarsh on the Grimsay Peninsula in North Uist, Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
It’s very remote… (Picture: Getty Images)

How much money would it take to convince you to move to one of the UK’s most remote islands? 

If £150,000 sounds about right, then there’s an opportunity you might not want to miss, but there’s a catch. You’ll need to be trained in a very specific field in order to nab it. 

A GP practice serving the Hebridean islands of Uist and Benbecula off the west coast of Scotland is looking for new doctors to work and live there.

NHS Western Isles is offering a lucrative salary of between £69,993 and £104,469 for the 40-hour week roles, with an additional 40% enhanced rate on top of the typical Scottish GP salary.

They’re hoping this sum, along with up to £8,000 in relocation expenses, remote working allowance (£1,279 a year), and a ‘golden hello’ payment of up to £10,000 will attract new recruits. Those that are hired on the maximum wage with all of these extras will be earning almost £150,000 a year.

If that weren’t enough you also get 41 days of annual leave per year.

Beach at Baleloch, North Uist, Outer Hebrides, Scotland
Life here won’t be everyone’s cup of tea… (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The ideal candidates for the positions will be ‘self-reliant and highly-motivated’ and have a ‘sense of adventure and passion for rural medicine’, according to the NHS Western Isles.

The job description reads: ‘From the fishing port of Lochmaddy in the north; to the shimmering beaches of Lochboisdale in the South, the Isles of Uist and Benbecula offer a warm welcome and are teeming with life, activity and culture. 

‘It is in this unique, safe and idyllic location that a rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for at least five GPs to form a new team as part of a new 2C medical practice. We are ready and excited to welcome GPs to escape the rat race and embrace a more healthy work-life balance with NHS Western Isles. 

‘The posts will be based in Benbecula Medical Practice, an island scattered with lochs and lochans, endless sea and spectacular seascapes and surroundings. The post holders will be able to use and further develop their skills and experience through the provision of community hospital medical cover, which is also part of this role.’

The Isle of Rum from Laig Bay, Eigg
The Isle of Rum seen in the distance from Laig Bay in Eigg. (Picture: Getty Images)

However, it’s not just doctors that are needed on the Outer Hebrides, as a primary school on the Isle of Rum is also seeking a new headteacher.

The location has a population of just 40 people at present, with the school having just five pupils aged five to 11 and two nursery school pupils (aged three and four).

The successful applicant is being offered a salary of £62,000 for the role and they’ll also be entitled to remote working allowances worth more than £5,500.

There has already been some interest in the position according to Highland Council, however the role is still available and has not yet been filled.

What’s life like in the Outer Hebrides?

@sianswinton

a quiet friday morning in uist nuair a bheil i grianach with my favourite little girl #scotland #scottishisland #uist #outerhebrides

♬ My Love Mine All Mine – Mitski

Life as part of a remote community is obviously very different from what most people are used to, and while it might take some adapting to at first, there are many benefits of living somewhere like Uist or Benbecula.

Social media users who’ve visited or live in these areas have shared jaw-dropping videos of the local scenery and gushed over the charming ‘slower’ pace of life available in the Hebrides.

Most videos feature walks along the beach, or across the sweeping ‘flat’ landscapes that some have compared to Iceland.

For those looking to travel to the Hebrides, there are various ways to get there with an airport on Benbecula with flights to and from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness.

The flights run year-round and is provided by Loganair, which is part of the British Airways booking system.

Alternatively there are ferries operated by Caledonian Macbrayne, with five year-round routes.

You’ll be able to access most commonly needed facilities on islands such as Uist and Benbecula, with some shops, petrol stations, places to eat and drink, and various other local attractions.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Man injured by ‘medieval booby trap’ left to injure cyclists

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Spiked booby trap ridden over by Mountain biker
The nasty trap had four inch spikes coming out of it (Credit: Tich Kent)

A mountain biker was injured after he hit a ‘disturbing’ booby trap hidden on a popular bike trail.

Tich Kent’s ride near Philpstoun Bing about 20 miles north-west of Edinburgh took a nasty turn when he hit a sharp object.

It was revealed to be a medieval-looking metal slate with 11 four-inch nails welded into it and placed at the landing of a steep downhill section.

The keen rider went flying from his bike after both of his tyres were hit, leaving him with a puncture wound despite layers of clothing.

A smiling man on a mountain bike in a woodland trail surrounded by trees.
Tich during a ride (Credit: Tich Kent’s Facebook)

He said he believed the device was hidden as ‘trail sabotage’ and may have been aimed at riders of motocross bikes.

The 50-year-old said: ‘This is next-level dangerous sabotage’.

A second, similar booby trap was discovered nearby, leading to fears a rider could be seriously injured if they hit them, Mail Online reported.

Mr Kent, an IT worker, was enjoying a Saturday ride out with his wife when the incident happened.

He said on social media: ‘It slashed both my tyres, and my rear wheel flung it up with so much force it went through three layers of clothes, including padded shorts, and I have a puncture wound.

Aerial view of an oil waste bing used for mountain biking in Philpstoun in West Lothian, Scotland
The bing in Philpstoun in West Lothian (Credits: Alamy Stock Photo)

‘I’m still somewhat in shock that someone actually welded this thing together and put it on a trail – it could have caused genuine serious injury.’

And this isn’t even the first time traps have been found buried on the trail.

Another cyclist who discovered a similar device planned to bring a metal detector to check for more traps.

Now police are investigating the incident and they urged users of the trail close to the Union Canal to remain vigilant and report if any more devices are found.

Real-life utopia with mountain views and white sand beaches crowned UK’s most beautiful village

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Ullapool, Scotland, UK
The scenic landscape of Ullapool town, Ross and Cromarty, Scotland, United Kingdom. (Credits: Getty Images)

The most beautiful villages in the UK have been crowned, with the Scottish utopia of Ullapool in the Wester Ross region taking the coveted top spot.

The tiny village in the Scottish Highlands, around 45 miles north of Inverness, won thanks to its lush greenery, blue waters and white sand beaches.

Despite its northerly location, it could be mistaken for somewhere off the coast of Greece in the height of summer.

Though it has a minuscule population of just 1,500 inhabitants, the fishing village is actually the most populated area for miles around, with restaurants and tourist attractions making it an ideal UK holiday spot.

The ranking was led by Big 7 Travel, which asked some of the UK’s leading travel photographers to vote for the nation’s most picturesque towns and villages.

What to do in Ullapool

Ullapool is an important port and tourist destination in Scotland. From nature walks, beach days to art galleries and museums, there’s loads to do.

Explore the village

Beyond its lush natural scenery, the village is home to a thriving arts and crafts scene and there are a number of brilliant art galleries to visit, such as Rhue Art and the Harbour Gallery.

For a dose of history, you can also check out Ullapool Museum, which is housed in a gorgeous Category A listed building.

Here you can learn about social history of Lochbroom through displays on crofting, fishing, the ‘klondykers’ and much more.

If you’re there on the weekend, be sure to check out Ullapool’s Saturday market, where you can buy delicious food and gorgeous ornaments made by local artisans.

Go for a walk

High Angle View Of Puffin Perching On Rock, Ullapool
(Credits: Getty Images/500px)

Situated on the eastern shore of Loch Broom, the natural scenery in Ullapool is to die for. The Loch itself is home to seals and a variety of stunning sea birds – hello puffins!

For stunning views of the Loch, head to Ullapool Hill, which can be accessed either by a short, steep walk, or a steep drive.

Ullapool also has many gorgeous nature reserves, including the verdant Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, the well-known Bones Cave, the walk to which takes you along a lovely river trail, or the more off the beaten track Inverpolly Nature Reserve, which allows you to experience Suilven, Stac Pollaidh and Canisp — some of Scotland’s most distinctive mountains. 

And, if you fancy a proper hike, you can make the short trek up Stac Pollaidh Mountain.

Visit the Wailing Widow Waterfalls

A not-to-miss attraction if you’re visiting Ullapool is the Wailing Widow Falls.

Located just north of the village, and accessible by car, the 50ft waterfall just 40 minutes drive away is a must see. Not to mention, Eas a’ Chual Aluinn, Britain’s highest waterfall, is just a short hike away.

Hit the beach

Ullapool is home to a range of beautiful beaches, from pebbled shores to white sands, and they are a must-see for anyone visiting the village, especially in summer.

If you want to feel like you’ve left the UK entirely, head to Achmelvich Beach, a lush beach with the bluest waters. Surrounded by nature, Achmelvich is a great place for whale and dolphin spotting, rock pool fishing and water sports.

To catch a gorgeous sunset, head to the pebbled shores of Ardmair Beach, where you can also spot seals and otters, if you’re lucky.

Ullapool house prices

There aren’t many properties for sale in Ullapool. In the last year, 11 properties were sold in total, according to data compiled by Rightmove.

In the last five years, there have only been 94 properties sold in the little village. Compared with the 1400 sold in Inverness, that’s minuscule.

House prices in Ullapool are currently at an all-time high, with the average property costing £221,922.

This is up 10% up on the previous peak of £201,475, back in 2014.

Other idyllic staycation spots that made the cut

While a big chunk of the villages featured in the Big 7 Travel list are up north — mostly in Scotland, as well as in Cumbria and Northumbria in England — there are three gorgeous villages in the UK’s southwest that made the cut.

Last summer, a survey of 2,000 parents of children aged from under one to 18, found that 53% now go on more staycations than holidays abroad.

The same research crowned Cornwall the best destination for a family staycation, and neighbouring Devon came third. 

With its balmy summer climate and breathtaking views, the south coast is ideal for anyone looking for a summer staycation spot this year — why not try one of the most beautiful spots in the UK?

Portloe, Cornwall, England

Portloe
Hikes and beaches… what more could you want? (Picture: Getty Images)

Portloe, in Cornwall, is the epitome of a peaceful fishing village — authentic, less crowded and utterly idyllic. 

With beautiful beaches and access to the famous South West Coast Path, Portloe makes for an amazing Cornish getaway… and totally worth the 5-hour drive. 

Big 7 Travel recommends staying at the Lugger Hotel for stunning beach views and great food. 

Alfriston, East Sussex, England

Sussex town
Perfect for recharging from city life (Picture: Getty Images)

Alfriston, in East Sussex, is a stone’s throw away from Brighton.

It’s home to gorgeous thatched-roofed cottages, a whole host of quaint pubs and loads of lovely art and book shops. It’s perfect if you need a hard reset away from city living.

If you’re into hiking, Alfriston offers access to the South Downs Way, leading to the iconic Seven Sisters chalk cliffs.

Big 7 Travel recommends staying at the charming Ye Olde Smugglers Inne, which was built in 1358.

South Pool, Devon, England

Slipway with Salcombe in background
How glorious (Picture: Getty Images)

Number 19 on the list was South Pool, Devon, a more well known spot for staycationers.

The tiny coastal village is the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy a slow paced weekend in the countryside, with incredible scenery, cosy pubs and a Grade I church to visit — St Nicholas and St Cyriac Church, which was built in the 14th century. 

Big 7 Travel recommends staying at the Harbour Beach Club & Hotel, which is right on the beach and just a 15 minute drive from South Pool. 

The 20 most beautiful villages in the UK

  1. Ullapool, Ross and Cromarty
  2. Tobermory, Isle of Mull
  3. Port Isaac, Cornwall 
  4. Culross, Fife 
  5. Cushendun, County Antrim 
  6. Dent, Cumbria
  7. St. Abbs, Scottish Borders
  8. Cartmel, Cumbria 
  9. Solva, Pembrokeshire 
  10. Laugharne, Carmarthenshire
  11. Crail, Fife
  12. Portloe, Cornwall
  13. Beddgelert, Snowdonia
  14. Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia
  15. Alnmouth, Northumberland
  16. Alfriston, East Sussex
  17. Lower Slaughter, the Cotswolds 
  18. Sonning, Berkshire
  19. South Pool, Devon 
  20. Turville, Buckinghamshire.

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Sex offender on the run tells police ‘I can’t believe you’ve got me’

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Wanted sex offender who fled 250 miles tells police 'I can't believe you've got me'
Steve Walsh said vigilantes had left him in intensive care (Picture: Merseyside Police)

A convicted sex offender expressed his shock when he was caught by police after fleeing over 250 miles, telling the force ‘I can’t believe you’ve got me’ during his arrest.

Steve Walsh, 36, claimed he had fled to Scotland after being under attack from ‘vigilantes’ in Merseyside, of which one assault was said to have left him in intensive care.

Walsh had been previously locked up for seven years in November 2016 as he pleaded guilty to a modern slavery offence, two counts of sexual assault, assault with intent to resist arrest and possession of prohibited items in prison.

He signed the sex offenders’ register and was handed a sexual harm prevention order.

The order required him to notify police of his address every seven days and he had to let them know when he was staying away from the area.

Wanted sex offender who fled 250 miles tells police 'I can't believe you've got me'
He was discovered by police at the Fife property with his clothes packed in bags and in possession of a large amount of cash (Picture: Merseyside Police )

But Liverpool Crown Court heard on Friday (March 22) that Walsh last registered his home on December 29, 2023, and was then out of contact with the force for two months. 

Walsh was found in Fife on February 22 this year, in a home where it was clear that there were children who were occupants of the address – although they were not present at the time of his arrest, said prosecutor Stuart Mills.

Walsh had not notified the police of is travel to Scotland or that he was staying in a property where children were living.

As he was arrested, Walsh said: ‘I was nearly gone. I can’t believe you’ve got me here.’

The defendant appeared via video link to HMP Altcourse, and was jailed for a year for breaching a sexual harm prevention order and failing to comply with notification requirements.

Recorder Kendrick Horne said during sentencing: ‘As a result of those allegations you sustained some injuries at the hands of others, which caused you to be admitted to hospital and caused you to fear for your own safety.

‘You moved to Scotland and lost contact with the police.

‘For two months, you did not tell them where you were. When you were found, you were found with your bags packed and a large amount of cash – evidently with the intention of moving on.

‘As a result, agencies were unable to assess the risk you posed. It was two months where you went to ground with a number of attempts to avoid detection, including moving to Scotland and having a large amount of cash so that you could live untraceably.

‘I accept that you acted in fear. Although there may have been good reason for you to move outside of the Merseyside area, that is not a reason for moving to Scotland and then not telling the police where you were.’

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Family pay tribute to ‘perfect’ boy, 11, killed by a bin lorry as he rode his bike

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Thomas Wong
Thomas Wong was killed in the crash on Friday (Picture: SWNS/Media Scotland)

An 11-year-old boy who died after he was hit by a bin lorry while riding a bike has been described by his family as ‘the perfect son’.

Thomas Wong was killed on Friday, March 1, after he was involved in a crash with a bin lorry on Whitehouse Road in Edinburgh.

He was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, while the driver of the bin lorry was reportedly uninjured.

In a tribute to their son, Thomas’s family said: ‘We are utterly heartbroken. Thomas was the perfect son. He was the best little brother to his older sister and was adored by all his family.

‘Thomas went to Cramond Primary School which he loved. He made good friends there. We will all miss him terribly.

‘We are very grateful for all the sympathy and heartfelt messages we have received from people. Thank you.’

Thomas Wong, 11. The heartbroken parents of a boy who died after he was hit by a bin lorry while riding his bike have paid tribute to their ?perfect son?. Release date ? March 3, 2024. See SWNS story SWMRnamed. Thomas Wong, 11, was tragically killed in the collision with the refuse wagon in Edinburgh on Friday (March 1). He was struck on Whitehouse Road near the junction with Braehead Road, in the North of the city, and passed away at the scene, police said. Following the news of his sad death, his family said they were devastated by his loss, adding that he was ?adored? by all his relatives.
He was riding his bike at the time (Picture: Police Scotland/SWNS)
Edinburgh residents have left floral tributes at the scene of collision that claimed the life of a schoolboy. The 11-year-old was riding his bike when he was involved in a crash with a bin lorry. The incident happened at around 8.20am on Friday morning, at the junction of Whitehouse Road and Braehead Road.
Police are still investigating the crash (Picture: Media Scotland)

Police Scotland is still investigating what happened.

Inspector Andrew Thomson said: ‘Our thoughts are very much with Thomas’s family and friends. Specially trained officers are supporting the family at this time.

‘We are continuing with our enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident and would appeal to anyone who may have information, and has not yet contacted police, is to get in touch with officers.

‘I would also be keen to speak to anyone who may have dash-cam or private CCTV footage from the area.’

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Dad blasts Joey Barton for ‘bullying’ his daughter, 17, after Rangers beat Partick Thistle in Scottish Women’s Premier League Cup final

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Joey Barton criticised 17-year-old goalkeeper Ava Easdon after the SWPL Cup final
Joey Barton criticised 17-year-old goalkeeper Ava Easdon after the SWPL Cup final (Getty)

The father of Partick Thistle goalkeeper Ava Easdon has slammed Joey Barton after he criticised his 17-year-old daughter on social media for her performance in the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) Cup final.

Easdon, a Scotland youth international who joined Thistle on loan from Glasgow City last summer, was in goal as Rangers ran out 4-1 winners in the SWPL Cup final at Tynecastle Park on Sunday.

After the game, Barton shared a clip of Easdon conceding Rangers’ first goal in the 13th minute on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote: ‘I mean let’s just talk about the goalie! How is this nonsense on the box? #cosplayfootball’.

Easdon’s dad, Lex, a seven-time world kickboxing champion, subsequently hit out at Barton’s post and defended his daughter, who has made just 11 first-team appearances in her career so far.

‘In 2024 and ‘grown’ men still feel the need to belittle and bully a 17-year-old school kid, who doesn’t get paid to play,’ Lex Easdon wrote on X.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - MARCH 24: Partick Thistle's Ava Easdon looks dejected at full time during the Sky Sports Cup Final match between Partick Thistle and Rangers at Tynecastle Park, on March 24, 2024, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Rob Casey / SNS Group)
Ava Easdon was making only the 11th appearance of her career as Partick Thistle lost 4-1 to Rangers at Tynecastle Park (SNS Group)

‘Unlike some men who make the same mistake week after week for hundreds of thousands of pounds.

‘She has moved up from youth level straight into SWPL1, just starting out her journey. She’s made a mistake in her positioning 13 minutes into a cup final.

‘@Joey7Barton my daughter is young enough to be your daughter and you playing up to all your young fan boys won’t go down well with your daughters when they’re old enough to see all the s*** you spout on social media. Top class role model there, mate.’

In a reply to a user who pointed out Barton’s hypocrisy for talking about the women’s game when he has criticised female pundits for commenting on men’s football, Easdon called the former Premier Legaue midfielder ’embarrassing’.

He also added in a separate reply: ‘Just as well Ava is more mature and mentally tough than the lot of them and is actually laughing at the comments but could easily be so different considering the impact social media can have on people’s mental health.’

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Stolen 8ft Gary the Gorilla found one year later – but key part is missing

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Text message inset saying Gary has been found, with picture of him next to van
A breakthrough in the case of missing Gary (Picture: Bear Scotland/Reynard Nursery)

The abduction of Gary the Gorilla was one of the most eagerly followed true crime cases of 2023.

Thieves unbolted the 8ft fibreglass figure from the ground and made off in the night, with CCTV footage showing several people loading him into a white van.

Standing even taller than a real gorilla, Gary would have been hard to conceal. And there were many supposed sightings, as he has doppelgangers at other garden centres and one which was seen being towed down a motorway near Warwick.

Now there has finally been a breakthrough, with the real Gary thought to have been tracked to a layby on the A92 in Fife.

His owners at Reynard’s Nursery near Carluke in Scotland were initially ‘full of excitement’ at seeing the gorilla again, when a member of the public text them a photo to see if it was theirs.

But ‘it wasn’t quite the wholesome reunion we were expecting’, they said – as only half of Gary was found.

A text with a photo of Gary's back reading 'Does that look like it? This was found last week up in Dundee'
The text alerting staff that Gary had been found – or part of him at least (Picture: Reynard Garden Centre)

Up Next

Police on the hunt for a giant gorilla
Gary in his rightful place, donning a mask during lockdowns (Picture: Andrew Scott)
Police on the hunt for a giant gorilla
Poor Gary also had chickenpox at one point (Picture: Andrew Scott)
Police on the hunt for a giant gorilla
Mr Scott joked Gary’s children were missing him (Picture: Andrew Scott)

They have now rescued the backside of Gary from a skip, but his face, chest and front of his arms and legs are still missing.

The breakthrough came after staff at Bear Scotland, responsible for maintaining Scotland’s main roads network, found 50% of Gary dumped by the roadside.

He was taken to be disposed of, but someone recognised him from media reports and got in touch with Andrew Scott from the garden centre.

Almost exactly a year after he was taken on March 19, the trail to track down Gary has heated up again.

Hopefully he can soon be returned to his rightful spot watching over the road in Lanarckshire, where staff would dress him up with the changing of the seasons, kitting up out with a Santa hat and even PPE during lockdown.

The garden centre urged customers on their Facebook page: ‘We are now asking anyone with any information on the whereabouts of Gary’s better half, please contact us.’

Thanks to the road workers who recogised the statue and ‘the criminal’s disregard to the laws of fly tipping’, they ‘feel we are ‘closer than ever to bringing all of Gary home’.

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Boy, 17, killed in e-bike crash alongside another teenager named

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Marcus Beck
Marcus Beck was killed in the crash (Picture: Police Scotland)

One of two teenage boys killed after an e-bike crashed with four cars has been named as 17-year-old Marcus Beck.

Marcus and a 16-year-old boy, who has not yet been named, were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on the A941 Lossiemouth to Elgin road in Moray at 8pm last night.

The horrific crash involved a Surron e-bike, a blue Vauxhall Mokka, a red Renault Clio, a black Vauxhall Corsa and a white VW Golf.

Two other people – a 14-year-old boy who was riding the bike and a 54-year-old man, driving the Mokka, were hospitalised with serious injuries.

Both their conditions are said to be stable.

The families of both boys who were killed have asked for their privacy to be respected, but in a statement Marcus’ family said: ‘Marcus was a young man who loved going out and about with his mates.

26 March 2024. A941 at its junction with B9135, Elgin to Lossiemouth Road,Moray,Scotland. This is the scene of the fatal RTC relative to the following Police PR. At the scene Children have been laying flowers in remembrance. Road policing officers are appealing for information following a fatal crash on the A941 Lossiemouth to Elgin road at the junction with the B9135 in Moray. The incident happened around 8pm on Monday, 25 March, and involved a Sur-ron e-bike, a blue Vauxhall Mokka, a red Renault Clio, a black Vauxhall Corsa and a white VW Golf. Emergency services attended and two male youths, a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, pillions on the bike, were pronounced dead at the scene. A 14-year-old male youth, the rider of the bike, was taken to Dr Gray???s Hospital in Elgin with serious injuries. His condition is described as stable. The driver of the Mokka, a 54-year-old man, was taken to Dr Gray???s Hospital in Elgin with serious injuries. His condition is described as critical but stable. No one else was injured. The road was closed for crash investigation work to be carried out. Sergeant Iain Nicolson said: ???Our thoughts are very much with the families and friends of the two teenagers who died and they need privacy at what is a very upsetting and difficult time for all. ???Our investigation into the crash is ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who has not already spoken to officers and who has any information to help with our enquiries. ???If you have dash-cam or anything else that could assist officers then please get in touch.??? Credit - Jasperimage
Floral tributes have been left at the scene (Picture: JASPERIMAGE)
26 March 2024. A941 at its junction with B9135, Elgin to Lossiemouth Road,Moray,Scotland. This is the Road Closures relative to this RTC. Credit - Jasperimage
Two teenage boys were killed (Picture: JASPERIMAGE)

‘He will be missed so very much by all of his family and his friends.

‘We cannot begin to explain what a shock this has been for everyone and we would like time to be able to come to terms with what has happened.’

Police Scotland confirmed no one else was hurt.

Sergeant Iain Nicolson said: ‘Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all involved.

‘This is an incident that has also affected the wider community at what is a very upsetting and difficult time for all.

‘Our investigation into the crash is ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who has not already spoken to officers and who could help with our inquiries to come forward.

‘If you have information, such as dash-cam, or saw anything at the time of the crash that could assist officers then please get in touch.’

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Where and when snow is set to fall today – with even more on the way

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A map of when it will snow in the UK and two people walking across a snow powdered beach.
Getting into the Christmas spirit a few months early (Picture: PA/Met Office)

Nothing says Spring quite like snow. And a fair bit of it.

Some parts of the UK may have a few centimetres of snow this week ahead of the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

The hills of Scotland will see the most of it, though this isn’t too unusual for this time of year.

Snow began falling at around 6.45am today in northern Scotland, according to the Met Office, with more blanketing near Aberdeen and the Highlands.

While the national weather service says the snow will begin to ease now, it’ll be back near Glasgow from 10.30pm.

But that won’t be the last of it.

The snow in southern Scotland is very much sticking around for most of tomorrow too. The Met Office predicts the Southern Uplands areas around Glasgow, Biggar and Cumnock will see up to 4mm of snow an hour from 12am.

Traffic on the A939 near Tomintoul this morning(Tuesday 26th March 2024) as snow falls across parts of Scotland....pic Peter Jolly
An independent weather service says there’s a small chance it’ll snow in Scotland for most of this week (Picture: Peter Jolly/Northpix)
Michael Bennett and son Hamish(3) walking in the snow at Corgarff in Starthdon this morning(Tuesday 26th March 2024) as snow falls across parts of Scotland....pic Peter Jolly
orgarff in Starthdon this morning (Picture: Peter Jolly/Northpix)

Up Next

Almost all of northern Scotland will be blanketed by 4.15am, with only the northeast coastline and northern tup of the country escaping it.

Patches of light and heavy snow will hover above central Scotland for most of Wednesday.

Snow will start to fall in Wales near Llandelio and Lampeter from 8am on Wednesday before moving north towards Barmouth.

There’s around chance of snow just south of Ballycastle in Northern Ireland from around 12am tomorrow as well.

According to Net Weather, an independent forecasting service, there’s a low chance (but still a chance nevertheless) that some parts of Yorkshire and North West England will see some snow in the early hours of Thursday.

A animation of the chance of snowfall in the UK from Tuesday to Friday.
Most parts of the UK have a chance of seeing a snowflake or two today (Picture: Net Weather)

Overall, the last snowflakes the UK will see this week should fall around on Saturday.

In not-as-fun weather news, Northern Ireland will also see up to 50mm of rain today.

A yellow warning is in place for most of the eastern half of the country until 6am tomorrow.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Helen Caughey said: ‘It’s another very unsettled week for much of the UK, with heavy, blustery showers, longer spells of rain and also some strong winds.

‘In terms of hazards in the current forecast, we’re continuing to keep an eye on some of the expected rainfall totals as they build up through the week, with some places, including Northern Ireland, still quite sensitive to rainfall amounts due to the wet winter many have experienced.

‘We will also need to monitor the winds with the potential for gales to develop around some coastal areas of the north at first, then later for some south and southwestern areas, especially as these may coincide with some high tides.’

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The UK’s best place to sell a home takes just 41 days to exchange

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Glasgow's prestigious Park District - Aerial view
You’ll be in your new pad in no time (Picture: Getty Images)

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, the UK property market is infamously challenging.

If you’re a homeowner that’s previously sold a property, you’ll be well acquainted with the fact that selling up isn’t always instant. In fact, it can take months for someone to put in an offer, let alone for it all to go through.

If you’re wanting to sell a property this year (or you’re a buyer looking for a relatively speedy handover), the best places to sell in the UK have been crowned.

Any guesses? Top of the list is Glasgow in Scotland.

The average property in the dear green place (as it’s affectionately known) is on the market for just 41 days – barely one month’s rent.

In March 2023, this was even shorter at a teeny tiny 36 days, according to data from Quick Move Now and Home.co.uk.

The top 10 best places to sell a property in the UK, as per Quick Move Now and Home.co.uk

  1. Glasgow: 41 days on the market, £209,000 median asking price
  2. Edinburgh: 51 days vs £315,000
  3. Reading: 53 days vs £385,000
  4. Ashford: 54 days vs £350,000
  5. Bracknell: 54 days vs £500,000
  6. Belfast: 55 days vs £175,000
  7. Rochester: 55.5 days vs £280,000
  8. Balham, London: 56 days vs £700,000
  9. Chatham: 65.6 days vs £270,000
  10. Furzedown, London: 57 days vs £525,000.

How much do homes cost in Glasgow?

The average asking price for a property in the Scottish city is £209,000 – though this is up by £19,005 since last year, it’s still pretty good compared to the UK national average, which was £285,000 in December 2023, according to the ONS.

You could snap up this modern two bed apartment in Glasgow city centre in popular Merchant City, with west facing city centre views. Or, there’s this stunning one bed flat in the popular Hillhead area, set within a traditional terraced villa, for £200,000.

Or, families might prefer this three bedroom apartment in Shawlands, a safe and affordable suburb, for just £210,000.

Squinty Bridge, Glasgow
The average asking price for a property is £209,000 (Picture: Getty Images)

Are there other UK towns and cities where homes sell quickly?

Close behind in second place is another Scottish favourite: Edinburgh, where the average home now takes just 51 days to sell.

Here, asking prices are a little higher than in Glasgow, with the average now resting at £315,000.

However, this figure has only increased by £5,000, a smaller margin than its Scottish sister.

In third place, we’re back down south in Reading, where the average property spends just 53 days waiting for its new owner to snap it up.

The Berkshire town has skyrocketed in the rankings since March 2023, when it took almost a month longer to sell at 80 days.

Estate agent reveals the mistake that could decrease your home’s selling value by 30%

If you’re in a reset mindset and looking to sell your place in 2024,
you might want to assess whether the features in your home could be
devaluing it.

In fact, there’s one that could decrease its potential selling price by up to 30%.

An outdated kitchen could knock a few pounds off the asking
price. This is the big kicker, as this could decrease the value by between
20 and 30%, according to Jennifer Spinelli, estate agent and founder and CEO of Watson Buys.

Elsewhere, have you ever heard of kerb appeal? Well, you have now. It refers to how attractive a property is when it’s viewed from the street.

Think: a nice colourful front door, Victorian black and white tiling or just
a nicely trimmed hedge.

It goes without saying that if a property has poor kerb appeal, that could
decrease its value by between ’10 and 15%,’ Jennifer tells Express.

Meanwhile, Ashford in Kent has an average time period of 54 days, with the typical asking price going for £350,000.

Not far behind was Bracknell, which also has an average of 54 days – but has a much higher typical asking price at £500,000. Shockingly, this was up by £100,000 from the £400,000 figure in March 2023.

Where are the worst places to a sell a home in the UK?

It’s not all roses, though. It’s not easy to sell everywhere – particularly not in London, as the figures show that of the top 10 worst places to sell a property in the UK, a whopping nine were in the capital. Ouch.

Though an incredibly chic neighbourhood inundated with bistros, bars and theatres, if you think it’s easy to sell up in Soho: think again.

In this central London location (zone 1, no less), it takes an immense 241 days – almost 8 months – to shift the average property.

And in the equally boujie Marylebone, it takes 236 days – and the average property is listed at £1,680,000, which is certainly not within most budgets.

Not feeling inspired? We don’t blame you…

The top 10 worst places to sell a property in the UK, as per Quick Move Now and Home.co.uk

  1. Soho, London: 241 days on the market, £2,000,000 median asking price
  2. Marylebone, London: 236 days vs £1,680,000
  3. Mayfair, London: 233 days vs £2,395,000
  4. Aberdeen: 207 days vs £140,000
  5. Charing Cross, London: 200 days vs £1,500,000
  6. Knightsbridge, London: 200 days vs £2,650,000
  7. Regents Park, London: 185.5 days vs £1,697,500
  8. Paddington, London: 181 days vs £1,050,000
  9. Bloomsbury, London: 181 days vs £1,400,000
  10. Strand, London: 180 days vs £1,300,000.

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Missing mum and baby found safe and well

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Scottish police officers stand in a line.
The pair had last been seen yesterday at 4.20pm (Picture: PA)

A mum and baby who were reported missing in Glasgow earlier today have been found safe and well.

The woman and the infant had last been seen leaving a supermarket in the Jamaica Street area of the city centre at about 4.20pm yesterday and walking north towards a bus stop.

The baby was believed to be between four and six months and last seen wearing a red snow suit with a hood and pink hat.

The woman was described as white Eastern European.

Street view of Jamaica Road area in Glasgow after a woman goes missing with a baby.
Jamaica Street in Glasgow (Credits: Ella Millward)

Inspector David Hill said at the time: ‘We are appealing for anyone who recognises this woman and baby, or knows where they might be, to please contact us urgently.

‘We are very concerned for their welfare and want to make sure they are traced safe and well. 

‘Anyone with information should call 101 as soon as possible, quoting reference 2475 of 13 March, 2024.

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Woman, 70, ‘scared to leave home’ after sex attack near busy park

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station road in bearsden scotland
The 70-year-old woman was walking near Colquhoun Park when she was attacked (Picture: Google)

A pensioner is now ‘scared to leave her home’ after she was sexually assaulted during daylight.

The 70-year-old woman was walking near Colquhoun Park, in Bearsden, Scotland, when a man, aged between 30 and 40, came up to her at around 5.15pm on Friday.

She was then pushed to the ground, attacked, and sexually assaulted near to Station Road.

Although she did not require hospital treatment, it has left her ‘extremely distressed’.

The man who attacked her is 5ft 8ins, stocky, has a disheveled appearance, facial stubble, and a shaven/bald head.

He has a local accent and was wearing dark clothing and black trainers.

Detective Inspector Daniel Clark said: ‘A team of officers are continuing to carry out extensive inquiries into this terrifying attack which has left this woman extremely upset and scared to leave her house.

‘While we understand that this type of crime causes concern, the local community have been keen to help our investigation and I would like to reassure them that we are completely focused on tracing the man responsible as soon as possible.’

Patrols will be carried out in the area while the investigation continues as police added it is ‘imperative’ they catch the man.

The suspect was last seen on Conon Avenue walking in the direction of Kinfauns Drive.

DCI Clark added: ‘I cannot stress enough the crucial role that the public can play in assisting us.

‘This is a very busy area. I urge anyone who was in the local area in Bearsden into the Drumchapel area on Friday afternoon to cast their mind back and think about whether you have seen a man acting suspiciously or matching the description given.

‘If you did, it is vital we speak to you. I would also urge anyone with dashcam or personal footage to check it in case it holds anything relevant.’

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Trans prisoner known for violence found dead after move to women’s jail blocked

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Tiffany Scott, who was previously known as Andrew Burns, died in HMP Grampian on Thursday (Picture: Central Scotland News Agency)
Tiffany Scott, who was previously known as Andrew Burns, died in HMP Grampian on Thursday (Picture: Central Scotland News Agency)

A transgender prisoner who was considered one of Scotland’s most dangerous inmates has been found dead in her cell after her move to a women’s prison was blocked.

Tiffany Scott, who was previously known as Andrew Burns, died in HMP Grampian on Thursday.

The 32-year-old’s became unwell and was taken to hospital, but her death is being treated as ‘unexplained’ by police.

Scott was convicted of stalking a 13-year-old girl in 2013 and had requested to be moved to the female prison estate early last year.

She became ill on Wednesday night and died in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary the following day.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said that at around 10.50pm on Wednesday, the force was made aware of a 32-year-old taking unwell at HMP Grampian.

They added: ‘The death is being treated as unexplained and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.’

Tiffany Scott stalked a 13-year-old girl while known as Andrew Burns https://news.sky.com/story/fresh-trans-prisoner-row-as-girls-stalker-approved-for-move-to-womens-jail-12797405
Tiffany Scott stalked a 13-year-old girl while known as Andrew Burns (Picture: Sky)

A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: ‘Tiffany Scott, 32, of HMP Grampian, died on February 29.

‘With each death in custody, Police Scotland are advised and the matter reported to the procurator fiscal. Fatal accident inquiries are held in due course.’

The revelation that Scott could be moved to the female estate prompted a row around the handling of transgender prisoners last year, when the Scottish Government was urged to make a statement to clarify its position on housing transgender prisoners.

Then justice secretary Keith Brown denied Scott would be moved to the female estate and announced an urgent review into the handling of transgender prisoners, which also included double rapist Isla Bryson.

In 2017 Falkirk Sheriff Court was locked down after Scott was sentenced over a series of violent incidents in Glenochil Prison in Clackmannanshire.

This includes hitting a prison nurse with a chair, punching an officer in the face and spitting and biting at another.

Scott had applied to move from a male jail to a women’s wing, but it was blocked following the backlash to the Isla Bryson case.

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Man, 26, dies in Mercedes horror crash with parked cars

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First Bus depot on South Street in the Scotstoun area of Glasgow (Picture: Google)
The crash happened near the First Bus depot in the Scotstoun area of Glasgow (Picture: Google)

A driver has died in a horrific car crash in Scotland where his Mercedes hit several other vehicles including parked cars.

The driver of one of the other cars, a woman aged 40, has also been seriously injured and is in hospital.

Armed police, who have specialist medical training and access to defibrillators, rushed to the scene around 7.35pm yesterday, near the first Bus depot on South Street in the Scotstoun area of Glasgow.

The driver of the white Mercedes C43 was killed on scene from impact with he crashed with a blue Vauxhall Corsa and a black Nissan Juke as well as colliding with several parked cars.

It took around eight hours before the road could reopen to traffic at 3.30am, after an investigation into what happened took place.

The woman injured was driving the Nissan, and was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment.

Sergeant Sean Dempsey, of the Road Policing Unit in Glasgow, said: ‘Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died.

‘Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the crash. I would ask anyone who was in the area at the time who saw what happened, and has not already spoken with officers, to please contact us.

‘I would also appeal to anyone who was in the area around the time of the crash and who may have dash-cam footage which could assist us to get in touch.’

This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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Scotland could make assisted dying legal – here is why England should too

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woman by bedside in hospital
Legalising assisted dying could be debated in Holyrood as early as next year (Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

Assisted dying has proved to be a controversial debate for many throughout the years and now Scotland could become the first UK nation to provide terminally-ill people with assistance to end their lives.

The bill in Scotland has been drafted by Lib Dem MSP, Liam McArthur, and is expected to be debated in autumn.

It was published today and could be voted on in Holyrood as early as next year.

Scottish ministers and SNP backbenchers will not be instructed on how to vote, because the matter is an issue of individual conscience.

The news has reignited the debate about whether assisted dying should be legalised across other parts of the UK.

While supporters say further legalisation would end suffering, opponents point out that terminally-ill people could feel pressure to end their own lives.

What is assisted dying?

The term assisted dying has different meanings depending on the stance of an organisation or person.

Assisted dying allows a person with a terminal condition the choice to control their death if they decide their suffering is unbearable, according to pro-change campaigners Dignity in Dying.

This picture taken on July 14, 2009 shows the building of the assisted suicide clinic, Dignitas in Pfaeffikon near Zurich. A renowned British conductor and his wife have died in the assisted suicide clinic Dignitas in Switzerland, their family said. Edward Downes, 85, was almost blind and deaf, and his 74-year-old wife Joan was terminally ill when they chose to end their lives, a statement released to the BBC said. AFP PHOTO/ SEBASTIAN DERUNGS (Photo credit should read SEBASTIAN DERUNGS/AFP via Getty Images)
This picture taken on July 14, 2009 shows the building of the assisted suicide clinic, Dignitas in Pfaeffikon near Zurich (Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

But the campaign group Care Not Killing uses the terms ‘assisted suicide’ and ‘euthanasia’ and says the focus should be on an improvement to palitative care, rather than legislative change.

It argues assisted dying could ‘place pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives for fear of being a financial, emotional or care burden upon others’ and argue the disabled, elderly, sick or depressed could be especially at risk.

What is Scotland’s assisted dying bill?

The bill states a patient could only request medical assistance to end their life if they had a terminal illness and had been ruled mentally fit to make the decision by two doctors.

It also says the patient must be aged 16 or over, a resident of Scotland for at least 12 months, and must administer the life-ending medication themselves.

Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland’s current laws also vary.

In Scotland, it is not illegal to attempt suicide but helping someone take their own life could lead to prosecution for crimes such as murder, culpable homicide or offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

In England and Wales, the Suicide Act 1961 makes it an offence to encourage or assist the suicide or attempted suicide of another person.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - MARCH 28: Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur poses for photographs and gives interviews as he has today published his Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill on March 28, 2024 in Edinburgh, Scotland.The aim of the bill is to enable mentally competent adults with an advanced, progressive terminal illness to be provided with assistance to end their life at their request. The development of the bill has been supported by the campaign groups Dignity in Dying, Friends at the End and Humanist Society Scotland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur has published his Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill (Picture: Getty Images)

The House of Commons decided against changing the law by 330 votes to 118 in 2015.

In Northern Ireland, a similar offence is set out in the Criminal Justice Act 1966.

Which countries allow assisted dying?

Dignity in Dying says more than 200 million people around the world have access to some form of legalised assisted dying.

These countries include Switzerland, which has the famous Dignitas facility, Australia, Canada, Spain, Colombia, and 11 states in the US where it is known as ‘physician-assisted dying’.

How long until England legalise assisted dying?

With all these other countries having already legalised assisted dying, it begs the question – why shouldn’t England?

A report from the Health and Social Care Committee in February warned the government must consider what to do if the law changes in parts of the UK or on the Isle of Man, or Jersey, both of which are crown dependencies.

The committee – which did not make any recommendation for a vote on the issue, said legalisation in at least one jurisdiction is looking ‘increasingly likely’.

It said the government must be ‘actively involved’ in discussions about how to approach differences in the law.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said he is ‘committed’ to allowing a vote on legalising assisted dying should the party win the next general election.

Downing Street has previously said it would be up to Parliament whether to again debate legalising assisted dying.

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