Foster Care Fortnight is the UK’s biggest awareness raising campaign for fostering and takes place between May 11 to 24.

Kibble, one of the UK’s leading children’s charities, is encouraging people across Lanarkshire to consider becoming foster carers this Foster Care Fortnight by attending a series of drop-in and online information events.

Foster Care Fortnight is the UK’s biggest awareness raising campaign for fostering and takes place between May 11 to 24.

Organised by The Fostering Network, the annual campaign celebrates the dedication of foster carers while highlighting the urgent need for more people to provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for children and young people.

This year’s theme, ‘This is Fostering’, shines a light on the everyday realities of fostering and the profound difference foster carers make to children’s lives.

Kibble’s specialist fostering team will host the following events for individuals, couples and families interested in learning more about fostering.

An online information session will be held on Wednesday, May 20, from 7pm to 8pm while a drop-in event will be held in Hamilton from 10am to 4pm.

The events are open to anyone considering fostering, whether they are exploring the idea for the first time or looking for more information about how they can support a child or young person in need of a safe, nurturing home.

Hosted by Kibble’s experienced fostering team, the sessions will provide practical advice, expert insight and the opportunity to ask questions in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Attendees will learn more about what fostering involves, the different types of fostering available, and how Kibble supports foster carers every step of the way through training, guidance and ongoing support.

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Foster carers play a vital role in providing children and young people with stability, care and encouragement, often during some of the most challenging periods of their lives.

They help children build confidence, maintain education and relationships, and feel safe and supported within a family environment.

However, there remains an urgent need for more foster carers across Scotland to ensure children and young people can remain close to their communities, schools, friends and support networks.

Sandy Mayhew, Executive Director of Community Services at Kibble, said: “Fostering can make a life-changing difference to children and young people who need a safe, supportive home.

“Foster Care Fortnight is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the need for more foster carers and to celebrate the incredible role they play in helping children thrive.

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“Our information events are designed to give people the chance to learn more about fostering in an informal and welcoming setting, ask questions and explore whether fostering could be the right path for them.

“At Kibble, we are committed to supporting our foster carers every step of the way, from the first enquiry through to ongoing training and guidance. We would encourage anyone who has ever considered fostering to come along and find out more.”

Sarah Thomas, Chief Executive of The Fostering Network, added: “Foster carers are not only parents, providing warmth stability and a place to call home – they are highly skilled. They juggle many roles: educators, mediators, advocates and organisers, with a deep knowledge of children’s best interests.

“However, many foster carers are leaving, while the number of children entering care is on the rise. We urgently need more people to step forward so every child can have the right home for their needs.

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“There’s no such thing as a ‘typical’ foster carer. Foster carers and kinship carers come from different backgrounds, are different ages, genders, ethnicity and sexual orientation.

“It’s this diversity that brings the fostering community together to help children feel safe, supported and able to thrive. “So, if you do one thing this Foster Care Fortnight, take a moment to find out more about fostering and whether it might be right for you.”

For people interested in attending one of Kibble’s Foster Care Fortnight events to learn more about the life-changing impact it can have on both children and foster parents, please contact email kfsrecruitment@kibble.org or visit www.kibblefostering.org/.

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Manchester City drew 1-1 at Bournemouth as Arsenal were crowned Premier League champions with a game to spare.

Manchester City drew 1-1 at Bournemouth as Arsenal were crowned Premier League champions with a game to spare. Pep Guardiola’s side knew that nothing but a win would do on the south coast but they fell behind to a goal from Junior Kroupi towards the end of the first half.

Nico O’Reilly nearly levelled soon after the restart and Guardiola piled on the attackers to try to get City back into the game. At the other end, Gianluigi Donnarumma did well to keep the Blues in the game as Bournemouth countered and posed a threat.

City scored a 94th-minute equaliser through Erling Haaland but were unable to get a late winner in what could be Guardiola’s final away game in English football. They will finish in second place in the league and conclude their season at home to Aston Villa.

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Here are the player ratings from the Manchester Evening News.

Donnarumma: Made a number of good saves in the second half to keep City in the game, although a mixed performance from set-pieces. 7

Nunes: Couldn’t stop the cross for the Bournemouth goal 6

Khusanov: Didn’t get out to Kroupi for the goal and has taken on Walker’s old role of shooting from sight without going close, but otherwise fine. 6

Guehi: Had plenty of physical battles with Evanilson and did well to come out on top in most of them. 6

O’Reilly: Full of energy all night but struggled to find the usual relationship with Doku as he was used more centrally often. 6

Silva: Dropped well into the backline to help City get out against an energetic Bournemouth, sacrificed in the comeback effort. 7

Rodri: Still not at his best but doesn’t need to be to be one of the better City players on the pitch. 7

Kovacic: Provided some much-needed calm early on, lost his way after that, and then recovered to push City onto the front foot. 6

Semenyo: His touch and decision-making in the final third was poor in the first half, although he did better just after the break. 5

Doku: Found himself with at least two markers most of the time but still found a way to be dangerous. 6

Haaland: Unlucky to be flagged offside when it looked very tight and nearly slipped O’Reilly in but couldn’t find a chance himself. 6

Substitutes

Cherki (for Silva, 56) Some nice runs as he came closer than most to engineering a goal back. 6

Foden (for Kovacic, 56) Took his time to settle and didn’t keep the ball well enough. 5

Savinho (for Semenyo, 56) Outmuscled when he pushed forward and lost the ball attempting flicks. Not the man for the circumstances. 4

Marmoush (for Doku, 76) Tried his best to get into the game but Bournemouth blocked everything in the box. 6

Not used: Trafford, Stones, Dias, Gvardiol, Reijnders

The supermarket has introduced more than 400 new food and drink items and cut prices across hundreds of everyday essentials in one of its biggest updates in recent years.

The changes cover frozen food, bakery, fresh produce, meat, and food-to-go categories.

The move is aimed at improving value, expanding customer choice, and enhancing the in-store experience.

Rachel Eyre, chief customer officer at Asda, told Grocery Gazette: “We know many customers are making careful choices when they shop and our job is to do even more to support them.

“These changes offer greater value and choice in areas they shop the most and improve the in-store shopping experience.

“They’re about rewarding customers for their loyalty, as well as encouraging those who haven’t been to Asda for a while to take a fresh look.”

The fresh produce and frozen food sections have been upgraded, with greengrocer staff returning to fruit and veg aisles to support shoppers and maintain quality.

Asda has also refreshed its fruit and veg displays to include clearer information about product quality and origin.

What products will Asda be introducing and making cheaper?

More than 230 new frozen items are now available, including options from popular brands such as Crosta Mollica.

The supermarket has lowered prices on multiple household staples including beef mince, pork sausages, eggs, baby potatoes, and baked beans.

Asda garden peas are now 41p, down from 55p, baked beans are 39p instead of 42p, and pork sausages have been reduced from £1.79 to £1.58.

To improve price transparency, £1 and £2 labels have been introduced in-store and online to highlight budget-friendly options.

The Asda Rewards programme has also been updated with new offers and missions across fresh, frozen, and general merchandise categories.

Asda is also offering a free piece of fruit to children in its 426 superstores.

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Ms Eyre said she believes shoppers will notice improvements: “We’re confident they’ll see the difference straight away.”

The supermarket said these changes build on its existing value proposition, with thousands of products already priced below equivalents at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons.

Asda currently serves around 16 million customers each week across more than 1,200 UK locations and online, including superstores, supermarkets, Asda Living outlets, and Express sites.

Which is your favourite supermarket? Let us know in the comments

Two food spots were also crowned All-Ireland champions this year

Our thriving hospitality industry was celebrated at the Irish Restaurant Awards this week as a number of local spots were recognised as ‘Best in Ulster’.

In its 17th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the existing, and up and coming talent in the sector across both sides of the border.

Earlier this year, businesses from across Northern Ireland were selected to represent their county across a range of categories at the All-Ireland final, which took place in Dublin on Monday night.

A total of 13 restaurants, cafes, pubs and people from across the country came away with a ‘Best in Ulster’ win – with two going on to be crowned ‘Best in Ireland’ for 2026.

Popular Belfast coffee shop General Merchant was recognised as not only the best in the province but top across the entire island of Ireland. Frae, a neighbourhood wine bar in Holywood, also took an All-Ireland win for Best Customer Service.

Here are the NI spots named Ulster winners of the Irish Restaurant Awards 2026:

• Best Restaurant in Ulster – Noble
• Best Chef in Ulster – Stevie Toman, Ox Restaurant
• Best Restaurant Manager in Ulster – Paul Vaughan, James St
• Best Use of Social Media in Ulster – Charlie’s Bar Enniskillen
• Best Gastro Pub in Ulster – The Dirty Duck Alehouse
• Best Cafe in Ulster – General Merchants (All Ireland winner)
• Best Newcomer in Ulster – Capparelli at The Mill
• Pub of the Year in Ulster – Linnet Inn
• Best Wine Experience in Ulster – El Tapas Grá
• Best Customer Service in Ulster – Frae (All Ireland winner)
• Best Sustainable Practices in Ulster – Killeavy Castle Estate
• Innovator of the Year Ulster – Waterman House
• Local Food Hero Ulster – Jordan Weir, The Dairy – Bistro, Butchers & Farm Shop

Speaking at the All-Ireland Awards, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Seán Collender, said: “Tonight is a celebration of the people who make Ireland’s hospitality industry one of the most vibrant and exciting sectors in the country. From local cafés and family run restaurants to world class dining destinations, these Awards recognise the passion, dedication and innovation that can be found in every corner of Ireland.”

“Gordon Ramsay recently described Ireland as the sleeping giant of European cuisine. Well, that giant is awakening and tonight is proof of that. Across every county we are seeing incredible creativity, quality and ambition in our restaurants and hospitality businesses.”

“The standard showcased tonight demonstrates that Ireland should now be firmly recognised as a leading culinary destination. I want to congratulate every nominee and winner for the extraordinary work they do every day to showcase the very best of Irish hospitality.”

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our What’s On newsletter

Lee Andrews has been ‘missing’ for several days after he failed to show up in the UK to meet his wife Katie Price

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Former Apprentice star Luisa Zissman said she flew to Dubai this week on a “mission” to track down Katie Price’s apparently ‘missing’ husband.

The star fled the country earlier this year as tensions in the Middle East grew at the outbreak of the Iran war. However, she told fans she would head back and search for Lee Andrews.

The Dubai businessman, who tied the knot with Katie within days of meeting her, has been missing for six days. The 47-year-old former glamour model says on the last call she had with him, his hands were tied together and a hood had been placed over his face. Katie said she feared he had been kidnapped near the border between Dubai and Oman, reports The Mirror.

However, the star hit out at claims the whole thing is a publicity stunt today, slamming them as “disgusting”.

Luisa, 38, has shared a series of videos that suggest her search isn’t entirely serious, including looking for him in the Emirates Lounge at Heathrow Airport. However, she did share an interesting update.

In a video posted from Dubai, she said: “It’s the end of day one looking for Lee Andrews missing persons case. I’m trying to bring Katie Price’s husband home. So, I’ve discovered a few things.

“He was seen as active on Facebook Messenger six hours ago which does indicate that his kidnappers are definitely letting him have access to social media. Makes you wonder why he hasn’t reached out to ask for help.”

The influencer continued: “Who knows, but I did see that while I did some digging on Facebook. It’s looking unlikely I’m going to be able to bring him home. Where are you Lee? Everyone wants to know. A nation wants to know.”

She earlier posted a video of herself in the cabin of a first class flight, telling followers: “Wish me luck.” She wrote: “I’m ready to undertake this mission for the nation and our love of our national treasure Katie Price, we love you.”

Speaking today Katie offered an update to fans, saying: “Hey everyone, I’m here to do an update about Lee. This is a really difficult time for me at the moment. It’s been five days since I’ve heard anything from Lee. None of his family have heard anything, his dad is out in Dubai and he’s heard nothing.”

She said Lee had been reported as missing to the British Embassy saying the Foreign Office have confirmed they are “supporting the family of a British man” – and that her “anxiety levels are sky high”.

Katie then appealed for help, saying: “If there’s anyone in Dubai or you know anyone in Dubai and you spot him or see him… I don’t know because I don’t know where he is. Because the last thing I know, his hands were tied and he had a hood over his head and he was in the back of a van.”

She added: “All I can do is look after myself and my head and get on with each day as I can. Because I still have to get on with life. I want to thank everyone for their kind messages. I’m a tough girl. I’m a survivor but I’ve never been in a situation like this.”

Bournemouth, meanwhile, are looking to finish Andoni Iraola’s tenure as strongly as possible and have their own significant ambitions as a point will confirm a place in Europe for the first time in the club’s history, though a win would keep them in the hunt for Champions League qualification. Follow the game LIVE below with our dedicated match blog!

Chris, 49, was last seen on Tuesday afternoon

Police are becoming ‘increasingly concerned’ about a man who was reported missing in Prestwich. Chris, whose surname was not disclosed by police, was last seen at Prestwich Hospital at around 3pm on Tuesday (May 19).

A search for the 49-year-old has been launched. A photo of Chris was shared by police as part of a public appeal, and anyone with information is urged to report it.

He is described as a white male, of medium build and with brown, thinning hair. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, cap and coloured yellow and black trainers.

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A statement shared by Greater Manchester Police said: “Can you help find Chris, 49, from Prestwich? He was last seen leaving Prestwich Hospital at around 3pm on Tuesday May 19.

“Chris is described as a white male of a medium build with brown thinning hair. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, black cap with yellow emblem, coloured trainers yellow and black (unbranded), black trainers.

“Officers are becoming increasingly concerned about him and want to make sure he is safe and well. Anyone with information about his whereabouts should call police on 101 quoting log 2055 of 19/05/2026.”

From Spider-Man, Pokemon, massive ships, swimming and seriously impressive stunt riders – this spring Bank Holiday and half term around Cardiff is a cracker

It’s not just half term, it’s also May’s second bank holiday weekend and if you’re searching for things to do or places to go with the family we’ve picked out a strong list of options.

Some are free – yey! – including some Aardman and Shaun the Sheep fun in the city centre, or a lido that’s like being abroad. There’s a huge new food festival in the city’s Bute Park and also a huge crocodile at the New Theatre…don’t be afraid, it’s a puppet.

The weather’s looking great so pack the suncream and get out of the house! From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here

1. Circus Extreme, Leckwith

Featuring an elite cast of world-class performers, jaw-dropping special effects, stunning visuals, and edge-of-your-seat thrills, Circus Extreme’s latest show, Rock It Out delivers a two-hour adrenaline rush for the entire family.

It mixes live rock music with mega circus stunts, including Globe of Death riders, the fearless Double Wheel of Death, breathtaking aerial trapeze artistry, explosive freestyle motocross backflips, high-speed street bike stunts, fire-infused aerial performances, and the sensational Double Ukrainian Swing!

We are zonked just thinking about it! Circus Extreme is at Cardiff City Stadium until May 31.

Online tickets at /www.circusextreme.co.uk or via the on-site Box Office: 02033753970

2. Merry May Time at Castell Coch

The Cadw castle will transport you back to the Middle Ages this bank holiday, with fun for knights, princesses and adventurers of all ages from May 23 – 25, 11am to 3pm.

3. Feast On, Bute Park

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Feast On Cardiff, which takes place from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31, will see Brecon-based burger restaurant, Hills, pop-up in the Welsh capital. 2024 British Streetfood Awards champions, Pasta a Mano, Bao Selecta and Mr Croquewich, Pasture will be there and is known for its fire-based cooking and regenerative, pasture-raised beef; as will Lakeside’s Bodega. Tickets are on sale now, available from HERE.

4. The Enormous Crocodile, New Theatre

‘For my lunch today I would like… a nice juicy little child!’

The Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees… Only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans and clever tricks, but they’re going to have to find a large amount of courage to stop this greedy brute.

Catch the Roald Dahl adaptiation from May 28-30. Tickets, here.

5. Pokemon trail at Tredegar House

Get active outdoors on the Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evaluation Trail at Tredegar House. Team up as a family to search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, and complete your own challenges. The trail is running from May 23.

Find out more: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegar-house

6. Fonmon Castle’s Spider-Man weekend AND Dinosaur Week

The castle near Barry is hosting Spider-Man Weekends, either end of the half term week (May 23/24/25 and May 30/31) and during the week there’s going to be a dinosaur week, of course including the castle’s beloved dino trail.

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But that’s not all… your ticket includes access to the entire park FREE Kids Stamp Trail, Welsh Folklore Story Trail, Medieval Grange, Tractor Park & Play Areas, Jurassic Wales, Craft Centre, Woodland Walks, Castle & Gardens… and more! Looking for extra fun? Try: Face Painting, Archery, Axe Throwing, Footgolf and Discgolf.

More information and booking, here.

7. Free Aardman workshops and Shaun the Sheep trail, St David’s Shopping Centre

There are free Aardman clay workshops as well as a Shaun the Sheep: Fun with the Flock augmented reality trail at the city shopping destination. Guests will get to hunt down nine markers throughout St David’s, each unlocking an interactive AR scene. Along the way, families can complete fun challenges with Bitzer the dog, pose alongside animated characters, and capture photos and videos to share with family and friends.

To take part, families can pick up a trail map and a free Shaun the Sheep headband from the St David’s Guest Services team, located on the upper level of the Grand Arcade – near Bershka, Stradivarius and Starbucks.

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To participate in the Shaun the Sheep AR trail, families will need to download the Fun with the Flock app and enter the location code 2403, either in advance or on site.

The Shaun the Sheep A.R. Trail will be at St David’s until Sunday, May 31. The workshops will run on May 26 & 27. Shaun the Sheep will be at the centre on May 28.

8. Go to Ponty Lido (FREE for kids)

The pool, found in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, will open for sessions all day during term and school holiday time from June 1. But if you’re keen to get an early dip in the pool this May bank holiday weekend it will have all-day sessions – from May 2-4, including bank holiday Monday.

Keen early-morning swimmers can also book weekday and weekend sessions from 6.30am until 8.45am. For all ticket options, visit the Lido Ponty page on Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council’s website.

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Kids under 16 swim for free and adults will pay £4 a session. If you don’t want to swim, just take the kids. You’ll pay £3.50.

9. Jump on board a Spanish galleon, Cardiff Bay

The Galeón Andalucía will call at Cardiff, marking the start of its grand 2026 European tour in the UK. A unique replica of the Spanish galleon, the Andalucía will port at Britannia Quay from May 29 to June 7.

Visitors will be able to discover what life was like on board these ships that linked continents and explored new worlds. Opening hours are 10 am to 8 pm each day it’s in Cardiff.

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You can book your tickets now, ahead of time – which is the cheapest way – at tickets.velacuadra.es. Schools and organisations must book their visit by emailing ecampos@velacuadra.es.