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Bee Network looking ‘very closely’ at Middlebrook link

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Bee Network looking 'very closely' at Middlebrook link

Bolton Council’s local Bee Network committee met last week for the first time in nearly two years since their first and, until now, only meeting.

It was confirmed that the committee, originally established when the buses were first being franchised, would now be held quarterly.

Nick Fairclough, interim deputy director of buses at TfGM, told councillors they had inherited the bus network from the system of private operators.

Speaking at last Monday’s meeting (February 16), he said: “The way in which that network has developed over a hundred years or more is that routes haven’t been designed with an integrated network in mind.

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“In many places, we still see buses competing with each other or competing with the train or Metrolink in other parts of the city region.

“They also don’t properly serve the needs of the modern economy in many places – they don’t adequately serve industrial sites or retail parks that are incredibly important for the economy as we have it today.”

Nick Fairclough speaks at the local Bee Network committee (Image: Bolton Council)

Mr Fairclough noted the success of the already implemented 24-hour bus services, including the 36 between Manchester and Bolton, and the 615 linking Middlebrook and Wigan.

He said: “I think where we are is that we’ve got a really strong in where the priorities are in Bolton, but we’re keen to build on that and keen to work with you to identify those.”

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Cllr David Wilkinson said: “I’m glad to see we’re looking at retail parks and industrial areas because that, to say the least, is something that has been a bugbear for 20 odd years.

“People in Westhoughton who want to work at Logistics North have to go by private transport because there’s nothing to link us there.”

He noted several new industrial and housing developments planned near Westhoughton, such as Gibfield Park, and said they would need “really improved links”.

The committee was held in Bolton Town Hall (Image: Bolton Council)

Cllr Sean Fielding said: “To see that Wigan got a connection reinstated to Middlebrook, yet we don’t have our own, and it’s in our borough – I’m sure you can appreciate that that’s incredibly frustrating for members.

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“And I support Cllr Wilkinson’s comments around ensuring that we adapt to the amount of development that is proposed to take place, particularly in the west of the borough, as it happens rather than waiting for it to happen and responding to it.”

Mr Fairclough said: “We certainly agree. I think, in terms of Middlebrook and Logistics North, we see two areas that are not currently served as well as they should be.

“Certainly our planning team is looking very closely at both of those areas now and we’re aware of the need to improve connectivity both from a jobs perspective and an access to retail perspective.”

He said that connecting new developments to the bus network early is “something we’d really like to do more of”.

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He said: “One of the benefits of local control of the bus network is that we should be able to get in early and be proactive.

“Look at what’s coming down the pipeline in terms of residential, commercial, and industrial development and try to build a market for the bus network – perhaps before everyone is moved in, in a way that wasn’t really possible in the previous commercial market.”

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Historic Wuthering Heights ruin is must-visit and just an hour from Manchester

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Manchester Evening News

The Wuthering Heights film starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi was filmed across the Yorkshire Dales, with historic ruins transformed into a stunning movie set

All eyes are on Yorkshire as Wuthering Heights, which was shot across the Dales, arrives in cinemas, with fans adding the area to their 2026 travel itineraries.

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Hollywood actors Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi used the Yorkshire Dales as their location throughout the entire production, and many treasures of the Yorkshire landscape feature in the film.

While Emily Brontë’s novel was set primarily within the Yorkshire Moors, near to where the author lived, this adaptation opted to base its filming within the Yorkshire Dales.

However, it was particularly one Dale that proved to be the genuine star of the production, appearing repeatedly throughout the picture.

Swaledale appears to have several connections to the filming location for the 2026 film, and one heritage site which is accessible to visitors was converted into a film set for several scenes.

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Old Gang Lead Mines

High on the moors, positioned between Swaledale and Arkengarthdale, are the striking ruins of an 18th-century lead production facility.

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It stands as one of the largest and most well-preserved lead-mining locations in the region, boasting a tall chimney and the remnants of a once-bustling mill.

The remains lie peacefully within open moorland and can only be reached on foot; it is typically a circular walk that takes you from nearby Gunnerside or Muker and across the moors.

As a heritage site, it is completely free to explore and accessible to the public, though, for the purposes of the film, several elements were incorporated into it.

Right at the start of Wuthering Heights, as a horse-drawn carriage travels across verdant countryside, it passes the Old Gang Smelt Mill in a stunning shot.

The location appears again in additional scenes, with lead actors Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi wandering across the fog-covered moorland.

Sarah Whiteley, Senior Historic Environment Officer at Yorkshire Dales National Park, was tasked with ensuring the site received proper protection throughout filming.

Her role involved monitoring how the cast and crew worked with this historic location, and she offered some insight into the process when speaking to Conde Nast Traveller.

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Whiteley revealed ahead of the cast’s arrival, the site was shut to other visitors to allow time for preparation with additions including painted props and extra vegetation.

She said: “The locations team wanted to put an installation of a sort of cliff-face-type prop, so we decided which was the least damaging place to put that,” and clearly, it was the Old Gang Lead Mines.

Swaledale

Film fans are eager to bring the Wuthering Heights world they witnessed on screen into their everyday lives, and a visit to Swaledale offers the ideal opportunity for immersion.

From the opening frames of the production to several of its most powerful moments, the region was instrumental in transforming the beloved tale into reality.

In fact, just a short distance from the Old Gang site near Swaledale, nestled in the moorland above Langthwaite village, lies a winding road called Bouldershaw Lane.

From that lane, you can view the expansive field, which is in private ownership, where Margot Robbie’s dramatic scene takes place – walking through in her enormous wedding gown whilst carrying a bouquet.

The Melbeck Moors in Swaledale also served as a stunning backdrop, forming part of the magnificent Yorkshire Dales National Park.

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It’s an exceptionally remote spot located in the upper reaches of the dale and consists mostly of completely isolated moorland, which proved challenging to access for the cast and crew.

This moorland area is scattered with other abandoned structures and quiet meandering roads, which are also believed to have been utilised for filming.

The natural conditions of these locations certainly played their part at times, with the actors having recalled memories on set of enduring freezing temperatures and lengthy walks.

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How have four years of war changed Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin? | World News

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy in January 2022 (L) and February 2026 (R). File pics: Reuters

Throughout 1,460 days of the Ukraine war, two figures have remained central.

The decisions made by Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russia’s Vladimir Putin, their leadership styles, and their standing on the international stage have shaped a conflict soon entering its fifth year.

But how have the war’s two central figures changed in the past four years?

Sky News has explored each leader’s domestic and global image, as well as how the conflict has shaped them personally, in this piece.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Mr Zelenskyy has undergone one of the most dramatic image transformations of any contemporary leader in the past four years, going from a relatively inexperienced president to a central symbol of resistance and democratic defiance.

While his background in acting made his rise to Ukraine’s highest office an unlikely one, Mr Zelenskyy fit the presidential mould in his early years, at least in appearance.

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Often seen clean-shaven and suited, images of Ukraine’s leader from before the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022 now make him appear boyish compared to the hardened wartime leader of 2026.

Mr Zelenskyy is now rarely spotted in anything other than military fatigues, something that famously irked Donald Trump when he hosted the Ukrainian president for a disastrous meeting at the White House last year.

Zelenskyy at home

Domestically, the 2022 invasion saw Mr Zelenskyy experience an initial surge in approval and trust as Ukrainians rallied behind their leader.

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His decision to stay in Kyiv and lead from the capital, even after offers to evacuate for his own safety, became symbolic of Ukrainian resistance, enhancing his credibility and sense of purpose.

“The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride,” he reportedly told US officials as Russia’s 35-mile armoured convoy closed in on the capital.


February 2022: Zelenskyy says he’s staying in Kyiv as his country comes under Russian attack

From that moment on, Mr Zelenskyy has remained a central unifying figure in Ukraine, providing nightly video updates to inform and rally his people and making visits to frontline towns to inspire his troops.

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Inevitably, as the conflict has progressed, economic strain, war fatigue, and high-profile political controversies (including protests over anti-corruption institutions and an investigation into large-scale bribery in the energy sector) have seen his domestic approval ratings decline slightly, though he still maintains broad support overall.

Zelenskyy abroad

Mr Zelenskyy’s global standing skyrocketed after 2022. He became not just Ukraine’s leader but the face of its diplomatic effort, repeatedly addressing parliaments, world leaders and public audiences to sustain foreign support.

By framing the war with Russia as a broader struggle between democracy and authoritarianism, Ukraine’s president positioned his country on the world stage as defending both European and Western values.

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He’s been successful in his repeated attempts to bring financial and military support to Ukraine and maintained working relationships with key allies throughout the war. He even wrestled Donald Trump back from the brink after their disastrous White House meeting last February.

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Sky’s David Blevins takes us through the Ukrainian and US presidents’ meeting at the White House

Outside questions remain – largely from Europe – over Mr Zelenskyy’s ability to tackle corruption at home, while his reputation in Russia has remained negative, but his image on the world stage overall remains positive.

Zelenskyy the man

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So, what about how the last four years have changed Mr Zelenskyy personally?

There is no doubt about the toll the war has taken on the president and his family, as it has for millions of Ukrainians.

In the early months of the war, his family were evacuated and taken to secret locations to keep them safe. That separation had a clear impact on Mr Zelenskyy.

According to First Lady Olena Zelenska, her husband now appreciates the simple things more, such as communication with his family.

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“Send him a photo of his son or tell him what his daughter said. And it touches him very emotionally now,” she said in 2023.

“He wasn’t so sensitive to it before.”

Vladimir Putin

File pics: Reuters
Image:
File pics: Reuters

Despite hoping to see Ukraine capitulate within days, Russia’s invasion has now dragged into its fifth year. In that time, Mr Putin’s global standing has largely deteriorated to pariah status.

The Ukraine war has recast his image, both domestically as the wartime leader Russia “needs” (in state narratives) and internationally as a more marginalised, conflict-driven figure.

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Personally, the Russian president has become more isolated since the invasion, both in terms of his public appearances and his demeanour – claiming he “jokes less” since the war began.

Putin at home

Inside Russia, Mr Putin’s popularity has been sustained by a mix of state-controlled messaging, repression of dissent and wartime patriotic mobilisation, even amid economic strain and military setbacks.

His approval ratings initially rose sharply after the invasion began, reaching some of the highest figures in years, with a surge in patriotic sentiment and support for “defending Russia”.

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Vladimir Putin shakes hands with a wounded Russian soldier in Moscow, December 2025
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Vladimir Putin shakes hands with a wounded Russian soldier in Moscow, December 2025

And while sanctions, mobilisation and economic pressures dented some support, independent and state pollsters still often report significant backing for Mr Putin among many Russians.

Even so, it can be difficult to gauge public opinion of the president inside Russia thanks to censorship and media control.

The Kremlin has demanded active participation in and support for the war from society since 2022, not just quiet compliance.

Opposition politics are outlawed, independent media has been almost entirely dismantled or subjected to strict “foreign agent” laws, and even mentioning the war in ways that contradict official narratives can lead to prison sentences.

But that hasn’t stopped some direct criticism. One woman wrote to Mr Putin demanding an explanation as to why her late son, an 18-year-old conscript, had been involved in combat.

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The spiralling cost of living has also damaged Mr Putin at home. For many households, everyday essentials – from basic groceries to fuel and housing – have become markedly more expensive, squeezing incomes despite official assurances of economic resilience.

During his 2025 annual address, Russians sent messages for the president to answer, many of which raised concerns over the state of the economy.


The key moments of Putin annual press marathon

Putin abroad

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Outside Russia’s borders, Mr Putin’s reputation has worsened markedly.

While relations with many Western governments were already strained before 2022, the invasion of Ukraine transformed long-standing suspicion into broad diplomatic isolation.

Mr Putin no longer sits comfortably at global tables and forums frequented by world powers, while several Western governments have severed ties entirely.

In response, Russia’s president has kept relationships with his few remaining allies close, narrowing his diplomatic circle.

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Read more: How Moscow and its allies are trying to display their immunity to Western pressure

He signed a comprehensive strategic partnership with North Korea in 2024 and signed a similar deal, promising future investment, with China in 2025.

The outlier is the US.

Mr Putin had no contact with the White House during the early stages of the war under Joe Biden. But the return of Donald Trump brought a shift in approach: several phone calls and a face-to-face meeting in Alaska have suggested a desire to redefine the two powers’ relationship.

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Donald Trump replaced Joe Biden as US president in 2025. File pics: Reuters
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Donald Trump replaced Joe Biden as US president in 2025. File pics: Reuters

Putin the man

As with Mr Zelenskyy, there is little doubt that four years of war have also taken a significant toll on Russia’s leader.

During his 2024 year-end press conference, he stated that the ongoing war in Ukraine had changed him, causing him to “joke less” and “almost stop laughing”.

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He also said that his focus has shifted, stating his happiness would not be complete until all Russian forces return from the frontline.

Mr Putin also appears to have become more physically and socially isolated during the war, with fewer spontaneous public interactions and reduced foreign travel compared with pre-war years.

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Met Office issues Darlington weather forecast for the week

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Met Office issues Darlington weather forecast for the week

From Monday, residents can expect mostly cloudy skies with a few brighter intervals.

It should stay largely dry through daylight hours, with only a small risk of a light shower later in the day.

Daytime temperatures are forecast to reach around 9–11C, falling to between 6C and 8C overnight, though it will feel cooler in a fresh south-westerly wind.

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Tuesday is likely to remain overcast, with thicker cloud at times bringing patches of light rain or drizzle.

There will be some drier interludes, but the day is expected to feel quite blustery as strong south-westerly winds bring locally gusty conditions.

Temperatures should again sit near 9–11C during the day, holding up at 7–9C overnight.

On Wednesday, conditions look more unsettled, with cloudy skies and outbreaks of rain or showers moving through, some of which could be heavy for a time.

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Brief brighter intervals are possible between showers.

Daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 9–11C, before dipping to about 5–7C overnight as slightly cooler air moves in.

Winds will stay breezy from the west or south-west, easing a little later.

Thursday is set to bring a mix of cloud, some brighter spells, and scattered showers.

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Many places should see several dry hours, but the showery nature of the day means the odd downpour cannot be ruled out.

Temperatures are likely to be a touch lower, with highs of 8–10C and overnight lows of 3–5C, giving a cooler feel, especially under any clearer skies.

Winds from the west or north-west will generally be moderate, occasionally fresh.

By Friday, cloud is expected to thicken again with further spells of light to moderate rain at times, interspersed with drier but still mostly cloudy periods.

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Daytime temperatures should remain around 8–10C, with nights again near 3–5C.

A west or south-westerly breeze is forecast, mostly moderate but at times fresh, keeping things feeling on the cool side despite relatively mild readings for the time of year.

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Liverpool news: Mohamed Salah advised to leave as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s regret emerges

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Daily Mirror

Mohamed Salah has received an instruction regarding his Liverpool future

Liverpool will already be planning for next season as the summer transfer window approaches. The Reds are aiming to secure a Champions League spot this term as the club nears the final stretch of the campaign.

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While it has been a mixed season for the reigning Premier League champions following their eye-catching transfer activity last year, it could benefit the team in the long term. Several of Liverpool’s major signings will look to kick on in their second year at Anfield, but there is still work to be done with the squad.

Mohamed Salah is set to be the subject of speculation over his future as he enters the final year of his Liverpool contract. The experienced forward spoke out against manager Arne Slot after being dropped to the bench earlier this season, and has since been consistently linked with a high-profile move to the Saudi Pro League.

Former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has also faced a difficult first year in Spain. Here, Mirror Football takes a look at some of the biggest stories surrounding the Reds.

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Mohamed Salah verdict

Former Tottenham Hotspur star Rafael van der Vaart has weighed in on Mohamed Salah’s future and advised Liverpool’s talisman to leave the club. The 33-year-old is still contributing to Slot’s team, despite not replicating his goalscoring feats from last season, but Van der Vaart believes the time is right for Salah to bid farewell to Liverpool.

READ MORE: Arne Slot handed major Liverpool transfer boost as agent speaks out on moveREAD MORE: Trent Alexander-Arnold’s failed Liverpool plan – ‘I realised what it meant to him’

“When I look at Mohammed Salah and the position he plays on the pitch, he has lost that extra half yard and the pace is gone with age,” he told Sky Bet. “When you look at Virgil van Dijk, age is less important for a defender.”

He added: “Having a big player and a big name (like Salah) is sometimes a problem for both the player and coach. When you expect certain things as a coach from him and he doesn’t do it, then of course you have the right to put him on the bench, but because it’s Mohamed Salah, this can cause a massive issue – in every press conference every question will be on Salah. It could be best for both sides if Salah goes somewhere else in the summer.”

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Trent Alexander-Arnold regret

Alexander-Arnold decided to leave Liverpool for Real Madrid last summer, but the full-back has faced several issues during his debut season, with injuries and competition for places limiting his game time. His comments upon leaving the Reds hinted at regret over how Liverpool supporters perceived the move.

“I completely understand the feelings that go with that [leaving Liverpool], and I’ve felt it myself, so I completely understand that the news will disappoint a lot of people, will anger people, it will make them upset,” Alexander-Arnold said.

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“Obviously, that went into the decision as well – it’s something you don’t want to do, you don’t want to ever have these moments where you feel like you’re letting a lot of people down, you’re disappointing a lot of people. But I’ve had to make a decision for me, it’s as simple as that.”

There were previously claims that the England international could be moved on in the summer, though these have since been dismissed. New Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa has spoken positively about the ex-Liverpool star during the early weeks of his reign.

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Record number of patients waiting more than 12 hours in A&E in Cambridgeshire

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Cambridgeshire Live

Almost 1,800 people who went to A&E in January waited more than 12 hours to be admitted

A record number of patients had to wait for more than 12 hours in A&E in Cambridgeshire last month. Almost 1,800 people who went to A&E in the county this January had to wait for more than 12 hours from a decision to admit to actually being admitted.

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That’s up from nearly 1,300 in December and 1,400 in November. It’s also the highest number on record, surpassing the previous record of 1,500 set in January 2025.

The number of attendances at Cambridgeshire A&Es that face waits of more than 12 hours has been on the rise ever since the pandemic.

In January 2020, only 47 attendances at the county’s A&Es faced a wait of more than 12 hours. That was a record at the time, more than double the amount of any previous month.

By January 2021 that rose to 68, and then to 502 in January 2022. A year later 1,100 faced a 12-hour wait. In January 2024 it was 1,500 and in January 2025 it was over 1,500.

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A Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson said: “Delivering shorter waiting times for patients coming to hospital in an emergency is one of our top priorities. In 2023, 9.9% of patients waited 12 hours or more following their arrival at our Emergency Department, rising to 11.3% in 2024. In 2025, this improved to 8.8% of patients. This is in the context of increasing levels of demand with 151,914 patients requiring access to urgent and emergency care in 2025, an increase from 139,019 in 2023.

“We are working hard to reduce the time patients are waiting in the Emergency Department. We have invested in a newly refurbished and expanded Urgent Care Centre to help patients get the right treatment in the right place as quickly as possible. Along with improved same day emergency care facilities, we are working hard to discharge those patients ready to go home and freeing up beds for those who need them by using our virtual ward and increased capacity in the discharge lounge.”

Kerry Carroll, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Peterborough City, Hinchingbrooke, and Stamford and Rutland Hospitals, said: “We are working hard to reduce waiting times in our Emergency Departments, and it remains a high priority for us.

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“Whilst we have seen improvements to waiting times through 2025, we are continuing our focus upon the recovery plans to further shorten waiting times as we know how much this improves patient experience. This work is being delivered along with our local health system partners to support improvements for patients at every step of the urgent and emergency care journey.”

The number of people waiting over 12 hours in A&E is on the rise across England as a whole. There were 71,500 attendances at A&Es in England in January where there was a 12-or-more hour wait from a decision to admit to being admitted.

That’s up from 61,000 in January 2025, 54,300 in January 2024, and 42,800 in January 2023.

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Russell Grant’s horoscopes as Libra told creative energy leads to new connections

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Daily Record

Today’s star signs as Scorpio advised to spend time outdoors for clarity of thought.

Aries

You find yourself on your own while others expect you to take charge in a group setting. This situation may have caught you off guard and you might struggle to communicate your thoughts effectively or create the desired personal impression. Make it your intention to win over a team of moderators. Trust that your unique perspective can be a vital asset.

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Taurus

Keep your distance from people who are being difficult. Your emotions are chaotic right now. Give yourself time to see if your feelings remain the same tomorrow. If you feel a need to reach out to a family member or close friend, go with your instincts. The bonds you share will provide comfort, remindingyou that support is always within reach.

Gemini

A happy start to the day has something to do with a close relationship and this gives you a lot to be pleased about. As the warmth of connection surrounds you, relish these joyful moments. At the same time, acting on impulse later could lead to regrets. If you’re dissatisfied with your job, it would be best to hold off from quitting until you secure another position.

Cancer

Recent troubles are fading away. Even though the situation isn’t totally clear, it will be a relief to see improvements. Be cautious about believing everything you hear in private conversations at work. Take an interest in an internal training scheme. Embrace the positive changes, for they may lead to unexpected opportunities that enhance your journey.

Leo

If you’re getting into a debate, whether this relates to politics, religion or community issues, keep in mind that you might be wrong. Be respectful of differing views. The exchange of ideas can be enlightening, opening doors to a broader perspective. It won’t be a problemto delay travel plans if a relative has several valid reasons for you to stay home.

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Virgo

Career anxiety or concerns about a romantic situation are causing you to feel unsettled. Don’t let it turn into a reality when someone tries to instigate a surprise scheme. Rash actions will only worsen existing issues. Instead, focus on repairing your relationship with your partner. Embrace the opportunity for heartfelt conversations.

Libra

Your faith in a workmate or neighbour could turn out to be misplaced. Someone who said they would help you seems less keen now to carry out this promise. By the time they are ready to play their part, it will be too late to achieve anything worthwhile. The afternoon is likely to be exhausting, leaving you to question the reliability of those around you.

Scorpio

A quick change to arrangements with your partner or a close friend may lead to stress and disagreement. You might believe you’ve heard everything others have to say, but expect further verbal repercussions down the line. If you can, choose your words with care. Spending time in the garden or outdoors will be therapeutic, allowing clarity of thought.

Sagittarius

If you’re busy with home renovations or a project has begun without any planning, you may wish you had adopted a more structured strategy. Now you’re facing challenges that could disrupt your work and commitments. Is it possible to go back to square one? Trust your instincts; sometimes, a fresh perspective can lead to unexpected solutions.

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Capricron

Community activities aren’t going well. A newcomer to the scene will seem to rub other people up the wrong way. A friend’s laid-back approach makes it difficult for them to assist with practical matters. Everything feels off until the early evening, when a team effort finally starts to improve. As the day unfolds, a spark of creativity may emerge.

Aquarius

A person you barely know might suggest a money-making opportunity. It’s wise to proceed with caution. Not all relevant information is clear yet and you can’t be sure if this person is trustworthy. If you’re invited to invest in an ambitious scheme, take a momentto reconsider. Trust your instincts; sometimes a second glance reveals hidden truths.

Pisces

It’s all systems go now. A persona lplan promises to transform your lifestyle. You have complete trust that this is going to turnout as planned. Work or volunteer activities related to music, art or entertainment will be a success. In your job, a timely action or revelation will prove to be effective. The creative energy may lead to new connections.

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A11 Cambridge closed overnight due to police incident

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Cambridgeshire Live

The road was closed for five hours due to the incident

A police incident closed a major road in Cambridgeshire overnight.

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The A11 northbound was shut between the A1307 Cambridge and A1304 Six Mile Bottom due to the incident.

Cambridge Police were at the scene on the busy road.

National Highways said that the incident occurred just after 9pm on Sunday, February 22. The road remained closed for five hours.

It fully reopened just before 3am.

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A diversion route was in place as police carried out there work at the scene.

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Noah Donohoe inquest: Everything you need to know after week four of proceedings

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Belfast Live
Noah Donohoe inquest: Everything you need to know after week four of proceedings | Belfast Live

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Ministers say billions in SEND funding will make schools more inclusive

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Ministers say billions in SEND funding will make schools more inclusive

Responding to the announcement of more money targeted towards making mainstream schools more inclusive, Matt Wrack, general secretary of the union NASUWT, said: “£1.6bn over three years may sound like a lot of money, but it equates to just a few thousand pounds per setting.”

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East Belfast theatre company started in living room celebrates 10 years of creative magic

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“I love getting to see the kids develop their confidence and seeing all their friendships”

East Broadway Theatre Company

When they came up with the idea to start their own theatre company in the living room one day, Alex McKelvey and Katie-Rose Spence could never have imagined the musical magic they would create a decade on.

Both with extensive backgrounds in drama and musical theatre, the pair decided to open East Broadway Theatre Company, a dynamic performing arts organisation based in East Belfast.

Since 2016, East Broadway has been dedicated to bringing people together through creativity, confidence, and community and offering affordable tuition to young people wanting to follow their passion.

READ MORE: Comedy musical set in Belfast community centre to return to NI after two decadesREAD MORE: Lyric Theatre Belfast celebrates 75 years as cultural hub with new free exhibition ‘A House of Play’

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In their 10th year, they are kicking off celebrations with a production at the Belvoir Studio Theatre of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ – and Belfast Live popped down to see rehearsals getting underway.

Creative director Kaite-Rose and Musical Director Alex met through performing with the Belvoir Players and decided to go out on a whim and stage some things themselves.

Katie-Rose said: “Alex wanted to do a concert and around the same time, we were asked to perform at Sunflowerfest and if we could do something for kids and their families.

“The two things happened around the same time and we were like ‘oh we’ve enjoyed this, should we maybe try and make something out of it’ – 10 years later we’re here with a building and like 30 people downstairs ready to rehearse and perform.”

A charitable theatre company, East Broadway creates and produces a wide range of shows, concerts, and community performances, offering opportunities for people of all ages to develop their skills in acting, singing, and dancing.

“We started very small,” Katie-Rose continued. “It was a group of like 4 or 5 of us just that were doing small performances.

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“We had started doing classes and rehearsing in Downser Hall on the Cregagh Road and after doing the classes for a while, Alex had the idea of doing a show.

“Our first show was Jungle Book Kids and we had nin children in it all playing various parts and double rolling – just making it happen.”

From that initial small group, East Broadway has continued to grow year on year and in 2025, secured their own rehearsal space where they can teach, inspire, and perform a new generation of talented performers.

She continued: “It’s been absolutely amazing getting to see the kids that have been with us from they were four starting in the classes, now like 11 or 12 and still with us, still doing the shows.

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“I love getting to see the kids develop their confidence and seeing all their friendships – that was such a huge thing for me whenever I was wee, I had zero confidence and really struggled to make friends.

“Now watching the kids that maybe come in for their first audition or their first night, and they’re looking around and they’re terrified, just 3 weeks later having a group of friends. It does the heart good.”

Alex is in charge of all things music at the company and he has been honoured to watch a generation of young performers build their musicality over the past ten years.

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He described getting their own space last year as “phenomenal” and a “pinch me moment” for East Broadway as their work is all voluntary and couldn’t happen without the passionate team of people involved behind the scenes.

Alex said: “We have always been and always are a community theatre. We’ve got affordable drama here – when we first started, we found that things were a bit dear, especially just for the skills that we acquired when we were young people.

“We’ve seen so many people grow in confidence and become a completely different person. They’ve tried out other groups and it hasn’t worked out, but it’s just so nice that it has worked out here for them.

“When we got this space, everybody was like this is brilliant because they can call it home – we were rehearsing out of a council building for a while and then now, having our own space, it’s just brilliant.”

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Looking ahead to the next 10 years, Alex laughed: “We never thought we would get to this 10 years so it’s crazy to think.

“Katie and I had a conversation not long ago about the fact that if you said to us in 2016 while we were sitting on that sofa that would we be here in 10 years, we’d think we would have laughed in each other’s faces.”

Alex, Katie-Rose and the rest of the East Broadway team and working hard to bring their colourful performance of Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat to the Belvoir Studio Theatre from 25-28th March. To buy ticket to the show, see here.

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To find out more about what East Broadway does, see here

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