The building had been facing problems for 40 years
An ‘eyesore’ building in a Cambridgeshire town centre has been redeveloped after more than 40 years of neglect. The site, known as ‘The Gap’ at 24 High Street in Wisbech, has been turned into a new shop and flats by Fenland District Council.
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The building was once the site of Cook’s Butchers, but had been facing problems since the business collapsed more than 40 years ago. The council is now in the process of finding the first tenants for the shop and flats.
The redevelopment formed part of the council’s Wisbech High Street Project, which was launched in 2017 with £1.9 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The development was also supported by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority’s Market Towns Programme, which aims to improve business premises.
Cllr Chris Seaton, Fenland District Council’s portfolio holder for Wisbech High Street projects, said: “We’re proud to have taken on this complex and challenging site to make what will be a long-lasting difference to the restoration of Wisbech High Street for generations to come.”
Repairs are also being carried out at other buildings on the High Street, including at 13-17, where derelict first floors have been brought back into use. The council are currently working on plans for 11-12 High Street, which are also derelict.
Mum-of-five Stacey shared a video montage of her son from over the years
Stacey Solomon has left her fans feeling emotional with a tribute to her eldest child on his 18th birthday.
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Prior to meeting her husband Joe Swash, X Factor singer Stacey had sons Zachary and Leighton from a previous relationship. She and Joe went on to have three children, Rex, six, Rose, four, Belle, three.
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Taking to Instagram on Saturday (March 21), Stacey posted a video montage of Zachary from over the years. Throughout the video he could be seen looking after his younger siblings.
She captioned the post: “I blinked & my baby boy turned 18. Zachary, growing up with you has been the biggest privilege of my life. Looking through our memories, every video I have of you shows just how special you are.
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“The kindest man with the biggest heart. The world is so lucky to have an human like you in it. Happy birthday darling boy.
“To the moon & stars and back again. sorry that I’ve spent the whole morning crying. I’ll pull myself together eventually.”
Returning to her account later in the day, Stacey proceeded to share a number of pictures of her and Zachary from his birthday. Stacey stunned in white sleeveless jumpsuit, while Zachary sported a casual black t-shirt and shorts.
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“Today is all about you Zachary. 18 wonderful years of you. We are SO lucky. Now let’s go OUT out @zachsolomon08,” she wrote.
The comments sections of Stacey’s posts saw her famous friends and fans rushing to explain why they got emotional by her kind words and wish Zachary a happy birthdAY.
Celebs Go Dating’s Nadia Essex said: “He really does have kind eyes. What a joy. You must be so proud.” Beauty expert Caroline Hirons added: “Happy Birthday Zachy!”
@squashedpickle wrote: “Happy birthday Zac! You’ve both watch each other grow.” @little_house_life posted: “Aw beautiful video Stacey. Happy 18th Birthday to Zach.”
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@woodenyoulove1 commented: “Such a beautiful montage of your Zachary. Happy birthday young man.” @marie_buckingham stated: “Beautiful video, happy birthday, what an amazing loving lad.”
Meanwhile, in a week where Stacey had to address their relationship on This Morning, Joe shared a post of his own in honour of Zachary.
“Happy 18th birthday, Zachary! Watching you grow into such a kind and caring young man has been something really special. Wishing you nothing but success and happiness in the years ahead, this is just the start of something great,” he said.
The former hotel is in a ‘poor structural condition’
A mix of flats and houses could be built on site of a former Cambridgeshire hotel. Woodgate Developments Ltd has proposed to build 14 homes on site of the former Station Hotel in Station Road, March.
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It also proposes to demolish the former hotel. Of the 14 homes proposed includes four one-bedded flats and 10 two-bedded flats. It also proposes cycle storage and parking.
The developers said it would deliver “much-needed housing” to the area and be the “regeneration of a prominent site”. The applicants added: “The redevelopment of the site will remove a redundant and deteriorating building and replace it with a well‑designed residential scheme that makes efficient use of a brownfield site in a highly accessible location.
“The proposal will contribute positively to the vitality of the area by introducing new residents who will support nearby services, facilities and public transport.” The developers propose to demolish the former hotel building as it is in a “poor structural condition and no longer suitable for reuse”.
If approved, the demolition will take place in a “controlled manner” and in line with health and safety regulations. In its conclusion, the developers added: “The proposed redevelopment of the former Station Hotel represents sustainable development.
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“It makes efficient use of previously developed land, delivers high‑quality housing in a highly accessible location, and responds positively to its physical, social and environmental context.” The plans have attracted some objections, including from March Town Council.
The council said it has “ongoing concerns” about drainage at the site, and it was “very disappointed” the developers were “seeking not to deliver any affordable housing or make essential S106 contributions”.
It added: “Further, it is disappointing to see another building of historical value being destroyed.” A resident in Stevens Way, March, also objected to the plans.
They described the percentage of the site being developed as “excessive”, and the proposed height of the building would “dwarf” neighbouring buildings. They added: “The proposal would be completely out of character in its setting.”
When is Ronnie O’Sullivan playing in World Open snooker final? First and second session times – The Mirror
Ronnie O’Sullivan is one win away from his first ranking title triumph in two years as he steps up to the plate in the World Open final
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Everything you need to know about Ronnie O’Sullivan’s World Open final clash:
The final date: The 2026 World Open final takes place on Sunday, March 22, 2026. This is a best-of-19 frame match, contested over two separate sessions throughout the day at the Yushan Sports Centre in Yushan, China.
First session start time: The opening session is scheduled to begin at 6am UK time (2:00pm local time). This session will consist of the first nine frames of the final.
Second session start time: The deciding session will commence at 11:30am UK time (7:30pm local time). The players will play to a finish in the evening, with the first to 10 frames being crowned the champion.
O’Sullivan’s opponent: “The Rocket” will face Thailand’s Thepchaiya Un-Nooh in the final. Un-Nooh saw off Judd Trump in the semis, beating the Englishman 6-4.
Ronnie’s route to the final: O’Sullivan reached the final after a pulse-pounding 6-5 victory over Wu Yize. Trailing 43-0 in the deciding frame, Ronnie produced a masterclass 89 counter-clearance to break the hearts of the home crowd and secure his 66th ranking final appearance.
History in the making: Earlier in the tournament, O’Sullivan made global headlines by compiling a world-record 153 break during his quarter-final whitewash of Ryan Day. The break was made possible by a free ball at the start of the frame, allowing him to surpass the traditional maximum of 147.
The prize at stake: A win on Sunday would see O’Sullivan collect the £175,000 top prize and secure his first ranking title in two years. It would also further solidify his position back at the top of the game.
How to watch: UK fans can follow every frame of the final live on Eurosport and discovery+. Extensive coverage is also available through the World Snooker Tour’s streaming partners for international viewers.
Britain’s Got Talent returned to screens on Saturday with more jaw-dropping auditions
Sara Baalla Screen Time TV Reporter
20:36, 21 Mar 2026
Fans of Britain’s Got Talent were not impressed during the latest live episode on ITV.
The hit talent competition has returned to ITV for its 19th series, with thousands of hopefuls gracing the audition stage in the hopes of winning £250,000 and landing a spot at the Royal Variety Performance.
Saturday’s (March 21) episode saw TV favourite Stacey Solomon replace head judge Simon, after he fell ill during filming last October. After Simon returned to the panel later in the episode, the judges were introduced to an elusive magician called Aldo Nicolini.
After appearing from beneath a curtain, the 61-year-old Italian began his audition by putting a scarf around his neck, before his head appeared to fall off his body in a shocking illusion.
Children in the crowd quickly began screaming, with the judges similarly looking on in horror. Aldo continued to “lose his head” with several props, including a box and a handkerchief that made his head look like it was floating away from his body.
Following the audition, Amanda said: “I’ve never seen anything like that before. It was charming, it’s a yes from me!”
However, KSI didn’t agree, commenting: “I think I’m going to be a bit of a downer here, but I didn’t like it. I mean, he just kept doing the same thing over and over. It’s a no, man.”
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Meanwhile, Alesha found the audition “entertaining”, with Simon adding: “I thought it was actually silly, funny and good,” before confirming Aldo’s place in the next round.
The majority of viewers seemed to take KSI’s view, with many sharing complaints on X (formerly Twitter).
“What the f***, that is disgusting,” one person wrote, with another adding: “What in the Beetlejuice is this? Halloween has come early.”
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A third said: “That’s just freaky,” with another fan echoing the sentiment: “No sorry but that was disgusting.” A fifth viewer similarly shared: “What in the name of madness is this?!” with another adding: “Well, that’ll give kids nightmares tonight.”
Meanwhile, others shared their praise for the unique act, with one person commenting: “I love stupid s*** like this man.”
Another added: “Yeah that was brilliant. Something different!” while a third said: “The head guy! Completely ridiculous, but entertaining nonetheless.”
They sailed straight through to the live semi finals following their rendition of One Day Like This by Elbow
A group of musical farmers including 10 from Wales have shared their joy at receiving a golden buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent on Saturday. Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir, made up of farmers from across the UK, sailed straight through to the live semi finals following their rendition of One Day Like This by Elbow.
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In the 32-strong collective is Eirion William Davies, a fourth generation farmer from Llanelli, Aled Wyn Davies, who farms in the Cambrian Mountains, Meidrim farm manager Owain Fisher, Pendine farmer Joe Shewry, Hugh Thomas from Moylegrove, Rosie Jones, a former West End performer now farming in mid Wales, Presteigne farmer Will Rogers, and Aled Griffiths, who has recently been appointed chairman of the 2027 National Eisteddfod.
The choir delivered a stirring performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome in the show which aired on Saturday night with their emotionally charged rendition bringing the audience to its feet and visibly moving the judging panel led by Amanda Holden alongside guest judge Stacey Solomon, Alesha Dixon and KSI.
Llanbrynmair hill farmer Aled, who manages 1,800 sheep in the Cambrian Mountains and whose singing career has spanned 47 countries, described the BGT moment as “surreal”. He said he missed the moment the golden buzzer was pressed as the group were embracing each other in jubilant celebration.
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Hugh, who at 74 is the choir’s oldest member, joined after surviving a near-fatal battle with sepsis in 2025. He described the group as a “new lease of life”.
Rosie said the group has helped her rediscover confidence and belonging, and Will said he hoped their performances will showcase the resilience and passion of Britain’s farming community.
For some the experience marked a dramatic step outside their comfort zone, including Owain, who milks 240 cows daily in the small village of Meidrim in Carmarthenshire.
He said he’d never sung publicly before auditioning but was selected as the opening soloist. He described the moment he stepped onto the stage as “life-changing” and “a big leap from dairy farming”.
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Eirion, who manages a 650 acre mixed enterprise in Llanelli, said the “electric” atmosphere of the performance offered a rare release from the mounting pressures facing the agricultural sector – including volatile milk prices and rising costs.
Pendine farmer Joe Shewry, who rears more than 200 calves, traced her musical journey back to her equestrian days and said singing was once a technique to calm both rider and horse. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter
Fellow Welsh member Aled Griffiths, an NFU group secretary and sheep farmer, balances industry leadership with rural enterprise and has recently been appointed chairman of the 2027 National Eisteddfod.
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Originally formed through a search for “strong singers who are farmers” as part of a project linked to Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone brand, the choir has evolved into something more significant.
The group says its mission is to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention in an industry often marked by isolation and relentless pressure. “If we can highlight the mental strain our farmers are under, then it can only be a good thing,” Joe added.
The RunThrough UK Darlington Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, December 6, 2026, starting at 9am from High Row in the town centre.
Organisers say the 13.1-mile route will offer a mix of urban atmosphere and rural scenery, beginning in central Darlington before heading west onto quieter roads in County Durham.
(Image: CHRIS BOOTH)
The course is designed to be flat and suitable for steady pacing, with long uninterrupted stretches through the countryside before returning to the town centre for a High Row finish.
Runners will pass through areas including Coniscliffe Road, Staindrop Road, Piercebridge, High Coniscliffe, Merrybent and Low Coniscliffe before heading back into town.
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The event will have a three-hour cut-off time due to road closures, and is open to participants aged 17 and over.
Each entry includes a themed medal, free race photos, chip-timed results and post-race refreshments, with water stations positioned approximately every 5km along the route.
Organisers added: “Each kilometre is accurately marked with distance flags and our friendly marshals will guide and cheer you all the way to the finish. We cannot wait to welcome you to the Darlington Half Marathon.”
Darlington is set to host a brand new half marathon this December, with runners invited to take on the run through the town and surrounding countryside. (Image: Northern Echo)
A secure baggage area and portable toilets will be available, including facilities at the halfway point, while spectators are encouraged to gather in the event village to watch both the start and finish.
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Parking in the town centre is expected to be limited due to road closures, and participants and supporters are being encouraged to car share or use public transport where possible.
Entries are now open, with tiered pricing available through super early bird, early bird and standard entry windows.
They added: “We have been extensively researching what runners consider important, and sustainability is fast becoming the top issue.”
Runners will also have the option to purchase an official event T-shirt at a discounted rate during registration.
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Organisers said: “Come and enjoy the day with us. Once you enter you will receive a confirmation email. More information will be sent closer to the event.”
They added: “We can’t wait to see you on the start line!”
Saturday’s auditions (March 21) in Birmingham featured a fresh addition to the panel. Television personality Stacey joined the programme, covering for head judge Simon Cowell. The 36-year-old, who became a household name on The X Factor in 2009, temporarily filled Simon’s seat after he fell ill during last October’s filming.
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Stacey sat alongside KSI, Alesha Dixon and temporary head judge Amanda Holden as aspiring performers competed for the £250,000 prize and a prestigious spot at the Royal Variety Performance.
Shortly after the ITV programme began, audiences took to X (previously Twitter) to share their reactions to Stacey’s substitute appearance, with many voicing their enthusiasm.
“Big reception from the crowd for Stacey Solomon as she deputises for Simon,” one viewer posted, reports Belfast Live.
Another commented: “Go on Stacey!” whilst a third wrote: “Welcome to the #BGT judging Panel Stacey Solomon.”
A fourth supporter echoed this sentiment, posting: “Stacey Solomon joining the judging panel of #BritainsGotTalent!” accompanied by star emojis, with another remarking: “I’m loving Stacey as judge – she’s really settling in well.”
During the show, the panel met 12-year-old James from Rye, East Sussex, who delivered a stunning performance of Defying Gravity from Wicked.
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Following the mind-blowing performance, Alesha remarked: “That was how you do it! Everybody loves that big moment at the end, I can’t tell you how many times my children have tried to attempt that last moment in the song. It is the magic moment, and you smashed it!”
Stacey commented: “You think your kids are talented and then you’re like, ‘No, maybe mine aren’t so talented,’ when you see people like you, James. Your parents must be buzzing.”
She continued: “That was absolutely phenomenal,” whilst Alesha described James as “a star in the making”.
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Other acts on tonight’s programme impressed the judges, including a magician, an ice-skating performance and a salsa dancing troupe.
Discussing her BGT involvement on ITV’s This Morning earlier this week (Wednesday, March 18), Stacey told presenters Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard: “I loved it!”
She continued: “Do you know what’s really funny [about] having that full circle moment? One, I felt like I really connected with people on stage, because it’s not easy to put yourself forward in those situations.”
Referring to her popular BBC series, Sort Your Life Out, Stacey added: “But two, I realised just what it’s like to present a show where you’re not digging through people’s houses and you get to dress up, wear a nice dress and sit in a chair all day. I was like, ‘Wow, this is a great show!’”
The popular talent contest has made its comeback to ITV for a 19th series, with countless aspiring performers taking to the audition stage, hoping to secure £250,000 and a coveted slot at the Royal Variety Performance.
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Contestants will be attempting to win over judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI, who has taken over from Bruno Tonioli on the judging panel this series.
Saturday’s (March 21) instalment saw television personality Stacey Solomon step in for head judge Simon, following his illness during filming last October. When Simon re-joined the panel later in the programme, the judges encountered a mysterious magician named Aldo Nicolini.
Emerging from underneath a curtain, the 61-year-old Italian commenced his performance by wrapping a scarf around his neck, before his head seemingly detached from his body in a startling illusion, reports Belfast Live.
Youngsters in the audience immediately started shrieking, whilst the judges watched on in shock. Aldo proceeded to repeatedly “lose his head” using various props, including a box and a handkerchief that created the impression his head was drifting away from his body.
After the performance, Amanda said: “I’ve never seen anything like that before. It was charming, it’s a yes from me!”
However, KSI disagreed, stating: “I think I’m going to be a bit of a downer here, but I didn’t like it. I mean, he just kept doing the same thing over and over. It’s a no, man.”
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Meanwhile, Alesha found the audition “entertaining”, with Simon chiming in: “I thought it was actually silly, funny and good,” before affirming Aldo’s progression to the next round.
The majority of viewers seemed to align with KSI’s perspective, with many voicing their grievances on X (formerly Twitter).
“What the f***, that is disgusting,” one individual posted, with another remarking: “What in the Beetlejuice is this? Halloween has come early.”
Advertisement
A third commented: “That’s just freaky,” with another fan echoing the sentiment: “No sorry but that was disgusting.” A fifth viewer similarly expressed: “What in the name of madness is this?!” with another adding: “Well, that’ll give kids nightmares tonight.”
Meanwhile, others lauded the unique performance, with one person stating: “I love stupid s*** like this man.”
Another added: “Yeah that was brilliant. Something different!” whilst a third said: “The head guy! Completely ridiculous, but entertaining nonetheless.”
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