Britain

Tonight millions of viewers will be able to celebrate those honoured at The Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards with P&O Cruises as it airs on ITV. But what were Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo’s best bits?

Millions of people across the UK will be tuning in tonight to the most uplifting show in the TV calendar, as The Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards with P&O Cruises unfolds in a two hour extravaganza.

Seldom is an event this packed with A list celebrities. But, despite the dazzling outfits and wall-to-wall glamour, it is the ordinary people with the extraordinary stories who take centre stage for this truly incredible occasion.

Co-hosts Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo host the event brilliantly – totally engaging with the amazing winners, who win everyone’s hearts … including our Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, who describes them as “the very best of our country.”

Here, Carol and Ashley each share their five most magical moments from the unforgettable night..

Carol’s Moments – Maja surprising Sally Becker

Known as The Angel of Mostar, humanitarian aid hero, Sally Becker, who received the Lifetime Achievement award – after evacuating hundreds of children from war zones all across the globe over a 30 year career – was joined on stage by one of the children she had saved.

Carol said: “Sally had referenced Maja when I asked about when she first went into Bosnia, this girl who had lost her leg and was in critical pain and how she brought her out. We got Maja to send a fake message from Florida to thank her, and then, of course, the big surprise was that Maja came out with her award. Sally is one of the most loving people you could ever possibly wish to meet. She’s so brave. I don’t think she realises just how brave she is. She’s quite extraordinary. That really made me cry, to be honest.”

The Rock Surprising Luke

Luke Mortimer, 12, who had all four of his limbs amputated after contracting meningitis and septicemia, was shown being surprised by movie star Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who told him he would be receiving the Child of Courage award.

The young fundraiser was stunned into virtual silence when the star of Jumanjii and The Smashing Machine walked into his hotel room with his room service order. Johnson, who stands at a remarkable 6ft 5in, commended Luke on the incredible physical challenges he has completed to raise money for other children with amputations. Carol said: “All of us were going to Luke, ‘How big is The Rock? Is he as big as we think he is?’ That was really funny.”

Margot Robbie surprising Georgie

Georgie Hyslop, 17, received the Good Morning Britain Young Fundraiser award for her incredible efforts to brighten-up the lives of others, despite being treated for an extremely rare form of bone cancer herself. The brave youngster, who has raised over £55,000 for charity through a series of balls and events, was surprised by Margot Robbie, who played Barbie in the movie, and who revealed that she had won a Pride of Britain.

The Hollywood star of blockbusters like Wolf of Wallstreet and I, Tonya, also invited Georgie – an aspiring actor – and her family to attend the premiere of her latest film, A Big Bold Beautiful Journey. Carol said: “We’d lied to Georgie, obviously. We said we were filming a documentary and that we were going to take the family out for dinner, so they should bring some nice clothes. But actually, of course, they were bringing clothes to go to Margot Robbie’s premiere which was quite remarkable. It was just lovely, absolutely lovely.”

Ruth Jones as Nessa with Joanne Harris

Joanne Harris was handed the ITV Fundraiser award for her mission to provide knitted breast prosthetics for women who have had mastectomies due to breast cancer. Inspired by her own friend’s struggle with the disease, which made her aware of the uncomfortable silicon prosthetics provided by the NHS, Joanne set up Knitted Knockers Northern Ireland which now provides 5,000 soft, breathable knitted breast prosthetics to cancer patients free of charge every year.

On stage, Gavin and Stacey stars Ruth Jones and Joanna Page, presented her award, paying tribute to her tireless charity work. Carol said: “Ruth, never ever does the Nessa impression, you know? But she did it all as Nessa from Gavin and Stacey and it was just wonderful. It was like Nessa was on stage!”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mary Earps surprising Asha

Asha Rage was recognised for starting the Dream Chasers, a football club turned youth centre to help support local children in Birmingham and keep them away from antisocial behaviour. Presented with the Special Recognition award, Asha was surprised on stage by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former England’s Lionesses’ goal keeper Mary Earps. The PM commended Asha for her tireless work supporting the young people of her community.

Carol said: “I could get over the fact that here is a Muslim woman who doesn’t know anything about football and then decides that she’s going to set up a football club for teenagers. She trained herself and now she’s got three and a half thousand members of the club. It’s quite extraordinary.”

Ashley’s Moments – Westlife on stage with Ups & Downs

The Ups & Downs group, a theatre club for children and young people with Down’s syndrome and their siblings, was awarded the This Morning’s Local Heroes award. The group, formed in 1995 by three music teachers who worked at an additional needs school, provides a safe space for people of all ages with Down’s Syndrome to be themselves and share the joy of theatre.

Thirty of its members took to the Pride of Britain stage to receive the award and at the end of the ceremony, joined the legendary Westlife to celebrate the wonderful evening. Ashley said: “It was such a joy to see the Ups & Downs group so excited to receive their Pride of Britain award – they brought such an unmatched energy to the room and put a smile on everyone’s faces. Seeing them dance with Westlife and the other incredible winners was just the best ending to the ceremony.”

Al Murray helping Marcus inhis fundraising efforts and revealing the total donated

Marcus Skeet, 17, better known as the Hull Boy by his hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, was given the Special Recognition award for his incredible fundraising efforts and tireless advocating for mental health awareness. The campaigner, who earlier this year became the youngest person ever to run the length of the country between Land’s end and John O’Groats, took to running after struggling with his mental health.

Ashley said: “You don’t meet many people like Marcus who are able to bring themselves out of such a dark place in the way he has. But not only that, to go on to help others through their own dark times as well, it’s just incredible and so inspiring. One of my highlights was seeing the room come together to help him reach his fundraising goal to start Marcus Movers clubs all over the country – lead of course by the legendary Al Murray who made the whole thing hilarious.”

Hainault police officers

The three police officers who were the first responders at the scene of the brutal Hainault attack last year, which saw 14-year old Daniel Anjorin murdered by psychotic killer Marcus Arduini-Monzo, received the Outstanding Bravery Award. Despite suffering injuries and having no weapons to hand, their decisive actions helped bring the situation under control and ensured the safety of the community.

Ashley said: “This was one of the most hard hitting moments of the evening. As a father, it just amazes me that there are people out there like these police officers who are willing to put themselves in such danger to protect others. Any of us could be in that position one day but with people like that around to step in, we are all that bit safer. It made me really emotional, yeah, but I am so glad they got the recognition they deserved.”

Javeno receiving his award

For more than two decades, Javeno McClean has used his skills as an exercise and health specialist to improve the lives of the elderly and people with disabilities. Setting up his own free gym in his hometown of Manchester, he has created a friendly environment for everyone to work on their physical and mental health and welcomes people of all abilities through his doors.

He was awarded the brand new P&O Cruises Inspiration award for his tireless work and was joined on stage by boxing champion David Haye. Ashley said: “Javeno is one of the coolest and most positive guys I have ever met. His muscles really put us all to shame but the way he is so dedicated to helping the most vulnerable members of our community is so inspiring.”

Ronnie Wood surprising Harry Byrne

Harry Byrne was awarded the King’s Trust Young Achiever award after overcoming loss, addiction and homelessness to become an inspirational mentor and coach helping to give other young people a brighter future. The 24-year-old was presented his award by Rolling Stones legend Ronnie Wood.

Ashley said: “Ronnie Wood is a god of rock and roll, isn’t he? The moment he was on stage with Harry was amazing and such a great representation of what the awards are all about. I mean, Harry has completely transformed his life after a pretty rough start and is now helping other young people to do the same. The way the King’s Trust has helped him and others is remarkable and Harry deserved all the glory – and the praise that Ronnie gave him – for his hard work.”

Watch Pride of Britain on Thursday 23rd October, ITV at 8PM.

The winners moved celebrities, politicians and stars to tears with their stories of courage, bravery and brilliance at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards

It has been celebrating the very best of everything British for more than quarter of a century. And once again it was the children of courage and incredible stories of bravery in adversity which moved a host of celebrities, actors and sport stars to tears at the 26th Daily Mirror Pride of Britain awards, with P&O Cruises.

The Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was there with his wife Victoria to pay tribute to the long line of unsung heroes as they received the recognition they so richly deserve. At just 12 years old, Luke Mortimer typified what the night is all about when he received his Child of Courage trophy.

Luke had all his limbs amputated after contracting meningococcal meningitis septicaemia in 2019. Yet still he thought of others. The audience at the Grosvenor House Hotel gave him a huge round of applause as they heard how he had donated thousands for children with disabilities, through his extraordinary fundraising activities.

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In 2024, he climbed Pen-y-ghent with his mum Christine and brother Harry, 15, meeting his dad Adam and a team of 19 who were climbing the National Three Peaks and Yorkshire Three Peaks. They raised almost £20,000 to help fund prosthetics for Luke and help other child amputees. He told his loved ones that we should all “concentrate on the future” as he set about helping others.

His favourite TV stars Ant and Dec sent a special message to Luke, who told host Carol Vorderman of his motto when life was tough: “Hope for a good time and try and make it happen.”

His dad Adam added: “We are massively proud of him, he takes everything in his slightly smaller stride.”

Marcus Skeet, 17, became the first person in the UK to run from Land’s End to John O’Groats as he fought back from a suicide attempt at the age of 15. He had obsessive compulsive disorder, and became a carer for his dad, who was diagnosed with early onset dementia.

Marcus admitted: “It shattered my heart.” After his suicide attempt, it was a ‘miracle’ that he had survived. Known as ‘the Hull Man’, with 350,000 followers on social media, he watched cars go by as he got caught in a rainstorm, with 790 miles to go in his epic run.

Marooned in a layby, soaked through, he still became a record breaker, raising £164,560 for mental health charity Mind, with his dad there to see him at the end. “I will remember that for the rest of my life,” said Marcus.

His incredible feat took a combination of supreme dedication and endurance and he joked: “I hate running.” Dr. Sarah Hughes, CEO at Mind paid tribute, saying: “His story reads like a film script, courage, loss, hope, and relentless determination.

“But Marcus isn’t a character; he’s a real-life hero.” Pub landlord comedian Al Murray revealed he had been inspired by Marcus to raise money for Mind. Looking for donors in the audience, he said: “Whether you are an actor or a rock star, you cannot fail to be moved by this night.”

Personal trainer Javeno McLean, 40, met his heroes as his work for the disabled, ill and elderly was recognised with the P&O Cruises Inspiration award.

Former world champion heavyweight David Haye joined legends of the ring Frank Bruno and Barry McGuigan to hand over the coveted trophy. They heard how Javeno has been offering free fitness sessions to the needy at his J7 Gym in Manchester.

At 16, he offered to train a boy in a wheelchair who was struggling in the gym. Since then, Javeno has been devoted to creating a friendly and inclusive gym space for all. He told the judges: “When you include people you empower them.”

Haye said it was an ‘honour’ to be chosen to give him the award. On a night of awe-inspiring stories, PCs Yasmin Whitfield, Cameron King and Inspector Moloy Campbell were recognised for their extraordinary bravery.

They answered an emergency call on an ‘ordinary’ working day which almost turned out to be their last. By the time they confronted sword attacker Marcus Arduini Monzo in Hainault, East London on April 20,2024, he had already killed Daniel Anjorin, 14.

Despite having no Taser or pepper spray, Pc King drew his baton and stood between the killer and Yasmin, who suffered horrific slash injuries.

Insp Campbell also suffered a slash wound to his hand after he confronted Monzo in a car park and ran at him, baton drawn. Other officers were able to deploy their Tasers and subdue the killer. PC King ‘stood between Yas and Monzo’, who ran off, before being cornered by cops. He said: “I remember just thinking, I can’t let him finish her off’. I put myself between Yas and him. I thought ‘we’re going to die in this alleyway.'” Insp Campbell admitted: “When I challenged Mr Monzo, I knew it may be the last decision I would ever make.” Monzo was later jailed for life with a minimum term of 40 years. In 2016, footy coach Asha Ali Rage 46, set up her community club, determined to use sport to protect youngsters from gangs. The aptly named Dream Chasers FC in Small Heath, Birmingham has since become a vital hub for her local community.

Asha received her award from England’s ‘Golden Gloves’ World Cup keeper Mary Earps who has done so much to raise the profile of sport for women; Asha’s Special Recognition Award was for “changing the lives” of the young stars of the future. Leanne Pero MBE, 30, won another recognition award for The Movement Factory community dance company which she founded when she was just 15. Londoner Leanne, who survived breast cancer, also started Black Women Rising, a cancer support group that has raised more than £1m to fund support and advice. She said of surviving cancer: “The worst part was finishing treatment.” Teenager of Courage winner Eagling Zach, 14, who has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, also donated to the Epilepsy Society by walking laps of his garden in the 2020 lockdown. After trolls bombarded him with flashing images to try to trigger a seizure, he campaigned for legislation to protect people with epilepsy online. Zach’s Law was introduced across England, Wales and Northern Ireland in Sept., 2023, making it a criminal offence, with a maximum five-year jail term, to troll anyone with epilepsy to deliberately cause a seizure. Zach has now launched a petition to ‘make a difference’ and try to ensure public transport is more accessible for disabled people. For Sally Becker, 63, helping those most in need in society has been her life’s work.

She first went to Bosnia in 1993 to help the victims of war. Tasked with taking aid to a hospital, she found herself evacuating sick and injured children in an old Bedford van.

She has now spent more than three decades helping children in besieged areas, such as Gaza, Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine.

In 2016, she founded Save a Child, providing medical treatment for kids in conflict areas. And she launched a mobile tele-medicine programme connecting local doctors with paediatric specialists. She said: “We have saved thousands of children.”

Georgie Hyslop, 15, was thrilled to be made the Good Morning Britain Fundraiser of the year. In 2023, when Georgie, then 15, was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare cancer in the bones, she donated her tissue to Cancer Research. She raised more than £55,000 for hospitals and charities.

Through 14 rounds of chemo and 33 of radiation, Georgie gave cards with encouraging messages, known as “pocket hugs”, to fellow patients, and dressed up as Spider-Man to cheer up a four-year-old patient having radiotherapy.

Georgie, 17, from Ardrossan, Ayrshire, went into remission in July 2024, but the cancer returned earlier this year. She said: “I have lots of fundraising planned and lots to look forward to.”

Set up by three music teachers at an additional needs school in 1995, the Ups & Downs theatre group in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, is for young people with Down’s syndrome as well as their families.

Now led by Lorna Leggatt, whose son Ellis, 26, has been a member since he was five, Ups & Downs offers inclusive activities, including music, dance and drama, to around 70 members, who have Down’s syndrome or a sibling with the condition. Audiences leave their shows ‘deeply moved’.

Fellow PoB winner Harry Byrne lost his mother on Christmas Day; her death caused Harry, then 11, to descend into mental health problems, addiction and homelessness. Harry, 24, was helped by local homelessness charity St Basil’s and discovered The King’s Trust Get Started in Outdoor Leadership programme, landing a job in Coventry.

Now supporting young people facing difficulties, through outdoor activities, he hopes to run his own therapy-based coaching service. Harry said: “I didn’t have many role models or access to the support I needed when I was younger. I’m passionate about getting up every morning and providing just that for the next generation.”

RAF hero John Nichol, 61, the navigator from North Shields, North Tyneside who was shot down and captured in Iraq during the first gulf war of 1990, has attended every single one of the Pride of Britain’s 26 award nights. A good friend of the late awards founder Peter Willis, he said: “I was next to Gary Barlow on that first night and had to give him my hankie. I think there is only me and Carol Vorderman who have been to every one.

“Nobody knew what to expect, but it has become the best of the lot.”

Pictures: Rowan Griffiths, Adam Gerrard, Andy Stenning.

* Watch the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards with P&O Cruises on Thursday October 23 at 8pm on ITV1.

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CELEBRITIES have stepped out in their finery for tonight’s Pride of Britain Awards.

Looking sensational while hitting the red carpet, the likes of GK Barry, Amy Dowden and Helen Flanagan, Maura Higgins, Tasha Ghouri and many others have posed up a storm ahead of the emotional night.

The Pride of Britain Awards is an annual event that honours unsung heroes from up and down the United Kingdom.

The awards celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional courage, bravery, and achievement.

They are awarded to those who have overcome adversity or made a significant difference in their communities. 

Stepping out on Monday night for the event, many famous faces gathered at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

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Helen Flanagan left onlookers stunned as she wowed in a black and white ensemble.

The very chic gown she donned was black with white edging and accents.

Sailing down to the ground, the sleek fitted dress was adorned in sparkling diamantes that glimmered beneath the lights.

Helen wore her blonde locks in an up-do and posed up a storm with her hand on her hip.

The dress had an ample amount of drama to it, and sailed down to the ground, trailing behind her.

Love Island and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! beauty Maura Higgins stole the night in a completely sheer lace number.

Another Love Island alum, Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu dared all in a very risque ensemble.

The stunning star wore a cut out black frock, which bared her hips and midriff.

She looked sensational in the corseted black gown, which was see-through and left little to the imagination.

Though the dress was made from lace and incredibly fitted, Maura’s frock boasted of a huge billowing train which jolted out from her bottom.

GK Barry was one of the first arrivals of the night, and turned heads in a sexy black lace gown.

The lace dress featured a high neck and sailed all the way down to the ground.

GK, whose name is Grace, wore her blonde locks in a sleek up-do.

Another early arrival of the night was Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden.

The Welsh dancing sensation wore a striking purple frock for the occasion.

Ashley James was next to arrive, looking sensational in a metallic frock.

Posing for the cameras before heading inside to watch the prestigious and heartwarming ceremony, Ashley smiled as she displayed her stunning dress.

With a sweetheart neckline, the strapless silver gown had a corset-style upper and ruching on the midsection.

Love Island‘s Tasha Ghouri also brought the glamour on Monday night.

Stepping out in a strapless powder blue dress, Tasha looked amazing as she showed off her leg thanks to the thigh high split.

The dress had a drop waist and was ruched to one side, with the thigh high split showing off Tasha’s endless pins as the dress trailed behind her.

The Only Way Is Essex hunk Joey Essex also attended the star-studded evening.

He rocked a black suit with a white shirt, and looked ultra suave in the process.

Freddy Brazier and his pregnant ex-girlfriend looked content as they cosied up to one another on the red carpet.

He wore all green, while she opted for a lemon figure-hugging gown that displayed her bump.

Television starlet Carol Vorderman looked sensational in a sleek and slinky black gown.

Standing on the red carpet the former Countdown siren smiled sweetly as she showed off her slender curves in the understated frock.

Montana Brown channelled her inner autumn goddess as she wore a burgundy frock on the red carpet.

Looking amazing as she posed outside of the event, the former Love Island starlet held a black clutch bag as she rocked a neutral makeup look on Monday night.

Laura Kenny followed Montana’s lead in a wine-coloured frock.

The former professional track and road cyclist who specialised in track endurance events, showed off her toned pins as she posed on the red carpet.

EastEnders star Louisa Lytton made a statement in a fitted black dress, featuring a sweetheart neckline and red statement sleeves.

The stunning brunette completed the look with a red lip as she beamed on the red carpet.

Love Island’s Faye Winter wore a powdery lilac gown for the occasion.

The silk frock had a structured mid section, a lace upper, no straps and a mini train.

She wore her blonde locks down and in a wavy style, with her makeup kept glowy and bronzed.

Liberty Poole, also from Love Island, left little to the imagination in a plunging silver gown.

Showing off her cleavage, Liberty looked stunning as she wore the revealing dress with cutout sections.

Yet another Love Island alum, Gabby Allen, rocked a dazzling frock.

Showing off her slender figure, Gabby stunned onlookers as she pouted while donning a dark purple lipstick.

Emily Andre, Junior Andre, Princess Andre and Peter Andre attended the glitzy event.

Posing for a family snap on the red carpet, the foursome looked ultra glamorous and suave as she beamed for the cameras.

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Recent Love Island stunners Yasmin Pettet, Toni Laites and Shakira Khan attended as a trio.

Yasmin wore all black, Toni wore a white frock, and Shakira stunned in gold.

Though rich with detail, the aim of the game is enticingly simple – make your opponent touch the ground with any part of his body which isn’t the sole of his foot, or push him out of the ring, or dohyo, altogether.

Rikishi train intensely from a young age in order to master the precise rituals and 82 different winning techniques, or kimarite, but it was through their adventures outside of the dohyo that they stole the hearts of old and new British fans.

Because the 40 rikishi who travelled to compete in London crammed plenty of quintessentially British traditions into their visit.

Accustomed to taking on board up to 10,000 calories per day in pursuit of their ultimate competition weight, in London they swapped their usual high-protein chankonabe stew for fish and chips and pints of Guinness in between tours of Harrods and photo opportunities outside the Houses of Parliament.

Wrestlers were seen visiting Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross, made famous by the Harry Potter series, and some even made it as far as Stonehenge in Wiltshire.

Most-loved, though, were the photos snapped of the huge frames of the rikishi getting around the capital in black cabs, red buses – and even by bike., external

A HOLIDAY isn’t complete without a trolley-dash at the local supermarket, and honestly, forget about the beach – I was in Florida for the crisps and sweets.

For me, only one spot can claim the ultimate snack crown – America.

Having recently travelled to Miami, I couldn’t help but dive into a local supermarket as part of my holiday itinerary to find some tempting snacks.

And it isn’t just me that loves to do this – Expedia predicted that ‘supermarket tourism’ would be big for this year, with more and more travellers looking to bring home a special treat instead of a tacky keyring.

But sharing is caring, so here are my honest thoughts on some American cult snacks including whether it is worth taking them up space in your luggage or if you can find similar in the UK.

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Love it or hate it, peanut butter has definitely made its way into a lot of sweet treats – of which, more and more can be found in the UK – Reese’s is just one example.

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As a ‘love it’ fan, I of course was overjoyed when I discovered Butterfinger.

These treats are essentially caramelised peanut butter that has been crushed into a dense bar, and wrapped in milk chocolate.

I picked them up in mini form, in small treat boxes often found in the states.

For peanut butter fans, these crispy-crunchy bars are a treat – be warned though, after a couple they will hit you like a sugar-coated brick and have you begging for some water.

A 100g box before tax costs $2.29 (£1.71).

For a UK dupe, maybe grab a Snickers bar for a similar taste or a peanut butter KitKat Chunky.

But if you want more of a decadent peanut butter and chewy treat, we don’t really have something that matches.

Even Reese’s is smooth.

Verdict? Definitely stock up when in the US.

Birthday Cake Oreos

I still remember when Oreos made it to the UK and I was instantly hooked.

And ever since travelling to the US, I will bring back heaps of packets in crazy flavours such as carrot cake, peanut butter and jelly and blueberry pie.

This time I opted for perhaps the slightly tamer, birthday cake flavour.

Whilst super yummy, these taste very similar to regular Oreos – just perhaps with more of an icing flavour than cream.

The family pack cost $6.79 (£5.06), which gives you the same amount of Oreos that you’d get in three standard packets in the UK.

And there is good news if you do want to try them as you can often find them in some UK shops, like most recently Poundland.

Verdict? They’re great – but stick to the classics and save your dimes.

Pringles Mingles – sharp white cheddar and ranch

As an avid fan of Pringles, I was simultaneously excited but also shocked to find that my favourite crisps also had puffed snacks.

And in classic American style, I of course opted for the cheddar and ranch flavour.

Now ranch may be a acquired taste, but these creamy and herby puffed crisps are definitely moreish.

They are shaped liked the Pringles man’s bowtie as well, which is a fun feature.

A bag costs $4.99 (£3.72) – but don’t worry, you get a lot in there for your money.

Sadly, I haven’t seen anything like this in the UK – or even ranch-flavoured crisps, so you’ll need to grab them on your next visit to the states.

Verdict? Do not miss these when in America, particularly if you like ranch.

Skittles Gummies – wild berry

We all know Skittles and we all love them for not being like any other sweet you can get.

But I had never seen Skittles Gummies – essentially a soft version of Skittles.

I grabbed a bag in the wild berry flavour, and I won’t lie I was sceptical – the vibrant colours looked like I would just be eating food colouring.

As for the taste? Well, they were as expected – super sugary and artificial.

They weren’t cheap either at $3.99 (£2.97) a bag and that is before tax.

And they aren’t anything special, they taste like a lot of sweets you can get in the UK that are wild berry flavoured.

Verdict? I think if you picked up some 79p jelly cherries at ALDI and some red and black Wine Gums and you will get the same taste – potentially even better.

Save your money and suitcase space and opt for some hard ones instead once back in the UK,

Welch’s Fruit Snacks

Now before you scroll past at the thought of a fruit snack, don’t worry as these are more like sweets.

These small fruit gummies are packed full of flavour and – apparently – made with real fruit juice.

They look a lot like midget gems and I would say this is the closest the UK will get to Welch’s fruit snacks, though midget gems are much harder.

There are a number of flavours in each bag, such as grape, strawberry and orange.

A bag costs $2.99 (£2.23) but you can also get them in small bags or boxes.

Verdict? They taste a lot less artificial than the Skittles Gummies and definitely pack a powerful fruity punch – grab some when in the US.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

Now I know a cereal isn’t exactly a snack, but when I wandered down the cereal aisle in an American supermarket, I couldn’t help but grab one of the brightly coloured boxes.

The shelves of fun and flavourful cereals also made me realise that cereals in the UK are boring.

Where are the marshmallows? And the exciting sugar rush?

Cinnamon Toast Crunch is the ultimate autumnal cereal – they are little cinnamon squares that are like a much sweeter – and more fun – version of Shreddies.

It costs $5.49 (£4.09) a box and makes breakfast a real treat, but I also will tip a handful into a zip lock bag to have as a snack.

The even better news is that the UK has a great dupe – Curiously Cinnamon.

Available at most supermarkets for between £3 and £5 a box, it is essentially the same product just with a different name.

Although I do think the UK version is less sweet – which is no surprise.

Verdict? Definitely grab a box in the US, but in the meantime the UK version will do.

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Extraordinary event will take place later this month and will be a ‘special community event’ with more than just switching on Christmas lights

Christmas is just around the corner and while cities all over the UK get ready to switch on the Christmas lights – one city has gone a step further.

Bristol’s SS Great Britain is set to host a variety of Christmas events this year, including the much-anticipated Christmas tree lights switch-on event.

The landmark’s Christmas lights switch on, described as a ‘special community event’, will take place on Thursday, 27 November at 6pm in Brunel Square.

Organisers have revealed that this year’s event has a unique theme – Golden Glow – which is linked to the SS Great Britain’s Golden Ticket education programme.

This initiative provides enriching learning experiences for primary schools most affected by deprivation in Bristol, as well as local SEND schools.

The Christmas lights switch on will showcase a beautiful tree adorned with festoon lighting and a snow machine, while performances from a local choir will certainly get locals into the festive spirit.

But it’s just one of the many Christmas events happening at the SS Great Britain this year.

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Here are a few more you might want to check out…, according to Bristol Live.

Masquerade Ball

When: 6 December, 2025 at 6pm until midnight.

According to the event’s details: “Don your finest attire and most elaborate mask for an evening steeped in enchantment.”

You’ll have the chance to stroll around the decks, enjoy a bubbly welcome drink and tuck into a festive three-course dinner accompanied by a string quartet.

A magician will be wandering the ship, performing tricks and illusions, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore the ship after dark. Tickets are priced at £99 per person with bookings closing on Saturday, 22 November.

Christmas Murder Mystery

When: 13 December 2025, 6.30pm until midnight.

This murder mystery event includes a welcome drink, a three-course dinner and promises guests an ‘exhilarating evening of entertainment’ onboard, where they must keep their eyes peeled for clues during dinner and help solve a mysterious crime – tickets are priced at £99 per person.

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Good Morning Britain presenter Richard Madeley was joined by Kate Garraway on Thursday’s edition of the ITV show

Good Morning Britain was interrupted on Thursday (October 16) as Richard Madeley said, “I’m going to make a confession”.

During today’s instalment of the popular ITV show, Richard and his co-presenter Kate Garraway brought viewers up to speed on the latest developments from Britain and beyond.

Laura Tobin joined them in the studio to deliver regular weather forecasts, whilst Charlotte Hawkins took care of the day’s remaining headlines.

Richard and Kate discussed former government advisor Dominic Cummings‘ claims regarding China, alongside a fresh police initiative involving GPS ankle tags to tackle shoplifting.

Later, Charlotte revealed that the number of drivers being handed penalty points has surged in the last year, with speed cameras catching record numbers of motorists breaking legal limits, reports Wales Online.

Almost ten million points were added to licences in 2024.

Whilst discussing the matter with pundits Kwasi Kwarteng and Ayesha Hazarika, Richard announced, “I’m going to make a confession now, it’s not a big deal, but whatever.”

The host then admitted he carried six points on his driving licence, explaining: “Both because of speed cameras. One for doing 34 mph on a dual carriageway at four thirty in the morning when it was a 30 mph [zone], I didn’t realise that.

“And one for doing 24 mph in a 20 mph zone at four thirty in the morning. And I have to say, I don’t mind being fined because, yes, I have broken the limit inadvertently, but to get three points on a licence, as well, seemed a bit harsh.

“I only say this because Co-op Insurance has done a survey and they’ve announced the results this morning. A surge in drivers has been caught by speed cameras, a huge, huge rise.”

He went on: “A 12% increase in the number of penalty points added to licences last year. Of course, if you get to 12, it means you lose your licence.

“Of course, speeding has to be controlled. Are we over-penalising drivers for relatively minor infractions? I’m not sure.”

Kwasi chimed in, “My view on this is that those 20 mph speed limits are almost impossible. You’ve got to be very, very careful.”

Richard then revealed that he uses cruise control, which Ayesha quipped was “such a Richard Madeley thing to say”.

“It may be a Richard Madeley thing to say, but actually it protects me from getting more points,” Richard concluded.

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am

Chester’s city walls are the oldest, longest, and most complete city walls in Britain – and they are completely free to walk around

There’s only one English city that can boast the most complete city walls in the country, where visitors can stroll their entire length – two miles of history and ancient charm just a stone’s throw away.

These are considered the oldest, longest, and most complete city walls in Britain. The initial parts of the walls were erected by the Romans, and later they were expanded and developed during the Saxon (10th century) and Norman (12th century) eras.

However, from the 18th century onwards, the walls were no longer required for defence and were transformed into a popular public walkway and tourist hotspot. You can traverse the full length of the Roman Wall, which is open all year round and free to access.

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The route includes four main gateways: Northgate, Eastgate, Watergate and Bridgegate and with a few well-deserved rest stops along the way, it can be completed in a couple of hours.

Best of all, it’s completely free to access the walls’ walkway at any time. However, there is a small fee if you wish to join an organised tour, which departs from the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre and lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Of course, we’re talking about Chester City Walls, which encircle a small rectangular area in the very heart of this stunning historic city. The Grade I listed walls are the best preserved city walls in Britain and encompass the site of the medieval city, reports the Express.

A footpath runs atop the walls, with only a small 100-metre section incomplete. As you stroll along, you’ll have the opportunity to take in Chester’s many attractions, including the castle, cathedral, and racecourse.

The city is dotted with historic sites and eateries where you can extend your day out. The trail follows the paved path on top of the walls. Historically, many significant towns and cities were fortified by walls, but today, only Chester boasts a complete circuit around the city. Throughout the Middle Ages, Chester was one of the most fortified and strategically crucial cities in the county.

Over time, these walls have been continuously modified, repaired and occasionally attacked. One reason they still stand today is that from the 18th century onwards, they were no longer required for defence and were transformed into a fashionable walkway and public amenity.

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Some of the historic sites visible from the walls include the Cathedral, the King Charles Tower, the Roman Amphitheatre, the Eastgate Clock, the River Dee and the city’s unique Rows. The 12th-century Agricola Tower served as the first stone gateway to Chester Castle, which was established by William the Conqueror in 1070. The South-west part of the city also deserves a mention.

All restoration work on the walls requires approval from Historic England. In 2020, a portion of Chester’s City Walls crumbled near the renowned Eastgate Clock, with repair efforts currently ongoing. Several tragic incidents have occurred with people plummeting from the walls, so exercise caution!

Over 400 years ago, in 1615, William Webb described it as “a very delectable walk, feeding the eye, with the sweet gardens and fine buildings of the city.” Much more recently, one local resident described the route they like to take when walking the walls. Speaking on TripAdvisor they said: “I always start at the East Gate because it’s the first part of the wall I get to when I walk from the railway station.”

They added: “I then go around the walls clockwise. After about 150 metres, you can then come down off the walls and see the amphitheatre and Roman Gardens. Then further around is the river; but I don’t usually get past Bridgegate because I come off the wall there and go in to the Bear & Billet pub!”