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Deadly Storm Darragh’s end in sight after 90mph wind, torrential rain & floods left 2 dead in weekend of carnage
THE end of Storm Darragh is finally in sight after strong winds, torrential rain and floods left two dead in a weekend of carnage.
The Met Office said more settled but cooler conditions will greet much of the UK this week as the clean-up operation gets under way.
Winds will gradually ease with noticeably less rainfall by Wednesday but temperatures will stay in the single figures, the forecaster added.
The fourth named storm of the season brought strong gusts to many parts of the country over the weekend with millions warned to stay indoors.
Two men were killed by falling trees hitting their vehicles on Saturday.
The Energy Networks Association said around 118,000 customers were still without power on Sunday evening.
Train services remain disrupted with several lines closed due to fallen trees and debris.
Passengers were warned to expect cancellations and delays to train services on the West Coast Main Line between London Euston and Scotland early on Monday.
Great Western Railway said passengers should “not attempt to travel” between Swansea and Carmarthen until at least noon, or on the Looe, St Ives and Gunnislake branch lines in Cornwall until at least 11am on Monday.
Transport for Wales said all railway lines were blocked on 11 routes, such as between Swansea and Milford Haven, between Swansea and Shrewsbury, between Birmingham International and Shrewsbury, and between Chester and Holyhead.
Chris Baughan, Network Rail‘s West Coast South route operations manager, said: “Storm Darragh has wreaked havoc on the railway this weekend and we are very sorry to passengers for the disruption to train services this morning on the West Coast Main Line as frontline teams continue with emergency repairs and the clean-up.”
The highest wind gusts were 96mph recorded at Berry Head in Devon on Saturday.
Met Office meteorologist Liam Eslick said: “Storm Darragh has now moved its way off towards the south east so things are going to start to settle down over the next couple of days.
“But it is still going to remain quite blustery especially for south and south east of England, for the next day at least.”
Cloud towards the south east will bring the chance of localised, potentially heavy showers but these should move through quickly, Mr Eslick said.
Much of the rest of the country further north will see calmer winds and plenty of sunshine due to an area of high pressure moving in.
UK 5 day weather forecast
Today:
Southern England and Wales will stay fairly cloudy and breezy tomorrow with some more blustery showers developing.
Elsewhere frost and any fog clearing to leave calmer conditions, with plenty of sunny spells but feeling chilly.
Tonight:
Staying cloudy in the south with coastal showers in the southeast. Fog and frost developing under clearer skies in the north.
Tuesday:
Showers becoming confined to the far south and remaining cloudy.
Frost and fog persisting through the morning across Northern Ireland and Scotland but sunny elsewhere.
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday:
Blustery showers dying out in the south, as high pressure gradually settles across the UK bringing mostly fine weather with some sunshine.
Overnight frost and fog. Patchy rain far north.
But it will still feel chilly with highs in the mid to low single figures.
Any remaining winds will die down by Tuesday with the exception of areas around the English Channel and southern coast.
There will again be longer sunny spells developing in northern parts of the country.
Cloud will settle across Wales and southern England but temperatures will widely remain low.
Some widespread fog will develop under clear skies in the north overnight into Wednesday morning and could be slow to clear.
More breaks in the persistent cloud cover for southern areas on Wednesday will lead to sunnier spells through the afternoon, and a much drier day nationally, with only East Anglia at risk of some light showers, Mr Eslick said.
The Environment Agency still had 45 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 145 flood alerts in place across England on Sunday evening.
Rev Richard Coles reunites with camp best friend GK Barry after I’m A Celeb final
REVEREND Richard Coles has reunited with his camp best friend GK Barry after last night’s I’m A Celeb final.
More than 10 million votes were cast to decide between the finalists, with McFly singer Danny Jones, 38, taking the crown, WAG Coleen Rooney, 38, coming second and third place going to Richard, 62.
While he wasn’t crowned King of the Jungle, the former Communards star appeared to be in high spirits as he headed back to the five-star JW Marriott Gold Coast hotel.
Dressed in his camp atire, Richard was greeted with open arms by his co-stars, including podcaster GK, 25, whom he had a particularly close relationship with.
Tulisa was not there, however, after she fled Australia and missed the final, erasing all trace of her time in the jungle from her social media.
In the latest series, ITV viewers saw the Strictly alum share his coming out story in an emotional heart to heart with GK.
Viewers were fascinated as the duo discussed how he juggled being gay with his religion.
GK, real name Grace Keeling, had asked: “Did you find it quite difficult being gay and doing that job?”
Richard confessed: “No, not at all. I’ve never given it a moment’s twinge of anxiety over whether God thought it was alright or not.
“Whether other people thought it was alright or not, well I’m happy to have that argument…”
He added: “Also, I was not the first.
“Sometimes I look at documents from the early church, or the church of the middle ages and I just think – so gay.”
The conversation brought the campmates closer together – as they both reflected on their new friendship.
GK admitted in the Bush Telegraph: “I came into this jungle, maybe not knowing who I would gel with or who I would be close with in here and never in a million years if you told me that I would be getting on best with a reverend would I have believed you.
“But, he is honestly… I think he might be my favourite person in here.”
GK told Richard she used to be religious, and spoke about going to a religious camp when she was younger.
She told how there were men there telling her not to have sex before she was married.
GK said that even at 13, she thought: “Well, that’s not gonna happen.”
Then the topic of conversation moved along to GK asking Richard who the most interesting person that he thinks he’s met. Richard replied: “I think I’m looking at her.”
Richard and his late partner Rev David Coles, a Church of England vicar, had been together for 12 years and were in a a civil partnership.
In 2019, his husband sadly passed away.
There was limited detail about his death until two years later when the I’m A Celebrity star revealed David had died from alcoholism.
In an extract from his book The Madness Of Grief: A Memoir Of Love And Loss, Richard, said: “It was really, really tough to see somebody you love destroy himself.
“It is like someone is drowning and you throw them a lifebelt but they are just not taking the lifebelt.
“And I did try everything I could think of to help him stop drinking, and in fairness to him he did try too, but it was too much for him.”
Thousands of struggling families to get supermarket vouchers worth up to £600 this Christmas
THOUSANDS of struggling families could get up to £600 of vouchers to spend at supermarkets including Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury’s this Christmas.
Feeding the family at Christmas can be financially challenging but support is available to those worried about costs through the Household Support Fund (HSF).
The HSF offers help to the most hard-up households and has been extended several times since it was introduced by Government in 2021.
Funding is given to local councils to distribute, so the support available varies across the country.
But, families may be in line to receive vouchers to help with groceries and other essential costs during the Christmas holiday.
Levels of support vary depending on local council and personal situation, so it’s worth checking your council’s website to ensure you receive all the help available.
If you have children who receive free school meals you’re likely to receive help automatically outside of term time, but those without school-age children may have to apply.
Cambridgeshire County Council automatically gives households receiving free school meals supermarket vouchers worth £15 per child, per week.
Those struggling financially, without children in receipt of free school meal vouchers, can also apply for a financial award of £110 per household.
This can be paid as a supermarket voucher, energy voucher or as a cash payment via BACS or a paypoint cashout voucher.
Ealing Council in London offers families with children receiving free school meals £30 of supermarket vouchers during the Christmas break.
The council will also be giving care leavers supermarket vouchers worth £100.
Those living in Norfolk with children receiving free school meals will receive a £15 monthly payment, as well as an additional £30 December payment.
In Cheshire West and Chester families eligible for free school meals receive £20 a week for the two-week school break.
Meanwhile in Richmond families struggling financially can apply for grants, which are paid as either a BACS payment or supermarket vouchers.
The council pays out up to £300 to adult households, up to £500 for those with one child and up to £600 for those with two or more children.
In Bedfordshire each child receiving free school meals will be entitled to a £35 supermarket voucher for the Christmas break.
Meanwhile in Nottinghamshire, families receiving either free school meals or Pension Credit can apply for support of £110 per household.
Support is also available from councils including Suffolk, Surrey, the London borough of Barnet and Hertfordshire.
Every council will have received funding from the HSF so if you’re worried about making ends meet ahead of the holidays, check your local council’s website for further details.
In most cases vouchers will be sent automatically to families in receipt of free school meals, via email or through their child’s school.
But if you’re unsure you’re eligible or haven’t received support during previous school holidays check with your local council.
Even if you don’t have children receiving free school meals you might be eligible for support this Christmas.
To find your local council, use the government’s council locator tool.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) was first set up in October 2021 and has been extended six times.
Councils in England have benefited from the latest round of funding which amounts to £421million.
Nationwide councils have received a portion of the cash to distribute to households in need.
But there is a postcode lottery to determine who qualifies and each local authority can set its own eligibility criteria.
Yet, if you have a limited amount of money or savings in the bank, or are deemed to be vulnerable or on benefits, you will probably qualify for help.
The Government’s latest extension will see the scheme run until April 2025.
What support is available?
The support provided varies from council to council, so its worth checking the schemes your local council has in place to make sure you receive all the assistance available.
You can find what council area you fall under by using the Government’s council locator tool on its website.
You don’t need to worry about additional support impacting existing benefits, as these will be unaffected by payments from the HSF.
And, you do not need necessarily need to be in receipt of benefits to receive vouchers or funds from the HSF.
Check with your local council to find out what support is available and the eligibility criteria.
How do you apply?
To get the help, you’ll need to check with your council – as local authorities are in charge of distributing the funding.
Information on how to apply for the funding should be published on your council’s website. Each council will have a different application process.
Many councils won’t actually require you to apply for the help and will contact you about it, if you’re eligible.
As well as supermarket vouchers, you could qualify for electronic energy cards or e-vouchers to help with water bills.
If there’s no information on your council’s website, then it’s best to ring them up and ask for more information.
How to save cash on your food shop
Money saving experts at HSBC UK have revealed their top tips to saving cash on your food shop.
1. Set a budget
Creating a budget will help to stretch your budget. Start by working out how much you spent on food over the last three months, then each month you get paid, set aside a certain amount for food.
2. Plan your meals
Make a list of your main meals for the coming week, including the ingredients you need, and stick to it. Don’t get drawn into offers for things that you don’t need. If you already have some food leftover from the week before, try to see what you can do with that first.
3. Think about when and where you shop
It’s best to shop on a full stomach so you don’t get tempted. Shopping less often can help you to think about what you buy and it may help you to stick to your budget.
4. Go online
Shopping online is a good and easy way to manage your budget. It can also help to track expenses, whilst also preventing impulse buys.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
I’m 27 & live on daddy’s credit card but still conned clueless men out of £8k… they thought they were buying my boob job
AN INFLUENCER has revealed the time she “conned” two men out of thousands – despite not needing the cash.
The 27-year-old New Yorker admitted that she pocketed the money after her parents forked out for her surgery, which the clueless lads thought they were paying for.
Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast, Hallie Batchelder told host Alex Cooper about the various sources of income she has had, from her parents to men she has dated.
She joked that her lifestyle of living off her dad’s credit had become a “sensitive topic” after he recently cancelled one of his many bank cards.
But she still has access to his most lucrative accounts – including Amex’s most exclusive option which has no credit limit.
“We all have his card on Apple Pay, it’s like Monopoly, I could fly around the world 17 times,” she admitted.
“The Black Card hates to see me coming. It’s the sugar daddy minus the sugar.”
When asked what she uses the cards for, she revealed it could be anything from car services and haircuts to shopping sprees.
She went on to say she was never “disrespectful” about the spending, even waiting until her dad was with her to hit up designer shops such as Bergdorf Goodman.
Hallie said her dad only questioned the credit card activity via email, which she and her family usually ignore.
And it isn’t just her dad’s money that Hallie enjoys spending.
She recalled the story of how she “conned” a billionaire into forking over for her boob job.
“This man thought he bought my t*ts,” the social media influencer explained.
“This was the guy I was seeing at the time, he was from London, I would FaceTime him and he would say: ‘I’m getting with this influencer, that influencer,’ he was horrible to me.”
Realising she didn’t like how she was being treated, Hallie decided to get her own revenge.
I pocketed their money so quick, see you later.
Hallie Batchelder
“I [said]: ‘I really want new t*ts’ and he [said]: ‘I agree with that,’ he was horrible to me,” she said.
So one night, the time difference between New York and London came to her advantage when he called her after a night of drinking to say he was sending her the money for the surgery.
“He and his best friend each Venmoed me for one t*t, so they think they own one each,” she said.
However, her mum also offered to pay for the operation on the condition that Hallie got her estate agency license.
“I was like MacGyver on the keyboard, I studied so hard, I got my real estate license in a week and half, I swear to God,” she recalled.
“And these f**king dumba** billionaires, I pocketed their money so quick, see you f***ing later.”
She revealed that the two men had sent her a total of $10,000 (£8,000) for the surgery.
“My parents just paid for them and I never sold a house either,” Hallie said.
4 tricks Christmas whizz Kirstie Allsopp swears by to make the festive season easier – they’re WAY easier than you think
KIRSTIE’S Handmade Christmas has become a festive favourite in households across the nation, so viewers will be glad to hear the hit craft show returns to our screens on Monday 9th December.
Over the 11 seasons we have already watched, Kirstie has guided viewers through the process of making everything from dazzling Christmas stockings to perfect gifts for pets.
But what are the Christmas connoisseur’s top tricks to having a stress-free day?
1. Prep Christmas food
Kirstie has always stood firm in naming early preparation as her number one tip for a successful and smooth Christmas.
In 2017, she spoke to Raise The Roof productions from the Handmade Christmas set, telling them: “Nowadays you find lots of recipes in magazines and on the internet for pre-prepared Christmas food.
“Do that, follow them, make sure the day isn’t stressful.”
From the vegetables to the gravy – most of Christmas dinner can be prepared the night before, saving you valuable hours on the day.
2. Go wild with tree decs and let the kids join in
A self-proclaimed lover of tinsel, Kirstie says Christmas is not the time for minimalism: “Christmas is the one time of year when less is not more.
“More is more at Christmas.”
And with kids hyped up on sweet Christmas treats, it’s a great way to keep them entertained and help them feel involved.
She told CelebratingMums: “Another great way to get kids involved is decorations – popping baubles on the Christmas tree is a great family moment – just make sure no one steals the chocolate decorations before Christmas Day!”
3. Save money by handmaking gifts
This tip comes as no surprise to fans of the show, who have seen Kirstie make all kinds of incredible and thoughtful handmade presents.
For a reminder, head to Channel 4 On Demand to catch season 10, episode 2.
In this episode, Kirstie’s crafters make silver clay jewellery, a storybook cushion and needle felt characters.
4. Ask for help and enjoy the day
Kirstie told Raise the Roof productions: “If you have got a lot of people coming over, pre-Christmas or actually at Christmas, ask them to help.
“People love being asked to help and everyone has their talents.
“Most of all, Christmas is a celebration, so have fun with it!
“It is not supposed to be a nightmare.”
You can get Christmas ready by watching the show at 5.30pm every day between Monday 9th December to Friday 13th.
You will also be able to watch it on catch up and online after.
Tips to make your home smell like Christmas
IF you want your home to smell festive this season, you've come to the right place...
- Simmer Potpourri: Simmer a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange peels, and cranberries for a warm, festive aroma.
- Essential Oils: Use a diffuser with essential oils such as pine, peppermint, and frankincense to evoke the spirit of Christmas.
- Bake Seasonal Treats: The smell of fresh-baked gingerbread, mince pies, or spiced biscuits can fill your home with holiday cheer.
- Scented Candles: Light candles with fragrances like mulled wine, fir tree, or spiced apple to create a cosy atmosphere.
- Decorate with Fresh Greenery: Incorporate fresh pine, holly, and eucalyptus into your decorations for a natural, Christmassy scent.
- Make Your Own Pomanders: Stud oranges with cloves and hang them around the house for a traditional and aromatic touch.
- Use Simmering Spices: Boil a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in water on the stove to infuse your home with a holiday fragrance.
- Try Reed Diffusers: Place reed diffusers with Christmas-themed scents around your home for a continuous, subtle aroma.
Coleen Rooney arrives at I’m A Celeb hotel after show finale with youngest sons Kit, 8, and Cass, 6 wearing jungle hat
PROUD mum Coleen Rooney was all smiles as she was flanked by her youngest sons as she arrived at the I’m A Celeb hotel in Australia.
It came after she came runner-up in the ITV series, second only to winner Danny Jones, 38, in Sunday’s finale.
Coleen, 38, was seen with a beaming grin as she left camp in her jungle gear accompanied by Kit, aged eight, and Cass, aged six, the latter of whom looked set for jungle life in his mum’s brown hat and jungle rucksack.
The mum of four had her hands around their shoulders as she steered the duo into the swanky hotel at Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.
Coleen, who is married to former footballer turned manager Wayne Rooney, 39, was seen heading to her campmates with a cuddle and catch up.
Cass and Kit even starred on the main I’m A Celeb programme themselves, with a sweet reunion in the jungle base.
At the time, they hogged the show spotlight as they left fans giggling with a very cheeky remark towards their parent.
Kit, who hadn’t seen his mum for three weeks, promptly told her: “You stink!”
It came after her mum Colette revealed the heartbreaking question the I’m A Celeb star asked her when she went into camp.
On Monday’s Good Morning Britain, Coleen also let slip how her kids had brought their school work with them – with her parents tasked with studying with the pair.
CAMP EXIT
While Coleen said she was proud to get so far on I’m A Celeb, peaking on spin-off show Unpacked, she told host Joel Dommett that she had been waiting to leave for a while.
She also said she hoped that she made her four kids – Kai, Klay, Kit and Cass – would be proud of her.
Meanwhile, Coleen revealed how she had battled her surprise fears successfully during her time on the show on Monday’s Good Morning Britain.
Coleen told GMB hosts Susanna Reid, 53, and Richard Madeley, 68, how she was determined to “stay true to myself” and admitted: “My fears weren’t the trials or sleeping outside or critters.
“It was karaoke and cooking.
“I didn’t have to cook, because we had some cooks in there – and on the karaoke night, I enjoyed everyone else and had a sing-along.
I'm A Celebrity - All The Winners
Here's every star who has been crowned King or Queen of the Jungle to date:
- 2024: Danny Jones, McFly star
- 2023: Sam Thompson, Made in Chelsea star
- 2022: Jill Scott, England footballer
- 2021: Danny Miller, Emmerdale star
- 2020: Giovanna Fletcher, actress and podcaster
- 2019: Jacqueline Jossa, EastEnders star
- 2018: Harry Redknapp, England legend
- 2017: Georgia Toffolo, Made In Chelsea star
- 2016: Scarlett Moffatt, Gogglebox star
- 2015: Vicky Pattison, Geordie Shore star
- 2014: Carl Fogarty, famed racer
- 2013: Kian Egan, Westlife star
- 2012: Charlie Brooks, EastEnders actor
- 2011: Dougie Poynter, McFly star
- 2010: Stacey Solomon, X Factor star now TV personality
- 2009: Gino D’ACampo, TV Chef
- 2008: Joe Swash, TV personality
- 2007: Christopher Biggins, actor
- 2006: Matt Willis, Busted star
- 2005: Carol Thatcher, author and broadcaster
- 2004 (second series): Joe Pasquale, comedian
- 2004: Kerry Katona, Atomic Kitten star and reality star
- 2003: Phil Tufnell, England Cricketer
- 2002: Tony Blackburn, Radio DJ
There was also an All Star series in South Africa in 2023, which was won by Myleene Klass.
“I stuck to my guns – I don’t do karaoke, so why would I go on a show and think I had to do it?
“I just enjoyed everyone else doing it.”
Chelsea wonderkid Willian Estevao, 17, wins two awards after dominating Brazilian league ahead of Blues return
INCOMING Chelsea star Willian Estevao has bagged two major gongs ahead of his move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues struck a £28million deal for the teenager with Brazilian club Palmeiras in the summer.
But the 17-year-old won’t join the west Londoners until next summer as he was immediately loaned back to the Verdao.
And he’ll join the Premier League giants having scooped two personal gongs.
Estevao – who has been dubbed “Messinho” by several footie fans – won the awards for the Best Young Player and Best Attacker of the 2024 Brasileirao last weekend.
Chelsea fans were quick to react to the news Estevao’s trophy haul.
One wrote: “Estevao Willian‘s got the golden touch, and soon Chelsea will too.”
Another said: “Chelsea’s attack just got a future superstar. Congrats, Willian!”
And another said: “Estevao is a generational talent and he’s a Chelsea player.”
One remarked: “Great news for Chelsea.”
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Chelsea ratings vs Tottenham
CHELSEA came from two goals behind to beat Spurs 4-3 in a chaotic game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium,
Here’s how the Blues players rated…
Robert Sanchez – 4
The home fans were on to him for the entirety of the first half after he lumped the ball out of play early on.
Not an awful lot he could’ve done about the goals, and he did recover well in the second half.
Moises Caicedo – 6
Chelsea’s best defender on the day, he put in some strong challenges inverting into midfield and put in a solid performance once again.
Fortunate to escape a card for a late challenge on Pape Matar Sarr, before a brilliant second half.
Benoit Badiashile – 4
Looked uncomfortable playing as a left-footed centre-back on the right-hand side.
Often didn’t help Robert Sanchez by playing him into trouble, and looked awkward when trying to progress from the back.
Levi Colwill – 6
Allowed Solanke to get in front of him and finish brilliantly at the near post for the opening goal.
Didn’t have an awful lot to do in the second half, which was perhaps a good sign, as the whole defence was improved.
Marc Cucurella – 4
Slipped at the vital moment to practically set Spurs through and open the scoring within five minutes, before slipping AGAIN which saw Kulusevski double the lead.
Recovered really well after swapping his ice skates for football boots, nabbing the assist for Sancho’s goal and giving a solid showing for the whole second half.
That said, he has to be marked down for the two goals.
Romeo Lavia – 8
Energetic, strong and smooth on the turn in midfield, with some brilliant line-breaking passes too.
Much the same as Caicedo, he is becoming a dependable, impressive body in the Chelsea midfield.
Came off at half-time for Malo Gusto, which must have been a tactical switch.
Enzo Fernandez (c) – 9
Didn’t misplace a single one of his 28 passes in the first half, the same as Lavia – before adding a stunning, game-winning, left-footed volley to his myriad of impressive actions.
His best game in a Chelsea shirt came in one of their biggest matches of the season, as he continues his remarkable run of goal contributions.
Pedro Neto – 7
A threat on the right wing in the first half for Chelsea, he pressed well and came close to scoring Palmer’s deflected effort.
A constant danger, he was creative but slightly lacked in end product if you’re being critical.
Cole Palmer – 9
Mis-kicked a chance in the first twenty minutes you would usually bet your house on him scoring, before coming close again with a shot from range moments later.
Calmly dispatched his equalising penalty into the bottom corner, before setting up Enzo Fernandez to put his side in the lead.
Added the cherry on the Chelsea cake with an ice-cold panenka from the penalty spot.
Jadon Sancho – 8
Excellent finish to pull one back for the Blues and spark hope among supporters.
Generally sharp in build-up, and tricky feet as always, with a great slide-rule pass to see Caicedo win the penalty for Chelsea’s equaliser.
Nicolas Jackson – 6
Looked a threat going forward for Chelsea in spells, but failed to get himself on the scoresheet on this occasion.
Seemed troubled as he departed the pitch for the oncoming Christopher Nkunku.
SUBS…
Malo Gusto (Romeo Lavia, HT) – 5
Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.
However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.
Christopher Nkunku (Nicolas Jackson, 76)
Got in some good positions and pressed well, remaining an outlet for the Chelsea attack when they countered.
Ultimately not enough time to have the impact he would’ve liked.
Noni Madueke (Pedro Neto, 86)
Not enough time to impact the game in any way.
Renato Veiga (Marc Cucurella, 90)
Not enough time to give a solid review, hardly touched the ball.
Joao Felix (Cole Palmer, 90)
Came on with seven minutes to go, in which Chelsea were defending for the most part.
Another chimed in: “Big things ahead for Willian Estevao.
“Best Young Player and Best Attacker in the Brasileirao, Chelsea’s future star is already shining bright.”
Estevao bagged a whopping 19 goals and 12 assists in all competitions last season, in which he made 50 appearances.
And his talents have been likened to those of Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal.
Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario said of Estevao in an interview with Ben Jacobs: “He’s a young player and very talented.
“He’s kind of like Lamine Yamal. He will soon be a very big star in football.
“He’s very promising and at just 17.
“I think he’ll play for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup then join Chelsea.”
I’m a super scrimper and use cat litter, potatoes, beach tents and vinegar to save thousands over winter – here’s how
LISTENING to a news report about another storm sweeping across Britain, bringing Arctic temperatures, potential snowfall, and widespread amber alerts, Alysha Fletcher, 38, begins preparing for the extreme weather.
As a mum of three, she grabs everyday items from her cupboard – cat litter, potatoes, vinegar — and heads to the family car to kick-start her polar weather prep.
Alysha isn’t bothered by raised eyebrows at her unconventional methods.
She fills a sock with cat litter, ties the end, and places it on her car dashboard.
“It may sound strange, but it works wonders,” she says.
The cat litter-filled sock stops my car windows from fogging up. It costs next to nothing, but it’s brilliant for preventing condensation during winter.”
She prefers using clay-based litter and old cotton socks, even employing them around the house – on windowsills and in the bathroom – to absorb moisture and keep condensation at bay.
“It’s just one of my top ten quirky winter prep hacks that anyone can try,” Alysha explains.
“People think they’re weird, but it saves us £2,000 every winter.”
Last year, cat litter also helped her save £300 on emergency towing fees.
“I always keep a box of litter in the boot. If I get stuck in ice or snow, I sprinkle it in front of the tires to improve grip. It’s a life – and cash -saver,” she says.
Rather than laughing, Alysha challenges anyone to try her hacks before passing judgment.
“They might just work for you too,” she says.
Alysha, who runs an online crafting business, lives in Blackpool, Lancs, with her husband Garry, 39, a maintenance worker, and their three children, aged 19, 16, and 14, in a three-bedroom terraced council house.
A self-confessed “scrimping queen,” Alysha is passionate about using everyday items in creative ways to prep for winter weather.
With the cost-of-living crisis and Arctic conditions causing chaos across Britain, she believes being prepared for both home and car winter weather warnings is more important than ever.
I pop the socks over the windscreen wipers at night
Alysha Fletcher, 38
“Items in your kitchen or storage cupboard could save your life, keep you warm, and definitely improve your bank balance,” she says.
Number two on Alysha’s polar prep list is half a potato and vinegar.
“I rub a cut potato on the windshield at night to help prevent ice build-up.
“It costs next to nothing and saves time in the morning when I’m rushing the kids to school,” she explains.
“My trusty tuber isn’t just good for stews; it helps keep my windshield fog-free. I also use it on windows around the house and the bathroom mirror.”
Experts from Live Science agree, saying that the sticky starch in potatoes creates a barrier between glass and moisture.
This, in turn, lowers the freezing point of water, helping to prevent ice and snow build-up.
In some countries, potato juice, a waste product of vodka distillation, is even used on snowy mountain roads to prevent ice from forming.
Shower caps are also great for covering pot plants and garden stools to prevent frost and snow
Alysha Fletcher, 38
Alysha also swears by mixing white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to create a DIY de-icer, saving her from spending up to £100 each winter on expensive store-bought options.
“It works a treat. De-icing spray is essential for the Arctic freeze. I keep a bottle in the car and one in the house. I even use it to defrost the freezer,” she says.
Odd socks make it to number three on Alysha’s winter warming list.
“I pop the socks over the windscreen wipers at night. It stops the blades from freezing, prevents cracking, and makes de-icing in the morning even easier,” she explains.
5 Money-saving tips for autumn/winter
1. Draught-proof your home
It takes time and money to heat up your home, so it’s important that you do as much as you can to keep in the warmth. Close your doors and windows, and fill any gaps with a draught excluder.
2. Dial down your thermostat
According to Energy UK, turning down your thermostat by just one degree Celsius could cut your heating bill by up to 10%, and save you around £85 per year. Plus, if you don’t have a thermostat, installing one could save up to £70 per year!
3. Move furniture around
Make sure not big, bulky furniture like sofas are blocking radiators.
4. Wash clothes on a lower temp and add an extra spin
Unless it’s bedding, towels or really dirty items, dial down the temperature to 20 or 30 degrees, and do a double spin to remove excess water.
5. Heat the person not the home
There’s not point heating up a room that no one is sitting in, so be mindful about which radiators are on.
Next up is isopropyl alcohol, commonly known as rubbing alcohol, which Alysha stocks up on for under a fiver.
It’s number four on her polar prep plan. “Most people have some in their home,” she says.
“I fill a spray bottle three-quarters full with alcohol and top it up with water.
“It’s an affordable DIY de-icer for car windows and footpaths.
“An added bonus is that it’s great for removing ink and permanent marker stains, plus it works as an awesome stainless-steel cleaner and makes the kitchen sink sparkle.”
Give the kids some so they can de-ice their bike locks
Alysha Fletcher, 38
Whenever Alysha stays at a hotel with her family, she also collects the disposable freebies from the bathroom.
“In winter, the girls use the shower caps to cover their bike seats. In the morning, they’re not icy or wet.
“I use them to cover my side windows to stop the wing mirrors from fogging up and icing over,” she says.
“The shower caps are also great for covering pot plants and garden stools to prevent frost and snow from covering them. I even keep two in my handbag.
“When it’s wet and muddy, I pop them over my shoes to keep them dry when I bring the shopping in. They didn’t cost me a penny because they were free.”
“The shower caps are also great for covering pot plants and garden stools to prevent frost and snow from covering them. I even keep two in my handbag.
“When it’s wet and muddy, I pop them over my shoes to keep them dry when I bring the shopping in. They didn’t cost me a penny because they were free.”
Alysha also dabs hand sanitiser on her car keys or locks when it’s freezing, as it’s an “instant DIY de-icer.”
“Give the kids some so they can de-ice their bike locks. It prevents snapping and saves buying a new lock,” she says.
Alysha’s resourcefulness extends to using old curtains and blankets to insulate her home.
Alysha's Polar Prep Plan Tip List
1. Cat litter in cars
2. Potatoes to stop ice build up and water and vinegar spray.
3. Used socks for windscreen wipers.
4. Rubbing alcohol for DIY de-icer
5. Shower caps for bike seats, wing mirrors, pot plants and garden stools
6. Hand sanitiser for freezing locks
7. Hang blankets across open plan rooms!
8. Hang curtains over the front and back doors.
9. Pop up beach tents for beds
10. WD40 for shoes and sanding paper to stop heels slipping in ice.
She hangs them in front of her front and back doors to block drafts.
“Doorway draughts are some of the worst places for heat to escape. This way, the heat stays in,” she explains.
“I’ll also hang them over my windows and draw them shut around 4 pm to keep the warmth in for longer.”
Another hack involves hanging cheap blankets to divide rooms in half, reducing the space that needs heating.
“We lose more than a third of the heat through walls, so I’m not taking that risk,” Alysha says.
“Friends think I’ve lost the plot, but when I tell them it saves us up to £500 on heating bills during the winter, they’re shocked.”
Alysha has another clever trick for keeping her children warm—she pitches summer tents over their beds to trap heat.
“Call me crazy, but it’s a fantastic heat saver,” she says. “By setting up the tent over their beds, their body heat stays contained longer, keeping them toasty warm.
“The best part? The kids love the idea of camping in their own rooms.”
Thanks to this hack, Alysha saved more than £200 last year by not turning the heating on overnight during the coldest months.
This winter, they’re investing in a double tent for their bedroom and a specialist queen-size ‘tent cover’ costing around £80.
“It’s a great way to stay warm all night without cranking up the heating,” she says.
My kitchen cupboard solutions mean there’s no excuse for beating the big freeze this winter and saving cash while you do it
Alysha Fletcher, 38
Her final winter money-saving tip is WD-40 to make her boots and shoes waterproof, as well as sanding down the bottoms of her shoes to prevent nasty falls.
Alysha learned this super shoe grip hack from her experience hitting the stage as a pageant star with her daughters.
“When Arctic weather hits, I’m ready, and I know I’m saving money too,” she says.
“My kitchen cupboard solutions mean there’s no excuse for beating the big freeze this winter and saving cash while you do it.”
How to dry wet washing inside, in winter
Drying rack or airer
Load up your airer with wet washing and place near a heat source – like a radiator or direct sunlight – to help distribute air around your clothes.
Dehumidifier
Plug in a dehumidifier in a room with clothes hanging to dry quickly and prevent dampness and mould. Many now have a laundry setting.
Tumble dryer
A tumble dryer can heat moisture out of wet washing, saving time and can be used in any weather.
Heated airer
Many brands and shops now sell heated airers for as little as £30. The racks heat through electricity and can speed up drying time.
Open a window
Choose a spare room or unused room for keeping your washing and crack open a window, but close the door behind you.
Using curtain poles
Hang wet washing on radiators then hook them onto curtain poles with radiators below. The heat will rise and dry the items. Alternatively, if you have a shower curtain pole, hang your clothes in the bathroom with a window open.