Latest news with #FullMonty
The Citizen
09-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
UK trip great if planned well
If you do it carefully and with planning, staying in the UK won't be as outrageously expensive as you first thought. The tourism industry in the UK is starting to get worried because it has seen a drop-off of more than £2 billion (just over R48 billion) in revenue compared to 2019, before the Covid pandemic hit. It's worried because many other tourist markets have bounced back well from the collapse of 2020–21 and are looking to post record revenues. At the same time, there is concern that the government is about to cut the money it spends supporting Visit Britain, the tourism promotion organisation. Visit Britain predicts that about 43 million tourists will come to the UK this year, generating more than £33 billion. But, why the concern? Simply: the UK has become one of the most expensive destinations in the world. South African passport holders also have the pain of very expensive and frustrating-to-obtain tourist visas… but from this year, they are not going to be the only ones, as the UK will be introducing fees for electronic visas for most visitors from 'acceptable' countries. Travel operators in the UK feel as though the double whammy of visa fees and cutbacks for Visit Britain is shooting itself in the foot. Perhaps, though, you need to realise that either you have to lower your prices, or become more efficient – or both – to lure tourists away from the offerings of European neighbours, which are more affordable and, generally speaking, have far better weather. ALSO READ: Travel alert: Two less visa-free entries for SA passport holders Budget tips for a better stay in the UK Don't get me wrong: if you do it carefully and with planning, staying in the UK won't be as outrageously expensive as you first thought. Self-catering accommodation (as opposed to bed-and-breakfast venues) is becoming more commonplace – and significantly better, in terms of amenities, compared to 20 years ago. Interestingly, on recent trips to the UK, we found excellent self-catering places with prices not far off what you would pay in South Africa (even at 25 to one). B&Bs can also be a good option because you meet friendly people (who'll help with their local knowledge) and generally get a great breakfast to set you up for the day. Not for nothing is the 'Full Monty' (English Breakfast) known as one of the best in the world. Travelling around the UK won't be cheap: fuel is the most expensive in Europe (especially when you buy it at a motorway 'services' stop) and using trains to get around is also way more costly than across the channel – so much so that, in many cases, it is cheaper to fly between cities in the UK than it is to go by rail. But, Rule Number One: eat out as little as possible. Even simple meals will gouge huge holes in your wallet. NOW READ: As Lekker as it gets: You may not stay more than two nights
Daily Record
30-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Husband's hospice pledge after docs told wife she had only six weeks to live
Norman Rennie and his beloved wife Linda were together for 40 years - before Linda's devastating cancer diagnosis. A husband has spoken of his admiration for the work of the Ayrshire Hospice - after they helped his wife following a devastating cancer diagnosis. Norman Rennie and his beloved wife Linda were together for 40 years - before doctors told her she only had six weeks to live. But in the weeks leading up to Linda's passing, Norman was supported to the hilt by the staff at the Ayrshire Hospice. Now Norman is paying a little back and pledged to support the organisation's Spring Appeal by sharing Linda's story. Linda, who died in 2016, was cared for in her home by the Ayrshire Hospice. Norman, who worked in hospitality across Ayrshire for 60 years, including Seamill Hydro for 25 years, takes up the story. He recalled: 'During my time in Seamill, we hosted the Autumn Ball, and that's when I started to become more aware of what the Hospice is about.' In April 2016, Norman and Linda received the devastating news that she had a life-shortening illness – with doctors giving the couple six weeks left together. Norman said: 'How do you go home and make the best of six weeks when somebody's dying? We were together for 40 years– you live to make sure the other person has the best.' Following her diagnosis, Norman and Linda returned home, where Norman was prepared to look after Linda himself. Then the Ayrshire Hospice began helping Norman to care for Linda – and, crucially, to support Norman too. He said: 'When the Hospice came to the house, they said they were coming to see Linda – but they just as concerned about the person that would be left behind. 'Simple things, like the Complementary Therapists coming in to massage her feet. The cancer had spread everywhere, but your feet are the most sensitive area – and that really helped her. 'When they were finished with Linda, they would give me a massage too – so that I could give my best to Linda. And even after she died, they continued that for three weeks. They came and gave me massages at home. 'I remember one day – it was lovely outside and I'd just cut the grass – the therapist said 'I think we'll take the bed outside today.' I'll always remember that.' Since Linda's death, Norman has continued to tirelessly support the Ayrshire Hospice as an ambassador, volunteer and most recently taking part in the 'Full Monty' fundraising event, which raised more than £38,000. 'Why do we support the Ayrshire Hospice? Because the Hospice will support us,' Norman said. 'They were there for me and Linda – and now it's my turn to do what I can.' Lucy Glendinning, Senior Fundraiser (Individual Giving), added: 'Norman's story is another example of the care and support the Ayrshire Hospice provides to those who need us across Ayrshire and Arran - whether it be in our In-patient Unit or in the community, our person-centred care for patients and their loved ones in the environment of their choosing.' To read more about Norman's journey with the Hospice, and to support this year's Spring Appeal, go to or call the Ayrshire Hospice's Fundraising Team on 01292 288 488 to donate. Each and every penny is gratefully received by the team.
The Irish Sun
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Woke madness as Back To The Future musical hit with weird trigger warning about Doc Brown's DeLorean
BACK to the Future: The Musical has been hit with woke warnings — including one about the DeLorean hypercar's fire trail. Bosses warn the time-travel motor's flaming tracks could startle or alarm audiences. Advertisement 1 Back to the Future: The Musical has been hit with woke warnings — including one about the DeLorean hypercar's fire trail It is one of 16 snowflake alerts on the stage version of Bosses at the Adelphi Theatre in London's West End warn the DeLorean 'leaves behind fire tracks that are alight' as it travels back to 1955. It also cautions 'there is a pyrotechnic spark' as it exits the stage. In another scene featuring the car, audiences are told inventor Doc Brown is 'sprayed loudly and powerfully' by CO2 jets. Advertisement READ MORE ON WOKE BRITAIN Elsewhere, for the cast's performance of Goode, bosses warn 'disco lights' are hoisted above the stage. There is also guidance about a 'special effect scene' at the end as the car lets out a 'loud rumbling sound effect.' The theatre's website adds: 'Back to the Future contains loud sounds, strobe lights, haze, fire and pyrotechnics at certain points during the performance.' Advertisement Most read in The Sun Latest Senior Tory MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke said: 'I am stunned by how ludicrous this trigger warning is.' We previously reported stage versions of the Full Monty and LW Theatres, which owns the Adelphi, was asked to comment. Chiefs slapp trigger warning on one of Michael Palin's much-loved travel documentaries
Scottish Sun
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Chris Hughes is too stupid for a game plan and didn't even know who JoJo was before CBB, says famous pal
CHRIS Hughes' good friend Jake Quickenden has insisted the CBB star is "too stupid to play a game" in the house. Chris, 32, has come under fire for his close friendship with JoJo Siwa, 21 - with some viewers and housemates claiming he's using the Dance Moms star to boost his chances of staying longer in the house. 4 Chris Hughes' pal Jake Quickenden has defended his friendship with JoJo Siwa Credit: Eroteme 4 The X Factor star said he's just as affectionate with his mates at home as he is in the house Credit: Eroteme 4 Jake said Chris is 'too stupid to have a game plan' Credit: Getty But X Factor star Jake, 36, said Chris had no idea who JoJo was before he entered the house. He also revealed that Chris is just as affectionate with his friends on the outside as he is with the US star. Jake said: "He's had some criticism for no reason, if I'm honest, but I know Chris. "Chris isn't intelligent enough to have a game plan and I love that for him. "When we did Full Monty, he latched on to me and I latched on to him because we got on. "And I feel like that's what he's doing in the house, he, he's found somebody that he gets on with who has a similar personality and similar humour, and he's made friends with them, and people have kind of took that as or playing a game or whatever, but he's a lovely kid." Jake then dropped the surprise revelation that Chris forces him to share a bed with him when they have 'sleepovers' Speaking to The Sun on behalf of WhichBingo, Jake said: "When I go round his house, he doesn't let me sleep in, in a different bed, he makes me sleep in his room. "He gets separation anxiety if you leave him for like 2 minutes, he can't do anything by himself. Tell us now', demand Celebrity Big Brother fans as JoJo teases off-camera conversation with 'special' Chris Hughes "When I was watching last night and he's cut his foot and he's like to Jojo 'oh will you come help me?' That's exactly what he'd say to me. "I'd be like 'oh mate, come with me. You're an adult, go by yourself. "But that's what he's like, he's touchy feely, he's flirty. And he flirts with me just as much "Honestly would have not had a clue who Jojo was. His best mate is a horse - all he does is talk about horses, go golfing and watch sport on TV." In tonight's episode, fans were convinced that JoJo's relationship is on the rocks after spotting a "snub" in partner's letter from home. JoJo's note was from her mum, Jess - but included a message from the Dance Moms star's parter Kath. JoJo had Chris read her letter from her mum. He read to the group: 'Hi JoJo, we're having so much fun watching you in the Big Brother house. "The most important thing to tell you is a message from Kath because I know you really miss them the most. 'Kath's keen to see you when you get out'...' "I've had so much fun with Kath whilst you're away, we've had lots of phone calls and Facetimes and they even came to my house to watch the launch of the show. "I'm happy you're making such good friends and I'm happy you've chosen to see the good in everyone in the house." But despite the excitement of receiving letters, JoJo appeared to take issue with hers. JoJo said in the Diary Room: 'I think I've tried to keep myself distracted from missing sweet Kath. "I said goodbye to them at the airport and it was a really hard goodbye. 'And then they were the last person I talked to before I gave up my phone for the Big Brother house. "God, I love that little sucker. I do.' JoJo continued: 'I do have beef to pick with them though, they didn't even say in the note that they love me. 'I will not let them live that down. I will say, 'where was my 'hi sweetheart', where was my 'I love you' where was my 'I miss you'?'. 'Like happy you're keen to see me when I get out of here, keen to see you as well, but come on baba, give me a little something something.' Viewers raced to their X/Twitter platform to say they're convinced JoJo's partner Kath is furious at her. One shared a meme of pop star Adele looking annoyed and wrote: "JoJo's partner sat at home right now like 'me? The drama?" A second posted a picture of furious looking Patsy Palmer from her CBB exit interview and quipped: "JoJo's partner watching Chris read out the cryptic message about him." A third commented: "If ITV are truly on it, they should bring out JoJo's partner for the finals." A fourth said: "JoJo after hearing that her girlfriend is 'keen' to see her..." Over the past few weeks, JoJo and Chris have grown close and enjoyed a string of intimate moments. It comes as a source told The Sun: 'JoJo and Chris have been the talking point of the series, with the 'will-they won't-they' narrative. 'Even if it's purely platonic, as they claim, fans are convinced Kath must be furious about the endless physical contact, at least. As the pair's friendship has developed, they have been seen sharing a bed, writing secret messages on one another, and cuddling on the sofa. Chris has even offered to have JoJo's babies, despite the singer having a partner on the outside.
The Sun
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Chris Hughes is too stupid for a game plan and didn't even know who JoJo was before CBB, says famous pal
Fay Leyfield Shan Ally Published: Invalid Date, CHRIS Hughes' good friend Jake Quickenden has insisted the CBB star is "too stupid to play a game" in the house. Chris, 32, has come under fire for his close friendship with JoJo Siwa, 21 - with some viewers and housemates claiming he's using the Dance Moms star to boost his chances of staying longer in the house. 4 4 4 But X Factor star Jake, 36, said Chris had no idea who JoJo was before he entered the house. He also revealed that Chris is just as affectionate with his friends on the outside as he is with the US star. Jake said: "He's had some criticism for no reason, if I'm honest, but I know Chris. "Chris isn't intelligent enough to have a game plan and I love that for him. "When we did Full Monty, he latched on to me and I latched on to him because we got on. "And I feel like that's what he's doing in the house, he, he's found somebody that he gets on with who has a similar personality and similar humour, and he's made friends with them, and people have kind of took that as or playing a game or whatever, but he's a lovely kid." Jake then dropped the surprise revelation that Chris forces him to share a bed with him when they have 'sleepovers' Speaking to The Sun on behalf of WhichBingo, Jake said: "When I go round his house, he doesn't let me sleep in, in a different bed, he makes me sleep in his room. "He gets separation anxiety if you leave him for like 2 minutes, he can't do anything by himself. Tell us now', demand Celebrity Big Brother fans as JoJo teases off-camera conversation with 'special' Chris Hughes "When I was watching last night and he's cut his foot and he's like to Jojo 'oh will you come help me?' That's exactly what he'd say to me. "I'd be like 'oh mate, come with me. You're an adult, go by yourself. "But that's what he's like, he's touchy feely, he's flirty. And he flirts with me just as much "Honestly would have not had a clue who Jojo was. His best mate is a horse - all he does is talk about horses, go golfing and watch sport on TV." In tonight's episode, fans were convinced that JoJo's relationship is on the rocks after spotting a "snub" in partner's letter from home. JoJo's note was from her mum, Jess - but included a message from the Dance Moms star's parter Kath. JoJo had Chris read her letter from her mum. He read to the group: 'Hi JoJo, we're having so much fun watching you in the Big Brother house. "The most important thing to tell you is a message from Kath because I know you really miss them the most. 'Kath's keen to see you when you get out'...' "I've had so much fun with Kath whilst you're away, we've had lots of phone calls and Facetimes and they even came to my house to watch the launch of the show. "I'm happy you're making such good friends and I'm happy you've chosen to see the good in everyone in the house." But despite the excitement of receiving letters, JoJo appeared to take issue with hers. JoJo said in the Diary Room: 'I think I've tried to keep myself distracted from missing sweet Kath. "I said goodbye to them at the airport and it was a really hard goodbye. 'And then they were the last person I talked to before I gave up my phone for the Big Brother house. "God, I love that little sucker. I do.' JoJo continued: 'I do have beef to pick with them though, they didn't even say in the note that they love me. 'I will not let them live that down. I will say, 'where was my 'hi sweetheart', where was my 'I love you' where was my 'I miss you'?'. 'Like happy you're keen to see me when I get out of here, keen to see you as well, but come on baba, give me a little something something.' Viewers raced to their X/Twitter platform to say they're convinced JoJo's partner Kath is furious at her. One shared a meme of pop star Adele looking annoyed and wrote: "JoJo's partner sat at home right now like 'me? The drama?" A second posted a picture of furious looking Patsy Palmer from her CBB exit interview and quipped: "JoJo's partner watching Chris read out the cryptic message about him." A third commented: "If ITV are truly on it, they should bring out JoJo's partner for the finals." A fourth said: "JoJo after hearing that her girlfriend is 'keen' to see her..." Over the past few weeks, JoJo and Chris have grown close and enjoyed a string of intimate moments. It comes as a source told The Sun: ' JoJo and Chris have been the talking point of the series, with the 'will-they won't-they' narrative. 'Even if it's purely platonic, as they claim, fans are convinced Kath must be furious about the endless physical contact, at least. As the pair's friendship has developed, they have been seen sharing a bed, writing secret messages on one another, and cuddling on the sofa. Chris has even offered to have JoJo's babies, despite the singer having a partner on the outside. 4
