Experts say many people are being drawn to the North African region by its wide availability of high-quality hotels costing considerably less than similar properties in locations such as Spain, France and Italy
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter and Neil Lancefield PA Transport Correspondent
02:00, 18 Jun 2025
Cape Verde remains a big draw
A surge in UK holidaymakers are swapping traditional European destinations for North Africa, according to travel firms.
Experts suggest the region’s appeal lies in its abundance of high-quality hotels that are significantly cheaper than similar properties in Spain, France and Italy. Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia are all seeing an influx of visitors from the UK.
Data from aviation analysts Cirium reveals that 19,847 flights are expected to serve routes from UK airports to these countries this year, more than double the 8,653 flights in 2019. In contrast, the number of flights to Spain and Portugal is predicted to rise by 10% and 9% respectively over the same period.
This indicates that many holidaymakers seeking better quality accommodation without paying more are willing to endure a longer flight, despite airlines like easyJet and Ryanair offering non-reclining seats and no onboard entertainment.
The number of flights from the UK to North African destinations has shot up
Flights from Gatwick airport in West Sussex to Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh take approximately five hours and 20 minutes. This means an additional hour and 45 minutes on a plane compared to trips to the traditional southern Spanish hotspot of Alicante.
EasyJet commenced flights between Gatwick and Cape Verde, off the west coast of Africa, in March, marking its longest route serving England. These flights cover the distance of 2,332 nautical miles in six hours and 10 minutes.
Tui, the travel company, has reported a 30% increase in bookings for summer holidays in Egypt compared to last year, from both flight-only and package holiday customers. The firm also noted “double-digit growth” for Tunisia and a strong demand for Morocco.
Chris Logan, Tui’s UK commercial director, stated that these three destinations offer “fantastic value for money”, making it difficult for traditional European destinations to compete. Speaking to the PA news agency, he said: “There’s good quality accommodation and great weather beyond the traditional summer season.
“Even in the winter months temperatures are mild, making them a perfect choice for year-round travel.”
To meet the growing demand, Tui has increased its flights from the UK to North Africa this summer, introducing new routes from Stansted to Enfidha in Tunisia and from Newcastle to Agadir, Morocco. Booking.com, the online accommodation marketplace, reported a 68% increase in searches for summer breaks in Tunisia during the first five months of this year, compared with the same period in 2024.
Egypt and Morocco saw increases of 64% and 39% respectively. Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, managing director at Barrhead Travel, commented that Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia offer “incredible value for money” which is “proving increasingly attractive for holidaymakers this year”.
She added: “The investment in high-quality hotels and experiences across these regions is turning the heads of customers who may previously have favoured mainland Europe.”
According to Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of Advantage Travel Partnership, “Although favourites such as Spain and Turkey are still our top-selling destinations, it’s safe to say north Africa is a region to watch over the next few years.”
She observed a “clear trend toward value-conscious holiday planning”, attributing this to the ongoing cost of living pressures and reduced disposable incomes.
Lo Bue-Said noted: “This shift has driven growing popularity for destinations like Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia, which offer more competitive pricing and high-quality accommodation options compared to the more traditional western Mediterranean resorts.”
High Quality Cabin Carry on Holdall Bag Duffel Under Seat. Additional sleeve section on the back to fit over trolley case handles. Adjustable shoulder strap and top carry handle.
Happy customers reviewed online: “Great bag to take on plane.”
A second added: “Underseat travel bag. Perfect size to use when travelling. Strong bag, easy to fold and store away.”
A third praised: “Looks good and roomy, ideal to take onboard a plane and lots of compartments for important stuff.”
“Perfect lightweight bag, just what I wanted,” applauded a fourth.
“Excellent quality and value,” wrote another.
“Very good. Correct dimensions for small bag to take as cabin bag. Love it!” penned another.
Moment drunk Scots passenger dragged off Ryanair flight after ‘BOMB THREAT’ forcing diversion
“Very sturdy, great quality bag. Amazing price. Perfect for Ryanair‘s ridiculously stringent sizing policy. Managed to ram more into it than I envisaged,” advised a fifth.
AllRyanairpassengers can bring a small personal bag on board but this must fit under the seat in front of you.
All over-sized cabin bags will be refused at the boarding gate, or where available put in the hold for a fee.
Anyone wanting to bring another bag, you’ll need to upgrade and pay extra for priority and two cabin bags or checked baggage.
Many angry passengers have been caught out by Ryanair’s strict baggage allowance for flights.
However, the Robert Dyas lightweight bag has a 20L capacity with dimensions H:25 x W:40 x D:5 cm and fits perfectly under the seat.
With a front zip for passports and essentials, it features carry grab handles with an adjustable shoulder strap.
Made from strong polyester, it also offers a one year guarantee.
2
Ryanair has angered passengers by charging them for oversized baggageCredit: The Sun
Advice for flying with Ryanair
All Ryanair passengers can bring a small personal bag on board but this must fit under the seat in front of you, but it must be no bigger than 40cm x 20cm x 25cm
Any over-sized cabin bags will be refused at the boarding gate and put in the hold for a fee
Ryanair also charges passengers up to £55 check-in at the airport
ALDI is bringing back its sell-out pressure washer just in time to blast your garden into shape this summer.
The special buys bargain is a whopping £58 cheaper than a similar Karcher model.
2
Aldi has brought back its Small Pressure Washer
2
It retails for £58 less than a Karcher pressure washer
The bargain FERREX Small Pressure Washer lands in stores this Thursday, June 5, as part of the supermarket’s latest Specialbuy drop and it’s only £49.99.
It previously hit shelves in April and flew out fast, with shoppers rushing to get their hands on one.
Now it’s back by popular demand, and it’s expected to sell out all over again.
Packing a punch with a 1,400W motor and 110 bar max pressure, it’s perfect for washing away moss, grime and stubborn dirt from patios, driveways and garden furniture.
The compact gadget comes with a three-metre hose, spray gun, cleaning lance and extension, and it’s got a quick-connect system to easily swap attachments on the go.
Weighing just 5kg, it’s light enough to carry around the garden and small enough to tuck away neatly after use thanks to its integrated hose and cable holder.
It’s a budget-friendly alternative to big brands — the Karcher K2 Power Control Home pressure washer, which also offers 110 bar pressure, costs £108 at Screwfix right now.
That makes Aldi’s version a massive £58 cheaper.
Aldi’s Specialbuys are known for delivering big-name features at bargain prices, from kitchen gadgets to garden must-haves but stock is always limited, and when it’s gone, it’s gone.
You can call your nearest store ahead of making a trip and check they’ve got the pressure washer in stock.
To stay ahead of the game, shoppers can also sign up to Aldi’s email alerts to get the inside scoop on upcoming deals.
And don’t forget it always pays to shop around.
Sites like Trolley.co.uk and PriceSpy let you compare prices across thousands of products and track price history, so you can be sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Garden makeover
Aldi isn’t the only retailer offering great garden deals this summer.
SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain…
Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with.
Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks.
Sales are when you can pick up a real steal.
Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on.
Sign up to mailing lists and you’ll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too.
When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use vouchercodes.co.uk and myvouchercodes.co.uk are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer.
Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. Trolley.co.uk app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping.
Bargain hunters can also use B&M’s scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out.
And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you’ll get some of your money back or a discount on the item.
EVERYONE’S talking about fat jabs – the ‘miracle’ injections trimming inches off waistlines, and helping turn the tide on the obesity epidemic.
But what if there was an even easier – and cheaper – way than Ozempic-like injections, Wegovy and Mounjaro?
4
Slimming tablets have been around for decades – but now scientists want to harness the new momentum in obesity medicine to bring them back with a bangCredit: Getty
4
Rival company Eli Lilly, which makes Mounjaro (tirzepatide) announced the results of its pill orforglipron in AprilCredit: Getty
Science sits still for no slimmer and already, the next big thing is looming large on the horizon – and it could be as simple as popping a pill.
Slimming tablets have been around for decades, but now scientists want to harness the new momentum in obesitymedicine – and use the billions being made from the jabs – to bring pills back with a bang.
Professor Jason Halford, of the European Association for the Study of Obesity, tells Sun Health: “I think pills will eventually replace injections.
“People don’t particularly like them and they’re a bit afraid of injecting themselves.
“You’ve got to have the device, the needle, the sharps bin, it’s got to be refrigerated, there are all sorts of challenges.
“If you can move it all to a tablet you can increase acceptance and hopefully it will be cheaper and become more widely available.”
Professor Richard Donnelly, editor of the medical journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, and clinical adviser at online weight loss clinic Juniper, agrees.
“Thirty years ago weight loss tablets had a terrible reputation and nobody really wanted to prescribe them,” he adds.
“They had rare but severe side effects and weren’t particularly effective.
“Now there is a whole flood of development and a lot to be optimistic about.
Weight Loss Jabs – Pros vs Cons
“There is a big hope that developing pills will improve accessibility and cost less.”
There are several pills in development – some stimulate the same hormones as jabs to make us feel full, while others mimic bariatric surgery.
The end goal is the same – to do what willpower alone fails to achieve and stop us eating so much.
While some are yet to even be trialled in humans, one has already been submitted for approval in the US, meaning they could be available before the end of the year.
4
There’s even a weight loss pill in development that will emulate a gastric bypassCredit: Getty
The most advanced pills being made are by the same companies behind the fat jabs.
Novo Nordisk, creator of Wegovy and Ozempic, has developed a tablet version of semaglutide, the active drug in those injections.
It applied for approval from the US Food and Drugs Administration last month.
Trials showed patients lost an average of 15 per cent of their bodyweight over 17 months on a 50mg daily dose, compared with eight per cent over 12 months on Wegovy.
Participants were three times more likely to achieve “meaningful” weight loss when they were taking the pill, compared to those not taking the tablet.
Rival company Eli Lilly, which makes Mounjaro (tirzepatide) announced the results of its pill orforglipron in April.
The two drugs both work by stimulating GLP-1 hormones that make you feel full.
What are the other side effects of weight loss jabs?
Like any medication, weight loss jabs can have side effects.
Common side effects of injections such as Ozempic include:
Nausea: This is the most commonly reported side effect, especially when first starting the medication. It often decreases over time as your body adjusts.
Vomiting: Can occur, often in conjunction with nausea.
Diarrhea: Some people experience gastrointestinal upset.
Constipation: Some individuals may also experience constipation.
Stomach pain or discomfort: Some people may experience abdominal pain or discomfort.
Reduced appetite: This is often a desired effect for people using Ozempic for weight loss.
Indigestion: Can cause a feeling of bloating or discomfort after eating.
Serious side effects can also include:
Pancreatitis: In rare cases, Ozempic may increase the risk of inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, which can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Kidney problems: There have been reports of kidney issues, including kidney failure, though this is uncommon.
Thyroid tumors: There’s a potential increased risk of thyroid cancer, although this risk is based on animal studies. It is not confirmed in humans, but people with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid Ozempic.
Vision problems: Rapid changes in blood sugar levels may affect vision, and some people have reported blurry vision when taking Ozempic.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Especially if used with other medications like sulfonylureas or insulin.
Patients taking 36mg of orforglipron lost eight per cent of their bodyweight in 10 months, equating to 1st 2lbs from an average starting weight of 14st 3lbs – while participants taking a placebo lost just 3lbs.
It compares with 15 per cent weight loss in a year on Mounjaro.
Lilly said their pill “could be readily manufactured and launched at scale for use around the world”.
But injections and pills have not been compared head-to-head yet. Studies are ongoing and taking the science behind these game-changing jabs and applying it to tablets, does not guarantee success.
Pfizer abandoned the development of its drug lotiglipron in 2023 when a trial indicated potential liver damage as a side effect.
Drugs tend to be more easily absorbed by the body when they are injected directly into the bloodstream, compared to being digested through the gut.
And that’s another key consideration – what the potential side effects of these new pills could be.
Unpleasant side effects were the downfall of the old generation of slimming pills.
4
Novo Nordisk, creator of Wegovy and Ozempic, has developed a tablet version of semaglutide, the active drug in those injectionsCredit: Getty
The NHS has prescribed a pill called orlistat for years, dishing out £12million worth of it in England last year.
It works by preventing the gut from absorbing fat from food – but it means fat must be passed out in poo instead of digested.
This can lead to flatulence, more regular bowel movements and diarrhoea.
It can also cause bladder pains and breathing troubles – and weight loss doesn’t match up to the jabs.
About eight in 10 patients suffer at least one side effect when using injections, most commonly tummy upset, according to trials.
Everything you need to know about fat jabs
Weight loss jabs are all the rage as studies and patient stories reveal they help people shed flab at almost unbelievable rates, as well as appearing to reduce the risk of serious diseases.
Wegovy – a modified version of type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic – and Mounjaro are the leading weight loss injections used in the UK.
Wegovy, real name semaglutide, has been used on the NHS for years while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer and more powerful addition to the market.
Mounjaro accounts for most private prescriptions for weight loss and is set to join Wegovy as an NHS staple this year.
How do they work?
The jabs work by suppressing your appetite, making you eat less so your body burns fat for energy instead and you lose weight.
They do this my mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which signals to the brain when the stomach is full, so the drugs are officially called GLP-1 receptor agonists.
They slow down digestion and increase insulin production, lowering blood sugar, which is why they were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes in which patients’ sugar levels are too high.
Can I get them?
NHS prescriptions of weight loss drugs, mainly Wegovy and an older version called Saxenda (chemical name liraglutide), are controlled through specialist weight loss clinics.
Typically a patient will have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, classifying them as medically obese, and also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure.
GPs generally do not prescribe the drugs for weight loss.
Private prescribers offer the jabs, most commonly Mounjaro, to anyone who is obese (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI 25-30) with a weight-related health risk.
Private pharmacies have been rapped for handing them out too easily and video calls or face-to-face appointments are now mandatory to check a patient is being truthful about their size and health.
Are there any risks?
Yes – side effects are common but most are relatively mild.
Around half of people taking the drug experience gut issues, including sickness, bloating, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhoea.
Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and clinical consultant at patient.info, said: “One of the more uncommon side effects is severe acute pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and happens to one in 500 people.”
Other uncommon side effects include altered taste, kidney problems, allergic reactions, gallbladder problems and hypoglycemia.
Evidence has so far been inconclusive about whether the injections are damaging to patients’ mental health.
Figures obtained by The Sun show that, up to January 2025, 85 patient deaths in the UK were suspected to be linked to the medicines.
Early data suggests pills might have similar rates.
Around six per cent of people taking any of Lilly or Novo Nordisk’s pills or injections quit the medicines because of side effects.
Dr Leyla Hannbeck, of the Independent Pharmacies Association, says: “The old generation drugs tended to be uncomfortable for a lot of people whereas these new ones are much more effective.
“All medicines will have side effects but the fact that the results are much better now means people are more willing to endure them.” Prof Donnelly said he still does not expect new tablets to be as strong as jabs, adding: “I don’t think anybody believes these will cause the same level of weight loss that you might be reporting with Mounjaro.
“The flipside of that is that major weight loss might not all be good.
“Some of that might be muscle and if you lose 30 per cent of your body weight that is a fairly major transformation.
“Having an oral agent that reduces your weight by, say, 10 or 15 per cent, might actually be more sustainable, better tolerated and medically safer in some respects.”
While the GLP-1 tablets are likely to be first to market, inventors are also working on a daily pill that mimics the effects of gastric bypass surgery.
‘GASTRIC BYPASS’ PILL
US company Syntis Bio’s offering, named Synt-101 creates a 24-hour lining in the gut that means food cannot be absorbed in the top six inches of the small intestine.
Rather, digestion is redirected to the lower areas of the gut, where hormones that tell the brain we are full, are triggered faster.
Working in a similar vein to surgery, it means patients feel fuller faster – and the lining is passed when the patient goes to the loo the next day.
Synt-101 has passed its first human safety tests and is expected to enter a full-scale clinical trial next year.
Another pill in development, Sirona, is made by UK-based Oxford Medical Products, and contains a “dual polymer hydrogel” that expands in the stomach when it comes into contact with water.
It works like a gastric balloon, filling the patient’s tummy making them feel full for hours, but is passed in their stools “several days” later.
Early data from an NHS trial found patients lost 10 to 12 per cent in a year of treatment and there were no serious side effects.
Experts believe weight loss pills will serve a variety of purposes – as a follow-on treatment after stopping fat jabs, as an option for those who can’t or don’t want to use jabs and for people with less severe obesity, and less weight to lose.
There are hopes they will be less toxic than injections, which often cause side effects like stomach aches, vomiting or diarrhoea.
Weight regain after treatment is also an emerging issue with the jabs, which can currently only be prescribed for up to two years in the UK.
Rahul Dhanda, chief executive of Syntis Bio, said: “Patients don’t want to be stuck on a revolving door of injections and their side effects; they want to be on a manageable and sustainable weight loss path.
“Oral drugs that are simple, tolerable and safe will be the rational choice for maintenance therapy.”
ALDI is selling a must-have garden gadget that’s just under £70 cheaper than a similar one from top brand Karcher – and it’s ideal for sprucing up your patio ahead of summer.
It comes with a 1400W motor and pumps out up to 110 bar of pressure – more than enough to tackle stubborn stains outdoors.
It comes with a three meter high-pressure hose, spray gun, cleaning lance with extension and a quick-connect system for easily switching attachments.
Weighing in at just 5kg, it’s light enough for moving around the garden and easy to stash away thanks to its integrated cable and hose holder.
The gadget goes on sale from Thursday, June 5 – online and in stores – but like all Aldi Specialbuys, once they’re gone, they’re gone.
And it’s a proper steal compared to pricier rivals.
For example, the Kärcher K2 Power Control Home Pressure Washer – with similar specs – will set you back £119 at B&Q, saving you just under £70 if you opt for the Aldi version.
The Karcher washer has similar specs, including a 110 bar pressure and patio cleaning capability, but comes with a much heftier price tag.
Aldi’s Specialbuys have built a cult following for delivering top value across garden gear, kitchen gadgets and more – and this latest deal is no exception.
Remember to compare prices
Websites like Trolley and Price Spy let you compare thousands of products across different retailers to find the best price.
Unveiling Aldi Specialbuys: Deals You Don’t Want to Miss!
Price Spy even lets you see how much an item has cost over time.
A quick scan on the Google Shopping/Product tab will also bring up how much retailers are selling a certain item for too.
WHEN it comes to shopping at Aldi, the best time to do so depends on what you want to buy.
For reduced items – when shops open
Red sticker items are rare at Aldi’s 830 UK stores, but the supermarket says that none of its food goes to waste so there are some to be found – if you’re quick.
A spokesman for the supermarket said: “All items are reduced to 50 per cent of the recommend sales price before stores open on their best before or use by dates.”
That means you have the best chance of finding reduced food items if you go into stores as soon as it opens.
Opening times vary by shop but a majority open from 7am or 8am. You can find your nearest store’s times by using the supermarket’s online shop finder tool.
For Specialbuys – Thursdays and Sundays
Specialbuys are Aldi’s weekly collection of items that it doesn’t normally sell, which can range from pizza ovens to power tools.
New stock comes into stores every Thursday and Sunday, so naturally, these are the best days to visit for the best one-off special deals.
For an even better chance of bagging the best items, head there for your local store’s opening time.
Remember: once they’re gone, they’re gone, so if there’s something you really want, visit as early as possible
Lynsey said: “A crowd-pleasing family pack for a good price”Credit: Oliver Dixon
Lynsey says: “These pasties came out smelling very appetising and they had a lovely pepperiness on the tongue.
“They are huge, proper wedges, and I liked the flakiness of the puff pastry.
“There’s a good helping of beef at 18 per cent and these had one of the highest levels of swede, at nine per cent.
“A crowd-pleasing family pack for a good price.”
Taste: 4/5
Value: 5/5
Overall score: 9/10
Asda Cornish Pasties (520g)
£2.74 for 4 (68.5p each)
Nutrition: 364 calories, 23g fat, 2.3g sugar, 0.86g salt
9
The pasties were 18% beefCredit: Asda
Lynsey says: “Not the tastiest but they are good value and they are filled with a generous 18 per cent beef.
“The filling was dense but a lot of it was onion and it was definitely lacking in swede.
“It’s alright for a meal or snack but I fear pasty purists would not like this.”
Taste: 2/5
Value: 2/5
Overall score: 4/10
Morrisons Cornish Pasties (520g)
£3.20 (80p each)
Nutrition: 373 calories, 25.1g fat, 2.1g sugar, 1.16g salt
9
Morrisons’ pasties could have had more vegetablesCredit: Oliver Dixon
Lynsey says: “Very similar to the Tesco pasties with a generous 19 per cent beef.
“The pastry was well cooked and they gave a nice peppery hit on the tongue.
“Perhaps too much spud – I’d have preferred more vegetables.
“Whilst there was seven per cent swede, there was no carrot that I could detect and too much onion.
“Overly salty, too.
“Over 17p more each than the Tesco pasties and not as nice.”
Taste: 3/5
Value: 3/5
Overall score: 6/10
M&S Cornish Pasties (300g)
£3.50 for 2 (£1.75 each)
9
Lynsey said: “It was incredibly tasty”Credit: Oliver Dixon
Lynsey says: “Unlike lots of other pasties we tried, this one was made with flaky pastry.
“It was a little fragile with lots of pastry breaking off when I tried to heat it in the oven.
“It was incredibly tasty though.
“The pastry was well-baked and the pasty itself was generously filled with heaps of meat, potato and swede.
“The meat is beef skirt, as per the traditional recipe, which made this juicy and lovely.
“Pricey – but a cut above the other supermarket options.”
Taste: 5/5
Value: 4/5
Overall score: 9/10
Aldi Crestwood Beef and Vegetable Pasty (200g)
69p for 1 (69p each)
Nutrition: 544 calories, 28.5g fat, 3.1g sugar, 1.55g salt
9
Aldi’s filling was bland and sloppyCredit: Oliver Dixon
Lynsey says: “Aldi’s pasty has a Devon ‘crimp’ which means it is sealed on the top rather than traditional Cornish-style on the side.
“It looks great, very substantial and you can’t argue with the price.
“But the filling was bland and sloppy.
“It was lacking meaty flavour and the chunky texture you’d expect.
“Although there was 17 per cent beef, it was potato heavy and the carrots and swede inside were a bit mulchy.
“Very high in fat and calorific too.”
Taste: 2/5
Value: 3/5
Overall score: 5/10
How to save money on your supermarket shop
THERE are plenty of ways to save on your grocery shop.
You can look out for yellow or red stickers on products, which show when they’ve been reduced.
If the food is fresh, you’ll have to eat it quickly or freeze it for another time.
Making a list should also save you money, as you’ll be less likely to make any rash purchases when you get to the supermarket.
Going own brand can be one easy way to save hundreds of pounds a year on your food bills too.
This means ditching “finest” or “luxury” products and instead going for “own” or value” type of lines.
Plenty of supermarkets run wonky veg and fruit schemes where you can get cheap prices if they’re misshapen or imperfect.
For example, Lidl runs its Waste Not scheme, offering boxes of 5kg of fruit and vegetables for just £1.50.
If you’re on a low income and a parent, you may be able to get up to £442 a year in Healthy Start vouchers to use at the supermarket too.
Plus, many councils offer supermarket vouchers as part of the Household Support Fund.
Waitrose Mini Cornish Pasties (180g)
£3.75 for 6 (63.5p each)
Nutrition: 90 calories, 5.60g fat, 0.60g sugar, 0.19g salt
9
Waitrose’s pasties come to 63.5p eachCredit: Oliver Dixon
Lynsey says: “Little pockets of delicious pastry but filled with air.
“The filling was nice but there was really only a teaspoon in each one.
“I enjoyed them immensely and loved the tiny size for a snack.
“They were incredibly moreish and I kept eating one every time I opened the fridge.
“I liked the meaty flavour of the beef and there was lots of swede.
“Whilst they contained palm oil like many of the others, it was sustainable.
“However, for the price, I’d have liked them to be fuller.”
Taste: 4/5
Value: 3/5
Overall score: 7/10
Lidl Chef Select Cornish Pasty (200g)
Nutrition: 597 calories, 35g fat, 3.7g sugar, 2.1g salt
9
Lynsey said “you could easily make a meal out of this”Credit: Oliver Dixon
Lynsey says: “Lidl‘s pasty was hefty and one of the most appetising on offer.
“After 20 minutes in the oven, the pastry was really nice and flaky and the filling was hearty and flavoursome.
“The meat was tender and not chewy and there as no gristle.
“Surprisingly, it was more expensive for a single pasty than many others, but it was huge so I still felt for less than a £1 it was excellent value for money.
“You could easily make a meal out of this.”
Taste: 5/5
Value: 5/5
Overall score: 10/10
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
At just £14.99, this is a great alternative to the Bosch version.
It’s 4V and it comes with four BBQ attachments: a BBQ blower, corkscrew, and salt and pepper mill.
For reference, the similar Bosch 3.6V 1 x 2 Li-ion Cordless Screwdriver IXO 7 costs £35 and doesn’t come with the accessories.
Lidl says the screwdriver set can be used around the house, in the kitchen and with your BBQ.
It has a USB-C charging port and a USB-C charging cable, although it doesn’t come with a mains adaptor.
It has a 15-piece bit set with standard screwhead profiles, plus a bit extension.
Parents race to Lidl for middle aisle bargains including 2 in 1 sandpit for £29
The screwdriver also comes with a three-year warranty.
Braun All-In-One Style Kit – £34.99
7
This 9-in-1 kit costs £10 less in Lidl than it does on the Braun websiteCredit: Lidl
For the dad who likes to keep well-groomed, you could pick up this trimmer kit.
The 9-in-1 kit can be used to style your hair, beard, ears, nose and more.
Lidl describes the trimmer as having “ultra-sharp blades for precise and effortless grooming”.
Its RRP is £67.49 on the Braun website but it’s selling on there currently for £44.99.
That means you can make a £10 saving by heading to Lidl and also save on delivery fees.
Auriol Watch – £14.99
7
The Auriol Watch comes in the colours green, black, yellow or blueCredit: Lidl
Keep your dad looking sharp with this trendy-looking watch which comes in a range of colours.
It has a silver strap but you can get the face in either green, black, yellow or blue.
The link strap is adjustable and it’s also water resistant.
Plus, it comes with a three-year warranty.
T-shirts – £4.99
7
You can get T-shirts for £4.99 featuring Captain America, Spider-Man or The MandalorianCredit: Lidl
Nerdier dads might like these T-shirts featuring Captain America, Spider-Man or The Mandalorian.
Of course, they’re all dad-themed as well.
The Mandalorian T-shirt says “The Dadalorian, this is the way” with a black-and-white cartoon of The Mandalorian holding Baby Yoda.
The Spider-Man one says “Dad, you’re my super hero” while the Captain America one reads “Honorable Dad”.
All are made with cotton and come in the sizes medium to extra-large.
Socks – £3.99
7
These Super Dad socks would be perfect for comic book fansCredit: Lidl
If your dad has ever told you just to buy him socks for Father’s Day, you’re in luck.
Lidl has a range of three bargain-friendly pairs of socks.
You can get a pair of comic-book-style “Super Dad” ones, a pair with taches and glasses, or a black chequered pair for the more serious man.
Father’s Day picture books
7
These would be great for storytime and they all have a cute Father’s Day themeCredit: Lidl
Dads of younger children may like these picture books all themed around Father’s Day.
They include Just One Hug, My Daddy and Me, and I Love You Daddy.
Lidl’s description says each book has “a gentle, rhyming story and beautiful illustrations” and is “perfect for sharing with your little one”.
Puzzle books – £1.99
7
If your dad likes to solve puzzles, this could make a good bargain presentCredit: Lidl
Get his mind working with these bargain puzzle books.
All are priced at £1.99 and they include a Wordsearch Puzzle Book, Sudoku Puzzle Book and three Crime Puzzle Books.
Why do Aldi and Lidl have such fast checkouts
IF you’ve ever shopped in Aldi or Lidl then you’ll probably have experienced its ultra-fast checkout staff.
Aldi’s speedy reputation is no mistake, in fact, the supermarket claims that its tills are 40 per cent quicker than rivals.
It’s all part of Aldi’s plan to be as efficient as possible – and this, the budget shop claims, helps keep costs low for shoppers.
Efficient barcodes on packaging means staff are able to scan items as quickly as possible, with the majority of products having multiple barcodes to speed up the process.
It also uses “shelf-ready” packaging which keeps costs low when it comes to replenishing stock.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a “landmark deal” with the EU that lays the ground for closer collaboration with the bloc.
Nearly nine years after the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, the new agreement includes a new security and defence pact, fewer restrictions on British food exporters and visitors, and a controversial new fishing agreement.
Britain said the reset with its biggest trading partner would reduce red tape for agricultural producers, making food cheaper. The deal would also improve energy security and, by 2040, add nearly 9 billion pounds ($12.1bn) to the economy.
While Starmer sold the deal as a “win-win”, attacks immediately emerged from the opposition Conservative Party, which said the deal would make the UK a “rule-taker” from Brussels.
Nigel Farage, head of the hard-right, pro-Brexit Reform UK party, called the deal an “abject surrender”.
What are the terms of the deal?
As part of Monday’s defence-and-security agreement, the UK and the EU will work more closely on information sharing, maritime issues and cybersecurity.
Crucially for Britain, the bloc committed to exploring ways for the UK to access EU procurement defence funds.
British weapons manufacturers can now take part in a 150-billion-euro ($169bn) programme to rearm Europe – part of United States President Donald Trump’s push for Brussels to spend more on defence.
Meanwhile, both sides have agreed to work on a joint agrifood agreement to remove Brexit-era trade barriers like safety checks on animals, paperwork and bans on certain products.
In 2023, UK food and drink exports to the EU were worth 14 billion pounds ($18.7bn), accounting for 57 percent of all the sector’s overseas sales. Monday’s agreement should raise that.
In exchange, the UK will need to follow EU food standards – a system known as “dynamic alignment” – and accept the European Court of Justice’s oversight in this area.
There have been talks on linking up the UK and EU’s carbon markets (i.e., a tradable price on CO2 emission) and on a joint electricity market.
The deal also paves the way for the UK’s return to the Erasmus student exchange programme, as well as granting young people access to the EU through work and travel.
In a symbolic gesture to please tourists, Britons will be allowed to use border e-gates at most EU airports, reducing queues at passport controls.
Finally, the UK will grant EU fishers access to British waters for an additional 12 years, an eleventh-hour concession from the UK – three times longer than it had originally offered.
Does this amount to backtracking on Brexit?
Critics from the Conservative Party and Reform UK quickly denounced the deal as a betrayal of Brexit, arguing that the price of the trade agreement was excessive.
The fisheries deal drew fierce disapproval, with opposition politicians saying it meant handing over Britain’s fishing waters to European fishers for an extra decade.
Fishing is a key issue in the UK, despite making up just 0.04 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). And Starmer’s deal appears to have reignited tensions last seen during Brexit negotiations.
Offering “12 years access to British waters is three times longer than the govt wanted,” Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch wrote on X. “We’re becoming a rule-taker from Brussels once again.”
Reform’s leader, Farage, told Bloomberg that Starmer’s deal on fisheries “will be the end of the industry”. The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation called it a “horror show”.
Elsewhere, there were complaints about Britain having to submit itself to the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice on agrifood policies.
For their part, the Conservatives vowed to reverse all these changes if they got back into power.
Still, Starmer stuck firmly to his election promise of not re-joining the European single market (in which goods and people can move freely) or the customs union (which eliminates tariffs on goods traded between EU countries).
What were the costs of Brexit?
According to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), the Ministry of Finance’s independent forecaster, the UK’s decision to leave the EU will shrink trade flows by 15 percent.
The OBR also that calculated Brexit will lower GDP by 4 percent over the long term. That’s the equivalent of costing the economy 100 billion pounds ($134bn) per year.
For starters, Brexit involved erecting significant trade barriers with Europe. In 2024, UK goods exports to the EU were 18 percent below their 2019 level, in real terms.
The decision to leave the EU also triggered business uncertainty. Lacking clarity over the UK’s future economic relationship with the EU, business investment softened.
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research estimates that business investment was 13 percent lower in 2023 than under a remain scenario.
Brexiteers promised that leaving the EU would allow Westminster to sign global free trade agreements and break away from the EU’s demanding regulatory regime.
“The argument was that doing business at home and abroad would be simplified,” says Gaurav Ganguly, head of EMEA Economic Research at Moody’s Analytics.
“And while the UK has signed several trade deals since 2020, Brexit has not unleashed the potential that was talked about [by its advocates].”
In recent weeks, the UK has signed up to trade agreements with India and the US. But Britain’s average GDP growth was just 0.64 percent between 2020 and 2024.
Elsewhere, public support for Brexit has fallen since the 52-48 percent leave vote in the 2016 referendum.
Earlier this year, polling by YouGov found only 30 percent of Britons now think it was right for the UK to vote to leave the EU, versus 55 percent who say it was wrong.
Roughly 60 percent of people believe Brexit has gone badly, including one-third of leave voters. A majority also believe that leaving the EU has damaged Britain’s economy.
Are the economic benefits from the new agreement?
Ever since last year’s election, the Labour government has pledged to improve Britain’s anaemic levels of growth. It sees lower trade barriers with the EU as crucial to that goal.
Acknowledging the damage inflicted to Britain’s trade by Brexit, Starmer said the deal to remove restrictions on food would give 9 billion pounds ($12bn) boost to the UK economy by 2040.
In a government briefing, Downing Street said it would redress the 21 percent drop in exports and 7 percent drop in imports seen since Brexit.
That said, 9 billion pounds ($12bn) would amount to just 0.2 percent of the UK’s national output. As such, this week’s agreement deal has dismantled only a fraction of the trade barriers erected post-Brexit.
“Yesterday’s deal may lift growth,” Ganguly told Al Jazeera. “But the UK economy continues to struggle from structural weaknesses, including low productivity and limited fiscal space.”
The Centre for European Reform, a London-based think tank, recently calculated that the UK-EU reset would boost Britain’s GDP by between 0.3 percent and 0.7 percent.
Ganguly said he is “not inclined to change my forecast in the short term”, adding “In addition, it’s clear that yesterday’s agreements won’t completely reverse the economic hit from Brexit.”
The upshot is that Ganguly expects modest GDP growth of around 1-2 percent between now and the next election cycle, in 2029.
THE Lady-Datejust, the Pearlmaster, the Oyster or the Yachtie – whatever your favourite Rolex is, it’s probably worth well over £10,000.
The Swiss watch brand is synonymous with luxury, and us normal folk will probably spend our whole lives dreaming of owning one of its timepieces.
2
Primark has released a Rolex dupe for a mere £10Credit: Instagram/aimeemichelle_a
2
The affordable design is a copycat of the luxury brand’s Lady-Datejust in oyster steel and yellow goldCredit: Instagram/aimeemichelle_a
But where do we turn when saving up the five figures needed for an opulent watch is impossible? As it goes, Primark.
The fast fashion giant has released a Rolex dupe for a mere £10.
The affordable design is a copycat of the luxury brand’s Lady-Datejust in oyster steel and yellow gold – which costs a staggering £17,300 to buy direct.
“Gold is coveted for its lustre and nobility,” a Rolex blurb reads. “Steel reinforces strength and reliability.
“Together, they harmoniously combine the best of their properties.”
Money-saving content creator Aimee Michelle unearthed the imitation watch in her local Primark and took to Instagram to alert fellow fashionistas.
“The comparison is uncanny,” she said.
“Everything down to the fluted bezzle, the stainless steel with the gold and even the ‘mother of pearl’ face.
“It’s the only one they have currently in store… but this is big news.”
The Primark watch’s official name is The Edit Metal Watch, and it is made from 80% steel and 20% zinc.
“Add a touch of luxury to your accessories edit with this timelessly sophisticated metal watch,” high street bosses said.
The timepiece has a classic and timeless design that will be relevant and stylish throughout every season, meaning you’ll get way over your £10’s worth of wear.
Like the Lady-Datejust, it is smaller and more delicate compared to many other watches.
As such, it’s ideal for women who prefer a more understated and elegant size without compromising on style.
WHETHER you want to get your body summer ready or just want to incorporate some more exercise to your routine, pilates makes for a great workout.
And reformer pilates has become a viral hit online in recent years with over 2.8 million posts being made about it on TikTok.
3
Aldi is selling a reformer pilates machine and it’s much cheaper than other brandsCredit: Supplied
3
There are plenty of accessories up for grabs to for just £5.99Credit: Supplied
3
The budget retailer is also selling a step deck for cardio loversCredit: Supplied
While it is proven to be an effective workout, it can be costly.
Prices for just one class start at £37 – not something we can afford to do multiple times a week.
Fortunately, Aldi has come to the rescue by selling a reformer pilates machine you can use at home.
And the best part is that it’s a fraction of the price of other brands selling one.
The easy-to-assemble machine costs just £149.99 while the Original Fold Reformer costs £1,899.99.
That’s a huge saving of £1,750 if you buy it from the German retailer.
The machine featuring adaptable resistance levels with five resistance bands and adjustable height settings.
It has a smooth gliding functionality, and has transport wheels for easy movement, and foldable storage capabilities.
Aldi bosses say: “Whether looking to strengthen cores, improve flexibility, or tone muscles, the machine is designed to help anyone achieve their fitness goals.
“Complete with an introductory exercise chart, it’s a must-have addition to any home gym.”
The 9 best exercises to get a reformer Pilates body without the expense
If that wasn’t enough for your fitness journey, Aldi is also selling lots of gym accessories to go with it.
Also up for grabs is a pilates pad, a three piece pilates ball set, a pilates ring, and rotation ring,
Each of the products are just £5.99 each, and will help with strength, balance, conditioning and coordination.
For additional strength training, Aldi’s adjustable step deck (£12.99) allows fitness gurus to add in cardio with ease, and even includes resistance handles and a balance board for a full-body workout.
The 5 best exercises to lose weight
By Lucy Gornall, personal trainer and health journalist
EXERCISE can be intimidating and hard to devote yourself to. So how do you find the right workout for you?
As a PT and fitness journalist, I’ve tried everything.
I’ve taken part in endless fitness competitions, marathons and I maintain a regime of runs, strength training and Pilates.
Fitness is so entrenched in my life, I stick to it even at Christmas!
The key is finding an activity you love that can become a habit.
