The new policy will mean all new hackney carriage vehicle licence applications need to be for wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

North Yorkshire Council hopes the policy will address the shortage of WAVs currently operating in the county, with just 60 wheelchair accessible hackney carriage vehicles currently licensed.

Councillor Richard Foster, executive member for managing our environment, admitted the policy was a compromise but said he hoped it would increase the number of WAV taxis in the county.

He added: “We have an issue around disability and access to vehicles, but we also realise there are challenges to the trade, especially the hackney carriage trade from app-based taxi hire firms, both in our county and from across borders.

“So we’re hoping that we’ve come up with a policy that reflects the modern world.”

Ahead of the vote, taxi operators warned that the change would force some drivers out of the industry.

Lisa Ridsdale, from the taxi operator Take Me Group, told councillors the policy was “out of touch with rural reality”.

“Requiring all new or replacement taxis to be wheelchair accessible, electric or hybrid might work in cities, but here it’s impractical and potentially devastating.

“Wheelchair accessible or electric vehicles cost in the region of £70,000 to £90,000 when financed, compared to standard cars at around £20,000 to £30,000. Most rural taxi drivers are self-employed, running small businesses with tight margins. For many, this is a financial crucifixion.

“It will mean fewer drivers, fewer taxis, longer waits and reduced service, and the people who rely most on taxis — the elderly, disabled and rural residents — your families will suffer.”

Disability campaigners, however, said the policy did not go far enough to increase the number of WAV taxis.

Asking councillors to change the policy to insist that all new taxis were WAVs, Jackie Snape, chief executive of Disability Action Yorkshire, said: “Without enough accessible vehicles, people face longer waits, fewer spontaneous journeys and reduced opportunities to participate fully in everyday life.

“The public sector equality duty requires the council not only to avoid discrimination but to actively advance equality of opportunity.

“With the current shortage of accessible vehicles, we ask councillors to consider whether the recommended option does enough to meet that duty.”

The new policy will mean private hire operators need to identify a passenger’s accessibility needs prior to taking a booking, to ensure that an appropriate vehicle is provided.

The 10-year age limit on both hackney carriage and private hire vehicles has been replaced with a requirement to meet Euro 6 emission standards.

The council will also issue restricted private hire driver licences for those who drive licensed vehicles for the sole purpose of fulfilling school or social care contracts.

The new policy will be reviewed after a year to ensure it has increased the number of WAV vehicles.

In-person drop-in sessions have been organised by City of York Council as part of the consultation launched following a challenge to parking charge hikes in Bishopthorpe Road, Heworth, Micklegate and The Groves.

Cllr Kate Ravilious, the council’s Labour transport spokesperson, said she hoped people affected by last year’s increases would come and give their views.

The consultation, which began in December, comes as part of a review launched in response to a legal challenge to hikes in parking charges last April.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Hikes in charges to £4.85-an-hour for the first two and to £5.30-an-hour on Fridays, Saturdays and during events were approved as part of the 2025/6 council budget.

They were brought in as part of council efforts to encourage people to use public transport or walk and cycle instead of their cars to cut congestion.

But the hikes sparked a backlash from residents and traders in Micklegate, Bishopthorpe Road and The Groves who claimed they would make trips their more expensive and harm businesses.

Charges were later lowered to £3-an-hour in Bishopthorpe Road and temporarily reversed in Micklegate following local opposition.

Data reviews have since been run into the charges after the decision to revise the hikes in June.

Cllr Kate Ravilious, Labour transport executive member on York Council. Picture is from York Council

Consultant Arup’s consultation closed for online and paper responses on Friday, February 27.

The findings from feedback including from four upcoming meetings are set to be published in an independent review which will then inform a council decision on the charges.

Labour transport executive member Cllr Ravilious said upcoming in-person sessions were the final chance for people to give feedback.

Cllr Ravilious said: “Local people and businesses told us that they wanted some face-to-face consultation about this issue.

“I would encourage everyone affected to come to one of these sessions.”

Upcoming in-person drop-in sessions:

• Monday, March 23, Micklegate – 4.30pm to 7pm at West Offices
• Tuesday, March 24, Heworth – 4.30pm to 7pm at Tang Hall Explore
• Thursday, March 26, The Groves – 4.30pm to 7pm at Door 84
• Tuesday, March 31, Bishopthorpe Road – 5.30pm to 8pm at Clements Hall

The colder Arctic air across the UK over the last few days has meant temperatures have struggled to reach double figures for many.

Combined with some wintry showers and snow over higher ground, it felt like winter had made a return.

However, through this week a warmer southerly wind will draw up air from the Mediterranean and bring temperatures around six or seven degrees above average on Wednesday.

Widely across England and Wales temperatures will get into the mid to high teens.

For Wales we’re very likely to see the warmest day of the year so far with the temperature exceeding the 17.8C recorded at Porthmadog on 5 March.

And there’s a possibility somewhere in the Midlands, north-west England or north-west Wales could see a temperature close to 20C.

That could potentially exceed the UK’s current highest temperature of the year so far of 19.2C – set in London earlier in March.

The Original Factory Shop in Shildon, confirmed the news on January 30 that the popular store will be closing its doors.

Taking to social media yesterday (March 16), the company announced their final day of trading will be Sunday, March 29.

The Facebook post said: “Unfortunately we have some sad news to share with you all.

“We have now been given a closing date. Last trading day will be Sunday, March 29.

“We would have loved a different outcome, but we can only deal with what cards we have been dealt.”

In the run up to closing, all items have been slashed with heavy discounts of up to 50 per cent.

The closure comes shortly after the company announced it had entered administration in January, putting 1,180 jobs at risk.

The Shildon team said it is “an extremely upsetting time” for staff as the shop enters its final weeks.

The post added: “Please do pop in and see us whilst also grabbing some amazing bargains, myself and team would love to see you all before we go.

“I would really like to stress the following though, please be kind to my team as this is an extremely upsetting time with lots of uncertainty ahead, which we are still processing.

“Thank you for your support throughout the 22 years we have been on Church Street.

“Suzanne and all the Shildon team.”

Administrators from Interpath Advisory were officially appointed on Wednesday, January 28.  

Rick Harrison, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, previously said “trading challenges” have caused the business to go into administration.

He said: “The Original Factory Shop has long been a cornerstone of local high streets up and down the country.

“Unfortunately, however, trading challenges have impacted the business such that the company had to be placed into administration.”

Since announcing the closing date, many longstanding customers have taken to social media to share their support.

One person said: “Absolute travesty. Best wishes to all the staff – such a miss for the area.”

While another person commented: “This is sad news. It’s been a pleasure shopping there and I wish the team all the best, just another one to close.”

The city has topped a new ranking by Icelandair, with its historic charm, sunset spots, and intimate settings proving more romantic than traditional favourites such as Paris

Advertisement

Europe’s most romantic city has been revealed, and it might come as a surprise.

Paris has long been celebrated as the ‘city of love’ with countless proposals taking place there, whilst Venice provides sunset gondola rides through its canals. However, according to one recent ranking, they’ve both been eclipsed as the most romantic destinations in Europe.

The sun-drenched Spanish capital, Madrid, has claimed the top spot with its historic appeal and intimate atmosphere. There are intimate eateries, rooftop bars, upmarket hotels, alongside magnificent landmarks, colourful street art, and passionate flamenco performances, all contributing to a truly remarkable break.

Some of the most noteworthy attractions include hiring a rowing boat on the tranquil, scenic lake at El Retiro Park, or enjoying a relaxed walk around the charming El Capricho Park or the stunning Sabatini Gardens at the Royal Palace.

The Spanish city boasts some of the finest locations to watch the sunset, including the restaurant Azotea del Círculo, which provides sweeping views from its rooftop terrace, and the gardens in Cerro del Tío Pío, ideal for an evening wander,” reports the Mirror.

Advertisement

However, one beloved area praised as the ‘best sunset spot in Madrid’ is the ancient Egyptian temple, Templo de Debod.

Witnessing the sunset last year, one traveller posted on TripAdvisor: “The magic hour to visit is sunset! .. The temple’s ancient stones turn a rich orange, and the reflective pools surrounding it create a mirror effect that is a photographer’s dream.”

For a respite from discovering the city, there’s the Arab baths at Hammam Al Ándalus for a soothing soak and a journey back in time amongst its historic buildings, or energetic flamenco shows at Corral de la Morería. Couples can savour a glass of wine and tapas at the Mercado de San Miguel, a fresh food market, or take the cable car, the Teleférico de Madrid, which spans the river.

A wander around the city is sufficient to leave you spellbound, with colourful graffiti adorning its charming streets lined with tapas bars and coffee shops, and stunning architecture. From the iconic Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, and Puerta del Sol square, to the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum, it’s simple to spend hours discovering this bustling yet delightful city.

Madrid was crowned the most romantic European city following research by Icelandair. The airline examined data from various European cities, comparing their location, nightlife, single population, inclusivity and happiness, along with Tripadvisor romance ratings and sunset visibility, with Madrid leading the list.

The list becomes even more significant, as a study by Icelandair of 3,000 individuals found that 1 in 10 Brits believe travel is the optimal way to meet a partner. Meanwhile, 1 in 5 Brits confessed to falling in love whilst on a flight, and additional research discovered that most holiday romances occur during volunteer work abroad, on business trips, or whilst travelling alone.

Most romantic European cities

1. Madrid, Spain
2. Prague, Czech Republic
3. Lisbon, Portugal
4. Barcelona, Spain
5. Zurich, Switzerland
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
7. Helsinki, Finland
8. Vienna, Austria
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
10. Rome, Italy
11. Athens, Greece
12. Geneva, Switzerland
13. Oslo, Norway
14. Berlin, Germany
15. Reykjavik, Iceland

Fifa has appeared to rule out the possibility of relocating Iran’s matches at the World Cup to Mexico following the US and Israeli air strikes on the country.

It comes after the president of the Iranian football federation, Mehdi Taj, said Iran was “negotiating” with Fifa to move the team’s matches outside of the United States due to the ongoing conflict.

US president Donald Trump said last week that he did not believe it was “appropriate” for Iran to play games in America “for their own life and safety”.

open image in gallery

Advertisement

Iran are scheduled to play all three of its group matches at the World Cup in the US, kicking off against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June.

But a spokesperson said Fifa is “looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced” following the World Cup draw in December.

“Fifa is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the World Cup 2026,” the spokesperson added.

Earlier, the president of the Iranian football federation appeared to indicate that moving Iran’s fixtures to co-host Mexico was under consideration.

“When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” Taj said in a post on the Iranian embassy in Mexico’s X account.

“We are negotiating with Fifa to hold Iran’s World Cup matches in Mexico.”

Mexico president Claudia Sheinbaum then said on Tuesday that her country would have no problem hosting Iran’s matches if Fifa agrees.

“Mexico maintains diplomatic relations with every country in the world, therefore we will wait to see what Fifa decides,” she said after replying “yes” to whether Mexico would be happy to stage Iran’s games.

If Fifa’s stance shifts, it could be possible for games to be relocated. Fifa’s World Cup regulations state: “Fifa has the right to cancel, reschedule or relocate one or more matches (or the entire FIFA World Cup 26) for any reason at its sole discretion, including as a result of force majeure or due to health, safety or security concerns.”

open image in gallery

The chief executive of New Zealand Football, Andrew Pragnell, told local media on Tuesday that he doubted Fifa would relocate Iran’s matches.

The New Zealand national team’s head coach, Darren Bazeley, told reporters in the country: “Right now we’re still continuing as though we’re playing Iran.

“They’re the team that qualified and we got drawn against them. That’s still the fixture and until we get told otherwise, we’ll continue with that preparation.

“Obviously, if things change, then we’ll deal with that, but that would be (people at) a higher level than myself involved in those discussions.”

Iran are scheduled to play two World Cup games in Los Angeles and another in Seattle. They will face New Zealand and Belgium in LA on June 15 and June 21, followed by the match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

There is also the possibility that the US and Iran could play each other at the tournament. This would happen if both teams were runners-up in Group D and Group G respectively, with that fixture scheduled to be played in Arlington, Texas.

Includes reporting from PA

“Working in the classroom with children who need additional support made me realise how much more I wanted to learn.”

Meet Sarahjane Dickson, a classroom assistant supporting children with additional educational needs in Belfast, who went back to university to better support the pupils she works with.

She is celebrating recently graduating with a BA (Hons) in Education Studies (Primary) from The Open University, after balancing two full-time jobs, caring responsibilities and six years of part-time study.

Sarahjane’s motivation for studying came directly from working with children with additional and neurodivergent needs and wanting to better understand how to support them. And this Neurodiversity Celebration Week, her story highlights the growing need for support for neurodivergent children.

READ MORE: The new classroom wellness programme making pupils feel calm and safeREAD MORE: Everything you need to know on widespread GCSE and A-level exam system shake‑up

Sarahjane, 45, works as an ASEN (Additional Support Educational Needs) assistant and completed her degree in 2025 while working and caring for her mother — proving to herself that returning to education was possible.

With a background in further education and an NVQ qualification, Sarahjane had considered university study for years. After many conversations with a friend about The Open University’s flexible model, she decided to enrol.

“I wanted to study both for personal reasons and to progress my career,” she said. “Working in the classroom with children who need additional support made me realise how much more I wanted to learn.”

Studying while working two jobs full-time and providing care at home required discipline and determination. Sarahjane dedicated Sundays to study and developed strategies to manage the academic workload.

“The reading was probably the hardest part at the beginning,” she explained. “After long days at work and assignments due, I had to quickly learn how to scan read and focus on what mattered. But every time I got a TMA result back, I surprised myself, and it pushed me forward.”

Her studies have strengthened her knowledge and confidence in supporting children with additional needs in the classroom — something she hopes will support future career progression.

“Completing this degree has given me a solid foundation. It’s made me more confident and increased my self-worth. I hope to move into a role where I can use what I’ve learned to make a real difference for children who need extra support.”

Sarahjane credits The Open University’s tutor support and teaching materials with helping her succeed: “My tutor was always there when I reached out and kept me grounded. I would tell any student struggling to speak up and use the support available — don’t isolate yourself. Even though it’s distance learning, you’re never on your own.”

Advertisement

Her colleagues in school were also supportive of her studies, with some teachers even helping to proofread assignments. Studying during the Covid-19 pandemic presented challenges but also unexpected opportunities.

“Being at home more during Covid gave me extra time to focus on assignments. I also changed jobs during my studies, so it was a busy few years, but finishing my degree is my proudest achievement.”

Reflecting on her six-year journey, Sarahjane said she never imagined she would reach the finish line: “I never thought finishing those six years was possible. Getting to the end has shown me what I’m capable of.”

Through both her role and her studies, Sarahjane has developed a strong passion for inclusive education and supporting neurodivergent pupils and those with additional learning needs to thrive.

To support educators, parents and professionals working with neurodivergent children and young people, The Open University has created a free online neurodiversity hub offering practical tools, guidance and resources to build understanding and confidence in supporting different ways of learning.

Explore the free Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub and toolkit here.

Want to see more of the stories you love from Belfast Live? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives, top stories and must-read content straight away. To add Belfast Live as a preferred source, simply click here.

A woman from Kingsland, Georgia has been charged with murder after she allegedly took an abortion pill and gave birth to an infant who died hours later at hospital

Advertisement

A 31 year old woman has been accused of murder following her use of an abortion pill, which resulted in the birth of an infant who passed away hours later.

According to a local police report, 31-year-old Alexia Moore consumed 200mg of Misoprostol, a medication typically used alongside Mifepristone to terminate a pregnancy, on the evening of December 29, 2025. The following day, she delivered at Southeast Georgia Health System Camden Campus hospital.

Georgia’s heartbeat legislation bans terminations once a foetal heartbeat is detected, roughly five to six weeks into gestation. This law came into force on July 20, 2022.

Police records indicate Moore now faces charges including murder, possession of dangerous drugs, and possession of a schedule 2 controlled substance. The arrest documentation states Moore attempted to depart the hospital after trying to terminate the pregnancy herself, and was taken into custody last week on a murder charge, Action News Jax reported.

Hospital personnel notified local authorities about a “suspicious circumstance involving a female patient,” reports the Mirror US.

Officers logged the report on December 30.

“This is an unprecedented murder charge for an alleged abortion, even though no law in the state of Georgia permits such a charge,” Dana Sussman, Senior Vice President of Pregnancy Justice, told Jezebel in a statement.

Ensure our latest stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

“Do they really want to send women to prison for abortions? This will cause untold harm to this woman and to the women of Georgia,” she added. The investigation is ongoing to determine how advanced her pregnancy was.

A criminal defence lawyer from Jackson informed the media that any murder case would hinge on whether prosecutors can demonstrate an intentional act directly resulted in a human fatality. Florida state representative Anna Eskamani, who has previously worked for Planned Parenthood, told the station that “banning abortion does not actually end abortion” and emphasised that abortion medication is generally safer when administered under medical supervision.

The Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act in Georgia has redefined state law to treat an unborn child with a detectable heartbeat differently under several statutes, a shift that legal experts suggest could complicate cases related to pregnancy outcomes.

According to the state code, the detection of a fetal heartbeat now serves as a significant legal benchmark in certain civil and criminal contexts.

Moore remains in custody without bail.

Public health minister Jenni Minto said: “The fact is that we are treating more patients with cancer on time, within both standards, compared to pre-pandemic. 95.1% of patients are being treated within 31 days of a decision to treat, with the median wait for treatment just two days – the joint lowest on record.