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Archbishop of York discusses BBC religious output in panel

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Archbishop of York discusses BBC religious output in panel

Stephen Cottrell, who is the Church’s second most senior bishop, branded religious broadcasting the “poor and underfunded relative” at the public broadcaster.

He insisted religious and public service broadcasting is a “precious bulwark against polarisation” in a world he said was increasingly divided.

The archbishop’s comments came in a panel discussion – hosted by the Religion Media Centre on Tuesday, March 3 – about the Government Green Paper published in December with proposed changes to the next BBC Charter, which is up for renewal at the end of 2027.

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A spokesperson for the corporation said the BBC delivers an unrivalled range of ambitious, timely and thought-provoking religion and ethics content across TV, radio and online.

Panelists around the table included Bishop John Arnold, who told the discussion that religious broadcasting is “absolutely necessary, and where it does exist, I think it’s generally done very well — I appreciate the variety that it offers, both in theological terms, but also through dramas, entertainment, pilgrimages etc.”

A consultation published alongside the Green Paper asked what kind of programming the BBC should make more visible on its platforms, with options including religious programming which it said, alongside arts and international affairs, are sometimes seen as “under-served genres”.

The archbishop told the discussion that while he wanted to “celebrate and support, generally speaking, what the BBC is doing”, he had noted a decrease in religious broadcasting at the corporation.

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He said: “My concern is much more about the place of religion across the whole output of the BBC, rather than simply seeing it as religious broadcasting in that rather more narrow definition.

“So I note with sadness and some distress the sometimes appalling lack of religious literacy in so much of the BBC.”

He argued that religion has “such an important part to play” in society.

Stephen Cottrell said: “When you think about, you know, the distressing polarisation of our society at the moment, the echo chambers within which people live and receive news and information.

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“I know it’s a hard thing to fight for – religious broadcasting and public service broadcasting – but I believe it is a precious bulwark against polarisation, intolerance, prejudice, chaos.

“And the fact is that religion is a vital part of how millions and millions of people in Britain today get their belonging, their values, their purpose, their identity.”

He said: “Religious broadcasting increasingly becomes the poor and underfunded relative in a BBC which I believe needs to be reminded of its core business.”

But Humanists UK’s chief executive Andrew Copson said the BBC must reflect “the full reality of modern Britain, including the majority who are now non-religious”.

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Responding to Mr Cottrell’s comments in a statement, he said: “The BBC’s religion output, such as Thought for the Day, remains heavily weighted towards programmes ‘by believers for believers’, with no equivalent space for humanists and other non-religious people to speak directly about their ethical outlook and sense of meaning.

“If the BBC is to strengthen social cohesion, it should be genuinely inclusive.

“It must treat non-religious worldviews with equal respect and proportionate visibility, rather than sustaining one set of identities while excluding others.”

A BBC spokesperson said: “The BBC delivers an unrivalled range of ambitious, timely and thought-provoking religion and ethics content across TV, radio and online.

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“The BBC is responsible for the vast majority of the UK’s religious programming – far exceeding, by our own choice, what we are required to do.

“Our programming not only represents faith and world beliefs, but includes a wide range of perspectives, including those who are agnostic or atheist.

“It recognises the vital role religion, faith and beliefs play in connecting communities and in helping people to understand the beliefs of others.”

The government is consulting the public to aid decision-making on the terms for the BBC Charter’s renewal and any changes needed to help the BBC to continue to serve the public.

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This consultation closes on March 10.

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Glasgow Central fire to cause disruption ‘for several days’ as warning issued

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Daily Record

No ScotRail services will operate to or from Glasgow Central High Level on Tuesday, but services operating via Glasgow Central Low Level will continue to run but they will not call at the low-level station

ScotRail has issued an update on the reopening of Scotland’s busiest train station – and it looks like there may be problems for commuters for some time yet.

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Glasgow Central railway station was closed to commuters on Monday (March 9) in the wake of a devastating fire that broke out at a vape shop on Sunday (March 8) afternoon.

The fire quickly spread from one shop to the next and eventually spread to the building next door – the train station – which saw part of the iconic building collapse in on itself.

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ScotRail quickly announced trains would not be running come Monday morning, with Glasgow’s rush hour providing a real challenge for commuters with few rail replacement options made available. Now, ScotRail has confirmed Glasgow Central will also remain closed on Tuesday (March 10), alongside another unwelcome update for commuters – which is to expect disruptions to continue for several days to come.

The train service operator stated that no ScotRail services will operate to or from Glasgow Central High Level on Tuesday, with services which normally operate via Glasgow Central Low Level will run but will not call at the low-level station.

Customers are advised to travel to and from Argyle Street or Anderston Station while also checking their journey before travelling, as many routes across the west of Scotland are suspended or operating with alterations due to the fire.

ScotRail is continuing to keep customers updated – including information on impacted routes and details of how to claim refunds on unused tickets – on the ScotRail website, app, and through its social media channels. Station staff are also on hand across the network to help where possible.

Emergency services and Network Rail are still assessing the damage left behind by the great fire, while ScotRail will provide further updates on its services as soon as more information becomes available.

ScotRail chief operating officer, David Ross, said: “Glasgow Central will remain closed on Tuesday while the impact of the fire in the building next to the station is assessed and we expect disruption to continue for several days.

“We’d like to thank our colleagues in the fire and emergency services who worked incredibly hard to tackle the blaze and prevent it from spreading to the station itself. We know this closure will cause significant disruption for our customers, and we’re very sorry for the impact this will have on their journeys.

“Our teams are working hard to keep people moving where possible, and we’d encourage customers to check their journey before travelling using the ScotRail app or website.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue confirmed that crews are still working to cool off hotspots within the stonework of the building, and are working alongside structural engineers to assess the stability of the remaining building.

As of 3.30pm Monday (March 9), eight appliances, including three high-reach vehicles, remained in attendance.

“We cannot speculate on the cause of the fire at this time. In line with fire investigation protocols, a multi-agency investigation will be conducted, however due to the significant damage that has occurred this may be hampered,” a spokesperson said for the fire service, adding that “due to the proximity of the incident to the railway infrastructure and the presence of significant debris, Glasgow Central Station remains closed”.

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Scarborough – readers on motorhome parking ban sign vandals

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Scarborough - readers on motorhome parking ban sign vandals

​​The proposed introduction of a permanent order prohibiting the overnight parking of motor caravans in Sandsend and North Bay in Scarborough has divided coastal councillors.

​​It comes as an “overwhelming” portion of responses to North Yorkshire Council’s (NYC) consultation on its Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) objected to the scheme.

​At a meeting in Whitby last week, councillors said the scheme had successfully addressed issues caused by an “unacceptable level” of motorhomes using certain streets, including impacts on visual amenity and safety.

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​However, since its introduction, thousands of residents have reportedly also complained about the “displacement effects” of the order.

​​Cllr Roberta Swiers, who represents Cayton, said the trial had “obviously not been a success” and recounted how signs notifying motorhome users of the ban were ripped down.

​​“The signs that were put up were ripped down within hours and thrown over the cliff,” she told a meeting of the Scarborough and Whitby Area Committee.

​​“So think of the cost of those alone, to be put up and cemented in, only for the same thing to happen before the cement dried, with the signs thrown down the cliffs again. It’s actually vandalism.”

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​​Readers had their say in the comments section of The Press website.

​David Gibson said: “There’s no need for a ban, traffic wardens need training to check habitation checks, and that a vehicle is factory built for the purpose intended of overnight parking.”

​Simon Jones said: “Sadly, councils are all too often so intent on restricting campers and motorbikes that they lose sight of the freedom these recreational vehicles are bringing to their owners.

​“The majority of people using this form of ‘getting away’ do so with good intentions, sadly, the businesses running organised sites seem to lobby against free pitches in order to hike their tariffs up. The majority of campers are either retired, young families or even disabled folk.

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​“They are not trouble-causers, just people trying to live their lives the best they can.”

​Janice Gray said: “There are plenty of campsites around and about, but of course, they’d have to pay to park there.

​“If only York had free parking at just a couple of places, how good would that be!”

​Snowflake spotter said: “As a start, all camper vans that are parking overnight, outside of commercial camping sites anywhere in the UK, should have a ‘Green Warrant’ like New Zealand, i.e. a fixed, certified toilet that can hold three days’ waste.

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​“Before some van-lifers object, they can go blame a large percentage of their number who defecate and urinate al fresco.”

​Reacting to the news that motorhome parking ban signs were thrown ‘over the cliff within hours’ in Cayton, Pfmaximus89 stated: “It’s disingenuous to blame motorhome people. I have seen local youths in town vandalising property.”

​Britain is broken replied: “Caravan and camper van owners have a lot in common with dog owners. 100 per cent selfish.”

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Ex-PSNI officer facing serious sex offence probe as ‘complexity’ of ‘predatory’ case comes to light

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Ex-PSNI officer facing serious sex offence probe as 'complexity' of 'predatory' case comes to light

A Police Ombudsman investigation into a former officer has revealed shocking allegations

The Police Ombudsman of Northern Ireland investigation into alleged non-recent serious sexual offences by a former police officer has brought new information come to light — with the body highlighting the “victim impact, scale and complexity” of the case.

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The former officer was arrested by Police Ombudsman investigators in December 2025 on suspicion of committing more than 10 non-recent offences, including rape, other sexual offences, and misconduct in public office. These offences are alleged to have occurred between 2000 and 2009, while he was a serving officer.

READ MORE: Person taken to hospital after Belfast crash involving bus and pedestrianREAD MORE: Teenage pedestrian hospitalied after East Belfast traffic collision

Hugh Hume, Police Ombudsman Chief Executive, said: “We have identified multiple potential victims, together with a substantial number of witnesses. We have also seized a large volume of material, including a significant amount of digital evidence, during a search operation.“We understand that this news may be distressing for anyone who has been affected or harmed or who has been harmed by a similar experience. We would like to reassure victims that they are not to blame and if they choose to contact us, we will listen, we will investigate and we will do so independently from police.“As the victim impact, scale and complexity of the investigation have become clear, we are now working to ensure that this investigation is carried out in the most timely manner possible. We are, therefore, allocating all available resources to ensure it will be victim-centred, effective and efficient.“Our resources are finite and this means that the timeliness of our other casework may be affected. However, this is the reality of balancing the demands of our complaints across the Office with the need to progress this complex and expanding investigation. If we do not prioritise now, in the long term we risk compromising the service we provide to complainants and victims, and public confidence in this office and the PSNI.”Mr Hume said he would encourage anyone who has concerns about allegations of this nature to contact the Police Ombudsman’s Office on 028 9082 8600, Email: info@policeombudsman.orgVictim Support NI provide services which are trauma-informed, confidential, safe, and free. These include Sexual Offences Legal Advisors (SOLAs) who are qualified lawyers who can offer free legal advice and support to adult victims of serious sexual offences.

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Popular Whitby pub reapplies for pavement licence

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Popular Whitby pub reapplies for pavement licence

​The Middle Earth Tavern, at 25-26 Church Street, Whitby, is seeking a pavement licence from North Yorkshire Council.

​Jill Blackburn’s proposal states that the application is “for an outdoor seating area to extend the outside area at the front”, it adds, “as agreed and noted following the recent granting of planning permission”.

The application notes that the land is owned by the premises.

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​If the pavement licence is approved, the outdoor seating would be used for serving and consuming food and drink.

​The website of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) describes the pub in Church Street as a watering hole “with low ceilings and bare brick walls, a decision made after the flood, bric-a-brac, and numerous references to Tolkien’s fantastical world, after which the pub is named.”

​“It overlooks the river Esk and offers various beers, a sizeable lounge, pool room, and outside seating.”

​The deadline for representations regarding the pavement licence application is Tuesday, March 10.

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​Members of the public who wish to make representations regarding the application should give notice in writing to: North Yorkshire Council, Licensing Services, Town Hall, St Nicholas Street, Scarborough, YO11 2HG or by email to licensing.east@northyorks.gov.uk.

​The council’s website notes: “It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application punishable on summary conviction by an unlimited fine.”

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Pagazzi Lighting enters administration as 70 jobs lost and 11 stores close across Scotland

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The Thornliebank-based lighting specialist, which has been in business for 45 years across Scotland and Northern England, has been forced to close stores and make redundancies

A well-known family furniture retailer has collapsed into administration, resulting in 11 shop closures and leaving scores of workers facing redundancy.

Pagazzi Lighting, a household name throughout Scotland and Northern England, was established nearly five decades ago and has built its reputation as a leading specialist in decorative lighting, mirrors and home furnishings.

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Yet facing escalating overheads and declining footfall on the high street, the Thornliebank-headquartered firm has been compelled to shutter 11 of its branches and make 70 employees redundant mere days following the appointment of administrators, Daily Express reports.

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Notwithstanding its 45-year trading history, the retailer’s previous accomplishments proved insufficient protection against a “sustained period of poor trading” and growing financial strain, industry specialists have warned.

Even following a significant restructure just two years previously, George Lafferty of BTG was brought in as administrator last week as Pagazzi Lighting grappled with persistent cashflow difficulties amid rising operational expenses and weakening consumer demand.

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Notable casualties include the Braehead Shopping Centre outlet in Glasgow and the Uddingston branch, located south-east of Glasgow city centre. Administrators have confirmed the 11 affected premises officially ceased trading on Wednesday (March 4), The Sun has reported.

Thomas McKay, managing partner of BTG, commented: “The retail sector has seen some very tough months of late in Scotland and this has also affected the lighting sector, mainly due to increasing competition and high trading costs.”

Reduced margins, slower consumer spending and rising operating costs are creating challenges for many high street retailers, and unfortunately, these are the main factors that saw the Pagazzi stores and concessions no longer able to trade. “”The 11 affected stores closed on Wednesday, after BTG consulted with staff about the anticipated closure.

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Sadly, there have been 70 redundancies arising from the unavoidable closure of the retail outlets that were no longer able to trade. “”We are working closely with these individuals affected to assist them with access to their entitlements in conjunction with Partnership Action for Continuing Employment (PACE) and the Redundancy Payments Service, as we provide these staff members with the support and advice they need.”.

The firm’s digital arm, Pagazzi Lighting (Web) Limited, has intervened to purchase the business along with its assets, ensuring the company will survive – albeit in a scaled-back capacity – through its web presence and remaining physical shops.

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Daily horoscope March 10, 2026: Predictions for your star sign

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Daily horoscope March 10, 2026: Predictions for your star sign
What’s in store for you today? (Picture: Metro.co.uk)

Venus comes into alignment with Pluto, bringing self-worth to center stage. Take the plunge into romance and self-expression, with courage from the cosmos.

Cancer, Leo and Virgo, transformation is around the corner. Expect a shift in image or narrative today.

Tackle this powerful placement with boldness and don’t apologise for being authentically you. Take note of those who celebrate your successes.

Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Tuesday March 10, 2026.

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To download your free Unique Personal Horoscope based on your time, date and place of birth, visit patrickarundell.com/free-birth-chart/.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

Venus in your sign forges an alliance with Pluto in Aquarius, so your charm is amplified in the most mysterious way. You’re not only attracting attention you’re encouraging depth, desire and deep transformation. Romantic, creative or collaborative connections take on a more intense tone. Surface activity won’t satisfy and you’re not just turning heads today – you’re also changing hearts.

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Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Today’s celestial guidance for Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

You’ll be quietly commanding the room even if you’re in the back row. Behind-the-scenes moves have powerful ripple effects now, especially in career or long-term goals. Charm meets strategy and subtle shifts can lead to major and dynamic changes. You may feel a pull towards a new ambition or someone may inspire you to think bigger. Trust your instincts and prepare to surprise yourself.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Today’s planetary forecast for Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Conversations can open minds, hearts or doors, and sometimes all three. You may feel drawn to people or ideas that challenge your worldview in the best way. This is a stellar time to network with purpose, set hopes with intention or discuss a project with confidence. Let curiosity guide you towards deeper truths. Remember you’re not just connecting, you’re evolving, and many will notice.

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Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

How the stars aligned for Gemini today

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

You’re called to step up and explore your potential around career, confidence and connections. You may notice shifts in how others perceive your worth, and it’s time you saw it too. A big change is underway behind the scenes, around shared resources or deep bonds. It’s fine to sweeten the deal, but what do you want and are you ready to own it? Today, subtle strength can be very powerful.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Celestial energies for Cancer today

Leo

Venus links with Pluto, so your love life, creative talent or personal philosophy is about to get a celestial upgrade. You’re drawing powerful people and ideas your way and they’re not here for small talk. This energy inspires meaningful connections, wild inspiration and daring moves. You’re not only seeking the spotlight, you can turn it on others, too. This is true leadership, Leo.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

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Your daily zodiac insight for Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

Everyday routines, work habits or even health choices may get a sensual makeover, so think empowered self-care and pleasure with purpose. There’s hidden beauty in the details, and you’re encouraged to look beneath the surface for lasting change. Relationships, especially behind closed doors or in professional settings, could intensify. Don’t shy away from depth, instead lean into it.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Cosmic messages for Cosmic messages for Virgo today

Libra

September 24 to October 23

Relationships may go through a life-changing twist. Whether it’s romance, a key collaboration or a new interest, you’ll prefer fireworks rather than anything superficial. A connection could intensify quickly, revealing desires or truths you didn’t expect. Your charm is at a peak now, but it’s your courage to be real that could alter everything. This is the moment to let your true feelings show.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

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Your daily stellar guidance for Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

The Venus-Pluto link means you’re blending desire and transformation. This energy stirs deep shifts in your habits, health or work dynamics and could morph into something more aligned with your evolving values. Relationships at work may intensify or reveal unspoken truths. You’re not here for surface-level anything and this transit agrees. Small changes now have big ripple effects.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Star alignments for Scorpio today

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

With Venus cosying up to deep Pluto, romance, creativity and daring self-expression all get a boost. Conversations aren’t just clever, they can be brilliant, profound and maybe a little spicy. Someone unexpected could challenge your thinking or stir up feelings. This is a great time to share ideas, make new connections or pour passion into a project. Go ahead and dazzle and really mean it.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

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Today’s astral messages for Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 20

It’s time for a soulful renovation, both inside and out. Whether it’s a literal home makeover, a heart-to-heart with family or a shift in your sense of security, you’re being nudged to beautify your foundations. Financial matters may also get a passionate jolt, so invest in growth. Let go of what’s outdated, especially in relationships close to home. A softer space can still be a safe sanctuary.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Your zodiac forecast for Capricorn today

Aquarius

January 21 to February 19

Conversations now can charm, persuade or provoke deep change, especially if you’re brave enough to speak the truth. This is a prime time for writing, new opportunities or reconnecting with someone who appreciates your gifts. You’re not just sharing ideas, you’re shifting energy. Whether it’s love, art or influence, you are in the spotlight. Use it wisely as your message can be far-reaching.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

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Daily cosmic update for Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

You’re being asked to own your worth in a deep and possibly unexpected way. Hidden fears or outdated beliefs about money, love or self-esteem may surface, but so will the power to transform them. It’s time to invest in yourself, unapologetically. A private epiphany could shift how you approach abundance or intimacy. Don’t underestimate the quiet strength of inner work right now.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Your cosmic energy update for Pisces

Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

Head here for this week’s tarot horoscope reading, and see what the cards have in store for you!

Check out the tarot horoscope reading for the month of March here.

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Residents in town ‘haunted’ by tragedy say ‘good riddance’ to Ian Huntley

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Residents in town 'haunted' by tragedy say 'good riddance' to Ian Huntley

The town was ‘put on the map for all the wrong reasons’

Residents in the town where Ian Huntley killed two schoolgirls have shared their thoughts after his death at the weekend. Huntley was attacked at HMP Frankland on February 26 by another inmate, which left him blind and fighting for his life.

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After his life support was turned off, Huntley died in hospital on Saturday (March 7). Huntley killed Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells, 10, in Soham on August 4, 2002.

In Soham today, residents have shared their reaction to his death – and their hopes that the town can now move on. One man, who asked not to be named, said “good riddance”.

He added: “Soham has had to deal with so much attention since that horrible thing happened to those poor girls. It’s put the town on the map for all the wrong reasons.” Now that Huntley is dead, he hopes it is the “end for the family of those girls, but also people who live here”.

Another man named Edward, who asked to use only his first name, said the tragedy has “haunted our town since 2002”. Edward added: “It’s not nice that it’s known for that. To whoever killed him, they’ve done the world a favour.

“Now he’s dead, I hope that it’s the end for Soham and for the families because they have been through enough. The girls should be remembered and that horrible man that did the unthinkable should be forgotten.”

Emily didn’t live in Soham in 2002, but understands how much the murder affected the town. She said: “I don’t know what it was like at the time but I know from people in town, it’s all it’s known for and they are sad it is. Personally, I’m happy that he’s dead.

“He has caused so much pain to the girls’ families. He’s put a bad name on Soham and now it should be left alone.”

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One man, who wished to not be named, said he didn’t have much to say about “that vile thing”. He added: “He’s had too much attention already. Now that he’s dead, I hope it’s the end. The girls’ families deserve to be left alone as they have gone through turmoil.”

One woman who worked with Huntley also told CambridgeshireLive she “didn’t like him” before the murders. Her partner also said: “He [Ian Huntley] had one problem, he breathed. The only other problem is when he died, he wasn’t conscious.”

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Nadiya Hussain gives verdict on new Bake Off judge and why she stopped watching

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Nadiya Hussain gives verdict on new Bake Off judge and why she stopped watching

Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain has spoken out about the Channel 4 series

More than a decade since she was crowned winner of The Great British Bake Off and became one of TV’s most successful new stars, Nadiya Hussain has admitted that she no longer watches the Channel 4 show.

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Despite going on to enjoy a huge TV career, the last 12 months have proved something of a torrid time for the 41-year-old mum-of-three as the BBC cancelled her shows.

In a new interview with the Radio Times, Nadiya admits “it’s sad” how it ended but “near the end” of her relationship with the Beeb, she had voiced concerns about how her programmes were being made.

And as far as Bake Off is concerned, she admits it’s not a show she watches any more. She said: “The magic has disappeared for me. Sometimes it feels like it’s competing with some of the shows on Netflix where it’s bigger and bolder and more outrageous, and I don’t think it needs any of that. It’s a beautiful show, it’s a classic.”

As for new judge Nigella Lawson replacing Prue Leith, Nadia said: “Nigella’s got a lot to live up to following Prue. It’s very easy to become quite stuffy and very proper, and I love that she’s got a little wild streak about her. I want to be like Prue when I’m older. If I get to that lovely age.”

Following her triumph on GBBO in 2015, Nadiya went on to front numerous BBC shows including Nadiya Bakes, Nadiya’s Fast Flavours and Nadiya’s Simple Spices. She has also appeared as a guest panellist on ITV’s Loose Women.

Other achievements include being named by Debrett’s as one of the 500 most influential people in the UK, included on BBC News’ 100 Women list and invited to bake a cake for the 90th birthday celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II.

After gaining a publishing deal she was also shortlisted for Children’s Book of the Year prize at the British Book Awards for Bake Me A Story.

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However, in a social media post last year, the presenter disclosed that the BBC had axed her series, calling it a “turning point” in her professional journey.

At the time, a BBC spokesperson said: “After several wonderful series we have made the difficult decision not to commission another cookery show with Nadiya Hussain at the moment. Nadiya remains a much-valued part of the BBC family, and we look forward to working together on future projects.”

In conversation with the Sun’s Fabulous magazine, she reflected: “The last year has been physically and mentally one of the hardest so my next biggest achievement would be choosing myself and deciding what’s right for me.”

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This follows Nadiya describing her three children, Musa, 19, Dawud, 18, and Maryam, 15, as her “biggest achievement”. Nadiya shares her children with husband Abdal Hussain, whom she wed in Bangladesh at the age of 20.

Following the axing of her programme, she took the decision to switch careers and move into education. She’s now employed in schools as a teaching assistant, with aspirations of potentially qualifying as a teacher down the line.

She revealed that other broadcasters, including ITV and Channel 4, approached her about another series, but insists it’s “not something that I want to do”.

Speaking to woman&home magazine, she explained: “I’m currently working as a teaching assistant at a lovely little primary school. The plan is to gain some training and maybe in the future become a teacher.”

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A689 and Spring Lane in Sedgefield closed due to incidents

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A689 and Spring Lane in Sedgefield closed due to incidents

Police have shut the A689 in Sedgefield this evening (March 9) between the Sands Hall roundabout and the A177 La Raaj roundabout.

The nearby Spring Lane – which goes over the A689 – has also been closed from Sedgefield to Foxton, Durham Police confirmed.

The nature of the incidents remain unknown at this stage.

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“We would thank motorists to avoid the route – diversion will be through Sedgefield to come out Stockton Road whilst emergency services work”, a spokesperson said.

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UK snow: Met Office details locations wintry weather to batter Brits amid -7C freeze

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UK snow: Met Office details locations wintry weather to batter Brits amid -7C freeze

Snow is soon expected to fall across parts of the UK — reportedly around 60% of the country — as a low pressure moves in from the west and temperatures drop rapidly

The Met Office has detailed snow is expected to fall in locations as low as 200 metres in the coming days.

In a forecast posted on YouTube, the weather agency has said snow is anticipated across large swathes of the nation, including the Northwest of England, as early as Friday. It is a stark contrast to the balmy weather last week, during which the mercury hit 19C in Greater London.

Annie Shuttleworth, meteorologist with the Met Office, said in the clip: “Quite a notable change in the air mass on Thursday night into Friday will bring a very different feel to the weather by the end of the week. It will be considerably colder to start the day (Friday). We are expecting a patchy frost particularly in sheltered areas. Sheltered because the winds will be quite strong on Friday as well.

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“Now, the rain will continue to move in from the north and west. So, it’s northwestern areas that will see frequent showers, some of these falling as snow to around 200 meters. That’s relatively low for the time of year, but also a mix of hail in there as well. That brings a risk of ice too through Friday morning as well as into Saturday morning.”

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Weather maps issued by the Met Office show a messy outlook on Friday with white hues across the country, including across the Northwest of England, north Wales and parts of Scotland. A blue hue covers other parts, such as the Southwest of England.

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The mercury exceed 15C in Goudhurst, Kent, on Sunday, but temperatures are anticipated to fall in the coming days. It will feel as cold as -7C on Friday — largely due to a fierce westerly wind — and remain this way throughout the weekend, notably on Sunday.

Ms Shuttleworth added: “Wherever you are, it’s going to be feeling chilly quite widely. We’ll just be in those single figures by day… Now, the general theme remains unsettled into the weekend.”

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It will be rainy on the weekend after the snow, especially across the Northwest of England. This will follow heavy rain on Thursday, particularly across the Northeast of England in the morning and most of Wales in the afternoon.

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There are 21 flood warnings in place already ahead of the unsettled period. All of these are for waterways across the Southwest of England, such as Groundwater flooding for the Hooke in West Dorset and Groundwater flooding for the Till, which is in Wiltshire.

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