EUROMILLIONS winner Adrian Bayford wants to turn his sprawling country pile into a kids’ eco theme park.

The ex-postie scooped £148million with his then-wife Gillian in 2012.

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And he has now unveiled plans to transform 20 acres of his huge estate into the attraction — with education facilities, train ride, renewable energy-themed play barn and a maze.

Planning documents reveal Adrian, 53, wants to provide “a fun, exciting and educational day out” for families.

It would also include five outdoor play zones, sensory trails and pond-dipping in the grounds of his Grade-II listed Horseheath Lodge, Cambs.

The park would create 13 full-time jobs with an education centre teaching youngsters about sustainability.

Adrian, split from his first wife Gillian just a year after hitting the jackpot.

Friends say the project is being led by his fiancée Tracey Biles, 46.

The couple already run a smallholding with goats and pigs.

A friend said: “Adrian’s totally supportive, but this is really Tracey’s baby.”

If it gets planning permission, construction is expected to take two to three years.

The Sun previously revealed Tracey inspired him to establish a vineyard there.

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SHOPPERS have been left divided by the return of an axed Coca-Cola drink four years after it was taken off shelves.

The soft drink company decided to reward customers with a festive treat that has not been seen since 2020.

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Coca-Cola Cinnamon was first launched in 2019 as a “limited-time offer” for the Christmas period.

It returned the following year but was then absent for several years.

However, this Christmas, Coca-Cola has brought it back for a limited time only.

But, shoppers have been left unimpressed by the move, with many having never tried the unusual flavour before.

“I can’t think of anything worse,” one wrote in the comments to a post in a Facebook group dedicated to coupons and store bargains.

“That’s just wrong!!!! So very wrong!!!!,” another said.

“A no from me,” a third added while others asked if the people at Coca-Cola were okay.

Not everyone is upset though, with some having waited for its return for years as others noted the one positive to come out of the negative reactions from other shoppers.

“Been waiting for this to come back out,” one happy shopper wrote in the same Facebook group.

“To all the angry faces and vomity faces and all the ‘nope’ type comments…GOOD! All the more for me then,” another said.

Others are willing to give the limited-edition flavour a go saying it’s “gotta be a winner” if you like cinnamon and coke.

 “It’s not a strong cinnamon taste, it’s subtle and delicious,” one said.

Others compared it to a non-alcoholic fireball shot while one suggested adding amaretto to the cinnamon Coca-Cola.

The zero sugar, two-litre bottle is exclusively available at Tesco for £1.85 or just £1.25 for Clubcard holders.

However, it will only be available until the end of the year, so those who love the unusual cinnamon drink will have to stock up as it may not return for a number of years.

Other Zero flavours on offer include Zero Lemon and Zero Cherry as well as the regular Zero and Caffiene-Free version.

A popular cookie has also been used to inspire a new limited-edition Coca-Cola flavour available at Home Bargains for a ridiculously cheap price.

For just 75p, shoppers can buy a 250ml can of the Oreo Coca-Cola Zero.

It is said to combine the classic Coca-Cola taste with “flavourful hints” inspired by Oreos.

As well as Home Bargains, the beverage will also be found at a number of restaurant chains including Pizza Express and Popeyes.

Coke isn’t the only brand to bring out new flavours recently either.

Pepsi MAX Mango hit shelves last year and proved a hit with fans.

The beverage was described by manufacturers as “the brand’s best ever” new summer flavour.

Shoppers have also been racing to get their hands on a “banging” new Sprite flavour released in time for summer.

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AN EXPERT has revealed his sneaky hacks to make packing suitcases for winter holidays a whole lot easier.

It can be frustrating to compromise on how many winter fits you pack for the holidays due to their bulky nature.

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That’s where baggage expert and Head of Operations at Seven Seas Worldwide, Wayne Mills comes in with his eight sneaky hacks.

ROLL YOUR CLOTHES

Wayne’s first tip is “to fold your clothes until they form a rectangle, then roll”.

He continues: “For a t-shirt, for example, you would lay it out flat, fold in the arms, fold it in half, then start rolling.

“This technique keeps your clothes wrinkle-free and lets you get a whole load more stuff in your bag.”

VACUUM PACK

Compression bags and vacuum packs work by sucking all the air out your clothes, reducing them to a fraction of their original size.

Half size clothes only means one thing, you can pack twice as much!

LAYER UP

Wayne recommends wearing your heaviest layers on the flight as this will save you valuable carry on space.

Plus, you’ll be prepared for the winter chill when you get to your festive destination.

THINK LOGICALLY

Ideally, pack clothes that serve multiple functions and can be styled in different ways.

Wayne explains: “Add a coat and hat to a stylish long-sleeved dress for a daytime look, then change it to an evening ensemble with a smart bag and a piece of jeweller.”

Lightweight materials such as wool, merino or fleece are also good to layer.

USE CUBES

Packing cubes are a great way to organise your carry-on luggage.

You can divide your bag into colour-coded cubes: thermal layers in one, casual outfits in another and accessories in a third.

Wayne says: “This will let you pull out the perfect outfit for the day without rummaging through your entire bag.”

LIMIT SHOES

Wayne recommends bringing one pair of stylish boots and a lightweight pair of flats or trainers.

He says to wear the boots on the flight and stuff socks in your other shoes or any other small items to maximise all available space.

DOWNSIZE JACKETS

As tempting as fury coats are, they can be difficult to pack unless your’e wearing them.

That’s why Wayne says down or pack-able jacket options are the better option.

They’re warm, lightweight, easy to pack, and don’t take up much room.

ZIP SEAL

Wayne’s final tip is to use zip seal bags.

These little transparent bags are perfect for storing lose items in them like cosmetics, chargers, or gloves.

Wayne said: “Travelling in winter can be just as magical as a summer getaway, but it comes with the same worries about baggage fees, delays, and lost luggage.

“That’s why strategically packing everything you need into your carry-on is such a great idea; it lets you avoid the hassle of long waits at the carousel and streamlines your travel experience. 

“Being organised and intentional about what you bring means you won’t have the stress of travelling with bulky bags while knowing you have everything you need.

“Keeping your bag light also lets you avoid that stressful scramble for space in the overhead bins once you get onto the plane, as you can just slip your bag under the seat in front.

“Not to mention, your compact packing will impress your travelling companions – and if you pack really smart, you can make room for souvenirs!”

How to Apply for a OneMain Financial Loan: Tips and Tricks from Finance Monthly

Securing a personal loan can be a lifeline for covering unexpected expenses, consolidating debt, or funding life goals. At Finance Monthly, we know that successfully navigating the application process can mean the difference between a smooth experience and unnecessary stress. If you’re considering a loan from OneMain Financial, a lender known for working with a wide range of credit profiles, we’ve compiled a guide with essential tips and tricks to help you increase your chances of approval and make the most of your loan experience.

Why Choose OneMain Financial?

OneMain Financial is a popular option for borrowers with varying credit scores, including those who may face challenges qualifying with traditional banks. With secured and unsecured personal loan options, OneMain often approves loans for individuals with fair or poor credit. Its flexible requirements, relatively quick application process, and personal touch make it appealing, but it’s essential to be well-prepared to ensure a successful application.

Step 1: Understanding the Loan Requirements

OneMain Financial reviews each applicant’s creditworthiness based on several factors, including credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. Here’s what you’ll need to meet the minimum requirements:

1. Proof of Identity: OneMain requires government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
2. Proof of Income: This may include recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements, depending on your employment status.
3. Proof of Residence: You may need to show a recent utility bill or lease agreement to confirm your address.
4. Credit Score: Although there is no minimum requirement, a higher credit score can help you secure more favorable terms.
5. Debt-to-Income Ratio: Your total monthly debts (including your new loan payment) should ideally be under a certain percentage of your income.

Step 2: Pre-Qualify to Estimate Your Loan Terms

OneMain Financial offers a pre-qualification tool that can give you an idea of your loan terms, such as the estimated interest rate and monthly payments, without affecting your credit score. This is a no-obligation step and can be a helpful way to see if you’re likely to qualify and to compare offers with other lenders.

Finance Monthly Tip: Use the pre-qualification tool to gauge your eligibility and budget. This process allows you to see potential terms without the risk of a hard credit inquiry, which could lower your credit score. Also, check with multiple lenders to ensure you’re getting the best offer before committing.

Step 3: Prepare Your Financial Documents

Preparation is key to a smooth loan application process. Organizing your documents in advance will not only save time but also help you feel more confident during the application process. Here’s a checklist of what you may need:

• Identification: A government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
• Proof of Income: This could include recent pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or bank statements showing deposits. If you’re self-employed, having a few years of tax returns can be useful.
• Proof of Residence: A recent utility bill, rental agreement, or mortgage statement can serve as evidence of your address.
• Credit Report: Although OneMain will pull your report, it’s a good idea to review it beforehand to check for errors or areas of improvement.

Finance Monthly Tip: Gather these documents and have digital copies ready to upload. OneMain’s application process is largely online, and having your documents ready to go can expedite the process. Ensure your documents are legible to avoid delays.

Related: Navigating the Roadblocks: Strategies for Consumers Facing Credit Access Inequality

Step 4: Optimize Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income, is a critical factor in OneMain’s decision-making process. A lower DTI suggests to lenders that you manage your debts responsibly and are likely able to take on new payments. To calculate your DTI, divide your total monthly debt payments by your monthly income.

Finance Monthly Tip: If your DTI is on the higher side, consider paying down smaller debts before applying. This could make your application more attractive and potentially result in better loan terms. If you have the flexibility to do so, increasing your income (by taking on a part-time job, for example) can also positively impact your DTI.

Step 5: Consider a Secured Loan

OneMain Financial offers both secured and unsecured loans. If you’re concerned about approval or would like to access a lower interest rate, you might consider applying for a secured loan. This type of loan requires collateral, such as a car or other valuable asset, which reduces the lender’s risk.

Finance Monthly Tip: Use a secured loan as a fallback option if you don’t qualify for an unsecured loan or want to lower your rate. However, remember that failing to make payments could result in losing your collateral. Only pursue this option if you’re confident in your ability to make timely payments.

Step 6: Be Prepared for a Credit Check

While pre-qualification only requires a soft credit inquiry, submitting a full application will involve a hard credit check, which could temporarily lower your credit score. This is standard practice with most lenders, so be prepared for a slight dip in your score.

Finance Monthly Tip: Only apply for a OneMain Financial loan when you’re ready to proceed. Avoid applying with multiple lenders at once, as too many hard inquiries within a short time frame can have a more significant impact on your credit score.

Step 7: Prepare for a Potential In-Person Visit

While many aspects of OneMain Financial’s application can be handled online, some applicants may be required to visit a branch to finalize the loan. This step allows for a personal touch, and it’s often where the lender will discuss your financial needs in more detail, answer questions, and confirm final loan details.

WITH the festive season well and truly upon us, shoppers have their eyes out for new Christmas goodies that are on offer this year.

One sweet treat is already going viral with TikTokers and Facebook users urging people to rush to their local Marks and Spencer food hall.

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The retailer’s freshly baked Gingerbread and White Chocolate Cookies are proving to be a Christmas hit with shoppers.

For just £2.75, customers can get a packet of five festive cookies.

Marks and Spencer promises indulgence with their cookies “full of warming flavour and rich chocolate to create a melt-in-the-mouth taste.”

If shoppers time their trip right, they can bag the cookies while they are still warm from the oven at the in-store bakery.

“These cookies have currently gone viral and we can see why!” Newsfood UK wrote on Facebook.

“These Gingerbread Cookies may be one of the best supermarket cookies we’ve ever had!”

Shoppers flooded the comments begging friends and family to pick up a bag and promising co-workers that they would bring them in for Christmas.

Various TikTokers have also been on the hunt for viral cookies that are not on sale in every M&S store.

TikTok user @angelina.pj told viewers how she “ran” to the bakery when she saw it and found that the ginger cookies “had just come straight out from the oven.”

“It smells of Christmas,” she said the minute she got back into the car and opened the package.

Angelina revealed that as well as white chocolate, the cookie also contains some salted caramel fudge pieces.

“One of the best cookies I’ve had,” she declared.

Meanwhile, on Instagram, a snack reviewer shared a tip with shoppers telling them to warm up the cookies in the oven or microwave before devouring them.

“Warmed up they’re even tastier as the chocolate and caramel fudge goes all gooey and melty,” she wrote in a post.

WARMING WINTER WINNERS

It is not only Marks and Spencer’s sweet treats that have shoppers rushing to stock up for Christmas.

Drinks expert Helena Nicklin taste-tested eight warm wines on offer this Christmas, and two from M&S came out on top.

With a top score of five out of five, Nicklin favoured the M&S Millet White Wine for £6.50.

“Think baked pears in pastry with a dusting of white chocolate,” she said, surprised that a white wine leaned itself so well to being warmed.

“It is a guilty pleasure – a great talking point for parties, and it is inexpensive to boot.”

She also rated another M&S mulled wine a near-perfect score of four out of five.

This was the M&S Primitivo Puglia for £7 which is a red wine made with Primitivo grapes carrying the flavours of Morello cherries, chocolate and spice.

“This is a proper, curl-up-by-the-fire red that makes a mulled wine with that similar cosy vibe,” she said.

Plus, see which Hollywood star was approached by M&S to appear in its new adverts as the retailer seeks to diversify its demographic.

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Buy Now, Pay Later vs. Personal Loans: Finding the Right Holiday Financing

As we head into the holiday season, shoppers face the challenge of managing extra expenses without carrying financial strain into the new year. Between gifts, travel, and holiday gatherings, seasonal spending can add up quickly. Two popular financing methods are emerging as solutions to manage these expenses: Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services and personal loans. Each option offers unique benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on individual budgets, credit situations, and financial goals.

The Finance Monthly research team has analyzed these options in-depth to help you decide which financing choice best suits your holiday shopping needs.

What is Buy Now, Pay Later?

Buy Now, Pay Later services have grown rapidly in popularity, offering flexibility for consumers to purchase items immediately and pay over time. BNPL services allow customers to split their purchases into smaller payments spread over weeks or months, often without interest if paid on time. Services like Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm, integrated with retailers, make this option available at the point of sale, both online and in-store.

Benefits of BNPL

The primary appeal of BNPL is its simplicity and accessibility. Many BNPL services approve applications instantly without requiring a credit check, making them an option for shoppers with limited credit history. Additionally, these plans are often interest-free as long as payments are made on time, allowing consumers to avoid high-interest debt and manage holiday purchases.

BNPL is particularly convenient during the holiday season. Shoppers can make their purchases and spread out payments over several paychecks, keeping more cash in their pocket in the short term. This can be especially helpful for those buying gifts or booking holiday experiences without having the full amount upfront.

However, BNPL services do come with potential pitfalls. It’s essential for shoppers to manage their spending carefully, as the ease of smaller payments can lead to overspending. With purchases broken into installments, it’s easy to lose track of the total amount spent, which can accumulate quickly if multiple BNPL options are used.

Example of BNPL in Action

Suppose you decide to buy a $400 item as a holiday gift using a BNPL service like Klarna or Afterpay, which allows you to break the cost into four interest-free payments of $100, paid every two weeks. With this structure, you’ll pay off the $400 item over a period of six weeks, without any added interest. This can be helpful if you’re looking to keep more cash on hand in the short term, allowing you to spread the cost over several paychecks. However, if you miss a payment, a late fee may be applied, increasing your total cost.

This example illustrates the appeal of BNPL for smaller, interest-free purchases but highlights the need to stay on top of payments to avoid additional fees.

What is a Personal Loan?

Personal loans offer a more traditional method for financing holiday expenses but differ from BNPL. When taking out a personal loan, consumers receive a lump sum that they repay in fixed monthly installments over a set term, usually with interest. The application process for a personal loan often requires a credit check, with interest rates determined by the borrower’s credit score and the lender’s terms.

Benefits of Personal Loans

Personal loans can be a helpful option if a larger amount of cash is needed for holiday expenses, such as travel or larger gifts. Unlike BNPL, which is tied to specific purchases at specific retailers, a personal loan can be used for a wide range of expenses. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for those looking to consolidate multiple holiday expenses into a single loan.

Personal loans also offer predictability with fixed payments. Borrowers know exactly how much they’ll owe each month and for how long, which can help with budgeting. Additionally, personal loans can have a positive impact on credit scores if payments are made on time, as they add to a borrower’s credit mix and demonstrate responsible credit use.

Example of a Personal Loan in Action

Consider you need $2,000 to cover a range of holiday expenses, including gifts, travel, and decor. By taking out a personal loan with a 12-month term at an interest rate of 10%, your monthly payments would be approximately $176. With this structure, you’ll repay a total of $2,112 over the year, accounting for $112 in interest.

This example shows how a personal loan can provide the flexibility to cover various expenses with a fixed monthly payment, making it easier to budget and avoid the risk of overspending with multiple smaller purchases.

Comparing BNPL and Personal Loans for Holiday Spending

Both BNPL and personal loans offer ways to manage holiday expenses, but they differ in key ways. Here’s how they stack up when compared across different needs:

Ease of Use

BNPL is generally the most convenient option for quick purchases. Integrated into the checkout process, BNPL services allow users to choose a payment plan with minimal paperwork. Personal loans, however, require an application process, which often includes a credit check and can take several days for approval and funding.

Flexibility of Spending

Personal loans offer greater flexibility since they provide a lump sum that can be used for various expenses, not just specific purchases. BNPL, on the other hand, is limited to specific retailers, which could be a drawback if you’re looking to cover multiple expenses, such as travel, gifts, and decor.

Cost

While BNPL is often marketed as interest-free, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always the more cost-effective option. Late payments can quickly incur fees that add up. Personal loans come with interest but offer fixed rates and predictability. The total cost will ultimately depend on your ability to pay on time and any applicable fees.

Impact on Credit Score

BNPL typically doesn’t require a credit check, but some providers report missed payments, which could affect credit scores if payments are missed. Personal loans, by contrast, often require a credit check upfront and can impact your score positively if payments are made on time. For those looking to build or improve their credit, personal loans may offer long-term benefits.

Tips for Using BNPL or Personal Loans Wisely During the Holidays

Whichever option you choose, responsible use is key to avoiding post-holiday financial stress. The Finance Monthly research team offers the following tips to help you make the most of BNPL or personal loans without overspending:

1. Set a Budget: Before you begin holiday shopping, determine a spending limit that takes into account any BNPL payments or personal loan installments.
2. Limit BNPL Purchases: Try to use BNPL selectively for specific items rather than using it for every holiday expense. This can help you keep better track of your spending.
3. Understand the Terms: Carefully review the terms for both BNPL and personal loans, including the payment schedule, fees, and interest rates.
4. Stay on Top of Payments: Late payments can lead to additional fees and negatively impact your credit score, so set reminders or automate payments whenever possible.
5. Consider the Total Cost: For personal loans, be sure to account for interest and any additional fees. Paying off a loan early, if allowed, can help you save on interest.

Making the Right Choice for Your Holiday Season

Choosing between BNPL and a personal loan depends on your unique financial situation and holiday spending goals. BNPL offers a quick, flexible way to spread out the cost of individual purchases, making it a convenient choice for smaller, specific items. However, it’s essential to track spending closely and ensure you can meet payment obligations to avoid penalties.

A personal loan may be the better option if you need a larger amount to cover a range of expenses or if you prefer predictable monthly payments over a fixed term. While personal loans come with interest rates, they offer a structured repayment plan, which can help manage holiday debt more effectively in the long run.

Ultimately, both BNPL and personal loans can be valuable tools for managing holiday expenses when used wisely. By weighing the pros and cons and understanding the potential impact on your budget and credit, you can approach holiday shopping with confidence and choose the financing option that best aligns with your needs.