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Bobby Brazier Aims to Take Viewers ‘On a Journey’ in Strictly Final

Bobby Brazier Aims to Take Viewers ‘On a Journey’ in Strictly Final

Celebrities Perform Three Routines in Bid for Glitterball Trophy

Bobby Brazier is looking forward to taking Strictly Come Dancing viewers “on a journey” as he competes in the grand finale of the BBC dance show this Saturday. The 20-year-old soap star, along with former Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach and stage and screen performer Layton Williams, will each perform three routines for the chance to claim the coveted glitterball trophy.

Ahead of the finale, Brazier shared an emotional message on Instagram, reflecting on his growth throughout the competition. “Once the kid frozen in the car or glued to his dad’s side, this is for us. Take the risk, do the thing, and just enjoy it,” he wrote. “Thank you for your support so far and thank you for your support tonight and in the future, where would we be without you?”

Brazier’s dance partner, Dianne Buswell, also expressed her pride in their journey together, sharing a heartwarming video from her father praising their performances.

In addition, Ellie Leach expressed her gratitude to fans, saying on Instagram, “Thank you all for your support, you will never know how much it means to us.” She also promised to give viewers a finale they won’t forget.

The final will see each celebrity perform a routine chosen by the judges, their favourite dance, and a show dance with their partners. Leach and partner Vito Coppola will perform their American smooth to “Ain’t That A Kick In The Head” and their paso doble to “Insomnia” by 2WEI, along with a Jennifer Lopez megamix for their show dance.

Williams and Nikita Kuzmin will reprise their Argentine tango to “Tattoo” by Loreen, along with a quickstep to “Puttin’ On The Ritz” and a show dance to “Friend Like Me” by Ne-Yo.

Brazier and Buswell will revisit their emotional couple’s choice routine, dedicated to Brazier’s late mother, Jade Goody. They will also perform their samba to “Young Hearts Run Free” and their show dance will be a La La Land medley.

Global music icon Cher will perform during the finale, and the full cast of 2023 will return for a special routine. The judges — Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Shirley Ballas — will offer feedback and scores, while the public will decide who takes home the glitterball trophy.

The final of Strictly Come Dancing will air live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 7pm on Saturday. Last year, wildlife cameraman Hamza Yassin and partner Jowita Przystal won the competition.

West Indies Extend Lead Over England in T20 Series as King and Powell Shine

West Indies Extend Lead Over England in T20 Series as King and Powell Shine

Tourists trail 2-0 after a narrow 10-run defeat in Grenada.

The West Indies took a 2-0 lead in their T20 series against England following a tense 10-run victory in Grenada. England’s Sam Curran, looking to atone for conceding 30 runs in a single over to Rovman Powell, made an impressive comeback with the bat, scoring 50 runs, but it was not enough to overcome the hosts’ total of 176 for seven. Curran, promoted up the order to number four, ultimately fell after hitting four fours and three sixes, leaving England at 166 for seven.

The West Indies’ innings was propelled by Brandon King, who remained unbeaten on 82 and smashed five sixes. Powell’s blistering 50 off 28 balls provided crucial acceleration as the Windies hit 13 sixes overall. England’s Adil Rashid impressed with figures of 4-0-11-2, while Tymal Mills managed to contain the scoring at the death, but Rehan Ahmed proved expensive.

England’s batting effort saw moments of promise, with Curran defying his modest T20 average, but contributions from their established stars fell short at critical junctures. Alzarri Joseph took three wickets for 39, while Gudakesh Motie’s economical spell further stifled England’s chase.

Captain Jos Buttler, returning to Grenada where he famously made 150 four years ago, managed just five runs before falling to left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein. Meanwhile, Phil Salt and Will Jacks gave England a strong start but succumbed to Joseph’s bouncers. Motie’s tight overs and wickets of Livingstone and Brook compounded England’s difficulties, leaving them needing an improbable 67 runs off the final 30 balls.

Despite Curran’s heroics, a maiden T20 half-century, and some support from Moeen Ali, who returned to the squad, England fell short. The Windies, led by King and Powell’s fireworks, continue to dominate the series, leaving England needing wins in the remaining three matches to turn the series around.

Europa League 2023-24: Final Group Standings and Matchday 6 Results

Europa League 2023-24: Final Group Standings and Matchday 6 Results

Four British clubs advance directly to the last 16 following the group stage conclusion.

The Europa League group stage wrapped up on Thursday, confirming the advancement of all British clubs into the knockout rounds.

Liverpool, fielding a young squad, suffered a defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, though the result held no impact on their progression as they had already secured the top spot in their group under Jurgen Klopp’s management.

Joining Liverpool as group winners were West Ham, who comfortably defeated Freiburg at London Stadium. By topping their group, the Hammers avoid a play-off round against sides relegated from the Champions League earlier in the week.

Brighton secured their place in the knockouts in dramatic fashion, with Joao Pedro scoring a late winner against Marseille at the Amex Stadium.

Rangers rounded off the success for British teams with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Real Betis in Spain, ensuring their spot in the next stage of the competition.

Irish Deputy Premier Micheal Martin to Hold Talks with David Cameron in London

Irish Deputy Premier Micheal Martin to Hold Talks with David Cameron in London

Meeting to focus on the Ukraine war, Gaza conflict, and Northern Ireland powersharing efforts.

Ireland’s deputy premier and foreign affairs minister, Micheal Martin, is set to meet with UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron in London on Wednesday. The discussions are expected to cover key topics, including bilateral relations, the restoration of powersharing in Northern Ireland, and critical global issues such as the war in Ukraine and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Ahead of his visit, Mr Martin emphasised the importance of deepening the partnership between Ireland and the UK, noting that such collaboration serves as a foundation for peace and prosperity across both nations. “Strengthening the relationship between our two governments is vital,” Martin stated, expressing his anticipation for a productive working relationship with Lord Cameron.

Reflecting on the historical significance of cross-governmental cooperation, Martin highlighted the 30th anniversary of the Downing Street Declaration. He credited the joint efforts of Albert Reynolds and John Major with laying the groundwork for the peace process that ultimately led to the Good Friday Agreement, remarking on the declaration’s role in fostering intense cooperation between Dublin and London.

In addition to addressing regional matters, Mr Martin underscored the importance of international collaboration on pressing global issues. Regarding Gaza, he reiterated his stance on the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, protection for civilians, the release of hostages, and large-scale humanitarian aid access. Martin also highlighted the ongoing necessity for coordinated EU-UK efforts to support Ukraine and deter Russian aggression, stressing the critical nature of sustained cooperation in these areas.

Scottish Government Urged to Boost Mental Health Funding

Scottish Government Urged to Boost Mental Health Funding

Seventeen organisations, including Bipolar Scotland and the Royal College of GPs, have united to demand greater investment in mental health services.

A coalition of 17 organisations, led by Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership (SMHP), is urging the Scottish Government to prioritise mental health funding as discussions on the 2024/25 budget continue. Groups such as Bipolar Scotland, the Royal College of GPs, the British Psychological Society, and the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) stress the need for increased financial commitment to mental health and wellbeing services.

While the Scottish Government previously committed to dedicating 10% of the total NHS frontline budget to mental health and promised a 25% resource increase during the current parliamentary term, recent data from Public Health Scotland indicates that only 8.8% of the budget is currently allocated—falling short by £180 million annually, according to SMHP.

The call for increased funding follows a £30 million cut from the 2023/24 mental health budget, confirmed by Deputy First Minister Shona Robinson in correspondence with Kenneth Gibson MSP, chair of the finance committee. SMHP chair Lee Knifton highlighted the challenge, stating, “Achieving the vision of a stigma-free Scotland with equal access to mental wellbeing requires both immediate and long-term financial investment. Meeting current needs hinges on restoring and boosting government funding.”

Knifton emphasised that the recently launched Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which incorporates a Promote, Prevent, Provide framework, requires substantial backing to realise its goals. He urged ministers to honour their pledge by ensuring mental health spending reaches 10% of NHS expenditure and reinstating the recent budget cuts without delay.

Responding to the concerns, Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd acknowledged the economic pressures affecting health and social care. She pointed to challenges such as high inflation, the lingering effects of Covid-19, and Brexit. Todd assured that mental health funding for 2023/24 would surpass £1.3 billion, with most local mental health services financed through NHS board budgets, which remain insulated from broader budget adjustments.

Indhu Rubasingham to Lead the National Theatre

Indhu Rubasingham to Lead the National Theatre

She will assume her new role as director designate in spring 2024, officially taking over from Rufus Norris as director in spring 2025.

Indhu Rubasingham has been named the next director of the National Theatre. The current artistic director of London’s Kiln Theatre, Rubasingham will begin as director designate in spring 2024, taking the reins from Rufus Norris in spring 2025 when his second term concludes.

Expressing her gratitude, Ms Rubasingham described her appointment as a profound honour, noting the National Theatre’s lasting impact on her journey from a young theatregoer to a seasoned theatre-maker. “This role is a tremendous privilege and responsibility,” she said.

“Theatre holds transformative power—it unites people through shared stories and experiences, and the National Theatre exemplifies this like no other venue. Having directed productions on its stages, I’ve seen firsthand the brilliance, dedication, and collective pride that bring its performances to life,” Rubasingham remarked, adding, “It’s an extraordinary place, and I’m eager to shape its next chapter with Kate.”

In her new role, she will collaborate with Kate Varah, who will serve as joint chief executive in a co-leadership arrangement. Rubasingham expressed excitement about building on Mr Norris’s legacy and looks forward to closely working with him as she prepares for her inaugural season.

Mr Norris, who announced his planned departure in June, praised Rubasingham’s selection, saying, “Indhu is an extraordinary artist whom I deeply respect and admire. Her leadership at Kiln Theatre over the past decade has been exemplary, and I am confident she will bring invaluable expertise to the National Theatre—a space she knows intimately as a successful director across its three stages.”

Since taking charge of Kiln Theatre in 2012, Rubasingham has overseen acclaimed productions, including Zadie Smith’s White Teeth and Ayad Akhtar’s Olivier-nominated The Invisible Hand.

Financial Struggles Affecting Christmas Celebrations, Survey Shows

Financial Struggles Affecting Christmas Celebrations, Survey Shows

Children Express Growing Concern Over Their Peers’ Ability to Celebrate Christmas Amid Rising Costs

A recent survey conducted by Action for Children has revealed that one in three young people in the UK are worried that their friends or classmates won’t be able to enjoy Christmas this year due to financial constraints. The charity’s findings highlight the deepening effects of the cost-of-living crisis on families, particularly those with young children.

The survey, which questioned 2,004 children between the ages of 8 and 18, found that 33% were concerned about their peers not receiving Christmas gifts, while 32% expressed fears that their friends wouldn’t be able to celebrate the holiday at all. In addition, 22% said that travel costs might prevent some children from visiting family over the festive period, and 30% feared that some families would struggle to keep their homes warm due to rising heating bills.

The charity’s CEO, Paul Carberry, said: “How can a child experience the magic of Christmas if they go to bed hungry and wake up cold?” He stressed the emotional toll of missing out on basic necessities like food and warmth, which can have long-lasting effects on children’s well-being.

Furthermore, the charity’s survey of 200 frontline workers revealed that three-quarters of those working directly with vulnerable families noted that financial pressures have worsened compared to the previous year. Rising food and energy costs were highlighted as the biggest challenges facing the families supported by these workers.

This survey follows broader concerns about the rise in child poverty across the UK. Data from the OECD indicates that more than 11% of UK teenagers have skipped meals in the last year due to a lack of money, a rate higher than the international average. Additionally, UNICEF’s recent report showed a worrying increase in child poverty in the UK, with the country ranked poorly compared to other developed nations.

In response to the findings, the Department for Work and Pensions highlighted recent government efforts, such as raising benefits and expanding free childcare, aimed at supporting struggling families. However, Action for Children has called for more targeted action to tackle child poverty and ensure that no child goes without the essentials needed to thrive.

To assist those in need, Action for Children has launched its Secret Santa campaign, urging the public to contribute by buying gifts or making donations to support vulnerable children throughout the year, not just at Christmas. Carberry called on both the government and the public to do more to address the challenges faced by children living in poverty, stating that more must be done to ensure that every child can experience a warm, happy holiday season.

Six-Year-Old Boy Wins Big Issue Christmas Cover Competition

Six-Year-Old Boy Wins Big Issue Christmas Cover Competition

Arnold Sam’s Joyful Drawing of Santa and a Christmas Tree Chosen for the Festive Front Cover

A six-year-old boy from Epsom, Surrey, has been named the winner of the Big Issue’s Christmas cover competition, with his vibrant and joyful illustration set to adorn the magazine’s front page this festive season. Arnold Sam’s drawing of a beaming Christmas tree and a jubilant Santa was praised by judges for its cheerful spirit and welcoming theme.

This year’s competition, which invited children to submit designs based on the theme of ‘welcome,’ saw an overwhelming response, with hundreds of entries from schools and young artists.

Arnold shared his excitement, saying: “When I heard this exciting news, I felt so happy and really proud that my drawing will be on the cover of the Big Issue. The magazine helps people, and I want to wish everyone a super happy Christmas. I hope Santa can bring Christmas gifts and joy to every nice kid in the world.”

His mother, Queenie, added: “He loves drawing, and this opportunity was especially exciting for him.”

Big Issue editor Paul McNamee remarked: “This year’s entries to the Christmas Kids Cover Competition were arguably the best ever. Hundreds of fantastic festive submissions flooded in, making it almost impossible to choose a winner.”

Arnold’s artwork will be featured on the magazine’s cover, spreading Christmas cheer and a message of warmth during the holiday season.

David Moyes Hopes Tottenham Win Marks Turning Point for West Ham

David Moyes Hopes Tottenham Win Marks Turning Point for West Ham

Manager Hails Comeback Victory as a Boost for Confidence and Club Ambitions

David Moyes believes West Ham’s dramatic comeback win over Tottenham can be a turning point for the club this season, boosting both team morale and supporter confidence. The Hammers triumphed 2-1 in north London, with goals from Jarrod Bowen and James Ward-Prowse helping them come from behind against their rivals.

Despite Tottenham dominating early on, West Ham showed resilience, soaking up pressure before turning the match in their favour. The victory sees the Hammers move within three points of Spurs, continuing their strong form on the road this season. Only Manchester City and Arsenal have earned more points away from home than West Ham in the Premier League so far.

Moyes admitted that West Ham has traditionally struggled against the top teams away from home, but he believes this win could prove pivotal in their development. “I think it was a big moment for our supporters,” Moyes said. “They want to see us challenging the big teams, and we want to do that too. Tottenham are one of the best teams in the league right now, so for us to come here and win is a massive statement.”

He continued: “Hopefully, this gives our players more confidence and belief, and our supporters too. We have a really strong team, we’re climbing the league, and doing well in Europe – let’s keep it going.”

The victory over Tottenham represents a significant milestone in West Ham’s quest to challenge the league’s top sides and build momentum for the remainder of the season.

Treasury Committee Criticises City Reforms as ‘Damp Squib’

Treasury Committee Criticises City Reforms as ‘Damp Squib’

MPs Slam Chancellor’s Reforms for Lacking Substance and Impact

Promised reforms to the UK’s financial services sector have been dismissed as a “damp squib” by an influential group of MPs, who argue that much of what was promised by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has failed to materialise. The Treasury Committee, in its analysis, found that despite claims of progress, several of the supposed reforms lack substance or have yet to be fully implemented.

The Chancellor had claimed that 21 out of 31 reforms he outlined last year had been completed, but the committee pointed out that six of these were not truly finished, and another six were essentially nothing more than actions like publishing documents or initiating consultations — which, according to MPs, are not genuine reforms.

Harriett Baldwin, MP and chair of the Treasury Committee, expressed disappointment, stating, “The Edinburgh reforms were given considerable fanfare last December but, 12 months on, the lack of progress or economic impact has left them feeling like a damp squib.”

The reforms, which were introduced by Hunt in December as part of a broader effort to modernise financial services regulation, included changes to short selling disclosures, adjustments to regulatory oversight, the removal of certain EU rules, and tax reforms. While these measures were welcomed by some as sensible and logical, the committee questioned whether publishing documents and launching reviews should be considered real reforms.

“More than a decade after the financial crash and six years after the UK voted to leave the European Union, the Treasury was absolutely right to look at updating regulation of the financial services sector,” Baldwin added. “However, the lack of tangible progress raises concerns about the actual effectiveness of these so-called reforms.”

In response, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Bim Afolami, defended the reforms, claiming that they were pivotal to creating a more innovative and robust financial environment. He said, “My number one priority in this role is to deliver on the Edinburgh reforms. Over the past year, we’ve made significant strides towards fostering an economic landscape that supports growth and the well-being of savers.”

Despite the Government’s claims of delivering 22 out of 31 reforms, the Treasury Committee’s assessment casts doubt on the scale of the actual changes and their potential impact on the UK’s financial sector.