Duchess of York Brings Festive Cheer to Southwark Primary with Surprise Book Reading

Duchess of York Brings Festive Cheer to Southwark Primary with Surprise Book Reading

Sarah Ferguson Shares Her Latest Children’s Book in Support of Charity Campaign

In a heartwarming surprise visit, Sarah, Duchess of York, delighted children at Surrey Square Primary School in Southwark, south London, with a reading of her new children’s book, Flora & Fern: Wonder in the Woods. Dressed in a festive green suede blazer and a black pleated skirt, the Duchess captivated her young audience, adding a touch of magic to the day.

The visit was part of an event hosted by The Caring Family Foundation (TCFF) to support underprivileged children, providing them with nutritious meals through Bill’s restaurant. The foundation’s Food From the Heart Campaign aims to tackle child poverty and food insecurity, an issue that affects many young people in the UK.

According to figures from the Child Poverty Action Group, approximately 900,000 school-aged children in England miss out on free school meals, with many coming from families facing significant economic hardships. At Surrey Square Primary, a quarter of the pupils live in temporary housing, and 84% are from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The TCFF has committed to providing an additional one million meals by the end of 2025, expanding their efforts to deliver a total of 3.5 million meals across the UK and Brazil since the campaign’s inception in 2020.

The Duchess’s visit not only helped promote her book but also highlighted the vital work being done to alleviate child poverty. She read from a giant version of Flora & Fern, enchanting the children with its story. As part of their ongoing support, the TCFF continues to provide weekly hot meals and a monthly market to benefit families in need, serving over 350 visitors from vulnerable communities.

Matt Morden, Co-Head Teacher at Surrey Square Primary, expressed his gratitude, saying, “The children have been eagerly anticipating this magical day all week, and the joy it brings to them is truly priceless. We are thankful for the partnership with The Caring Family Foundation, which continues to make a difference in the lives of our students.”

Patricia Caring, Co-Founder of TCFF, reflected on the importance of providing support, especially during the festive season: “It’s crucial to bring joy and a sense of connection to these children. Our ongoing commitment aims to create moments of happiness and togetherness.”

No and Low-Alcohol Beers See Rapid Growth in UK Pubs

No and Low-Alcohol Beers See Rapid Growth in UK Pubs

Record Sales Expected as Pubs Offer More Inclusive Drinking Options

The demand for no and low-alcohol beers in UK pubs has surged, with a record 140 million pints expected to be sold this year, up from 120 million in 2023. This increase marks a 12% rise in sales, with the category now accounting for 14% more sales than it did in 2022.

A significant 86% of pubs across the UK are now serving no or low-alcohol beer to cater to a broader range of customers, ensuring that drinking establishments remain inclusive. Notably, 8% of these pubs are offering no and low-alcohol beer on draught, a dramatic increase from just 2% in 2019.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) credits the growing variety of drink options as a key factor in making pubs more welcoming, especially as the festive season approaches. The organisation also advocates for a revision of the UK’s alcohol-free beer regulations, which currently set the threshold for “alcohol-free” at 0.05% ABV, lower than the 0.5% ABV standard in many other countries.

Emma McClarkin, the chief executive of the BBPA, expressed support for aligning the UK’s definitions with international standards, a move that could further stimulate growth in the no and low-alcohol beer market and enhance the sector’s contribution to the economy.

McClarkin explained: “These growing sales demonstrate that pubs and brewers are catering to all types of drinkers, whether for moderation, festive enjoyment, or those who don’t drink alcohol at all. Aligning the no and low-alcohol descriptors with other countries would ensure fairness for UK brewers and allow this category to flourish further.”

Luke Boase, founder of the non-alcoholic brewery Lucky Saint, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the opportunity for clearer guidelines that could help increase awareness and drive consumption of alcohol-free beverages, benefitting both consumers and the nation’s health.

75% of Young People Fear Financial Strain Will Make Christmas Stressful for Families

75% of Young People Fear Financial Strain Will Make Christmas Stressful for Families

Survey Reveals Financial Worries Plague Children and Young Adults Ahead of the Holidays

A survey has revealed that three-quarters (75%) of children and young adults, aged 11 to 21, are anticipating a stressful Christmas due to concerns over their families’ finances. With the holiday season approaching, many young people fear that money worries will lead to heightened anxiety for their parents and other family members.

The survey, conducted by Action for Children, found that nearly one-third (35%) of young people believe their families will be financially worse off this Christmas compared to the previous year. Around 21% of respondents are also anxious about their parents struggling to pay essential household bills during the festive season.

A significant number of young people (69%) expect that their parents will have to forgo something important or personal in order to ensure they can still afford to buy presents for the family. This worrying trend reflects growing concerns among the younger generation about financial hardship at home.

The survey also highlighted that many young people are concerned about the financial difficulties faced by others. About one-third (33%) of respondents expressed worry about families they know who may not be able to afford Christmas gifts this year.

Paul Carberry, chief executive of Action for Children, shared the ongoing struggles of families facing financial hardship: “Our frontline workers are helping children every day, witnessing unimaginable situations like children sleeping on the floor without beds and families desperately calling us because they have no money to feed their children. This issue doesn’t pause for the holiday season.”

The survey, which was carried out by Savanta in October and November, gathered responses from over 2,900 young people across the UK.

Arne Slot Reflects on Mohamed Salah’s Incredible Performance Amid Contract Speculation

Arne Slot Reflects on Mohamed Salah’s Incredible Performance Amid Contract Speculation

Liverpool Boss Praises Star Forward as Future Remains Uncertain

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed admiration for Mohamed Salah’s brilliant performance against Newcastle, where the Egyptian winger once again proved his value to the team. Despite a relatively quiet first half, Salah played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s thrilling 3-3 draw, providing an assist and scoring twice to put his team in the lead before hitting the crossbar.

Salah’s remarkable display came on the back of a strong run of form, including recent goals against Manchester City and Southampton, and his latest effort pushed him to the top of the Premier League’s scoring chart with 13 goals. Overall, he has netted 15 goals in 21 matches this season. However, despite his individual success, Liverpool couldn’t secure a win as a late mistake from goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher allowed Fabian Schar to equalise for Newcastle.

With Salah’s current contract set to expire in the summer, discussions regarding his future at Anfield have been ongoing, with recent reports suggesting potential interest from Saudi Arabia. While Salah has voiced frustration over not receiving an offer for a new contract, there have been hints that a proposal might be on the horizon after the club extended deals for Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Asked about Salah’s long-term future, Slot remained cautious but emphasised the player’s importance to Liverpool: “It’s hard for me to predict his future, but I can say he’s in an excellent place right now. He’s part of a strong team that creates great opportunities for him, and he makes the most of them.”

Slot praised Salah’s ability to shine even when not performing at his best, highlighting the winger’s resilience and clinical finishing. “What makes him special is his ability to turn a game around, even after a tough start,” Slot continued. “Not many players can do what he does in the final stages after an hour of less-than-ideal play. His finish is always clinical, and that’s why he’s exceptional.”

When asked about Salah’s future at Liverpool, Slot was hopeful: “We’re all hoping he’ll continue to perform at this level for a long time. Every time we need him, he delivers. His second-half performance was outstanding, and we expect him to keep doing special things for us.”

Top Cyber Monday Washing Machine Discounts – Save Up to £290!

Top Cyber Monday Washing Machine Discounts – Save Up to £290!

Discover the Best Washing Machine Offers of the Year and Find Your Perfect Model

The Cyber Monday sales have delivered some outstanding deals on washing machines, with huge discounts from top brands such as LG, Samsung, and Asko. If you’re looking for a new washing machine, you’re in luck, as retailers like Argos, Currys, and Amazon are offering significant savings across various models. From budget-friendly options to high-end machines, there’s something for everyone.

Notable deals include a £200 discount on LG’s TurboWash 360, now available for £419 at Currys, and £90 off Haier’s i-pro Series 7 washing machine, reduced to £439. For those looking to splurge, the Asko Steel Seal model is down to £1,799, offering premium features and performance.

Key offers to check out:

Haier i-Pro Series 7 Plus: Was £529, now £439 at Currys.co.uk – Known for its reliable performance and impressive app functionality, this model is ideal for those looking to modernise their laundry routine.
LG TurboWash 360: Was £619, now £419 at Currys.co.uk – A top performer with a steam function that eliminates germs, this washing machine is an excellent buy for families.
Asko Steel Seal: Was £1,999, now £1,799 at Hughes.co.uk – Offering a wealth of programmes and superior stain removal, this high-end model is a steal at £200 off.
AEG 9000 Absolutecare: Was £1,049, now £931 at Ao.com – A great choice for areas with hard water, ensuring your laundry comes out soft and fresh in a 49-minute wash.
Samsung Series 7 AI Energy Smart Washing Machine: Was £799, now £729 at Samsung.com – Featuring AI technology to reduce energy usage, this model offers great value for those looking for a smart, energy-efficient option.
Don’t forget to explore additional deals on washer-dryers, such as the Samsung Ecobubble washer-dryer, which is now £429, down from £719, or the Beko WDL854431W, reduced to £349.

These deals are running through Cyber Monday, so don’t miss out. Make sure to act fast before these savings disappear!

California Rejects Trump’s Deportation Plans, Citing Legal Limitations, Says Senator

California Rejects Trump’s Deportation Plans, Citing Legal Limitations, Says Senator

Senator Alex Padilla Emphasises California’s Constitutional Duty to Avoid Assisting Federal Immigration Actions

California has made it clear it will not support President Trump’s mass deportation plans, with Senator Alex Padilla stating that the state is legally unable to do so. In an appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation, Padilla, a Democrat, explained that no state in the country holds the constitutional authority to enforce federal immigration laws. He stressed that immigration enforcement is solely the responsibility of the federal government, not state authorities.

Trump’s plan to use the military to aid in mass deportations has drawn criticism, even from some Republicans. In response, Padilla asserted, “Let the federal government handle its duties, and let state and local officials focus on their own responsibilities.” He added that if Trump sought conflict, it would be of his own making.

Padilla also referenced a 2017 California law, Senate Bill 54, which prohibits the use of state and local resources in immigration enforcement. This legislation blocks cooperation between local law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Despite pressure from figures like Tom Homan, Trump’s former border czar, Padilla affirmed that California would not comply with any requests to assist federal deportation efforts.

The senator also pointed to Texas as an example of a state willing to challenge federal policy, citing Republican Governor Greg Abbott’s stance on border security. Abbott has argued that if the federal government fails to protect the border, Texas should step in.

While Padilla and California leaders remain firm in their opposition, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas and Governor Gavin Newsom have both expressed strong commitments to ensuring the safety and rights of immigrants within the state, reaffirming California’s resistance to Trump’s policies.

In a broader context, Padilla voiced concerns over Trump’s antagonistic approach towards California, highlighting the president’s efforts to withhold federal aid from the state following its refusal to support him during the election. “We’re trying to protect ourselves from these types of threats,” Padilla concluded.

Top Cyber Monday and Black Friday Amazon Offers: Major Discounts on Coffee Machines, Kindles, and Smart Home Devices

Top Cyber Monday and Black Friday Amazon Offers: Major Discounts on Coffee Machines, Kindles, and Smart Home Devices

Grab Big Savings on Amazon’s Best Products, from Ring Doorbells to Alexa Gadgets, Before the Clock Runs Out

Amazon’s Cyber Monday event is in full swing, bringing incredible offers just in time for Christmas shopping. Though Black Friday may be over, many of Amazon’s biggest discounts continue, giving you a golden opportunity to grab top deals across a wide variety of products. Whether you’re restocking beauty essentials, upgrading your TV, or purchasing a new high-performance laptop, now is the perfect time to make a move before these deals expire at midnight.

Amazon is going all out with price cuts on popular brands and gadgets, including air fryers, Nintendo Switch consoles, Apple products, and more. If you’re looking to save, this is an ideal time to invest in items from trusted brands reviewed by The Independent.

Top Deals on Amazon Devices:

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K: Reduced from £59.99 to £34.99
Kindle Paperwhite: Reduced from £169.99 to £124.99
Ring Video Doorbell (2024 model): Reduced from £99.99 to £59.00
Echo Dot (5th gen): Reduced from £54.99 to £22.99
Best Cyber Monday Deals to Snap Up: Among the best bargains this season, you’ll find everything from smart home tech to household essentials:

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara: Was £12.99, now £6.49
Apple AirPods Pro 2: Was £229, now £179
Oral-B Pro 3 Electric Toothbrush: Was £100, now £35
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser: Was £14.50, now £9.64
Ninja Zerostick Stainless Steel 30cm Frying Pan: Was £59.99, now £44.99
For those eyeing home entertainment upgrades, Amazon’s Cyber Monday deals also include impressive discounts on tech like the PlayStation VR2 (Was £529.99, now £339) and Fire TV 55in Omni QLED 4K UHD TV (Was £749.99, now £419.99). And if you’re after smart home devices, the deals are equally compelling with markdowns on Ring Video Doorbells, Amazon Echo Dots, and Fire TV Sticks.

Why Trust IndyBest’s Recommendations? Our team of experts has tested and reviewed these products, ensuring that we only highlight the best offers on the market. We also use price tracking tools to avoid inflated prices, so you can be sure that the discounts are genuine and worthwhile.