Travel Desk

The hunt for the UK’s best fish and chip shop 2027 is on and there are 40 potential winners, as the shops near you make the shortlist and standout amongst thousands

More than 40 chippies have been named on the National Fish and Chip Awards longlist, as they battle it out to be winners of the National Fish & Chip Awards for 2027.

There are contenders in almost every county, from the seaside to small villages and big cities; the UK is home to an array of tasty chippies.

This lineup of fish and chip shops has impressed the judges, scoring ‘outstanding’ across a number of categories, including food quality, customer service, industry expertise and commitment to sustainability.

Selected from entries across the UK, the businesses in the longlist have impressed judges with their products, service and ability to represent fish and chip-loving communities up and down the country.

In their 39th year of awards, they continue to recognise greatness in the food world, across 14 categories, which includes the highly contested Restaurant of the Year.

The current Takeaway of the Year titleholder, Aman Dhesi, co-owner of The Scrap Box in York, Yorkshire, shared what his win meant to him last year.

He said: “More than six months on from winning, we’re still seeing the impact of the award. It gave the business a huge boost, as did reaching the top 10 the year before, but probably the biggest thing has been the opportunities it’s opened up for us outside the shop, from media and travel to meeting people across the industry and getting involved in some really exciting projects.

“For those in the top 40, I’d say enjoy the process and make the most of it. The awards journey really makes you look closely at your own business – what you do well, what makes you different and where you can still improve.

“We learned a huge amount through the process before we ever won. And don’t try to second-guess what the judges want. Be proud of what makes your shop yours and tell that story.”

The next stage will narrow this number down to 20 in the semi-finals, before the top 10 is revealed for 2027.

The shortlist for the 40 best Fish and Chip takeaways in the UK:

Bristol

Bishopston Fish Bar

Jolly Fryer

Devon

Chippies Plaice, Newton Abbot

Taffs Fish and Chips, Torrington

Dorset

Somewhere Else Fishy, Sherborne

Essex

The Hook of Halstead

Greater Manchester

Taylors, Stockport

Hampshire

Berties, New Milton

Best Fry, Southampton

Mike’s Traditional Fish and Chips, Eastleigh

Mister Pink’s, Milford-on-Sea

Hertfordshire

The Corner Plaice, Rickmansworth

Lancashire

The Cottage, Blackpool

Lincolnshire

Catch 22, Tattershall

Linfords Fish and Chips, Market Deeping

Pips Chips, Cleethorpes

London

Chipping Wharf Fish & Chips, Bow

Fish! Kitchen, Southwark

Skipjacks, Harrow

Merseyside

The Good Catch (Freshfield), Liverpool

Norfolk

Grosvenor Fish Bar, Norwich

Nottinghamshire

Angell’s Fisheries, Newark

Oxfordshire

Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co., Oxford

Somerset

Knights Fish Restaurant, Glastonbury

Suffolk

Tulula’s Fish & Chips, Halesworth

Surrey

The Hake, Weybridge

Seafare Guildford

Yorkshire

The Fish Bank, Sherburn-in-Elmet

Northern Ireland

County Antrim

Browns Award Winning Fish and Chips, Belfast

Merchant Fish and Chips, Ballymena

County Down

The Frying Squad (Balloo), Bangor

McCann’s Fish & Chips, Newcastle

Scotland

Aberdeenshire

Garioch Fish Bar, Inverurie

Lows Traditional Fish & Chips (Westhill), Aberdeen

Ayrshire

Enzo’s Fish and Chips, Irvine

The Fish Works, Largs

Inverness-shire

Hilton Chip Shop, Inverness

Monster Fish & Chips Co., Fort Augustus

Wales

Powys

Hennighan’s Fish & Chips Bottom Shop, Machynlleth

Vale of Glamorgan

Farnhams Fish and Chips (Boverton), Llantwit Major

The moon is an impostor. Swimming backstroke beneath its surface, I look up at craggy hollows in close relief. White rock undulates in all directions, a forest of peaks rising next to a desert of craters. Every time I trick myself into thinking I’m somewhere celestial, the sound of children splashing brings me back to earth.

This is no lunar landscape but Helsinki’s underground swimming hall, excavated from granite bedrock and officially opened in 1993. These days, Itäkeskus uimahalli is one of the Finnish capital’s most visited leisure facilities, welcoming 400,000 people a year. Local people mingle with tourists, I will discover, during a week exploring Helsinki’s subterranean metropolis.

My visit was one of 12 research trips I made over three years to better understand how cities are being reimagined. It turned into a book, How to Build a City, for which I travelled to locations that are testing the frontiers of urban living in response to an increasingly uncertain world.

Many global cities feature a version below ground, but Helsinki’s is thought to be the only one transformed for peace. As urbanisation increased the population, a more efficient solution was needed for heating plants and telecoms cables. You could scatter them around in expensive pockets of land, digging up the streets and sacrificing parks. Or you could tuck them away beneath ground level, by adding to bomb shelters first carved out during the second world war.

And that’s what Helsinki did. By 2010, its city council approved the world’s first officially masterplanned underground city, home to hundreds of vast human-made caves and tunnels up to 90 metres deep. Itäkeskus pool was opened 17 years before this space allocation plan was approved.

In peacetime, the caves function as shopping malls, playgrounds, a go-karting track and subway stations, all connected by almost 200 miles (293km) of tunnels. In the event of war, however, each can be transformed into a bomb shelter, part of a network capable of accommodating 900,000 Finns.

Itäkeskus swimming hall alone could house almost 4,000 people. In less than 48 hours it can be drained and fitted with decontamination showers. For the rest of the time, there are no clues as to its defence nature. Only the comforting hallmarks of the public pool: the tang of chlorine in my nose and the warmth that cloaked my skin.

I arrived in Helsinki on the morning of the spring solstice, although the ground was still dusted with greying snow and I was grateful for the heated carriages on my 25-minute Metro ride from the city centre. At Itäkeskus station, past a school surrounded by Soviet-style tower blocks, silver birches trailed bare branches over cars. From the outside, a municipal glass building gave an uninspiring welcome, but inside, I found a different world entirely.

A broad staircase swept me down steeply, framed by rocky, whitewashed walls. After paying (entry to all four of Helsinki’s public swimming halls is €6 for adults and €3.30 for children, making it popular with families as well as budget-conscious travellers), I disrobed in changing rooms spun off from a cathedral-tall granite core. Signs were in Finnish, but the space was easy for non-natives to navigate. Staff spoke excellent English.

At one side of the colossal hangar, men grimaced as they lowered themselves into a triangle of freezing water. On the other, a postmodern dreamscape was revealed, a large pool lined in lavender, canary yellow and burgundy tiles, with huge plastic triangles in cerulean and lilac suspended overhead. The only windows were set into a lifeguard’s tower next to a waterfall that filled the air with the roar of water in motion.

Swimming under the ersatz moon was an otherworldly experience. After 50 lengths, I’d earned my reward. Included in the entry fee is access to a gym, which I did not visit, plus a hot tub, steam room and two saunas, which I did. A graphic on the door showed a swimming costume crossed out in red and I gingerly removed mine, sliding into place on the bench and reminding myself that prudishness is a uniquely British affliction. Inside, it was so dark I could barely make out other bodies. The low light created the effect of a confession booth.

Around me, conversations bubbled in Finnish, American English and German. The quotidian details of living emerged. I joined in, asking a stranger for dinner recommendations and whether I should brave the plunge pool. If you don’t dwell on it, you could forget the true purpose of this place.

It was something I kept returning to over the following days as I wandered through experimental installations at Helsinki’s underground art museum Amos Rex (from €20; children go free), whose antennae-like skylights popped up on concrete stalks from the pavement near the chichi shopping district of Kluuvi. And in the Töölö neighbourhood’s exquisite Temppeliaukio church (€8; children go free), half-buried in a giant mound of rock.

All were examples of a supremely responsive city. All were bomb shelters, too. Evidence that you can design for the future with verve and beauty. Helsinki shows it is possible to do it all.

How to Build a City: Journeys into the Urban Future by Gabriella Bennett is published by Headline (£25). To support the Guardian buy a copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.

Conceived by owner Heidi Ledger as a showcase for small independent makers, including women in particular, Thread Spun is a sunny, inviting retail space offering fair trade apparel, home goods, accessories and gifts from around the world.

Inside, you’ll find plenty of great gifts for others — or yourself — including Los Angeles women-owned brands such as Amente clothing, Flowerhead Tea, hand-poured candles from Roen Candle Co. and Jessica Gonzalez’s playful asparagus-shaped candles for Happy Organics.

Grab a cold drink while you shop — visiting on a hot day, I appreciated that they offered refrigerated drinks for sale — while perusing a wide assortment of cards, books, apothecary gifts and jewelry.

The boutique also offers creative workshops for the local community on the back patio, including sewing, upcycling, journaling and, fittingly, the art of making sun catchers to brighten your home.

Around Encinitas: The boutique opened here in 2020, right next to 101 Piercing, Child of Wild jewelry and Leucadia Floral and Plant, known for its great selection of houseplants and fresh flowers. If you head farther down North Coast Highway 101, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, surf shops and coffee houses, including the longtime favorite, Pannikin Coffee and Tea.

NOT sure where to head on holiday next year? Well, you’re in luck because the best places to travel to in 2027 have just been named.

Each year Lonely Planet releases its Best In Travel list highlighting amazing destinations around the globe – from beach-filled islands to mountainous coasts.

The list, which features 50 destinations and experiences, is selected by a global community of experts.

And this year, one UK spot has been featured on the experience list – walking St Cuthbert’s Way in the Scottish Borders.

The 62-mile walk stretches between Melrose and Lindisfarne, heading over the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders and through Northumberland.

Along the way, there are a number of hillforts to see as well as village pubs to stop at for a tipple, before heading across to Holy Island.

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Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitBritain/VisitEngland, said: “It is wonderful to see St Cuthbert’s Way recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the best experiences in the world to enjoy in 2027.

“Britain is blessed with so many breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines and remarkable history and heritage that it is fitting that a trail, which effortlessly combines all three, has received such a glowing endorsement by global travel experts.”

As for the best places to go in the world next year, several destinations in Europe made it onto the list including The Veneto, Italy.

The Veneto region spans a large area and includes popular Italian spots such as Venice and Lake Garda, but it also includes smaller cities like Verona and Padua.

Another sunny spot on the list is Šibenik, in Croatia – a small Adriatic city with a number of vibrant festivals throughout the year as well as a white stone palace dating back to the 14th century.

Of course, Spain made it onto the list with Leon, in the north of the country.

Unlike more popular Spanish retreats, the medieval city of Leon benefits from fewer visitors and crowds, but heaps of Gothic architecture and history – as well as 29C weather in September.

Though, if you wanted to head somewhere completely different to where you have been before, venture to Skanör and Falsterbo, in Sweden, also known as the Swedish Riviera.

These two towns are linked by a bridge and can easily be explored together

Make sure to look out for the colourful beach huts as well as take a dip in the calm, shallow waters.

Plenty of long-haul destinations were named on the list too, including Quebec in Canada .

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding, who has previously visited, said: “When people ask me where I would recommend travelling to – which is a lot – I always instantly reply Quebec.

“This charming French-Canadian city feels like stepping into a fairytale, even with its own castle on the hill – which is actually Chateau de Frontenac Hotel.

“The city is easily explored on foot and is a great base for exploring the wider Quebec region with waterfalls, dense forests and pretty towns.”

If it is white beaches you are after, Fulidhoo in the Maldives also featured on the list.

Fulidhoo is actually one of the Maldives’ non-resort islands, which means you won’t see commercialisation or tourist traps.

Instead, white sand beaches sit at the edge of the island boasting crystal clear waters with stingrays and nurse sharks.

Or for a different island, Montserrat, which according to Lonely Planet is “one of the Caribbean’s most overlooked islands, with emerald-green peaks, black-sand beaches, and a fascinating history shaped by volcanic fire”.

Fancy exploring somewhere in America? Then head to the Northern California Coast and see its Redwoods.

Coast Redwoods are the tallest trees in the world and along the Northern Californian Coast they grow in many different spots including Humboldt Redwoods and Jedediah State Parks.

Sticking to the forest theme, you could visit Monteverde’s cloud forest, in Costa Rica, where the trees are surrounded by a fairytale-like mist caused by warm winds from the Caribbean meeting the cooler air of the mountains.

Or for a safari, visit Tsavo East and West National Parks in Kenya with massive savannahs where elephant herds roam freely and Yatta Plateau – the world’s longest lava flow.

When it comes to other great experiences across the globe, Lonely Planet recommends barhopping Miami’s South Beach hotels, where in addition to sunny, sandy beaches you will find the city’s iconic Art Deco hotels.

For something a little closer to home, in Italy, sailing the Aeolian Islands also made the list.

These little-known UNESCO-listed islands feature rugged coasts but also have crystal clear waters.

Or live out your Mamma Mia dream in Greece by diving into Poseidon’s underwater world with wrecks and hidden caves.

CENTER Parcs has become the first holiday operator to begin the roll out of new sensory libraries at all of its villages to cater for families with neurodivergent children.

Collaborating with specialist SEN consultancy SENNIES, it has officially opened its sensory library at its Elveden Forest village, where families will be allowed to borrow items for free during their stay.

Products such as noise-reducing ear defenders, wipe-clean boards, calming lights, fidget toys, feelings wheels, visual timers and pop tubes will be available for families to choose from.

The short break provider plans to roll out libraries at all of its villages by 2028.

It follows research of 500 parents and legal guardians of neurodivergent children and those with additional needs, which revealed 80 per cent take a destination’s ability to meet their child’s individual needs into account when deciding where to go.

A further 80 per cent said busy or crowded environments can be challenging for their child, with 75 per cent sometimes avoiding activities or facilities entirely because they prove overwhelming.

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Georgia Sargeant, CEO and founder at SENNIES, speaking in partnership with Center Parcs, said: “No two neurodivergent children are the same, so there is no single adjustment that works for every family.

“What matters is choice, a considered range of options from sensory resources and communication aids through to support for self-regulation and co-regulation, so a family can pick what works for their child that day.

“This library turns families’ feedback into practical support and shows how holiday providers can respond meaningfully to changing needs.”

The decision to launch the library comes as 44 per cent of parents polled said many holiday providers don’t offer adequate provisions for their children.

With 70 per cent agreeing further support is needed for neurodivergent children and kids with additional needs.

It emerged 72 per cent of mums and dads bring sensory equipment or comfort items from home on every or most trips.

And 68 per cent said access to sensory and accessibility aids at their destination would improve the holiday experience for their child.

While a further 68 per cent also said if they could obtain a variety of sensory items to loan for the duration of their getaway, it would help their family feel more supported.

Department for Education figures show more than 1.8 million pupils in England now have special educational needs – this is an increase of 5.2 per cent in a year.

And it has seen NHS assessment waitlists reach more than 240,000.

While the Children’s Commissioner’s latest annual briefing found children’s referrals, involving suspected autism, rose 47 per cent in a single year.

And neurodevelopmental referrals increased by 24 per cent.

Richie Williams, village director at Center Parcs Elveden Forest, said: “The number of families looking for more thoughtful, practical support is growing.

“This pilot is the beginning of a journey, and we will listen closely to families using it and learn from their feedback as we consider what comes next and a future rollout to other villages.”

THE UK’s biggest waterpark is about to be the best place to start your weekend.

Sandcastle Waterpark, which is the largest and recently voted best in the country will be open for more hours of fun on Friday evenings.

The Blackpool waterpark has launched its Friday Night Splash event, so now you can spend your evening on its 18 slides and in the swimming pool.

Usually the waterpark is open is until 2:30pm in the week and 4pm on the weekends.

But the new Friday sessions will let you visit from 4pm until 8pm, for a post-work splash before the weekend.

The tropical waterpark, which is always heated to 28C, has something for everyone whether you’re after family-friendly splash zones or thrilling flumes.

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There are 18 slides in total, and those wanting to try out the speedy rides should head to The Master Blaster which is described as “white knuckle”.

There’s also Sidewinder, the world’s first indoor half-pipe waterslide and Montazooma, a high-speed ride with hairpin bends and 360 degree helixes on the way from top to bottom.

For families, head to Thunderfalls, which are two twisting waterslides for side-by-side racing.

There are also treehouses and forts for kids to play in and that’s where you’ll find the country’s biggest water cannon.

The slower moving Ushi Gushi River Creek is the lazy river ride while the Typhoon Lagoon is the waterpark’s huge wave pool.

While the kids are splashing about, adults can escape to the Sea Breeze Spa for an extra £7 to unwind in the sauna, steam room, and aromatherapy lounge.

For the ultimate VIP day out, the £60 Tiki Cabana package gets you park entry, lunch and soft drinks, spa access, and the private retreat comes with a TV and hot tub.

Tickets to the waterpark for a three-hour session costs from £25.50 per person over the age of eight (if booked in advance).

Tickets for kids between three and seven-years-old cost from £16.50 per person and children under three go free.

The waterpark is two minutes from Blackpool Pleasure Beach – so it’s easy to make a day out of it and see all the attractions.

The main season runs until October 31, with opening dates from Wednesday to Sunday – this drops down to just weekends after this.

For even more of the UK’s tropical indoor waterparks – check out these ones which have tickets from £2.50.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding recently visited the waterpark…

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding recently visited Sandcastle and gave her verdict…

She said: “Sandcastle Waterpark in Blackpool is kept at a toasty 29C and has more than 18 waterslides and attractions.

“The real gem of the show is the adult-only spa, hidden in plain sight in the middle of the waterpark.

“You’ll have to pay an extra £7.50 per person to enter the Sea Breeze Spa but it is well worth the money.

“When I visited it was quiet, with only one or two other people using the area, compared to the packed waterpark surrounding it.

“Dipping in and out of the saunas and steam room was the ideal way to relax.

“I spent half an hour in the salt inhalation room allowing my lungs to fill with warm, salty air and calm my nervous system.

“There’s Sidewinder too, which is the world’s first indoor vertical drop slide.

“Hovering over the edge of the half-pipe, butterflies flittered around my stomach anticipating the drop.

“Before I knew it, I was tipped over the edge in my rubber ring, dropping metres down before being propelled up the other side of the pipe.

“After, I ambled over to Aztec Falls, where in a rubber ring I dropped into a pitch-black bowl, swirling around like I was inside a waterfall.“

This city is a favourite among trendy, wealthy people – but I don’t see the charm.

I have been lucky enough to see a fair amount of the world not only in my role as a travel reporter, but also in my own time. However, after spending a long weekend in this popular European city I have finally discovered a place I will never return to.

Berlin is beloved by trendy east Londoners who pretend they don’t have a double barrelled surname and a trust fund. The city is full of even trendier Berliners who pretend they don’t have any interest in being cool, whilst still trying as hard as possible to appear so.

I have visited before and found the city grey, utilitarian, dirty and ugly. At the time I had a friend living there who told me the city would “eat you alive” if you let it – and I believed him.

I spent a weekend there and over those two days I stood in human faeces whilst walking through a park, watched people urinate in the U-Bahn, saw one man vomit and another man sit in it.

I was hounded by wasps for every hour of the day, and shady characters for every hour of the night.

I didn’t get eaten alive, but by the time I flew out of the city morale was low. I spent the next seven years vowing I would never return – but a twist of circumstance saw me packing my bags last Friday to spend another long weekend in Berlin.

My friends were visiting Europe from New Zealand, and the only weekend I had free time to see them was the weekend they were in Berlin, so I decided I’d give it another go. I was hoping my initial impression of the city had been wrong, and that my return trip would show me the real side of the city

Whether real or not, the side I saw was not to my liking.

The city was still as utilitarian and grey as I remembered. We stayed in Neukölln, a trendy artistic neighbourhood with plenty of coffee shops, späti (like off-licences but with seats outside to sit and enjoy a beer) and vintage shops. These are all my favourite things, but Berlin’s version of them was tinted with the greasy pallid feeling you get after a night out that has gone on several hours too long.

My least favourite thing about Berlin however, is the wasps. In late summer, they have reached peak population and ruin the city’s outdoor spaces. Sitting outside to enjoy a brunch, coffee or a pint becomes a feat of endurance as these angry insects swarm you, fall inside your pints, try to crawl inside your nose and mouth and generally make a nuisance of themselves. It’s also illegal to kill them, as they are protected under the Wildlife Act.

Over the three days I was there I had two of them die in my beer, and four of them make my £7 donut inedible.

My Berlin weekend was not all bad. I did find an amazing coffee shop near our accommodation called Leuchtstoff Kaffeebar. The coffee was delicious – perhaps the best I’ve had since I left New Zealand two years ago, and I enjoyed a Bircher Muesli that set me up perfectly for my day of wandering the city.

The café also serves pastries, and had a very cool mezzanine that you could climb up to via a ladder.

I also visited the Jewish Museum in Kreuzberg. Admission is free, and the building is truly something to behold. It uses architecture and art installations to create a feeling of absence and highlight the huge loss felt by the community as a result of the millions murdered during the Holocaust.

A large section of the building is below ground, with multi-media installations and plenty of information about the history of Judaism and their persecution in Germany. It was a sombre afternoon, but definitely worth a visit if you are in the city,

Despite finding a few things I liked about Berlin, overall my sense of the city was that it is without whimsy. I won’t say it’s soulless – but the soul it possesses is not one I care to find out more about.

Finding cheap holidays during the school holidays may feel like an impossible task for parents but according to one travel pro there are some easy tricks that could help

When it comes to cheap holidays, most parents have already resigned themselves to the fact that prices surge during school holiday dates – but according to one travel expert, there are some minor tweaks that could actually help families save money on their next getway.

Mum-of-two and avid traveller Jen Carr has built up a following of over 349,000 on Instagram where she shares her top tips for finding cheap family travel deals.

While the peak holiday season comes with inevitably higher prices, according to Jen just changing the dates of travel by a few days could mean you save hundreds of pounds, without having to take the kids out of school during term time.

“Booking at the end of summer,” she told the Mirror exclusively. “It’s so much cheaper to go the last week of August compared to the first week of August. I guess that’s just because demand’s probably a lot less. Nobody really wants to get back off holiday the day before the kids go back to school, but if you’re willing to do that, it is a lot cheaper.”

It’s not a hack that’s specific to summer holidays either, as Jen recommended considering dates for the upcoming October half term. She added: “If, for example, in the October half term you fly three days before half term starts, you’re going to save literally hundreds of pounds. So I mean, it’s just how much you want/appreciate that attendance!”

Of course it’s worth noting that parents who do consider taking their kids out of a school for a few extra days may need to check their school’s policy on absences of this nature, or they could risk being fined per child. Currently the fine for school absences around the UK are £80 if paid within 21 days, but this can go up to £160 if paid within 28 days. This is for unauthorised absences; if you can get permission from the school for the absence, then you won’t be fined.

As for the best destinations where families can get more bang for their buck? Jen suggested that while the major hotspots are popular for a reason, there are some alternatives that deliver the same levels of experience but without the hefty price tags.

She explained: “There are destinations that are a lot cheaper than others and it seems to kind of go on a bit of a cycle with what’s popular. But places like Menorca and Majorca and Ibiza are always going to be a lot more expensive than somewhere like Agadir in Morocco, but you’re still getting the beach, the pool, holiday vibes and the sunshine. Go where the destinations are cheaper, and that does seem to change year-on-year. I’m sure next year Agadir will be really expensive, but this year it’s been really good value, all-inclusive.”

Speaking about further alternatives, Jen urged parents not to discount the likes of a city break; in fact, she herself enjoyed a family trip to Paris earlier this year, and said that both the kids and grown-ups had a brilliant time. She added: “I think it’s about knowing where to look. It’s, a like-for-like holiday is going to be more expensive in the school holidays. I guess it’s just being a bit more flexible and thinking, ‘Okay, well, it’s the August summer holidays. Do we need to go to Menorca for a week all-inclusive or could we maybe go for a road trip around Austria?’ Because it’s going to be a lot cheaper to do something a bit more off-piste.”

• Jen Carr, family travel expert and founder of The Travel Mum, shares the best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week. Jen’s new book ‘Yes You Can Travel With Kids’ is available now.

IF you’re looking for spot for your next holiday that is almost too perfect to be real – we’ve found just the one.

The huge four-bedroom villa has a private heated pool, outdoor hot tub, barbecue and it’s all set right in front of towering Croatian mountains.

Villa Agava is on the Dalmatian coast in Croatia and is so flawless that visitors have said it looks fake.

In one review one visitor wrote “the villa itself does not look real. It’s so immaculate that it looks like Ai has generated it. but it is real.”

Another added: “Lovely stay, thank you for having us. Everything we needed and more. On arrival it was nice to meet you and the villa was spotless.”

Others described it as “exceptional” and “perfect”.

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The villa can sleep up to eight people in four bedrooms and has five bathrooms.

Outside is where you’ll find the private, heated swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, deck chairs, and three sun umbrellas.

There’s also an outdoor shower, covered outdoor dining area so you can enjoy meals al fresco – and there’s a barbecue.

There are additional extras which aren’t included in the price, but you can opt for include a culinary experience with an in-villa private chef.

Try out an in-villa massage by a professional masseuse, go on a sailing experience or boat tour in the middle Dalmatian coast.

The best news is that it can be booked £38pppn on Airbnb.

A seven-night stay between April 12-19 between for eight guests is £2,154.

Booking are available from April 2027 until the end of October when it closes for the season.

From early spring, temperatures can sit as high as 20C and in the summer it can be as hot as 30C.

For some exploration further afield, the villa’s closest town is Omiš, and the Omiš Riviera has both sandy and pebble beaches.

The Omiš and Cetina River has high-octane activities like rafting, zip-lining, and water sports on the river.

From there visitors can also head over to the island of Brač which is often considered “Croatia’s best-kept secret”.

It has beautiful beaches including Zlatni Rat Beach which is a favourite amongst locals.

Zlatni Rat Beach has an unusually shaped sandbar and quiet coves scattered around, so it’s a must-visit.

It’s around a 42-minute drive away from Split.

A BEAUTIFUL archipelago in the Indian Ocean is set to become a much bigger holiday destination for Brits next year.

Zanzibar is often dubbed a Maldives-alternative thanks to its beautiful blue waters, white-sand beaches and high winter temperatures.

The fact that it rarely drops below 25C and can remain above 33C throughout winter is set to draw Brits in.

The best news is that flights from three different airlines will launch next year – some of which are direct and will take around nine hours.

TUI announced that from 2027 it will launch direct flights from the UK to Zanzibar – and it will open up holiday packages too.

This is the first time there will ever be direct flights to Zanzibar, with most Brits having to change in places like Dubai.

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Flights will operate from London Gatwick twice a week from November 3, 2027, until March 22, 2028.

It has new hotels too – including The Mora Zanzibar, which opened in spring 2024.

Air Tanzania will launch direct flights next year too – these will operate three times a week from London Gatwick starting in July 2027.

British Airways recently announced it would also be launching new routes to Tanzania.

These will take off from London Gatwick Airport and head to Kilimanjaro before heading onto Zanzibar.

The route launches on May 29 and flights will run for the season until October 31 – return flight prices start from £849.

The time difference is small too, currently being two hours ahead of the UK so unlike a lot of far-flung islands, there’s no jet lag.

As for what you’ll find there, Zanzibar is known for having a beautiful coastline with soft sandy beaches.

Some of the best include Kendwa Beach which previously ranked the fourth-best beach in the world and number one in Africa by Big 7 Travel.

Nungwi Beach is perfect for all-day swimming, while Paje and Jambiani are known for their world-class kitesurfing and lagoons.

It’s not all coastal, explore the city too – the capital of Zanzibar is Zanzibar City, which is made of two parts, Stone Town and Ng’ambo, which were historically divided by a creek.

The newer portion of the city is known as Ng’ambo, Swahili for ‘the other side’.

Meanwhile, Stone Town is the historic side where you’ll find the Old Fort, Christ Church Cathedral — the oldest church in East Africa, and the Sultan’s Palace.

Stone Town was also the birthplace of Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury.

Zanzibar is also nicknamed Spice Island thanks to its Indian and African influences – if you want to pick some up yourself, head to Darajani Bazaar.

Zanzibar isn’t a particularly expensive place either as, according to Wise, a beer can cost as little as £1 and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can start from £3.54.

A TRAVEL company that fell into administration earlier this year has been saved.

Groupia Ltd, which sells stag do holidays and company away days, has been acquired by Cheshire-based Funktion Leisure.

Known for their golf trips, hen and stag dos, spa breaks and tours, the company opened back in 2002 and since, more than 750,000 travellers have travelled with the company.

The site is now up and running again with different holidays and getaways on offer.

For example, you could book a trip to Friendsfest in Bournemouth from £249 per person, including two nights accommodation, hot tub access, a silent disco and a locally sourced BBQ hamper.

Or for £319 per person, you could book a spa experience in Barcelona with a hummer pick up from the airport.

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The company fell into administration back in June after 24 years in business.

Funktion Events managing director Jay Broughton said: “We acquired GoHen and StagWeb out of administration because they’re two of the strongest names in UK hen and stag travel, with more than 750,000 customers between them since 2002.

“Both are back open and taking bookings, and early demand since the relaunch has been really encouraging, which tells us the appetite for these brands never went away.”

On the company’s website, it also added that over the coming months it will focus on investing in the sites and services.

Funktion Events has arranged more than 55,000 hen parties and 12,000 stag weekends since 2007.

The company has also organised thousands of corporate and team-building events.

A FERRY route connecting England to France is being scrapped earlier than planned after running for 13 years.

The vital transport link, which has been taking passengers across the channel since 2013, was set to be axed at the end of September.

However, the Brittany Ferries route between Portsmouth and Le Havre in France is being stopped earlier than planned.

The scrapping of the ferry route was initially given the green light due to financial challenges, with September 28 outlined as its final sailing date.

However, the service has been forced to retire early, due to technical issues with the Brittany Ferries Commodore Clipper vessel.

In a statement, the company confirmed that the final voyages would not be made and apologised to passengers.

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A Brittany Ferries spokesperson said: “We apologise to all affected customers, and are sorry that the route can’t complete its final sailings; we know many had hoped to be part of them.

“It has been a pleasure for all at Brittany Ferries to link Portsmouth and Le Havre since 2013.”

The statement continued: “The current economic context means the route is no longer viable and, sadly, we have had to make the difficult decision to close it.”

The cuts to various Brittany Ferries routes were announced back in June.

The business explained that it was having to “adapt” and “plan for a secure future” after facing a bill of €27 million in 2026.

Brittany Ferries also confirmed the end of its Poole to Cherbourg service, which will set sail for a final time on October 31.

This particular ferry route has been in operation, in either a passenger or freight capacity, for over 50 years.

The Poole to Cherbourg route is set to be replaced by a daily service from Portsmouth to Cherbourg, which will begin in November, as part of a “more efficient” schedule.

If you’re already dreaming about your next getaway, then you’re in luck, as the best places for 2027 have been named by Lonely Planet, and there’s a lesser-known Spanish city that warrants attention

We’re all familiar with the Spanish hotspots of Madrid, Barcelona, Ibiza and Palma, but there’s a lesser-known destination worth putting on your radar. Often missed by tourists, Lonely Planet has hailed a Spanish city as the best place for 2027, with blissfully few crowds and free tapas under the Mediterranean sun.

It’s not too early to start thinking about your holiday plans for next year, and now just might be the best time, as Lonely Planet has released its ‘Best in Travel’ list, highlighting the top worldwide destinations to visit in 2027. Among their top 24, five underrated European spots made the list, including the beautiful city of León in Spain.

Sitting along the Bernesga River in northern Spain, León is brimming with whimsical architecture, a vibrant old quarter, and a welcoming free-tapas culture. Crowned as one of the best places to visit next year, Lonely Planet noted: “Located in northern Spain, off the traditional tourist radar, it is one of the country’s most evocative medieval cities, combining magnificent Gothic architecture, centuries of history and a lively contemporary spirit.”

Among its striking French-style Gothic landmarks is the majestic 13th-century León Cathedral, known as Pulchra Leonina, meaning ‘the Leonese beauty’ or ‘the House of Light’. It has more than 1,800 square meters of stained glass across 125 windows, along with intricate stone carvings and towering spires, leaving visitors in awe.

One traveller shared on TripAdvisor earlier this month: “This is an extraordinarily beautiful cathedral. The many stained glass windows create a unique ambience in the cathedral. It is an inspiring space for prayer. Take time to attend Mass so that you can just immerse in the beauty of the space.”

A second commented: “A real jewel in a city a little neglected by tourism. A Gothic marvel at the level of Reims Cathedral. And in addition to the splendid stained glass windows and an incredible atmosphere. The museum is also very rich. Worth the trip.” While one more exclaimed, “I think it’s the most spectacular cathedral I’ve ever seen. It’s worth paying to see.”

In the heart of the Spanish city sits the ancient Barrio Húmedo district, packed with more than 100 bars and a legendary free-tapas culture, where Leonese bars automatically serve a hearty free tapa, from croquetas and patatas bravas to stews, with every drink ordered, whether it’s a local wine or a small beer. The quarter comes alive with locals gathering for drinks and traditional Leonese cuisine, alongside a thriving nightlife scene.

Furthermore, the city is home to the Catholic church, the Basílica de San Isidoro, often referred to as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Romanesque art’, which is interestingly located on the site of an ancient Roman temple. The Casa Botines museum is another standout landmark with its fairy-tale design, and it houses a collection of Spanish art dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries.

Yet, there’s plenty to explore in León simply by wandering its narrow lanes and past medieval stone walls, with plenty of authentic espresso bars dotted around the city alongside trendy restaurants and cosy tapas bars serving up the best of Spanish cuisine. There are serene parks and gardens nestled along the river for gentle strolls and to soak up the sun during the warmer months, as well as outdoor terraces offering picturesque views over the unsung Spanish city.

Offering a closer insight into León, writer and traveller Mark Eveleigh told Lonely Planet: “By day, you’ll encounter a city with its roots firmly planted in the soil of northern Castilla, with its grand monuments, Catholic heritage and access to the Camino de Santiago. By night, León is taken over by a deep-into-the-night soundtrack of revelry that floods the narrow streets and plazas of the picturesque old quarter. Two cities in one.”

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

BRITAIN’S oldest Lido has vowed to “definitely reopen” after being left to rot.

The historic swimming facility has been closed for over two years, despite receiving a £9.3million makeover.

Cleveland Baths, first opened in 1815 and is the oldest of its kind to exist in the UK, but closed in 1984.

A huge campaign and a mulit-million pound refurbishment saw it reopen for just four months in 2023 before it was forced to close again due to flood damage.

But now trustees have promised to reopen the 200-year old pool, telling the BBC it is “moving as quickly and responsibly” as possible

It’s definitely going to happen,” Peter Askew, chair of Cleveland Pools Trust, told the outlet.

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The trust has set out a timetable that includes a consultation and more fundraising, with repair works restarting in 2028.

In January 2024, the River Avon burst its banks and destroyed the facility.

A subsequent investigation revealed mechanical and structural damage.

“The first is that floodwater entered the door of the plant room.

“And then, secondly, in the process of emptying the pool of floodwater, the groundwater level wasn’t properly managed, and that led to further damage,” Peter explained.

It comes as just a few weeks back, the lido welcomed visitors to the grounds to take a rake peak at pool.

At the time, visitors were able to meet the trustees and volunteers to hear about their vision for the site, but could not swim.

ONE airline has scrapped two of its routes to New York for the winter season – including one from London.

As a result, there will just be one remaining transatlantic route from the UK.

Norse Atlantic Airways has removed its planned flights to New York from its winter schedule from both London Gatwick and Rome airports.

Data from OAG Schedules Analyser revealed that Norse had planned for 41,600 two-way seats on routes to New York (JFK) from London Gatwick and Rome Fiumicino Airport during the winter 2026-27 season.

Each was scheduled to operate as many as three-weekly flights.

The latest schedules reveal that these routes will continue through the rest of the summer season – but regular service will end from late October.

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On its website, the last date to fly from London Gatwick to or from New York City with Norse is on October 24.

Without these two routes, the only transatlantic service from Norse during the winter is between London Gatwick and Orlando.

Their withdrawal leaves Norse without New York service during the winter and sees London Gatwick-Orlando as its only scheduled transatlantic route during the season.

According to Aviation Weekly, the airline’s planned winter network has been reduced by around 105,500 seats.

The two New York routes account for about 83,200 of the seats removed.

From London, passengers with Norse can still fly to Bangkok, Phuket and Cape Town.

The airline also launched the Thailand service from Manchester Airport in November 2025 with one flight a week.

Due to the huge demand, this will increase to four times a week from December 5, 2026 to April 18, 2027.

Flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and start from £254 one way.

RYANAIR has announced that it is cutting more than half a million seats to two European countries before the end of this year.

The budget airline will scrap 550,000 seats from Estonia and Lithuania this winter, which means it will reduce its capacity to the two countries by around a quarter.

The airline has said that the decision comes after higher airport costs in the two countries.

According to Ryanair, airport charges in Lithuania have risen by 30 per cent since 2023.

In Estonia, on the other hand, there has been an increase in charges at Tallinn Airport.

It isn’t clear how many UK flights will be affected, but overall it works out to as many as 3,000 overall.

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Ryanair is now looking at increasing capacity in other destinations with lower airport charges.

For example, Riga in Latvia will gain around 40,000 seats this winter.

This means that the airline will operate 16 routes to Riga during this winter.

Ryanair has also decided to increase capacity on a number of other routes including Barcelona and Milan.

A number of other destinations will also lose Ryanair seats this winter.

Greece is set to lose around 700,000 seats and 12 routes.

In Belgium, there will be a reduction of one million seats and 20 routes.

And the airline has already axed flights from a number of airports across Spain, Portugal and Germany.

The news comes just days after the airline said that it plans to have 11 million seats across Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania by 2031 and increase its aircraft in the region from seven to 16.

VAPES could be seized in UK airports under a new rule that is coming into force next week.

As it stands, there is not a strict limit on how much e-liquid vapers can bring back with them from their holidays.

But come Thursday, October 1, that is set to change.

From next week, travellers coming into the UK will be limited to just 50ml of liquid, which equates to around five standard bottles of 10ml of juice.

Anyone arriving with over this amount must declare it and pay tax and duty.

Failure to do so, could see your goods confiscated and seized, according to government guidance.

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With that in mind, you can expect to pay an extra £2.20 on every extra 10ml brought into the UK.

It comes as Brits are set to be charged more for vaping as part of new rules also coming into force on October 1.

The change will see a flat rate of 22p per millilitre or £2.20 per 10ml on vaping liquid, regardless of how much nicotine it contains.

It means a single 10ml bottle of juice currently scanning for £3.99 will rise to £6.63 by next week.

Meanwhile, any three for £10 deals on 10m liquid will rise to £17.92.

The rise in e-liquid duty was first announced in the Spring Budget in 2024 but reconfirmed by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the Autumn Budget last year.

This article provides a historical overview of Saudi Arabia in honor of its National Day on September 23rd, tracing the region’s evolution from nomadic tribal roots to a unified kingdom. It details the pivotal leadership of Ibn Saud, who consolidated the regions of Nejd and Hejaz in 1932 to form the modern state. The text also explains that the day was officially established as an annual public holiday in 2005 by the late King Abdullah. Alongside this historical summary, the source includes current news snippets regarding Saudi defense contracts, regional conflicts, and cultural exhibitions. Finally, it presents supplementary global data such as currency exchange rates and international political updates involving Iran and the United States.

Her daughter says her life could have been saved if she had taken the minor injury seriously

When Yvonne Ford and her husband Ron jetted off to Morocco in February 2025, they expected to return home with little more than happy holiday memories. Instead, what appeared to be nothing more than a tiny scratch would ultimately cost Yvonne her life.

The couple had been relaxing on sun loungers when a stray puppy appeared. At some point, it scratched 59-year-old Yvonne’s leg, leaving what appeared to be nothing more than a superficial mark. Looking back, Yvonne’s daughter, Robyn Thomson, says her parents never imagined the incident posed any danger.

“They were relaxing on the beach on the sun beds. Mum had put her legs down onto the sand and must have startled the puppy,” she said. “The puppy scratched her leg leaving a very minimal scratch on her leg.”

“It barely broke the skin and looked so insignificant that she simply cleaned it with a wet wipe and carried on enjoying the holiday.”

At the time, the family thought nothing more of it. “It was Mum and Dad enjoying a holiday together, and none of us had any idea that such a tiny scratch could expose someone to rabies. We simply didn’t know,” said Robyn, 33, from Barnsley, South Yorkshire. “That tiny scratch had absolutely changed our lives forever.”

When Yvonne returned home to the UK, Robyn remembers asking whether she wanted to get the scratch checked, but Yvonne declined because it seemed so insignificant. “If someone had told us then that such a tiny scratch could be fatal months later, we would never have believed it,” Robyn said.

For weeks after returning home, Yvonne appeared perfectly healthy and life returned to normal. Then, in early June, she developed a headache and, within days, her condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to her being admitted to Barnsley Hospital.

She first developed a headache before eventually beginning to lose the ability to walk and talk. “It was the most devastating thing we’ve ever been through,” Robyn says. “The disease spread through her body so rabidly once the symptoms started. It all started with a headache.”

From there, her condition worsened with terrifying speed. “One minute Mum was independent and full of life, and then she deteriorated so quickly,” Robyn said. “She became confused, frightened and started hallucinating. Eventually she couldn’t walk, couldn’t talk properly, couldn’t swallow, couldn’t eat and couldn’t sleep.”

Robyn says that watching her mum deteriorate was excruciating. “As her daughter, watching someone you’ve looked up to your entire life become so desperately ill and knowing there was nothing anyone could do was unbearable,” the neonatal nurse said.

As Yvonne’s condition worsened, doctors struggled to determine what was making her so ill. Five days passed before a psychiatrist, who initially suspected Lyme disease, recognised the symptoms and asked about her recent travel history.

“This is what I’ve found so hard, knowing that nobody knew what was causing my mum to be so poorly for the first five days until a doctor within the mental health sector suggested it could be a possibility,” Robyn said. One of the things she remembers the most was the shock of being told that her mum had contracted rabies.

“It was the worst news we could have received because there was no cure, nothing to be done to bring mum back,” she saif. “The damage was already done. Rabies was never something we imagined could affect our family. You associate it with something that happens somewhere else, not to your mum after a holiday. Especially with the scratch being so tiny and minimal.”

Yvonne was then transferred to the infectious disease unit at Sheffield’s Royal Hallamshire Hospital, where she died on 11 June, four months after being scratched by the puppy. Now, Robyn knows that if there had been more awareness around rabies at the time, her mum might still be here.

“Looking back now, that’s one of the hardest things to accept. If we’d understood the risk and known she needed urgent treatment immediately, everything could have been different,” she said. “We would have pushed her to get the treatment and it would have saved her life.”

Robyn is now campaigning for greater awareness of rabies to help prevent other families experiencing the same heartbreak. “I wish there were more awareness, more awareness when booking holidays about the risk of potential exposure in certain high-risk countries,” she said. “I wish someone had told us that there is no such thing as ‘just a scratch’ when it comes to rabies.”

“I wish we’d known that washing the wound thoroughly and getting post-exposure treatment immediately can save your life. That lack of awareness cost us our Mum.”

Speaking about Yvonne, Robyn describes her as “the heart” of their family. “She was funny, warm, caring and incredibly selfless,” she said. “She always put everyone else before herself and absolutely adored her family, especially being a Nannie to her four grandchildren.”

“She had so much life left to live. She and my dad, Ron, had worked hard all their lives and were enjoying making memories together. They loved travelling and experiencing different cultures, and the holiday to Morocco was supposed to be another wonderful adventure together.”

Robyn says her mum was also an animal lover who would never have imagined a puppy could pose such a danger.

“Mum loved animals and would never have imagined that a friendly looking puppy could pose such a danger,” she says. “That’s one of the biggest misconceptions people have. She would never want any harm to come to the dog.”

The scratch wasn’t the result of a vicious attack but a chance encounter that would have devastating consequences. “It was a stray puppy that didn’t seem threatening,” Robyn says. “That’s exactly why people need to understand that you can’t judge the risk by how the animal behaves or how serious the injury looks.”

Robyn is now working with Worldwide Veterinary Service and its Mission Rabies program to ensure that this doesn’t happen to anyone else. “After losing Mum, I felt I had to do something,” she said. “I couldn’t change what had happened to our family, but I could help stop it happening to somebody else’s.”

“Working with Worldwide Veterinary Service and Mission Rabies has shown me the incredible work that’s being done to eliminate rabies by vaccinating dogs and educating communities.”

Robyn also has a message for anyone else who is scratched or bitten by an animal while travelling overseas but thinks it’s “only a minor scratch”.

“Please don’t take the risk,” she says. “Our family thought it was only a tiny scratch too.. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water straight away and seek urgent medical advice immediately, even if the injury seems insignificant. Don’t wait until you get home, and don’t assume you’ll be fine because the animal looked healthy or friendly.

“The vaccines could save your life.”

Rabies is present in more than 150 countries, including popular holiday destinations such as Turkey, Morocco and Thailand. According to Worldwide Veterinary Service, nearly half of Brits (47%) say they would approach or interact with a dog or cat abroad and 61% do not know that rabies can be transmitted if an infected animal licks an open wound or scratch.

As a result, the organisation is launching its Think Rabies Before You Travel campaign, urging holidaymakers to check local rabies risk, avoid contact with unfamiliar animals and seek immediate help after any potential exposure this summer.

FANCY staying in a top rated spot? Well, the best hotels, inns and B&Bs in the UK have just been named.

AA has announced the winners of its 2026 Hospitality Awards including the AA Hotel of the Year and AA B&B of the Year.

Coming out on top as the AA Hotel of the Year in England is the Calcot & Spa, Tetbury, Gloucestershire.

Spread across 220 acres, Calcot & Spa is a country house hotel, around four miles from Tetbury in the Cotswolds.

It dates back to the 14th century and is surrounded by wildflower meadows.

The hotel boasts around 35 individually designed bedrooms, that are contemporary but also retain the building’s historical charm.

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Stays cost from around £300 per night.

The AA Hotel of the Year in Scotland was named as Crossbasket Castle in High Blantyre, while in Wales it was Porth Tocyn Hotel in Abersoch, Gwynedd.

In Northern Ireland, Culloden Estate & Spa in Holywood, County Down nabbed the top spot.

There is also an AA Hotel of the Year for London, which was The Emory.

When it came to the AA B&B of the Year, Lys-Na-Greyne, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire secured the award.

The B&B features six rooms with en-suites and there is also a lounge, conservatory and gardens for guests to explore.

The B&B also sits in the Cairngorms National Park making it the perfect spot for those who want to explore Royal Deeside by hiking, fishing and biking,

And for a slightly further afield day trip, Balmoral Castle is only a 20-minute drive away.

If you want to pamper yourself, visit Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, St Andrews in Fife, which won AA Spa Hotel of the Year.

The spa at the hotel is one of Europe’s top spa facilities, with a number of hydrotherapy treatments and a 20-metre indoor swimming pool.

There’s even a rooftop hot tub.

The Penny Bun, Otley, West Yorkshire took the award for AA Inn of the Year.

And last but not least, the AA Restaurant with Rooms of the Year award was given to House of George W. Davies, Broadway, Worcestershire.

Simon Numphud, Managing Director of AA Hotel & Hospitality Services said: “Every year, the AA Hospitality Awards shines a light on hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, Inns and Chefs going above and beyond to deliver memorable experiences for guests and diners.

“This year’s winners showcase the breadth and quality of hospitality across the UK, giving consumers a host of trusted recommendations and inspiration for their next meal or stay.

“Behind every award is a commitment to quality and service, which is what helps sets British hospitality apart, underpinning its world-renowned reputation.”

After the aircraft touched down in Birmingham, airport police boarded the plane and escorted the four adults off

A group of adults were escorted off an easyJet flight by police after allegedly vaping throughout the five-hour journey. Passenger Annalise Galstaun captured the moment four adults were removed from the plane by airport police after it landed at Birmingham Airport.

Annalise was travelling from Larnaka International Airport in Cyprus to Birmingham on the evening of September 16 when the incident unfolded. Sitting just two rows behind the group, she said she saw EasyJet cabin crew warn them multiple times to stop vaping during the flight.

But despite the repeated warnings, Annalise claimed the passengers continued to vape discreetly, hiding the devices behind their legs while sitting in their seats.

After the aircraft touched down in Birmingham, airport police boarded the plane and escorted the four adults off, causing a 25-minute delay on the tarmac.

Annalise said: “They were warned a few times by EasyJet staff but continued to vape on the sly throughout the journey, hiding the vapes behind their legs on the seat.

“I felt quite annoyed as we were delayed around 20/25 mins grounded on the floor waiting for them to be escorted.

“There were children on board crying as it was about 11pm and we were just stuck on the tarmac.”

EasyJet said in a statement: “Flight EZY6610 from Larnaca to Birmingham on 16 September was met by police on arrival due to a group of passengers behaving disruptively onboard.

“Our cabin crew are trained to assess all situations and to act quickly and appropriately to ensure that the safety of the flight and other customers is not compromised at any time.

“We take these incidents seriously and do not tolerate disruptive behaviour onboard.

“The safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew is always easyJet’s highest priority.”

MAJOR railway lines are closed due to a gas leak leaving commuters stranded in rush hour – with the disruption expected to last all day.

Passengers are urged not to travel between Reading and Swindon as engineers frantically attempt to fix the issue, while other routes are seeing significant delays.

The gas leak close to railway land at Didcot Parkway in South Oxfordshire is expected to cause severe disruption throughout Wednesday.

The Reading-Didcot section of the route is the gateway from Paddington towards Swindon, Bristol, Bath, South Wales, Cheltenham and other parts of the West Country.

Diversions are in place but Great Western Rail is cancelling some services outright because trains can’t get through Reading-Didcot.

A total of 72 services to and from Didcot are cancelled, while 39 have been axed at Oxford and 45 at Reading.

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One social media user posted a photo from Swindon showing trains to Paddington cancelled at 6am.

They wrote: “Apparently there’s been a gas leak around Didcot Parkway so they’ve cancelled most of the services, and no replacement bus services running either.

“The staff at Swindon reckon this will last all day and probably tomorrow.”

Another person responded: “Absolutely ridiculous… not good enough.”

GWR is running roughly one train an hour Paddington-Bath/Bristol via a diversionary route – a fraction of the normal capacity.

It has warned only to travel if absolutely necessary.

Replacement buses are running between Swindon, Didcot and Reading but Network Rail says capacity won’t be enough for everyone.

CrossCountry is also telling passengers not to travel between Reading and Oxford – with one person responding to the company’s X post with: “Thanks for ruining my whole day.”

Network Rail said: “Engineers from gas distribution company SGN are on site working to rectify the problem as quickly and safely as possible.

“Network Rail and train operators are working together to manage the impact on passengers, but normal services cannot operate until the leak has been repaired because the railway falls within the safety exclusion zone.

“Severe disruption is expected to long-distance services that would usually travel through Didcot, and passengers are being warned that trains able to run either side of the affected area will be extremely busy.

“GWR will continue to operate as many trains as possible either side of the incident.”

GWR expects to be able to operate services between:

• Reading and London Paddington
• Swindon and Cheltenham Spa
• Swindon and Chippenham/Bath/Bristol
• South Wales to Bristol Temple Meads
• Worcester and Oxford
• An hourly service between London Paddington and Bath/Bristol via an alternative, diversionary route
• Oxford and Didcot
• An hourly service Bristol Temple Meads and Didcot
• Usual timetabled services that do not run between Reading and Didcot
• A limited bus replacement service will operate between Swindon, Didcot and Reading