INDEPENDENT NEWS LTD.

12/12/2024

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70% - 📈

Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

England is grappling with a sharp rise in flu infections, with the NHS reporting a staggering 70% increase in hospital cases within a single week.

Health officials are calling on the public to act swiftly, urging vaccinations to mitigate the growing threat of what has been dubbed "festive flu".

For the week ending 8th December, an average of 1,861 patients with flu were hospitalised daily, up from 1,099 the week before and a mere 402 at this time last year. The UK Health Security Agency has identified children aged 5 to 14 as having the highest infection rates, but warns that adult cases are likely to rise as schools close and families come together for the festive season.

Adding to the pressure on healthcare services are surges in other seasonal illnesses, including norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Hospital beds occupied by patients with norovirus symptoms increased by 10% last week compared to the previous week, marking a 64% rise from last year. Meanwhile, hospitalisations of children with RSV climbed to 152 per day, a notable increase from 107 a year ago.

Though COVID hospitalisations have slightly declined, with 1,343 patients compared to 1,390 the previous week, the combined strain of these illnesses has raised concerns about a potential “quad-demic” - simultaneous peaks of flu, COVID, RSV, and norovirus.

In response to these challenges, the NHS is intensifying its vaccination campaign. Eligible groups, including the over-65s, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, are being urged to take advantage of free flu jabs available at pharmacies.

To make vaccinations more accessible, they are also being offered in unconventional locations such as football clubs, Christmas markets, church halls and supermarkets.

Pregnant women are being encouraged to receive the RSV vaccine to protect their babies, while adults aged 75 to 79 are also eligible for this additional protection.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, Chief Medical Officer of NHS England, described the surge in flu cases as deeply concerning, emphasising the urgent need for vaccinations. He said, “The tidal wave of flu cases and other seasonal viruses hitting hospitals is really concerning for patients and for the NHS. With one week left to book your vaccine, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting booked in to protect yourself against serious illness and to avoid ‘festive flu’.”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this call, urging people to act now, saying, “Protect yourself, your family, and the NHS by getting vaccinated before it’s too late.”

The plea comes as the health service braces for an exceptionally challenging winter.

In addition to rising infection rates, November was the busiest on record for A&E departments in England, with 2.31 million attendances. However, only 57% of patients were seen within the target of four hours, down from 58.1% in October. Ambulance handover delays also increased, with patients waiting an average of 42 minutes and 59 seconds - a rise compared to the same period last year.

Vaccination remains a critical defence against what health officials fear could become a particularly difficult winter for the NHS and its patients.

( Image: Pixabay Library 📸 )

09/11/2024

CPS considers sexual offence charges against born again Christian Russell Brand - writes Duncan Williams 🙏

This development follows a significant investigation that has led several women to make allegations against Brand spanning the past two decades.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is considering bringing criminal charges against British comedian and presenter Russell Brand after the Metropolitan Police submitted a file of evidence involving multiple sexual offence allegations.

05/11/2024

ROYAL MAIL’S 2024 CHRISTMAS STAMPS CAPTURE SNOWY SPLENDOUR OF ICONIC UK CATHEDRALS - 🎁 ✝️ ❄️

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

This festive season, the Royal Mail has unveiled its much-anticipated 2024 Christmas stamp collection, featuring a series of evocative snowy scenes of iconic UK cathedrals. Illustrated by British artist Judy Joel, each stamp captures the beauty of these sites dusted in winter snow, evoking a sense of peace, tradition, and seasonal spirituality.

Five cathedrals across the UK are featured: Liverpool, Edinburgh, Armagh, Bangor, and Westminster. The new stamps, available as of today, offer a tour through Britain’s architectural past and its spiritual heart. Each image highlights the cathedrals' unique histories and cultural significance, giving a glimpse of both well-known and hidden details about each site.

Liverpool Cathedral is celebrated as the largest cathedral in Britain and ranks as the fifth largest in the world. This architectural giant, known for the world’s heaviest and highest ringing peal of bells, attracts countless visitors each year, not only for its grand scale but also for its imposing neo-Gothic design, which stands out dramatically against the Liverpool skyline.

Moving north to Scotland, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in Edinburgh appears in all its Victorian Gothic beauty. Celebrating its 150th anniversary, the cathedral’s cornerstone was laid in 1874, and its triple spires mark it as one of only three cathedrals in the UK with this unique feature, a distinction shared only with Lichfield and Truro. St Mary’s is also known for its pioneering spirit in music; it was the first UK cathedral with a daily choral service to invite girls to sing alongside boys, a progressive change made in 1978.

Across the Irish Sea, Northern Ireland’s St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh brings ancient history to this festive collection. Perched on the hill that gives the city its name, Ard Mhacha, the cathedral’s site is said to date back to 445 AD, where Saint Patrick himself founded a church. Its architecture, shaped by centuries of reconstruction and restoration, is an eclectic blend that reflects the varied epochs through which it has endured.

Wales also finds its place in this collection with Bangor Cathedral, a site steeped in Welsh history and legend. Dating back almost 1,500 years, it has withstood the turbulence of history, including episodes of destruction and reconstruction, and serves as the burial ground of notable Welsh princes. The cathedral is dedicated to its 6th-century founder, Saint Deiniol, anchoring it as a deeply significant site for the Welsh people.

Rounding off the collection is Westminster Cathedral, the largest Roman Catholic church in England and Wales. Though construction concluded in 1903, Westminster Cathedral remains unique due to its unfinished interior mosaics, which continue to be crafted and added to this day. The structure itself, with its Byzantine architecture, stands apart from the more Gothic style associated with English cathedrals, making it an architectural marvel in its own right.

This 2024 stamp series offers more than a festive touch; it presents a celebration of the UK’s Christian and architectural heritage, connecting modern observers with centuries of seasonal culture, faith, and history.

( Pictures courtesy of Royal Mail 📸 )

24/10/2024

Gustavo Gutiérrez, pioneer of liberation theology, dies at 96 - reports Duncan Williams 🙏

Over time, Gutiérrez's ideas became more accepted within the Church, culminating in a warmer reception under Pope Francis.

Gustavo Gutiérrez, the Peruvian priest and revered father of Latin American liberation theology, has died at the age of 96.

15/10/2024

Discovery of one of the world's oldest churches reveals Armenia's ancient Christian roots - reports Duncan Williams 🙏

Archaeologists have uncovered one of the world's oldest Christian churches in the ancient city of Artaxata, Armenia, offering remarkable insight into the spread of early Christianity.

08/10/2024

10TH OCTOBER HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS - ❤️

Report by Duncan Williams for View News

Mental Health Awareness Day, observed annually on 10th October, has become a key event in the UK, spotlighting the importance of mental health and encouraging open conversations to challenge prejudice.

Since its introduction by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day has evolved into a significant focal point for public health campaigns, with organisations such as Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, and the Mental Health Foundation leading the charge. Each year, a new theme addresses current mental health concerns, ensuring the campaign remains relevant.

One central message of Mental Health Awareness Day is that mental health issues can affect anyone - men, women, and young people of all ages. In the UK, one in four people will experience a mental health problem during their lifetime. However, recognising these issues - whether in ourselves or others - can be difficult due to lingering misconceptions, which may cause many to suffer in silence.

Spotting early signs of mental health problems is vital for timely support. Emotional indicators might include persistent sadness, irritability, or hopelessness, while physical symptoms may involve changes in sleep, appetite, or unexplained pain. Social withdrawal or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed are also common. In severe cases, risky behaviours like substance abuse, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts may emerge.

For those experiencing these symptoms, reaching out for help is crucial. This often starts with a visit to a GP, who can guide individuals toward counselling or other mental health services. For family and friends concerned about someone, simply offering a non-judgemental listening ear can be a powerful first step. Reassuring someone that they are not alone can make a significant difference.

Encouraging professional help when needed is essential. Many people feel unsure about accessing mental health services, so helping them navigate the system or offering to accompany them to an appointment can be beneficial. Providing practical support, such as assisting with daily tasks, can also ease the burden for someone feeling overwhelmed.

While awareness of mental health has improved, the pressures of modern life contribute to rising levels of mental health issues. The fast-paced nature of work, constant digital connectivity, and the pressures of social comparison - often amplified by social media - can weigh heavily on well-being. Financial stress, job insecurity, and the rising cost of living further compound these issues, especially for younger generations.

Although mental health problems have always existed, there is now a greater willingness to seek help and discuss these issues. This shift is partly due to reduced stigma and the growing number of people openly sharing their experiences.

Despite this progress, mental health services in the UK remain under strain, making access to treatment in some regions challenging. While the conversation around mental health has improved, much more needs to be done to ensure timely and adequate support.

Mental Health Awareness Day plays a critical role in fostering the ongoing cultural shift needed to ensure that mental well-being receives the same attention and care as physical health.

28/09/2024

HOW TO CLAIM FREE GREGGS, COSTA, STARBUCKS, OR CAFFE NERO COFFEE - ☕ 🤎

Report by Kelly Leonard for News Advertiser newspapers

Who doesn’t love a free coffee or a snack? Well, on 1st October, you can enjoy a complimentary drink from Costa, Starbucks, Greggs, or Caffe Nero, thanks to a special giveaway from www.VoucherCodes.co.uk.

The offer is being launched to celebrate International Coffee Day, and 600 lucky people across the UK will have the chance to claim a £4 voucher to use at one of these popular chains.

Here’s how you can get your hands on it...

The process for claiming your free coffee is simple. First, you need to sign up for an account on the VoucherCodes website, or if you already have an account, just sign in. On the day of the offer, which is next Tuesday, head to the VoucherCodes site at 10.00am and look for the giveaway banner.

Once the promotion goes live, you’ll be able to claim a voucher worth £4 that you can spend on any drink or snack at Costa, Starbucks, Greggs, or Caffe Nero.

There’s a catch, of course... This is a first-come, first-served offer, so you’ll need to act fast. Only 600 vouchers will be available, and once they’re claimed, that’s it.

To give yourself the best chance, make sure you’re logged into your VoucherCodes account before 10.00am, and keep a close eye on the site so you can click as soon as the banner appears.

Once claimed, the voucher can be used immediately, or you can save it for up to six months.

International Coffee Day is the perfect time to enjoy this offer, with the voucher covering any of the delicious drinks or snacks at these top chains.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cappuccino from Costa, a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks, a croissant from Greggs, or a rich espresso from Caffe Nero, the voucher gives you the flexibility to pick your favourite treat. The £4 credit goes a long way at Greggs, where you could easily grab a coffee and a snack.

If you’re keen to make the most of this and future offers, it’s worth considering becoming a VIP member on VoucherCodes. It’s free to join, and it gives you access to exclusive discounts and rewards throughout the year, increasing your chances of snapping up more deals like this one.

28/09/2024

ST ALBANS CELEBRATES MORRIS DAY OF DANCE MARKING END OF THE SEASON - ♥️ 💛 💙

Report & Pictures by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers 🗞️

On Saturday, 28th September, the historic streets of St Albans, Hertfordshire, were alive with the vibrant sights and sounds of Morris dancing as the city celebrated its annual Day of Dance.

Blessed with early autumn sunshine, this much-loved event marked the official end of the Morris dancing season. Dancers from various Morris groups, known as sides, came together to perform, drawing enthusiastic crowds of both locals and visitors.

Morris dancing, a centuries-old English folk tradition tied to seasonal festivities, has roots that can be traced back to the late Middle Ages. Thought to have originated as a form of courtly entertainment in the 15th century, the dance later became popular in rural communities, particularly during May Day and harvest festivals. With its distinct costumes, rhythmic stepping, and use of sticks, swords, and handkerchiefs, it remains a lively and colourful part of England's cultural heritage.

Throughout the day, dancers in their distinctive costumes performed at several key locations, including the Cathedral grounds, the market square, and Verulamium Park. The rhythmic clashing of sticks, the waving of handkerchiefs, and lively folk music created a festive atmosphere that spread throughout the city.

22/08/2024

Historic churches once lost to the Black Death re-open together after 650 years - reports Duncan Williams 🙏

Two ancient churches in Kent, closed for over 650 years after the outbreak of the Black Death plague decimated their congregations, have finally re-opened to the public in a celebratory event.

05/08/2024

Brazilian athletes challenge IOC's ban on Christian symbols - reports Duncan Williams 🙏

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has implemented a controversial ban on Christian symbols at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, despite the opening ceremony featuring a parody of Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper.

22/07/2024

Ancient Christian building discovered in Bahrain - reports Duncan Williams 🙏

A newly discovered ancient structure sheds light on the historic roots of Christian communities in the Gulf region.

12/07/2024

Former CofE vicar charged with historic abuse - reports Duncan Williams 🙏

Jonathan Fletcher, an 81-year-old former vicar of Emmanuel Church Wimbledon, has been charged with eight counts of indecent assault and one count of grievous bodily harm with intent.

24/06/2024

Practising Christians give more to charity, report reveals - 🙏 💷 ❤️

Practising Christians, who are defined in the report as those attending church and reading the Bible at least once a month, exhibit a higher level of generosity.

18/06/2024

SPIDERS IN THE UK: MYTHS, FACTS, AND FEARS - 🕷️ 🕸️

Report by Duncan Williams for View News

Spiders, with their eight legs and web-spinning abilities, have long captivated the human imagination. Yet, for many, these fascinating creatures evoke not curiosity, but intense fear. This common phobia, known as arachnophobia, affects people around the globe and can significantly impact daily life. But why are so many of us terrified of spiders? And how dangerous are these creatures, particularly for us here in the United Kingdom?

The roots of arachnophobia can be traced back to our evolutionary past. Early humans who developed an acute awareness and fear of potentially dangerous creatures, such as spiders, may have had a survival advantage. This heightened sense of caution likely kept our ancestors safe from venomous bites. Over generations, this instinctual fear has persisted, even in modern times when the actual threat posed by most spiders is minimal.

Cultural influences also play a significant role in shaping our perceptions of spiders. From horror films to folklore, spiders are often depicted as menacing and dangerous. These portrayals reinforce negative stereotypes and exacerbate our fears. Additionally, personal experiences, particularly those during childhood, can lead to a lasting fear of spiders. A single frightening encounter or even witnessing someone else's fear response can be enough to instil a deep-seated phobia.

Arachnophobia manifests in various ways. People with this phobia may experience symptoms such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and dizziness at the mere sight or thought of a spider. This fear can be so debilitating that it affects daily activities, leading individuals to avoid certain places or situations where spiders might be present.

While phobias in the human sense are not observed in animals, many creatures exhibit instinctual avoidance behaviours. Primates, for instance, show caution around spiders, and certain insects and small animals have evolved to steer clear of spider hunting grounds. These behaviours are driven by survival instincts rather than irrational fear.

In the United Kingdom, the number of dangerous spider species is remarkably low. The most notable among them that could pose around risk to humans is the false widow spider (Steatoda nobilis). Often mistaken for the more dangerous black widow, the false widow is the UK's most venomous spider. While its bite can cause pain, swelling, and occasionally more severe symptoms, it is rarely life-threatening. Another spider of interest is the tube web spider (Segestria florentina), known for its aggressive nature and painful bite. However, encounters with these spiders are infrequent, and their bites are generally not serious.

For most people in the UK, the risk posed by spiders is minimal. The majority of British spiders have venom too weak to harm humans or fangs incapable of penetrating human skin. While bites can cause discomfort and, in rare cases, more severe reactions, they are usually not dangerous. Individuals with allergies or compromised immune systems might experience stronger reactions, but such cases are exceptional.

So why do some people harbour such intense fear of these largely harmless creatures? The unpredictability of spiders' movements can trigger anxiety, as can their physical appearance, which many find unsettling. A lack of knowledge about spiders also plays a role. Misunderstandings and myths about their dangers amplify fear. Education and awareness are key to mitigating these fears. By learning about spiders and their behaviours, people can gain a more accurate perspective and reduce irrational fears.

Despite their fearsome reputation, spiders are an integral part of our ecosystems. They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, contributing to ecological balance.

Understanding the reasons behind arachnophobia and educating ourselves about the true nature of spiders can help reduce fear and foster a greater appreciation for these creatures.

In the UK, where dangerous spiders are few and far between, there's little reason to be afraid. By embracing knowledge over fear, we can learn to coexist with these remarkable arachnids more peacefully.

14/06/2024

Research shows that when England play football, domestic abuse increases by 26% - this rises to 38% if England lose.

As the Euros begin this weekend, make sure you know what to do if you or a friend needs help: call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free at anytime on 0808 2000 247.

In an emergency, call 999.

30/05/2024

EMBRACING SUMMER: A PATHWAY TO IMPROVED MENTAL WELLBEING THROUGH MINDFULNESS - ☯️ 🕊️

Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

Summer is often celebrated as a time of joy, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The season brings longer days, warmer weather, and an abundance of outdoor activities, which together can significantly enhance mental wellbeing. Exposure to sunlight increases the body’s production of vitamin D, crucial for mood regulation and preventing depressive symptoms. Additionally, sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being.

The warmer weather and longer days provide ample opportunities for physical activity, which is a natural mood lifter. Engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and cycling releases endorphins, which act as natural mood enhancers. Connecting with nature through activities like gardening, walking in the park, or having a picnic has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Summer also fosters increased social interaction. Community engagement through festivals, barbecues, and other social events helps maintain mental health by reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Family time during vacations and gatherings strengthens relationships and provides essential emotional support.

Incorporating mindfulness practices during the summer can further elevate mood and reduce stress. Mindful walking, for instance, involves engaging the senses by focusing on the sights, sounds, and smells around you, grounding you in the present moment. Breathing exercises during these walks can calm the mind and reduce anxiety.

Mindful eating is another beneficial practice, especially with the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables that summer offers. Savouring each bite and noticing the flavours, textures, and aromas can enhance appreciation for food and promote healthier eating habits. Staying mindful of hydration levels, particularly in the heat, is crucial; drinking water regularly and noticing its revitalising effects can support this practice.

Outdoor meditation can be particularly effective in the summer. Finding a peaceful spot in nature, such as a park bench, garden, or beach, and focusing on breathing while paying attention to surrounding sounds like birds chirping or waves crashing, can deepen the connection to the present moment and enhance the meditation experience.

A digital detox is also recommended. Limiting screen time and disconnecting from digital devices in favour of engaging in outdoor activities and hobbies can significantly benefit mental health. Being fully present during interactions with family and friends, putting away phones, and giving full attention to conversations can strengthen relationships and enrich shared experiences.

Summer offers a unique opportunity to improve mental wellbeing through increased sunlight, physical activity, and social interaction. By incorporating mindfulness practices into daily routines, the benefits of this vibrant season can be further enhanced, elevating mood and reducing stress. Embracing the warmth and vibrancy of summer can make it a season of mental rejuvenation and mindful living.

13/05/2024

HAS YOUR CHURCH APPLIED FOR A COMPLIMENTARY FRAMED PORTRAIT OF KING CHARLES ? - 👑

Report by Duncan Williams for INDEPENDENT NEWS LTD.

Churches across the UK can now participate in the government's £8 million initiative to provide framed official portraits of King Charles, as part of an effort aimed at boosting 'civic pride' and honouring the monarch's post-Coronation reign. King Charles was crowned last year on May 6th, 2023, in Westminster Abbey by Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Previous criticism was levelled at Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden when it emerged that while His Majesty's prisons qualified for the free portrait programme, churches did not, despite King Charles's role as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England.

Effective from June 5th, all Church of England places of worship, alongside hospitals, job centres, universities, coastguard centres, and coroners' courts, are eligible to apply for the portrait at no expense.

The comprehensive scheme, introduced in January of this year, encompasses various public institutions such as state schools, courts, and regional police forces, offering them a framed portrait of the monarch captured by renowned royal photographer Hugo Burnand, which depicts King Charles in his Royal Navy uniform.

Oliver Dowden said on Saturday: "His Majesty's accession marked a new chapter in the history of our nation. Our public authorities and established churches are an essential part of the fabric of the nation and it is right that they have the chance to commemorate this moment.

"Displaying this new portrait also serves as a reminder of the example set by our ultimate public servant.

"Like his mother before him, the King has dedicated his life and work to serving others."

( Image courtesy of Gov.uk 📸 )

08/05/2024

After commemorating 100 years of religious broadcasting, the BBC has reaffirmed its commitment to continue faith programming on both television and radio - writes Duncan Williams 🙏📺

After commemorating 100 years of religious broadcasting, the BBC has reaffirmed its commitment to continue faith programming on both television and radio, emphasising the enduring relevance of religious content in today's media landscape.