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News from October 30, 2025

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Marcus Rashford behaviour speaks volumes as Barcelona star returns to Manchester
Technology

Marcus Rashford behaviour speaks volumes as Barcelona star returns to Manchester

Marcus Rashford is thriving at Barcelona after falling out of favour at Manchester United last season. The forward's career at Old Trafford appeared over when Ruben Amorim claimed he would rather put his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach on the bench because of what he considered a lack of effort. After showing flashes of what he can do in the second half of last season while on loan at Aston Villa , the England international has impressed at the Catalan giants after joining them on loan during the summer transfer window. He has scored five times in 13 appearances in all competitions - as well as claiming seven assists - although he was powerless to stop Barca losing Sunday's El Clasico 2-1 to arch rivals Real Madrid. But the hard work has continued for Rashford, even during a quick return to Manchester this week. Taking to Instagram, he uploaded a series of videos showing him working at The Performance Space gym in Salford. The forward captioned the video: "Marginal gains 48 hours back home." In a recent interview with Barca's official YouTube channel, meanwhile, Rashford revealed he's loving life in Spain. He said: "I'm really enjoying my time in Spain. The weather is the best part. It's a very big change. I'm learning every day, I'm really enjoying it. "I hope to be here for a long time now. I get along really well with Roony (Bardghji), as well as Jules (Kounde) and Frenkie (De Jong). It's a team where we all blend together. We're united. "The team is fantastic. I just have to be in the right positions. I'll keep trying to do this. We have to keep going like this to be our best. We have a lot more to do this season." He then continued: "I'm enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game so to play here is an honour. "I just believe that things happen when they're supposed to happen. It's not the first time I've spoke with Barcelona about potentially coming here. But for whatever reasons it didn't happen in the past, and now is my opportunity to make it happen. "I feel like there's no time like the present now. People forget this, but 23 years of my life was with Manchester United. So, sometimes, you just need a change. "I think maybe this is the case with me and yeah, I'm enjoying everything. I don't feel there is much change in me, I just feel it's a new environment and culture and one I looked forward to coming here. "It's just about me adapting and fitting in as well as possible. I'm so hungry to keep improving."

Connor O'Neill
Birmingham study into rare form of skin cancer gives hope to patients
Technology

Birmingham study into rare form of skin cancer gives hope to patients

A new study carried out in Birmingham has given hope to people who suffer from a rare form of skin cancer. Researchers at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB), a leading centre for the PROCLIPI Study, have contributed to new findings showing that patients with Cutaneous (skin) T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL) experienced improved overall survival when treated with mogamulizumab, known by its brand name Poteligeo. CTCL is a rare type of cancer that begins in the white blood cells and affects the skin, causing rashes and slightly raised or scaly round patches. READ MORE: Mixed reaction as hundreds give their views on proposed changes to a major Birmingham road The most common types are mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome, with around 150 people diagnosed in the UK each year. Most experience only a mild, non life-threatening form which can be managed for years, while a smaller number develop a more serious form. Treatments may either target the skin directly, using creams, light therapy, or radiotherapy, or work throughout the body, given as tablets or injections that circulate in the blood to reach all areas. Poteligeo is a prescription medicine given by injection into a vein to treat mycosis fungoides or Sézary syndrome in adults whose disease has returned or who have not responded to one other treatment. Alexandra Mars, a 51-year-old patient at QEHB who has taken part in the study, said: "I have had tumour mycosis fungoides for over 10 years. "I was most recently treated with mogamulizumab for two years and had no significant side effects. "It appears to have put my disease to sleep, and I have not been on any medication since February. It is amazing to finally be able to have a break from treatment, which is so tiring, and not have to think about this disease." The international PROCLIPI Study has been ongoing for 10 years and have involved 2,547 patients across 19 countries. The latest research confirmed that patients with advanced-stage disease treated with Poteligeo experienced improved overall survival, with a median overall survival of 64 months compared to 54 months for patients who did not receive the treatment. Professor Julia Scarisbrick, Consultant Dermatologist at QEHB and Chief Investigator of the PROCLIPI Study, said: "The PROCLIPI Study demonstrates the power of global collaboration in rare diseases. "By bringing together data from across the world, we can generate insights that simply wouldn't be possible in isolation. "We are proud to coordinate this initiative here in Birmingham in partnership with Prof Kim at Stanford University, California, as we're working to build rigorous scientific evidence while giving patients and their families a better understanding of what long-term survival looks like."

Gurdip Thandi
Meet the witch who communicates with ancestors at Halloween
Technology

Meet the witch who communicates with ancestors at Halloween

A coven leader who purports to communicate with ancestors at Halloween through a silent meal, using tarot cards and pendulums, insists witches are "just normal people" who "believe in spells". Julie Aspinall, a 61 year old security dog trainer from Coventry, discovered her "true identity" as a witch at the age of 14, after finding a book on witchcraft and believing she could conjure money for herself. She practised spells and manifestation covertly, until launching her own online witchcraft community in 2015 and establishing an in-person coven in 2018 – the group now shares spells on TikTok to a following of over 845,000. READ MORE: Trucker transporting flammable liquids caught eating on motorway while holding cup and spoon READ MORE: Chilling motive of husband who stabbed wife to death then claimed she took own life revealed Each Samhain, at the end of October, when "the veil" between the spirit world and the living is at its "thinnest", Julie and her coven claim to connect with their ancestors. Julie explained that they do this by using tarot cards and a pendulum and hosting a dumb supper – a silent meal to honour deceased ancestors and loved ones. They also visit a cemetery to place flowers on graves without any, to "show respect" for those who have "passed on". Speaking to PA Real Life, Julie said: "Witches do have broomsticks, but we use our broomsticks to sweep our energies out. "We don't have pointed hats, we're not in old clothes. "We're just normal people that believe in spells, but people go off what films and the media portray us as, and kids are brought up thinking a witch is some old person that might kidnap you or shove you in an oven like in the fairy tales!". At the tender age of 12, Julie began to suspect she might be a "special child of God", convinced she could conjure up things for herself, like money to buy her mum a Mother's Day gift. Fast forward two years, and a chance encounter with a book on witchcraft at her local library led her to discover her "true identity". From then on, Julie started practising spells and manifestation techniques in secret, a practice she maintained even after tying the knot and having two children, well into her 20s and 30s. Reflecting on those times, she suspects her late husband – who passed away nearly 19 years ago – had an inkling that something "was going on" but chose to "leave (her) to it". In 2015, Julie took the bold step of setting up a Facebook group for witches, and three years later, she established an in-person coven named the Coven of Gaia, which currently boasts 19 members. As an elder of the group, Julie is backed by a council of five mentors who provide guidance to the other witches. Come summer 2023, the group ventured into the world of TikTok, creating an account under the handle @coven_of_gaia. They share spells for prosperity, abundance and sleep using herbs and chants, and their account has since amassed a following of over 845,000. Julie revealed: "People love dark spells on our TikTok, they always want to hex somebody!". One of their most sought-after spells, designed to induce nightmares in someone, involves the use of a black candle, an ovenproof dish and a piece of paper. She detailed: "You write the person's name on the paper, think about what they have done to you, and say, 'Hypnos god of dreams, make them dream of horrible things for one week' before ripping the paper, burning it with the candle, and placing it in the dish." The coven congregates in Julie's garden room, which is adorned with several altars dedicated to Mother Earth, Gaia and Odin, along with crystals, candles and herbs. Every May, they organise an annual Festival for Pagans and Witches to educate others about witchcraft, as well as marking Samhain at the end of October. Samhain, a Gaelic festival signifying the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter, is acknowledged among witches as the period when "the veil" between the spirit world and the living is at its "thinnest". "We enter into a meditation, and once we've clearly visualised what we want to let go of or bring into next year, we jot it down and burn it in the cauldron," Julie explained. They also host a dumb supper – a silent meal to pay tribute to deceased ancestors and loved ones. Julie further added: "We will bring something with us that reminds us of our ancestors – it could be a photograph or an object. "We will set them a place opposite us at the table and will serve some food and sit in silence throughout the entire meal, because we will be conversing with the ancestor that we brought to the meal with us." To communicate with their ancestors, they "ask for a message" through tarot cards, or use a pendulum to pose yes or no questions. In the past, Julie alleges she has made contact with her grandparents, father and brother. She stated: "Normally, when they come through, it's to tell you that they are with you, that they watch over you, that they love you. "It does make you feel emotional and like you are connected to them. "I'm not afraid of death now." Following the supper, the coven will pay a visit to a graveyard to place flowers on graves that lack them, to "show respect" for those who have "passed over". "We think it's a nice thing for us to do, and to just connect with more people who have passed over – it feels great to add things to the graves that people don't tend to visit," Julie expressed. Addressing sceptics, Julie said: "There's so much going on in this world that we don't understand how it works or why it works, and I think witchcraft is the same as that. "I truly believe that in the future we'll have explanations on how witchcraft works ... just like how we do with science."

Jayne Thomson,Molly Powell PA Real Life
Co-op issues store closure warning and urges government to intervene
Technology

Co-op issues store closure warning and urges government to intervene

The Co-op has warned s mall shops could face closure without business rates reform. The Co-operative is urging the Labour Party government to commit to the maximum levels of relief for smaller stores in the upcoming Autumn Budget on November 24. The Co-op has warned that up to 60,000 small shops across the UK could face closure without upcoming business rates reform for small shops. Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op group chief executive, said: "The proposed system would improve the financial situation of 99% of retailers. "How much they are protected from tax rises depends on decisions made in this Budget. To boost local economies, create jobs and provide community cohesion, we need inclusive growth." READ MORE £65,000 warning for thousands of women with babies under age five "That means supporting the businesses on the corners, in the precincts, on the parades and the high streets of every community. " In order for them to not only survive, but to thrive, the government has to commit to the maximum levels of relief.” In August, a letter signed by Morrisons , Aldi and JD Sports, warned that further tax rises on businesses could result in the Labour government breaking its manifesto pledge to provide “high living standards”. It reads: "As retailers, we have done everything we can to shield our customers from the worst inflationary pressures but as they persist, it is becoming more and more challenging for us to absorb the cost pressures we face.” A Treasury spokesperson said: “We are creating a fairer business rates system to protect the high street, support investment, and level the playing field by introducing permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties from April that will be sustainably funded by a new, higher rate on less than 1% of the most valuable business properties. “Unlike the current relief for these properties, there will be no cash cap on the new lower tax rates, and we have set out our long-term plans to address ‘cliff edges’ in the system to support small businesses to expand.”

James Rodger
Brits urged to check DVD collections for titles worth up to £350
Technology

Brits urged to check DVD collections for titles worth up to £350

If you've got a stack of old DVDs gathering dust at home, it might be worth giving them a second look. Some TV shows and films could fetch a surprising amount. Despite the drop in DVD sales due to the rise of streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime, there's still a strong market for certain titles, particularly among collectors. Some of your older discs could now be worth quite a bit. Before the streaming revolution, DVDs were a common sight in most households. While many now consider them outdated, there's a growing appreciation for physical media, especially rare editions or titles that are hard to find online. Read more One significant reason for this resurgence is that not every film or TV show is available on streaming platforms. For fans who want reliable access to their favourite shows, owning a physical copy still has its appeal, reports the Express. In a recent study, Bally Casino identified several DVDs that could be surprisingly valuable, reports Chronicle Live . They teamed up with collectables expert Tracy Martin to gain insights into what makes certain editions stand out and how to maximise their sale. The Carry On Film Collection takes the top spot for being the most valuable. A complete box set of films from the much-loved British comedy series can command around £350 on average. Another high-value item is the Monty Python and the Holy Grail Limited Edition Castle Box set, which can sell for up to £300. Tracy said: "Collectable value can be due to rarity, different variants to the norm, oddities (misspellings on DVD cases or books), nostalgia - people buying back their memories, limited edition and basic supply and demand. "There are so many reasons things are collectable. People don't always recognise they have things of value, which is why they turn to valuers like me or do their own research online. "Always research to ensure you get the best price achievable for your collectable by looking to see what similar items have sold for in the past." Tracy stresses that choosing the right platform and setting a realistic price from the start are among the most important steps when selling your items. She hinted that CDs might be the next media format to surge in value, especially since vinyl has already made a major comeback in popularity. If you have a forgotten DVD collection gathering dust, now might be the perfect time to find out what it's worth. The top 15 are: 1. Carry On Films - Complete DVD Collection Box Set, 1958-1992, £350. 2. Monty Python and the Holy Grail - Limited Edition Castle Box Set, 1975, £300. 3. Blade Runner Ultimate Collector's Edition Briefcase, 1982, £300. 4. The Godfather: The Coppola Restoration Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set, 1972-1990, £300. 5. The Avengers '62-64 - Emma Peel Mega Set, 1961-1969, £275. 6. The Wicker Man - Wooden Box Limited Edition, 1973, £225 7. 7. The World at War - Ultimate Restored Blu-ray Edition, 1973-1974, £225. 8. Quatermass Collection - Limited Edition Box Set, 1953-1979, £225. 9. Twin Peaks: The Entire Mystery Blu-ray Box Set, 1990-1991, £225. 10. Peeping Tom (Criterion Collection Region 2), 1960, £200. 11. Withnail and I - Limited Edition Tin Box, 1987, £175. 12. The Beatles Anthology DVD Box Set, 1995, £17. 13. Red Dwarf - Just the Shows DVD Box Set, 1988-1999, £150. 14. Taxi Driver - 35th Anniversary Blu-ray Edition, 1976, £150. 15. The Third Man - UK Steelbook Edition, 1949, £125.

Alycia McNamara,Dan Taylor,Katy Hallam
Romanian teen charged over alleged sex assault on a schoolgirl in Ballymena must remain in custody
Technology

Romanian teen charged over alleged sex assault on a schoolgirl in Ballymena must remain in custody

The 15-year-old boy was refused bail on a charge of attempting to rape the girl after she was dragged into a garage in the Co Antrim town. Racially-motivated rioting erupted in Ballymena following the alleged attack. Mr Justice Scoffield denied the defendant’s bid to be released based on risks he could either re-offend or flee. “The fact that his parents have severed ties (with the jurisdiction) and moved away underscores the motivation to escape Northern Ireland which arises in this case,” he held. The defendant and a 14-year-old co-accused are jointly charged with the attempted rape on June 7 this year. A third teenage suspect facing a charge of rape is believed to have fled to Romania the following day. None of the accused can be identified because of their ages. The girl was allegedly snatched off the street and taken down an alleyway into a garage in the Clonavon Terrace area of the town. She managed to escape when the attack stopped because the three teenagers were disturbed by a noise outside and ran off, according to the police case. Opposing the 15-year-old boy’s application for bail, prosecutors argued that there is now forensic evidence linking him to the alleged sexual assault. The court also heard that his mother and father returned to Romania shortly after the incident for their own safety. Although his parents came back to support his application, they no longer have any permanent address in the jurisdiction. The teenager sought release to live at accommodation provided by the relevant health trust. But Mr Justice Scoffield held he has no real ties to the jurisdiction and could flee. “That is partly due, no doubt, to the serious violence and disorder which followed reports of the alleged offending,” he said. A risk that the defendant could re-offending was also cited. “The seriousness of the offence, taken with the strength of the prima facie case against him, coupled with the determined, indiscriminate and opportunistic nature of the alleged offending, all give rise to concerns about the potential for further offences,” the judge said. “Particulary if the applicant is accommodated with or has contact with girls of around his age.” Refusing bail, he confirmed: “I consider that to protect the public it is necessary to remand the applicant in custody.”

Alan Erwin
Danny Rohl feels Rangers are getting fans back onside after successive victories
Technology

Danny Rohl feels Rangers are getting fans back onside after successive victories

The Ibrox club have spent much of this season in a state of turmoil after a disastrous start under previous boss Russell Martin. But Rohl senses some harmony breaking out after Danilo’s fifth-minute goal followed by a late penalty save by Jack Butland sent the travelling fans home happy. It was the first time Gers have enjoyed consecutive wins since May and their first away clean sheet in any competition since last December. “What I really liked was at the end of the game, our supporters and players come closer,” said the German, who has now overseen league wins over Kilmarnock and Hibs since losing his first match away to Brann last Thursday. “They recognise what we’re doing and I think this is a great spirit to feel this after one week. “Maybe one week ago we were a little bit far away from each other but now we come closer and this is great to see. “It’s crucial, if you look back two weeks ago it was maybe a tough place but since I’m here I feel so much support in my direction. “It’s fantastic and today it is important to give my players these two minutes (with the supporters at the end) because they deserved it. “They put everything on the pitch. I helped them, we helped them as a group, but the players did the job. “They put a lot of effort in, to come to a team that was unbeaten in 16 games at home and to get an away clean sheet for the first time in almost one year. “I’m really proud of the team because we had to suffer in some moments and I think it’s very important to develop this resilience as a group.” Hibs boss David Gray was gutted to see his side end up with nothing after Jamie McGrath’s 87th-minute spot-kick was saved. “The penalty is obviously a huge moment,” he said. “But people miss penalties, I wouldn’t blame someone for missing a penalty. “I don’t think there was a lot in the game. We were the masters of our own downfall really. “We gave away a poor goal at the start and from then on our quality probably wasn’t where it needed to be. “But we had the best couple of chances in the game and restricted Rangers to very few, if anything actually, so I feel like it’s a real opportunity missed.” Asked about his bold call to substitute right-wing-back Chris Cadden after just 23 minutes, Gray added: “He was on a yellow card and the way Rangers were playing, they were obviously down that side a lot. “Being a defender myself, it’s not a nice position to be in when you’re playing against pace and you need to be able to go tight and you’re one mistake away from costing your team, to going down to 10 men, so it was just a tactical decision.”

PA Sport
India A Vs South Africa A Live Score, First Unoffical Test Day 2: Follow Scorecard And Match Action From Bengalur
Technology

India A Vs South Africa A Live Score, First Unoffical Test Day 2: Follow Scorecard And Match Action From Bengalur

India A vs South Africa A Live Score, 1st Unofficial Test, Day 2 (India A National Cricket Team vs South Africa A National Cricket Team): Hello and welcome to News18 CricketNext‘s live coverage of Day 2 of the first unofficial Test in Bengaluru. India bowled South Africa A out for 299/9 on Day 1, with spinner Tanush Kotian starring by taking four wickets. After India chose to field first, South Africa’s top order built a strong foundation through fifties from Jordan Hermann (71), Zubayr Hamza (66), and Rubin Hermann (54). Anshul Kamnoj struck early, while Gurnoor Brar and Manav Suthar chipped in with key wickets. Kotian then turned the tide, dismissing skipper Marques Ackerman and breaking crucial partnerships. Khaleel Ahmed claimed the final wicket late in the day, leaving India in control going into Day 2. Playing XIs: India A: Rishabh Pant (C), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Mhatre, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Ayush Badoni, Tanush Kotian, Anshul Kamboj, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Khaleel Ahmed South Africa A: Marques Ackerman (c), Jordan Hermann, Lesego Senokwane, Zubayr Hamza, Rubin Hermann, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tiaan Van Vuuren, Prenelan Subrayen, Tshepo Moreki, Lutho Sipamla, Okuhle Cele

News18
Indian refiners tap spot markets to replace Russian supply, sources say
Technology

Indian refiners tap spot markets to replace Russian supply, sources say

NEW DELHI/SINGAPORE: State-run refiner Indian Oil is seeking more oil from the Americas while Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL) has bought Abu Dhabi crude to replace Russian oil, according to traders and a document reviewed by Reuters on Thursday. Many Indian refiners paused new orders for Russian oil after the U.S. imposed sanctions last week on Moscow’s top two producers, with some turning to the spot market for alternatives, industry sources said. MRPL has bought 2 million barrels of Abu Dhabi Murban crude from Glencore via a tender to replace Russian supply in December, trade sources said. The refiner is expected to tap spot markets every month and seek additional supplies from its term suppliers as it has shunned oil from Russia to avoid sanction risks, a company source said. Indian refiner HPCL-Mittal Energy Ltd on Wednesday said it had also stopped buying Russian oil. Indian Oil to team up with Vitol in global trading push, source says IOC has invited initial bids for 24 million barrels of oil from the Americas for the first quarter of 2026, according to a document reviewed by Reuters on Thursday. The tender seeks cargoes of both low-sulphur and high-sulphur crude oil grades, according to the document. Indian Oil, the country’s biggest refiner, is looking to gauge market interest and select sellers in the event that it needs to buy oil from the Americas, a source aware of the tender told Reuters. The tender will close on Friday, the source added. Separately, IOC purchased 2 million barrels of West African crude from Exxon Mobil via a tender on Wednesday, trade sources said. The purchase was for Mondo from Angola and Utapate from Nigeria for December delivery, they added. One trader said IOC had received more offers in this tender but awarded just 2 million barrels likely due to high prices. Traders are also watching out for further demand from Reliance Industries which has been India’s top Russian oil buyer. The company has snapped up millions of barrels of crude from the Middle East, the U.S., and Brazil to replace its Russian supply in recent weeks after it halted imports following U.S. sanctions. Grades it has purchased have included Qatari al-Shaheen, Iraqi Basra Medium, Abu Dhabi’s Murban and Upper Zakum, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate, they said. Reliance, which is controlled by billionaire Mukesh Ambani and operates the world’s biggest refining complex at Jamnagar in western Gujarat state, has a long-term deal to buy nearly 500,000 barrels per day of crude oil from Russia’s Rosneft. Reliance has said it will abide by Western sanctions against Russia while maintaining relations with its current oil suppliers.

Reuters
Watch Arne Slot defend his Liverpool side as Crystal Palace gamble backfires
Technology

Watch Arne Slot defend his Liverpool side as Crystal Palace gamble backfires

Liverpool manager Arne Slot stated that the team's sixth loss in seven matches, a 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, has not increased the pressure on his squad. A brace from Ismaila Sarr and a late goal from Yeremy Pino saw Crystal Palace defeat Liverpool at Anfield for the third time this season. In the video above, Slot expressed no regrets over making 10 changes to the team for the cup tie, despite the decision backfiring. Despite the poor run of results, Slot noted the positive fan support during the match and anticipates strong backing for Saturday's Premier League clash against Aston Villa. Liverpool could see midfielder Ryan Gravenberch return from an ankle injury for the upcoming match, though Alexander Isak remains a doubt.

Simon Peach
Jet2 offering £100 off per person on all holidays in massive Black Friday sale
Technology

Jet2 offering £100 off per person on all holidays in massive Black Friday sale

As the UK enters the cold winter months, the glittering lure of a holiday to warmer weather becomes more than tempting, and Jet2 holidays is making that dream more of a reality. Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have launched their biggest ever Black Friday sale, offering £100 off per person on all holidays on sale across Winter 25/26, Summer 26, Winter 26/27 and Summer 27. As a result of this sale, a family of four can save £400 and a couple can save £200. Read more: Mapped - all the banks closing in November including Lloyds, NatWest, Halifax, Santander, Barclays The discount is applicable on all new bookings made with Jet2holidays, Jet2Villas, Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays or Indulgent Escapes by Jet2holidays. Holidaymakers can also take advantage of discounted Jet2.com flights too, as the award-winning airline is offering 20% off all flights on sale. Steve Heapy, CEO at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “There is nothing better than knowing you have a holiday booked and something to look forward to. "The savings we are offering during our biggest, boldest and best Black Friday event ever means that customers can enjoy the feeling of knowing their holiday is in the diary whilst getting a fantastic deal on a discounted getaway or fare at the same time. "Whether it is a family holiday, a break with the other half, or a group get together, we know everyone really needs that well-deserved holiday. "With deals this good, there is no better time to book, so make sure you do not miss out on our Black Friday sale and get that sunshine boxed up with the nation’s favourite and most trusted holiday provider.” For British travellers looking to maximise their time off in 2026 it is possible to enjoy 57 days away from work in 2026 - an extra 22 days for free - just by making the most of some clever holiday planning. Thanks to the travel experts at loveholidays , there are plenty of great value breaks to book to fill all those extra days. Turning an average annual allowance into something more takes a little planning, but it's not hard to do. Here's how to play it

Christian Abbott
When is Black Friday 2025 and early deals including Amazon, Dyson and Boots
Technology

When is Black Friday 2025 and early deals including Amazon, Dyson and Boots

Black Friday is inching closer but shoppers can stock up on Christmas gifts now, as major retailers such as Dyson, Amazon and Boots are slashing prices before the chaotic day. Black Friday officially falls on November 28 which sees retailers slash prices temporarily on major goods, sometimes throughout the week. Originating in the United States the annual shopping event follows Thanksgiving Day and is now a worldwide phenomenon seeing discounts in physical stores, e-commerce websites and even mobile apps. If a month is too long to wait, shoppers can take advantage of early Black Friday deals now that BirminghamLive has sourced. Shoppers can save up to £200 on appliances now on the Dyson website , with goods including vacuum cleaners, hair care, air treatment and lighting. One great discount is the Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute reduced from £379.99 to £299.99 that has the 'suction power of a corded vacuum cleaner' complete with anti-tangle technology. A whopping slash is the Dyson 360 Vis Nav reduced from £1,199.99 to £649.99 which the retailer calls the 'most powerful robot vacuum'. Other deals include: Dyson Ball Animal Complete once £429.99 now £329.99 Dyson V11 Extra once £499.99 now £349.99 Dyson V15s Detect Submarine once £799.99 now £599.99 Dyson Supersonic Nural hair dryer (Vinca Blue Patina/Topaz) once £399.99 now £299.99 The retailer is a haven for Christmas shopping with discounts of over 50 per cent , everything from fragrances to beauty appliances are on offer now. Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum Over Red 50ml has been reduced from £105 to £49, the popular scent called ' one of the best versions of Black opium' by shoppers. The gift-worthy No7 The Ultimate Skincare Collection Gift Set for £85 can be purchased for just £39 using code ULTIMATESAVE when buying online. Other deals include: Dreamland Intelliheat Faux Fur Warming Throw - Alaskan Husky once £129.99 now £79.94 Giorgio Armani My Way Eau de Parfum 50ml Refillable once £97 now £48.50 17. Glam Kit once £50 now £24 Mugler Alien Hypersense Eau de Parfum 60ml once £97 now £48.50 The retail giant's Black Friday sale has not officially begun however massive discounts are available now for a limited amount of time. Big brands such as Oral-B, Russell Hobbs and Lenovo can be nabbed for up to half price on the 'Today's Deals' section of the Amazon website. There's no need to wait until the end of November with current deals as low as last year's Black Friday sales : Oral-B iO3 Electric Toothbrush once £160 now £54.99 Russell Hobbs Good-to-Go 6.5L Electric Multicooker once £89.99 now £49.99 StrawExpert 12L/Day Dehumidifier with Humidity Sensor & Display and 24-Hour Timer once £499.99 now £99.99 MSI MPG 321URXW QD-OLED 31.5 Inch 4K UHD Gaming Monitor once £1,199.00 now £ 648.97 Follow BirminghamLive's Black Friday 2025 coverage for the latest deals.

Husna Anjum
Seven countries secure $5.8million from Kunming Biodiversity Fund to make agriculture more nature-friendly
Technology

Seven countries secure $5.8million from Kunming Biodiversity Fund to make agriculture more nature-friendly

Seven countries have secured $5.8 million from the Kunming Biodiversity Fund to enhance nature-friendly agriculture. This initiative, part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, aims to bridge the finance gap in global conservation efforts.The projects will focus on biodiversity integration, community empowerment and invasive species management, supporting global biodiversity targets..In a move underscoring the growing link between food systems and nature, several new funding mechanisms have been created to bridge the persistent finance gap that hinders global conservation goals.One such initiative is the Kunming Biodiversity Fund (KBF) from which the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has helped seven countries secure $5.8 million in grants.This fund will support projects in Cook Islands, Madagascar, Mexico, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Uganda. The projects aim to make farming systems more nature-friendly and help countries meet global biodiversity targets.These efforts are part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), a global plan adopted by 196 countries in 2022 to stop and reverse biodiversity loss. It sets four main goals for 2050 and 23 targets for 2030, such as restoring degraded ecosystems, reducing invasive species and mobilising financial and technical resources..Panama meeting: Parties fail to agree on text of recommendations for Conventional on Biological Diversity.One key finance target (target 19) calls for mobilising at least $200 billion per year by 2030 from all sources (public, private, domestic and international) and at least $30 billion per year by 2030 in international finance to developing countries. The biodiversity finance gap is estimated to be around $700 billion per year.To close this gap, countries and organisations have introduced several new biodiversity funds over the past few years. One of these was the Cali Fund, launched in 2025, which channels resources from companies that use digital sequencing information on genetic resources. At least half of its proceeds are directed to Indigenous Peoples and local communities, recognising their key role in conserving and sustainably using biodiversity. The fund marked a major step toward fair benefit-sharing from the commercial use of genetic resources and associated data. Now, KBF represents another major push in this direction. It was created by China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment together with the UN Environment Programme and other partners. It was launched in 2021 during Part 1 of the 15th Conference of Parties to the Convention of Biological Diveristy, with an initial pledge of 1.5 billion yuan (about $200 million) from China to help developing countries protect diodiversity and implement KMGBF..Panama meetings: Delegates to put the ship in shape for COP17 in Armenia.What will the new funding do?The latest KBF funding supports specific projects in the seven countries. The projects will focus on the following:Mainstreaming biodiversity into agrifood systems (Madagascar, Uganda, Mexico): Aligning national biodiversity strategies and action plans with agriculture, building institutional capacity, improving incentives for biodiversity-friendly farming and ramping up knowledge sharing.Empowering communities (Cook Islands): Strengthening data systems (ecosystem classification, biodiversity database), promoting sustainable agroecology practices rooted in traditional knowledge, with special focus on women and youth.Managing invasive alien species (Nepal): Community-based and participatory approaches to tackle invasive species that harm biodiversity and local livelihoods.Preventing & controlling invasive species (Sri Lanka): Enhancing border biosecurity, training frontline teams, raising public awareness, and engaging local communities in removal and prevention efforts.Strengthening ecosystem resilience around Lake Eğirdir (Turkey): Promoting water-efficient agriculture, biodiversity-friendly practices, sustainable livelihoods and raising public awareness for ecosystem protection.FAO Director-General QU Dongyu welcomed the latest funding saying, “the funding will help developing countries achieve biodiversity goals through sustainable agriculture, strengthen food diversity and support climate solutions.”

Shimali Chauhan
Family devastated after returning from day out to find their home destroyed
Technology

Family devastated after returning from day out to find their home destroyed

A family who lost everything in a devastating house fire have shared their 'sobering' ordeal. Nathan Abbott and his partner, Katie Craddock, were attending a fundraising event with their children when they received the shocking news that their home was ablaze on Saturday night (October 25). In a state of panic, the couple hurriedly took a taxi back to their residence on Old Road, Hyde, only to discover it had been completely destroyed by the fire. Katie remembered: "I got a call from one of my friends to say her sister had driven past her house and there were three fire engines outside with a ladder up to the window. Read more "I saw my dog, Teddy, standing in the road and I just ran straight over, she had to be resuscitated for 15 minutes, but luckily she's alright." The property held sentimental value for Katie as it was her childhood home, which she later shared with her partner Nathan and their children - Rebecca, 12, who is registered partially sighted, Emily, eight, seven year old Harley, who has autism, and two year old Freddy, reports the Manchester Evening News . Nathan, 32, revealed that the fire originated from a fridge they had purchased brand new in 2021. He told the Manchester Evening News that the event they attended marked the first time the entire family had left the house in a year. "It's terrifying," he expressed. "At that time I'd be making tea for me and the missus. The kids would be upstairs, it would have killed me instantly. It's a harrowing thought." With Christmas fast approaching, early presents for the youngsters were reduced to ashes and an eagerly anticipated family trip to Disneyland has now been cast into doubt. "When we eventually got back inside, everything was black, you could just smell smoke," Nathan explained. "Everything was destroyed, the kitchen was gone. There were some toys in there, a couple outfits and things. "We were supposed to be going to Disneyland in January, a lot of the stuff we had saved for that has gone into this and a lot of the stuff we had bought for that is gone. "We've spent a couple of days clearing it out and it's not felt as real because all your stuff is still there. "We've not been able to salvage anything, maybe a couple of pictures. But today, standing in here and walking into empty room, to empty room, where you can actually see that you've got nothing is sobering." Nathan and Katie's neighbours and local community have rallied round to help the family get back on their feet. A GoFundMe page has been established, which you can find here.

Katy Hallam,Ramazani Mwamba
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