GettyLuke Littler has revealed he will go into hiding if he wins the World Darts Championship[/caption]
GettyLittler, 17, became a huge celebrity during last years World Darts Championship[/caption]
He soared to overnight stardom when becoming a beaten finalist against Luke Humphries last year on a remarkable debut.
The then 16-year-old retreated to a secret location in Wales to escape the crazy world he had just thrust himself into.
He had become a face recognised around the world, with his exploits around the globe in front of the oche in the subsequent year only adding fuel to his meteoric rise in the sport.
Littler has been backed by darts legend, Phil Taylor, to go one better and land the biggest prize in the sport at Alexandra Palace this time around.
And he has told The Telegraph he will repeat his houdini trick by going into hiding if the media frenzy for him erupts again.
Littler said: “If the same happens, I’ll hide away again, no one will find me.”
He has earned over £1million in prize money to go with his 10 ranking titles over the last 12 months.
But that has not changed the little pleasures he enjoys, including playing Xbox and relaxing with mates, something Taylor can attest to after the pair shared a meal last month.
On that dinner date, Littler said: “As soon as he walked in, me and my mum were, ‘What is going on!? Sat down having a meal with Phil Taylor!
“It was good. He was telling me some of the stories on tour, [about] some of the players.
“He was saying, ‘Just keep yourself to yourself. The least you interact with people, the harder it is for them. Don’t need to talk to anyone’.”
In terms of the practice the BBC Sports Personality of the Year nominee has put up before the tournament, he revealed he trains for an hour to and an-hour-and-a-half a day.
On his prep, he said: “A lot of sleep, practice, Xbox, chill out. An hour to an-hour-and-a-half [a day] on the board.
“Keep the arm loose. [But] mostly just chilling… [see] some mates… go out with them sometimes, otherwise just chilling in my bedroom on my own, playing my game, on my phone.”
It is a far cry from the six to seven hours he used to practice in front of the board before turning pro, though he admits it is not something he needs to do often as it would be “over-practising”.
The winner of the World Darts Championship will take home a whopping £500,000.
2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on Energy bills set to rise AGAIN next year in blow for millions of households
Energy bills are set to rise again next year in a blow for millions of households.
This predicted price rise would mark the third consecutive hike for energy prices after Ofgem raised its price cap in October.
AlamyEnergy bills are expected to rise for the third consecutive[/caption]
This graph shows how much the price cap could increase by come April
The energy regulator also confirmed last month the cost of yearly energy bills will rise by around £21 to £1,738 come January.
And now experts at Cornwall Insights forecast the average dual fuel bill for those not on a fixed deal will rise from £1,738 to £1,762 in April.
Analysts at the firm said “continued uncertainty” regarding the future of the Russia-Ukraine conflict could impact wholesale prices.
They also pointed to Donald Trump‘s impending presidency in the USA, which could “impact gas exports from America”.
Craig Lowrey, Principal Consultant at Cornwall Insight, said the market is “unlikely” to lower bills and fuel poverty will “continue to the an issue.”
“There are a lot of unknowns, and while significant rises in price are currently unlikely, the scale of any increases will depend on how the market and the reforms unfold.”
It’s worth bearing in mind that these are just predictions and Ofgem will confirm what April’s price rise is on February 25 2025.
You should also not based on Cornwall Insight’s predictions, your energy bills may not rise to £1,738 in January.
The Ofgem price cap simply sets a limit on the maximum amount suppliers can charge customers per unit of gas and electricity on standard variable tariffs (SVRs), around 28million households.
So if you use less energy you won’t see your bills rise to this figure but the amount you are charged for your energy will still go up.
The price cap is updated every three months and is based on average wholesale prices in the months leading up to the change,
If you are worried about bills rising in the new year, l then you may get greater peace of mind by fixing your energy deal now.
Fixed deals see you charged the same gas and electricity rates throughout the contract term.
Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com, said: “There are now a range of fixed deals available that are significantly cheaper than the predicted price cap for January, so it is well worth running a comparison to see how much you could save.
“Right now, the average household could save up to £112 per year against the current price cap by switching to a twelve-month fixed deal.”
How to get help with your energy bills
If you are worried about paying your energy bills this winter it is worth being aware of a number of support measures which are available.
For starters, the government has begun rolling out its Cold Weather Payment, which gives people £25 for every seven day period of cold weather.
Many gas and energy suppliers offer grants and schemes for customers who are struggling.
For example, British Gas has a fund open to pre-payment meter and credit customers who have found themselves in debt worth up to £1,700.
Millwall are currently 13th in the division, having seen their nine-game unbeaten streak come to an end in their last match.
Lions chairman James Berylson hailed Harris’ work during his stint in charge and insisted that he “accepted” the coach’s decision.
Millwall statement on Harris
Millwall released a statement on the exit fo Neil Harris as manager.
It read: “Millwall Football Club can confirm a mutual decision has been reached with Neil Harris to step down from his role as head coach following the Lions’ trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday.
“Neil returned to the club in February 2024 with an immediate focus of steering the club away from the relegation zone.
“He successfully achieved this after collecting 26 points from a possible 33.”
He said: “At the start of 2024, we found ourselves in a tough spot.
“Neil came in and along with his coaching staff galvanised the squad.
“Through action and leadership, he led Millwall on a magnificent run of form, ensuring our return to Championship football this season.
“I want to thank Neil for all his efforts since returning to the Club and we will be forever grateful to him for that.
“After discussions with Neil in recent days, he felt it was the right time to step down from the role following the Middlesbrough game and I have accepted his decision.”
On Saturday, they were beaten by Coventry City 1-0 at The Den.
It was after that result that Harris claimed people needed a reality check.
He said: “That is where people have to get their heads out of the clouds and realise how well we’ve done to achieve what we have so far. And how tough it is for us as a group.
“Right at the end we put the ball in the box and one of my young centre-forwards and one of my young wingers are standing outside of the penalty area.
“It shows a lot of learning we have got in front of us.
“You miss Romain [Esse], you miss Japhet [Tanganga] and you miss Jake Cooper.
“Three players that probably get in any Championship team.
“Just a reminder to people, the thickos, that when you take the three best players out of the team that this is Millwall Football Club.”
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..
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2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on Millions of iPhone owners must update their handset NOW ahead of major iOS shake-up expected this week
MILLIONS of iPhone owners have been told to update their devices today to protect their iCloud data from falling into the hands of criminals.
The bug allowed cyber criminals to copy “extensive” amounts of user data “without leaving any trace”, a blog post from software firm Jamf has warned.
iOS 18 was released on 16 September to dozens of devicesAP:Associated Press
The Jamf team, who found a flaw, said it fails to notify iPhone owners when a dodgy app tries to access their photos, GPS location and contacts.
It means crooks could access an Apple customer’s “sensitive data” without their knowledge, the team wrote.
The vulnerability affects both iPhones and Mac PCs.
Jamf’s researchers notified Apple of the flaw, which the tech giant patched in iOS 18 and macOS 15 alongside 38 other security risks.
Users are now given a pop-up to accept or deny access to specific data from each app.
In their blog post, researchers called the discovery a “wake-up call” and expressed concern over attackers focus on iCloud data.
If you have not yet updated your iPhone to iOS 18, then it is strongly advised that you do so now.
iOS 18 was released on 16 September to dozens of devices.
Here’s the full list:
iPhone SE (2nd generation)
iPhone SE (3rd generation)
iPhone XR
iPhone XS
iPhone XS Max
iPhone 11
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone 12
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 14
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
How to spot a dodgy app
Detecting a malicious app before you hit the 'Download' button is easy when you know the signs.
Follow this eight-point checklist when you’re downloading an app you’re unsure about:
Check the reviews – be wary of both complaints and uniformly positive reviews by fake accounts.
Look out for grammar mistakes – legitimate app developers won’t have typos or errors in their app descriptions.
Check the number of downloads – avoid apps with only several thousand downloads, as it could be fake.
Research the developer – do they have a good reputation? Or, are totally fake?
Check the release date – a recent release date paired with a high number of downloads is usually bad news.
Review the permission agreement – this agreement gives permission for the app to take bits of your data, and fake apps often ask for additional data that is not necessary.
Check the update frequency – an app that is updated too frequently is usually indicative of security vulnerabilities.
Check the icon – look closely, and don’t be deceived by distorted, lower-quality versions the icons from legitimate apps.
All of this information will available in both Apple’s App Store and the Google Play Store.
AppleFeatures that require Apple Intelligence were always forecast to arrive slightly later than the initial iOS 18 features[/caption]
Inside iOS 18.2
The warning comes as Apple prepares to roll out iOS 18.2 – the most anticipated iPhone update of the year.
The update is set to bring the second wave of Apple Intelligence features – which are new tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on Lauren Price vs Bexcy Mateus: UK start time, live stream, TV channel and full card for welterweight title fight
LAUREN PRICE returns to the ring this weekend as she faces Bexcy Mateus in a defence of her welterweight world titles.
The Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold-medallist holds the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine titles at 147lbs and is undefeated so far as a professional.
PALauren Price is the WBA and Ring Magazine champion at 147lbs[/caption]
Price is 7-0 as a pro, with her biggest win coming against Jessica McCaskill back in May.
It was on that night she picked up her world titles, but now she’s looking for more gold, and a win over Mateus could put her in a huge fight.
Natasha Jonas’ fight with Ivana Habazin for the IBF and WBC welterweight titles takes place on the same card, and the hope for promoters Boxxer is that Jonas and Price win their bouts to set up a fight between themselves.
When is Price vs Mateus?
Lauren Price’s defence of her WBA title will take place on Saturday, December 14.
The fight will be held at the Liverpool Exhibition Centre in Liverpool, England.
The fight, which is co-main event is likely to get underway from around 9pm GMT
2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on Coronation Street star who screwed over pal by taking money to fix his teeth FINALLY pays his debt back
A CORRIE star who screwed over his pal by taking money to fix his dodgy teeth has finally paid his debt back.
Sean Cernow, 47, borrowed £250 from Allan Kato after a problem earlier this year caused by a dental abscess led to two dropping out.
SuppliedSean Cernow has now paid back his friend for fixing his teeth[/caption]
SuppliedCernow is said to have had a problem with his teeth earlier this year[/caption]
The actor, 47, played Tony Byrne on the cobblesSuppliedAllan Kato, 48, with his wife and eight-year-old stepdaughter[/caption]
English teacher Allan, 48, claimed that his pal Cernow was struggling to get acting work.
As a result the actor, who plays Tony Byrne on the cobbles, asked him for financial aid in August.
But things quickly turned ugly when Cernow refused to pay the debt back to Allan, originally from Halifax, West Yorkshire.
Now Allan has finally received the cash revealing he was initially sent the wrong amount.
Allan told The Sun: “He’s paid me back. It was sent to me without me knowing or asking and then he sent the wrong amount.
“He was £13 short. I had to reply through PayPal about that. He then rectified it.”
Allan, who now lives in Vietnam, met Sean at drama school in Oldham around 30 years ago.
He previously said: “I’m £250 lighter in my wallet than I should be. I’ve known Sean for 30 years.
“We’ve always been good mates. I never lend anyone money usually. Not a massive amount like that. I just felt sorry for him.
“I thought I’d help out a mate. Be a good person. He said he couldn’t get any work because he had a problem with his teeth.
“Two of his teeth fell out and he didn’t look very presentable. He sent me a receipt for his dental work.
“After I lent him the money, he turned on me almost immediately.
“He started getting aggressive when I asked him when he was going to pay me back.
“He told me to stop pressuring him and played the victim. He blocked me on all social media accounts after that.”
What to do if someone owes you money
ACCORDING to the Government website, there are a few ways you can get money back that you're owed.
The options include using a mediation service, going to court, sending a statutory demand or making someone bankrupt if a person or business is in debt.
Mediation is when an impartial professional (the mediator) helps both sides work out an agreement. It’s confidential and usually quicker and cheaper than going to court.
You can get mediation from an independent mediator instead of making a court claim for money.
If you make a court claim for your money, you might be offered or told you have to attend mediation if your claim is for £10,000 or less. This service is free.
Court action
You can make a court claim for your money if mediation does not work.
The court can order the money to be paid.
Make an official demand for money you’re owed
You can use a statutory demand to ask for money you’re owed from a person or business.
If they ignore the statutory demand or cannot repay the money, you can apply to a court to:
make someone bankrupt – if you’re owed £5000 or more by an individual, including a sole trader or a member of a partnership
get a company wound up (liquidated) – if you and any other creditors are owed £750 or more
However, the costs are high and you may not get any of your money back. Get legal advice before doing this if you’re unsure.
Get money you’re owed from a bankrupt person or a company that’s being liquidated
You must register your claim to money from a bankrupt person or a company so that if there’s any money available to pay debts, you can get a share.
Get money you’re owed by someone in another country
Get legal advice if you need to recover debt from a person or a business in another country.
Allan has a wife and an eight-year-old stepdaughter and said he “doesn’t make a lot of money”.
He continued: “I’m not rich. I can’t be losing £250 to a so-called friend.”
Cernow joined residents of Weatherfield last year as Ed Bailey’s employee Tony.
During the show’s storyline, handyman Tony cornered Ed for cash telling him he wants “the money by today – or else”.
Allan added: “The irony is that the character he plays was getting annoyed for someone owing him some money in the show.
“He was fighting him and getting aggressive. It’s like art imitating life.”
And it wasn’t Sean’s first time acting in the ITV soap.
The Manchester born actor played an unnamed drug dealer in 2008 and ten years later he returned to play villain Phil Warriner.
When initially approached by The Sun, Cernow slammed the door in our reporter’s face.
Corrie's most famous villains
Richard Hillman (Brian Capron) – arguably the most famous villain in soap history. The character has multiple killings to his name. Richard left his former business partner Duggie Ferguson (John Bowe) to die before he murdered his ex-wife Patricia (Annabelle Apsion) who threatened to expose his dodgy dealings. He attempted to kill his mother-in-law Audrey Roberts (Sue Nicholls) by setting her house on fire. He later killed her co-worker Maxine Peacock (Tracy Shaw) after she caught him in the act of attempting to strike Emily Bishop (Eileen Derbyshire) with a crowbar. Eventually he confessed his crimes to Gail (Helen Worth) before driving the Platt family into the canal. They all survived, but Richard drowned.
Mad Maya (Sasha Behar) – She may not have the most kills to her name, but no true Corrie fan will be able to forget ‘Mad Maya’s’ stint. Maya Sharma first started out as an innocent lawyer. However her true nature was revealed when she kidnapped Tyronne’s () dog and threatened to kill Dev Alahan () unless he proposed. Things soon turn nasty when Sunita () received the news that she has a brain tumour. The pair rekindle their romance and they end up getting married. However, Maya ruined their big day by reporting Sunita to the police for bigamy. Not done there, she plans to kill them both as she sets fire to all of Dev’s shop empire and trapping them both upstairs after she set fire to the corner shop with the gas and stove on. When they are miraculously rescued, she attempts to run them over.
Pat Pheelan (Connor McIntyre) – Pat was introduced as an acquaintance of Owen Armstrong (Ian Puleston-Davies), before embarking on a revenge plot. He creates a fraudulent property scheme which caused the death of Michael Rodwell (Les Dennis). He kidnapped Andy Carver (Oliver Farnworth) and Vinny Ashford (Ian Kelsey). This was before he framed his arch-nemesis Anna Windass for GBH after he pushed Seb Franklin (Harry Visinoni) off a ladder. He then murdered both Any as well as Luke Britton (Dean Fagan). He eventually met a gruesome end when he held most of the residents of the street hostage in the Bistro. He was stabbed by Anna Windass after he shot Michelle (Kym Marsh).
Geoff Metcalfe (Ian Bartholomew) – Geoff started off as the innocent father to Tim Metcalfe (Joe Duttine) and he was a local Weatherfield celebrity owing to his radio show and his ‘The Great Magnifico’ magic act. He later embarked on a romantic relationship and married with Yasmeen (Shelley King). However, he had a nasty streak as he controlled her in every way. He made sure she was reliant on him for everything including financially, he constantly bullied and belittled her, locked her in the magician’s box despite the fact she was claustrophobic, and he even forced her to eat her own pet chicken. Later she snapped and stabbed him in the neck. This was before she was arrested for attempted murder. However, his nearest and dearest soon discovered his true nature and they turned against him. He tried to sabotage the trial by threatening his ex-wife, but she stood up to him in an epic court showdown. After Yasmeen was released, Geoff died shortly after when he set fire to their home and fell off the roof.
Kirsty Soames (Natalie Gumede) – Kirsty was first seen on Corrie on a night out when Tommy Duckworth (Chris Fountain) paid her to flirt with Tyrone Dobbs (Alan Halsall). Later she makes her interest very clear and they end up together. After she gets sacked from her job as a policewoman, Tyrone gets her a job at Underworld factory as a packer. She is utterly horrified and she lashed out at Tyrone with a ladle. Kirsty apologised and Tyrone pretended to all his friends the injuries were accidental. However, this pattern continued. Over several incidents she forced him up against a door, smashed household plates and pictures, bruised him after beating him with a vacuum cleaner, throws a candlestick at his head and she locks him inside the house. However, one time she tried to hit him but she lost her balance and fell down the stairs. She lies to the police and tells them that it was Tyrone who was beating her. Tyrone was put in prison after he broke bail conditions when he went on the run with his daughter. During the period of the trial, she struggles to look after baby Ruby. She throws a cup at Julie (Katy Cavanagh) before exposing her own behaviour by slapping her. Kirst then stormed into the courtroom and confessed that she was the monster, not Tyrone.
SuppliedEnglish teacher Allan claimed that his pal Cernow was struggling to get work[/caption]
ITVCernow joined residents of Weatherfield last year as Ed Bailey’s employee Tony[/caption]
ITVDuring the show’s storyline, handyman Tony cornered Ed for cash[/caption]
SuppliedThings quickly turned ugly when Cernow refused to pay the debt back to Allan[/caption]
Sean also starred in Netflix drama series The Witcher
Getty - ContributorEE has also revamped its pricing structure for customers using their calls, texts, and data in more distant locations[/caption]
These “Roam Abroad” passes enabled customers without inclusive roaming contracts to use their calls, texts, and data in 47 European destinations, as well as in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand.
Without one of these passes, customers now pay £2.47 per day to use their data in Europe.
This means that customers will now pay £75 for a 30-day trip – £50 more than the previous cost with the Roam Abroad pass.
For a two-week (14-day) trip, customers will incur charges of £34.58 to use their data in the EU, which is £9.58 more than when the Roam Abroad pass was available.
The changes will primarily benefit those holidaying for fewer than 10 days, as they will end up paying less overall compared to purchasing one of the previously available Roam Abroad vouchers.
EE has promised to introduce a new seven-day roaming pass but has not said when this will be available yet.
The 7-Day EU Pass will cost customers £15, meaning it will cost £30 to use your data allowance abroad for 14 days.
While this option is cheaper than paying the daily £2.47 rate, it is still £5 more expensive than the old Roam Abroad pass.
Which plans already include EU roaming?
The following EE plans will allow you to roam like home in the EU:
Max Plan
Full Works
Essentials Plus (Including EE One)
All Rounder (Including EE One)
If your contract started on or before July 7, 2021, your plan may also include EU roaming.
Ernest Doku, Uswitch mobiles expert, said: “Consumers rely on roaming data passes to ensure they don’t get hit by unexpected roaming bills, which is why EE’s communications may be causing a bit of confusion.
“Their introduction of flexible roaming passes, starting from £2.47 per day within the EU, means consumers won’t need to worry about the duration of their trip in advance.
“However, this may work out slightly more expensive for some, depending on where they are travelling and their specific data usage.
“But, it is worth remembering that those who already have EU roaming included in their plans will not be affected.”
NEW CHARGES FOR OUTSIDE EUROPE
EE has also revamped its pricing structure for customers using their calls, texts, and data in more distant locations.
For instance, under the old system, customers had to pay £6.74 per day when visiting Canada or the USA and £8.45 per day in Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand.
Despite these daily charges, data usage was capped at 500MB per day – that’s unless they took out the old £25 a month Roam Abroad pass.
With the old pass no longer available, EE has completely overhauled its six “rest of the world” zones and is now categorising countries outside the EU into four distinct groups.
To use your data in Zone 1 locations, you’ll need to pay £5 per day or opt for a £25 seven-day rolling pass.
This will result in higher costs for those visiting the USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand, who previously could use their UK data allowance for a fixed cost of £25 over a 30-day period.
However, it will be slightly cheaper for those who need more than 500MB of data per day and won’t be travelling for longer than seven days.
For Zone 2 locations, the charge is £7.50 per day, unless you choose a £37.50 seven-day rolling pass.
Travellers in Zone 3 countries will be charged £7.50 per day, with no option for a seven-day rolling pass.
Similarly, in selected Zone 4 locations, the charge is £15 per day to use your data, with no seven-day rolling pass available.
A spokesperson for EE said: “EU roaming is not impacted by our rest of world roaming update.
“We’re improving the roaming products for rest of world countries as well as rest of the world zones to give our customers more options and better value.”
Ernest Doku added: “Roaming allowances, caps, and fees can vary based on location and network provider.
“To avoid unexpected charges, customers should check with their provider and review their personal usage and data allowances before travelling.”
It’s important to note that if you’re out of contract and considering switching providers, there are still several mobile networks that do not charge customers extra for using their data abroad.
Which mobile networks don’t charge for EU roaming?
GiffGaff
GiffGaff plans can be used in the EU and other destinations at no extra cost.
If you’re a pay-as-you-go customer, the provider says it will charge you at your usual UK rate.
However, there is a cap of 5GB, and if you go over this you’ll be charged 3.2p/minute, 1p/text, 10p/MB.
If you’re travelling outside of the EU, then roaming rates apply.
Find out more by visiting giffgaff.com/roaming-charges.
iD Mobile
Roaming comes as standard on all iD mobile phone and SIM only plans.
This means customers can use their UK monthly allowances of minutes, text and data in 50 destinations worldwide.
There is a fair use data cap of 30GB, after which you are likely to be charged.
You can find out more by visiting idmobile.co.uk/help-and-advice/eu-roaming.
Lebara
Lebara says that you can use UK plan allowances while roaming in the EU or India for no extra cost.
There is a fair use cap of up to 30GB on the unlimited data plan.
To roam outside of Europe and India, you will need to buy an appropriate roaming add-on or use pay-as-you-go (PAYG) credit.
You can find out more by visiting lebara.co.uk/en/roaming/roaming-rate-finder.html.
O2
O2 is the only major network provider that has not brought back roaming charges.
If you’re travelling in what it calls its “Europe Zone”, you can call text or use data like you would in the UK and for no extra cost.
There is a fair usage cap of 25GB.
If you’re travelling outside of Europe, you can buy a bolt-on, which gives you free roaming in 27 other countries.
Smarty
Smarty lets its customers roam in the EU for no extra costs. If your plan includes calls and texts, they’ll also work as usual.
There’s a fair use limit on data of up to 12GB. After that you can choose to buy data add-ons.
You can find out more by visiting smarty.co.uk/roaming.
Talkmobile
Talkmobile is another network with free EU roaming.
For customers who joined or upgraded before March 14, 2023, the fair use limit is 15GB per month.
Customers who joined after that date have a much lower allowance of 5GB per month.
If you are running out of your EU Inclusive Roaming allowance, you can purchase a Euro Holiday Booster.
You can find out more by visiting talkmobile.co.uk/roam-charges.
Tesco Mobile
Tesco Mobile has extended its free roaming offer until 2026.
That means that you can use your text, call, and data allowances at no extra cost in 48 destinations.
You can find out more by visiting tescomobile.com/roaming.
CUT YOUR TELECOM COSTS
SWITCHING contracts is one of the single best ways to save money on your mobile, broadband and TV bills.
But don’t just switch contracts because the price is cheaper than what you’re currently paying.
Take a look at your minutes and texts, as well as your data usage, to find out which deal is best for you.
For example, if you’re a heavy internet user, it’s worth finding a deal that accommodates this so you don’t have to spend extra on bundles or add-ons each month.
In the weeks before your contract is up, use comparison sites to familiarise yourself with what deals are available.
It’s a known fact that new customers always get the best deals.
Sites like MoneySuperMarket and Uswitch all help you customise your search based on price, allowances and provider.
This should make it easier to decide whether to renew your contract or move to another provider.
However, if you don’t want to switch and are happy with the service you’re getting under your current provider – haggle for a better deal.
You can still make significant savings by renewing your contract rather than rolling on to the tariff you’re given after your deal.
If you need to speak to a company on the phone, be sure to catch them at the right time.
Make some time to negotiate with your provider in the morning.
This way, you have a better chance of being the first customer through on the phone, and the rep won’t have worked tirelessly through previous calls which may have affected their stress levels.
It pays to be polite when getting through to someone on the phone, as representatives are less inclined to help rude or aggressive customers.
Knowing what other offers are on the market can help you to make a case for yourself to your provider.
If your provider won’t haggle, you can always threaten to leave.
Companies don’t want to lose customers and may come up with a last-minute offer to keep you.
It’s also worth investigating social tariffs. These deals have been created for people who are receiving certain benefits.
2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on Truck built to diffuse bombs is transformed into tiny home with king-sized bed & stunning views – stay for £99 a night
A TRUCK built to diffuse bombs has been transformed into a tiny home – and you can stay there for £99 per night.
Images show the converted army vehicle fully equipped with a king-sized bed, kitchenette and dining area.
mediadrumimagesA lovingly converted army bomb-disposal truck, peacefully secluded in the village of Hatch Beauchamp[/caption]
mediadrumimagesThe bathroom is in a horse box, shaded by whispering birch trees[/caption]
mediadrumimagesThe small cosy kitchenette but there is also local village pub that serves food, or drive five miles into Taunton for shopping and dining[/caption]
The bathroom is also a unique conversion as it is inside an old horsebox and comes with underfloor heating and a flushing toilet.
Outside there is a barbecue and decked seating area from where you can enjoy the view.
The property in Hatch Beauchamp, Somerset, is perfect for two guests and is pet friendly.
“A lovingly converted army bomb-disposal truck, peacefully secluded in the village of Hatch Beauchamp, just outside Taunton, Somerset,” states the listing.
“The truck sleeps two guests in a comfy kingsize bed. Well-behaved pets are also welcome to stay.
“Facilities include a well-equipped kitchen, strong Wi-fi, and a stylish converted horsebox that houses a private shower and flushing toilet.
“Outside awaits an elevated deck that overlooks open fields, a landscaped courtyard with dining furniture, a barbecue and a hammock.
There’s a local village pub for food, or you can drive five miles into Taunton for shopping and dining.
The friendly owners live next-door, are happy to offer local recommendations.
“Peacefully parked in the ancient Somerset village of Hatch Beauchamp- just five miles from bustling Taunton but feeling worlds away- Arnie the Army Truck is the perfect romantic escape.
“Lovingly converted from a 1987 military bomb-disposal truck, Arnie now enjoys his retirement as a unique tiny home shaded by whispering birch trees, surrounded by wildlife, and imbued with cosy comfort.
“Better still, your best four-legged friend can come and enjoy this welcome break into nature right along with you!
“Step inside to find elegant décor and all the facilities you’d expect from a hotel suite, including a well-equipped kitchen and a downy king-size bed to curl up in at the end of a long day exploring the local area.
“Your private bathroom, meanwhile, takes the form of a creativity transformed horsebox just outside…complete with underfloor heating, a piping hot shower, a radiator for toasty towels, and that all important ‘proper’ flushing toilet.
“Once you’ve settled in, why not relax in the hammock with a good book, or pour a glass of wine and get lost in conversation on the sun-dappled deck, which faces wide open fields?
“Watch the sun sink lazily behind the trees, then fire up the barbecue for a sizzling al fresco supper in the landscaped courtyard.
“There’s a fold-down dining table and chairs inside too, along with strong WIFI via Arnie’s dedicated 4G router- great for digital entertainment, should you decide you need it!”
This is the exterior of the truck you will stay in during the staycationmediadrumimagesComplete with underfloor heating, a piping hot shower, a radiator for toasty towels, and that all-important proper flushing toilet[/caption]
mediadrumimagesWatch the sun sink lazily behind the trees, then fire up the barbecue for a sizzling al fresco supper in the landscaped courtyard[/caption]
2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on Vogue model, 24, left permanently blind in one eye after pal ‘whacked her in the face with a Dior bag on a night out’
A MODEL has been left permanently blind in one eye after her friend “accidentally hit her in the face with her Dior bag strap” as she flung it over her shoulder on a night out.
Genevieve Brewster says her friend swung her arm back to slip the saddle bag onto her shoulder and inadvertently hit her with the metal strap, causing a small tear in her left eye.
Kennedy NewsGenevieve Brewster was on a night out when her friend accidentally hit her in the face with her bag[/caption]
Her friend was flinging her Dior bag over her shoulder when she accidentally hit Genevieve with the metal strapKennedy NewsDoctors cleaned up the wound but she then started experiencing “flashes of lights” and “floaters”[/caption]
Once doctors cleaned up the wound after the incident in May 2021 the 24-year-old started seeing “flashes of lights” and “floaters”.
But Genevieve, who’s featured in Vogue magazine, shrugged off the issues she experienced over the next few months as being caused by working in a nightclub or being stressed.
It wasn’t until she couldn’t see anything at all in December 2021 that she finally went to hospital and was shocked to be told she had detached three-quarters of her retina.
The hospitality worker has undergone nine surgeries in a desperate bid to fix the issue, which left her looking like she’d been beaten up and “ashamed” to look in the mirror.
Despite some improvement in her sight in October 2023, Genevieve was “heartbroken” to learn that her retina had completely detached in September 2024, which left her blind.
Retinal detachment is where the retina, the thin layer at the back of the eye, becomes loose and it must be treated quickly to stop it permanently affecting your sight.
A TikTok clip Genevieve shared about her ordeal has gone viral, racking up more than 144,000 views.
In the clip you can see the executive assistant looking sadly at the camera before revealing her red and bloodshot left eye.
Regretting not going to the doctors earlier because she didn’t have healthinsurance, Genevieve is now urging others to “listen to their gut” and get themselves checked out.
Genevieve, who lives in Aspen, Colorado, US, said: “It was traumatic, it was a shock.
“When [the doctor] told me it was a wave of emotion, because you’re trying to start a career and entering adulthood.
“In my mind I’m 100 miles away. ‘What’s going to happen with my career? What does this surgery mean?’ It was traumatic.
“When the bag hit me I think it caused a small tear. As time progressed and my symptoms got worse and I let it go, that’s when I believe the tear turned into a detachment.
“It was a very silly accident, we were just out one night and she had a purse.
“It had heavy metal on the side. She flung her arm back and I was right behind her and the metal just hit my left eye.
“It was really bloody, I thought I needed stitches. I went to the hospital and the hospital was more concerned with who did this to me.
“They were luckily able to get it cleaned up and they put on glue because it wasn’t deep enough to need stitches. There were follow up instructions but they said I’d be fine.”
I was 22 at the time and I thought ‘this will go away, it’s no big deal. Nothing can happen to me, I’m young, I’m healthy’
Genevieve Brewster
Genevieve believed the “flashing lights” she could see were caused by working in a nightclub or stress and put off visiting the doctors as she didn’t have health insurance.
Genevieve said: “Any of the smaller symptoms and signs I did just keep pushing off.
“I was 22 at the time and I thought ‘this will go away, it’s no big deal. Nothing can happen to me, I’m young, I’m healthy’.
“That’s the guilt I wake up with everyday, I wish I went to the doctor earlier. It’s hard to deal with, you know in your gut something’s wrong.
“Especially as a young person when you’re in and out of jobs, when this happened to me, I didn’t have health insurance.
“One of the biggest signs of retinal detachment is flashes of light and floaters.
“In the day I was seeing flashes of light and floaters but I kept saying ‘maybe I’m tired, I’m stressed, I’m at a music venue. I see lights for five hours a night five days a week, this is it’.
“I kind of knew in the back of my mind that something wasn’t right.”
Treating retinal detachment
But after completely losing her sight in her eye in December 2021 Genevieve visited her optometrist who referred her to an eye specialist in Denver nearly four hours away.
She discovered she had a giant tear in her eye and was diagnosed with retinal detachment so had surgery to try and save her vision.
Genevieve said: “They told me I disattached three-quarters of my retina so that’s considered a giant tear.
“That’s why my journey has been so prolific and long because of the initial tear or detachment. It will never be able to be helped on its own.
“I started with a buckle [treatment]. It’s a piece of plastic that they cut two slits in the side of your eye and they weave this plastic band in to tighten your eye and try to hold your retina in place.
“When I was first diagnosed it was unknown if I’d lose my sight. With my first surgery he told me the buckle there’d be 80 per cent chance it would work.
“That’s quite traumatic on the eye, your eye is beyond red and bloodshot for a very long time.
“I couldn’t even look at myself in the mirror, it just looked like someone beat me up.
“That was hard as well because I was trying to enter real estate. You’re going to showings and you just feel like people, all they’re looking at is your eye.
“I would stop going out, I stopped trying to see friends. I just wanted no one to see me and no one to look at me.
“It was really hard grieving the things I loved. I’m an avid skier, I can’t ski anymore. I wasn’t able to exercise and I was putting on weight.
“I felt like I was losing myself but I was also losing my sight.”
I couldn’t even look at myself in the mirror, it just looked like someone beat me up
Genevieve Brewster
As well as the buckles, Genevieve had vitrectomy, where surgeons placed a jelly-like substance onto her eyeball.
Genevieve said: “The issue I ran into was in young people we have bigger scar tissue.
“That’s great if you break your arm or break your leg, our tissue is going to heal our bones faster and help us recover, the only place you don’t want bigger scar tissue is in your eye. It creates almost a tug of war.
“The retina is trying to lie flat but the scar tissue is growing so fast the retina can’t, it continues to lift my retina up.
“That’s why I was finding myself constantly in the operating room because they were always trying to remove this scar tissue, laser it out, and put the oil back in because my retina had no way to lie flat.
“It’s taken a huge toll on my family members because we live four hours away from my surgeon.
“We have to drive eight hours for him to look at my eye just for him to tell me ‘you’re going to get surgery next week’ or ‘okay you’re looking good see you in two weeks’.
“I’m so grateful for my partner and especially my mum. The time, the dedication, the thousands of dollars they’ve had to spend to help me, I don’t know how I’ll ever repay them.”
Kennedy NewsGenevieve dismissed her symptoms as being tired or stressed[/caption]
Kennedy NewsAfter completely losing her sight in her eye in December 2021 she was diagnosed with retinal detachment[/caption]
Kennedy NewsGenevieve can make out colours and shadows but nothing of clarity[/caption]
Further surgery
Despite beginning to regain her vision during October 2023, Genevieve discovered she developed a cataract and needed further surgery.
Genevieve said: “I was able to ski again and life looked good. All of a sudden it [my eye] looked like a dead dog. I knew I detached my retina. I could feel it, I knew something was going on.
“The doctor said I re-detached my retina and I had a cataract. It was so bad that when they went to fit me for a lens they couldn’t even see in my eye.”
The former nightclub worker was “heartbroken” to discover her retina had completely detached in September 2024 leaving her blind in her left eye.
Genevieve said: “It was heartbreaking, I don’t think I’ve really come to terms with what it means.
“This time I completely detached my retina, the whole thing just came off. There was nothing holding it together. That’s when I had to go into surgery again.
“[The surgeon] put my retina back together, put oil in my eye and had to laser off some more of the scarring.
Detached retina - symptoms and when to get help
Retinal detachment is an eye problem that happens when your retina (a light-sensitive layer of tissue in the back of your eye) is pulled away from its normal position at the back of your eye.
Symptoms include:
floaters (dots and lines) or flashes of light in your eye
you get flashes of light in your vision
you have a dark “curtain” or shadow moving across your vision
your vision gets suddenly blurred
If you experience these symptoms you should call 111.
You’ll be referred to hospital for surgery if tests show your retina may be detached or has started to come away.
Surgery will then stop your vision getting worse.
A detached retina is more likely to happen if you:
are short-sighted
have had an eye operation (such as cataract surgery)
“I can make out colours and shadows, it’s nothing of clarity.”
Genevieve admitted her biggest fear is now also losing sight in her right eye so is very careful to protect it and while she’s been forced to give up her beloved skiing she has learned to find joy elsewhere.
Genevieve said: “It scares me because it means my right eye – if anything happens to that eye I don’t know where I’d be. That’s my biggest fear.
“I can deal with now not having clarity of perception in this eye. It’s been two years, I’m used to it.
“The scariest part is the ‘what if’, but that’s not a good way to live.
“I know I can’t ski. That one’s a little bit hard because that’s my love, my sport that I have such a passion for. I can go to yoga, I can go on walks. It’s motivation to go outside and find joy in other things.
“I may not be able to see [in one eye] but I can walk, I can talk. I’m so blessed in so many other ways. I’m not going to sit here and I’m not going to be a victim.”
‘Listen to your gut’
She now urges others to “listen to their gut” and not be afraid to visit a doctor if they suspect something might be wrong.
Genevieve said: “Trust your gut, your gut never lies to you.
“Be prepared as a young person, have insurance, don’t be scared to go to the doctor. You need to take care of yourself.
“If you have a symptom, go to the doctor, nothing’s going to hurt from listening to yourself.
“You are your only advocate. You have to advocate for yourself. Do all the things necessary to make sure you’re taking care of yourself and be your biggest advocate.”
Kennedy NewsGenevieve is now encouraging others to listen to their gut and get checked out by their doctor[/caption]
Kennedy NewsShe’s had to give up her beloved skiing, but she’s learned to find joy elsewhere[/caption]
2 weeks agoLatest NewsComments Off on The North Face x SKIMS ski collection has landed – but Kim K fans say it won’t keep you warm and it’s a Yeezy ‘rip off’
IT’S been five years since Kim Kardashian and entrepreneur, Jens Grede, first launched Skims – and it’s fair to say the brand has made its mark.
From bodysuits to bras, it’s become a major player in the shapewear industry, with celebs and influencers alike obsessed with their Skims pieces.
The North Face / Donna Trope / SKIMSTHE NORTH FACE x SKIMS has officially landed[/caption]
Instagram/Kim KardashianBut the limited edition collection of jackets, ski suits and base layers has fans divided[/caption]
Instagram/Kim KardashianSome say it’s a “rip-off” of Kanye West’s Yeezy line, while others can’t wait to shop[/caption]
The brand was recently valued at a cool $4 billion, and has officially launched its latest collab today – which is certain to rake in even more revenue for the reality TV veteran.
But like anything involving Kim K, people have opinions – and they’re not holding back from sharing them.
The collab in question is THE NORTH FACE x SKIMS: a limited edition collection of jackets, ski suits and base layers.
It’s available both on SKIMS.com as well as select The North Face stores.
In a promo video posted on her Instagram, Kim said: “This collab has been years in the making.
“I’m obsessed with [The] North Face. Their puffer jackets have always been so iconic to me.”
And she explained that the design approach was to bring the “classic Skims fit” to the outdoor retailer’s archival styles.
“A lot of the time with puffer suits, the fill of the puffer can be really heavy and thick,” she said.
“I really wanted to create fits that flattered a curvier figure. So to be able to work from within, with the team, to get the fit right is really cool,” she added.
In true Skims style, Kim also said the base layers will “make you look snatched.”
Not only that but, “they have this technology that keeps you really warm and the tonal colours are unlike anything I’ve seen before.”
However, fans were quick to leave comments about just how warm the items will really be, for skiing.
“I’m confused on why we are just wearing leggings and cropped jackets to ski,” one person wrote.
“It’s still leggings and damn cropped jacket. Like what is that actually gonna do? Not keep you warm that’s for sure.”
“Same! I’d freeze to death lol,” said another.
Others accused the collection of copying Kanye West’s fashion line, Yeezy.
“In true Kardashian fashion, another rip-off. This is Yeezy season 2,” someone posted.
“I was wondering who else saw it,” replied another.
Elsewhere though, plenty of fans shared their excitement for the collection and can’t wait to shop the pieces.
“Kim I literally am trying to save money rn. Pls,” someone joked.
And referring to the brand’s recent collab with Dolce&Gabbana, someone else teased, “Damn Kim, let me recover from the dolce x skims.”
The success of SKIMS
Initially conceived as a vanity project by Kim Kardashian, Skims has metamorphosed into one of the most sought-after lingerie brands, enlisting high-profile names like Jude Bellingham and Nicola Coughlan.
The brand celebrates bodies of all shapes and sizes, and Nicola’s natural curves make her a perfect fit.
Nicola’s stunning debut in a floral “goddess” campaign came just days after Jude Bellingham, the 20-year-old England football star, showcased the men’s line.
Kim praised Nicola, saying: “Nicola is such an inspiration on screen and beyond, and she really brought the campaign to life with her undeniable beauty and energy.”
Since its 2019 launch, Skims has attracted a star-studded roster including Kate Moss, Usher, and Lana Del Rey.
The brand’s value has soared to £3 billion, with a 50% increase in sales last year. Unlike the glitzy allure of premium brands like Victoria’s Secret, Skims excels by blending comfort with subtle elegance, bolstered by savvy viral campaigns.
Kim’s campaign promoting a faux perky nipple bra sparked diverse reactions. Some women found the £64 bra empowering, while others criticised it for objectifying women. Personally, I found it uplifting—both literally and figuratively.
The £70 Skims waist trainer also proved popular, especially among new mothers. Kim revealed she often gifts it to friends post-pregnancy, praising its ability to make her feel “snatched.” Despite health concerns, the corset sold out rapidly online.
Skims has expanded beyond lingerie to include swimwear, dresses, loungewear, PJs, and menswear. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity, featuring a diverse range of celebs and models, resonates with a multi-generational audience.
A notable collaboration with Italian luxury fashion house Fendi in November 2021 further elevated Skims’ profile. The limited collection, starting at $950 (£747), sold out within 24 hours, generating over a million dollars in sales within minutes.
In summary, Skims’ success lies in its unique blend of inclusivity, comfort, and clever marketing, ensuring its place as a dominant force in the fashion industry.
